KU Edwards Campus Launches Two New Engineering Certificates
Overland Park, Kan. – The KU Edwards Campus will launch two new certificate programs this fall through KU’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS). The certificates will address job market and industry demands.
In the fast-paced world of engineering and IT, timely and accessible education is critical. Earning an engineering certificate is a fast way for students to enhance credentials and stand out in this growing field. The two new certificate programs are Information Security and Assurance (ISA) and Software Engineering and Management (SE).
“The ISA certificate responds to the growing demand for security professionals. Information security is critical in today’s world to protect data, computer systems, and networks from unauthorized access. With growing interest from employers, we recognize the need for enhanced training in information security,” said Dr. Victor Frost, distinguished professor and chair of KU’s EECS Department.
The ISA certificate is designed to provide advanced knowledge of information security concepts, governance and security technologies, both for networks and computer systems. KU’s EECS Department has been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. In addition, KU received a $4.7 million, five-year Scholarship For Service (SFS) grant in January from the National Science Foundation, enabling the KU School of Engineering to educate cyber defense experts, making America stronger in an era of rising cyberattacks.
As the need grows to protect data and computer systems, so does the demand for highly-skilled software engineers. The SE certificate is especially applicable for individuals with an interest in software development, project management, quality assurance.
“The SE certificate is developed so local professionals and practitioners can successfully participate in the design, development, deployment, and maintenance of complex software systems. It will expand opportunities for career advancement, increase job confidence, and enhance professional credibility,” said Hossein Saiedian, director of information technology graduate programs in KU’s EECS Department.
In a recent market study report conducted by Initiative, Inc., it found the greater Kansas City region does not have enough software development and systems engineers to support the growing need. Because software pervades practically all aspects of economy and its use in critical applications, demand for highly-skilled software engineers remains strong.
Businesses and employees alike recognize certificates offer a higher level of expertise in a cost-effective manner – often a level of expertise specifically tailored for professional positions. Certificates save time and money for all parties involved, making it easier for businesses and employees to obtain skill sets needed to advance. KU Edward Campus’ new certificate programs have flexible schedules, catering to working professionals’ needs.
The Johnson County Education Research Triangle (JCERT) is funding the new certificates at KU Edwards Campus. JCERT is a Johnson County initiative enhancing the economic future of the area by generating funds for higher education and degree offerings.
About The University of Kansas Edwards Campus
The KU Edwards Campus at 127th Street and Quivira Road in Overland Park brings high-quality academic programs, research and public-service benefits of KU to the Greater Kansas City community in order to serve the workforce, economic and community development needs of region.
About Johnson County Education Research Triangle
The Johnson County Education Research Triangle (JCERT) is an 1/8 cent sales tax approved by Johnson County, Kan. voters in 2008. It marks a partnership between the taxpayers of Johnson County, Kansas State University and the University of Kansas to bring the finest expanded higher education degrees and research to the county. The money supports the KU Edwards Campus, K-State Olathe Campus and KU Cancer Center Clinical Research Center. JCERT generates roughly $15 million annually with a projected economic impact of $1.4 billion in the first two decades.
