Arcadia University Adding Cyber Security Degree

The Glenside-based university will become one of the first in the Philadelphia region to offer the agree, which starts next fall.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Arcadia University is launching a new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program starting in the fall. The program is designed to prepare students with the technical skills and industry-recognized certifications needed for immediate job readiness and long-term leadership potential in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.

Why it matters

Cybersecurity is one of the most urgent workforce needs of the decade, as organizations and communities increasingly rely on digital systems that require skilled professionals to safeguard. Arcadia's new program aims to address this demand by providing students with a rigorous, personalized academic experience combined with in-demand industry certifications.

The details

Arcadia's B.S. in Cybersecurity will integrate five industry-recognized certifications from CompTIA and ISC² directly into the curriculum, including Security+, CySA+, Network+, A+, and CISSP prep. This embedded-certification model is unique among residential programs in the region. Students will learn technical skills in securing networks and systems, detecting and mitigating cyber threats, and navigating the ethical and legal dimensions of digital security. The program also includes hands-on practice, competitions, mentorship, and access to Arcadia's global learning experiences.

  • Arcadia University will launch the new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program starting in the fall.
  • The program will incorporate industry-recognized certifications starting in the fall curriculum.

The players

Arcadia University

A private university located in Glenside, Pennsylvania that is launching one of the few cybersecurity degree programs in the Philadelphia region.

Dr. Vitaly Ford

Associate professor and director of Computer Science and Cybersecurity programs at Arcadia University, who oversees the development of the new cybersecurity degree.

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What they’re saying

“Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field that demands both technical expertise and ethical clarity. Arcadia's program is intentionally designed to send graduates into the field fully job-ready, demonstrating real technical competency to think critically, lead with integrity, and adapt to new challenges.”

— Dr. Vitaly Ford, Associate Professor and Director of Computer Science and Cybersecurity Programs (Patch.com)

What’s next

Arcadia University will begin offering the new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program starting in the fall semester.

The takeaway

Arcadia University's new cybersecurity degree program aims to address the urgent workforce need for skilled professionals who can safeguard digital systems and organizations. By integrating industry-recognized certifications directly into the curriculum, the program prepares students with both technical expertise and ethical clarity to excel in this rapidly evolving field.