BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CYBER OPERATIONS
Step into the future of cybersecurity and AI.
Find out how the BSCO is the right program for you:
Offered on main campus and online, the STEM-designated Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations prepares you to lead in high-stakes environments.
Choose an emphasis in Artificial Intelligence or Security as you build skills in reverse engineering, network analysis, penetration testing and low-level programming—gaining a deep understanding of how modern systems and networks operate. Through hands-on virtual labs, you’ll hack systems, analyze real malware and simulate cyber warfare in a safe, controlled environment.
Whether you’re aiming for the FBI, NSA or top tech firms, you’ll gain the skills to compete and stand out. If you love solving puzzles and outsmarting adversaries, this is your path to a high-demand career.
* Average bachelor's in cybersecurity salary for cybersecurity analysts according to Zippia, December 2025.
The University of Arizona is a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, and the BS in Cyber Operations holds the prestigious Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) and new Artificial Intelligence (CAE-CyberAI) designations from the Department of Defense and National Security Agency.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THE BSCO
CORE SKILLS
- Evaluate network architectures and protocols to identify and assess security risks
- Analyze the motivations and methods of threat actors to develop effective defenses
- Apply legal and ethical principles to make informed decisions in complex cybersecurity scenarios
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE EMPHASIS
- Apply AI and machine learning techniques—including neural networks and deep learning—to solve cybersecurity challenges
- Build and deploy AI-driven tools to detect, prevent and respond to cyber threats
SECURITY EMPHASIS
- Conduct static and dynamic analysis to identify software vulnerabilities
- Plan and execute cyber operations in simulated environments to uncover and mitigate network vulnerabilities
"What I love most about the Bachelor's in Cyber Operations is the strong foundation it provides me technically and conceptually. On top of that, the professors and other incredible people I’ve met along the way constantly fuel my passion and keep me driven."
Humza Sheikh, BAS in Cyber Operations '26
Main Campus
Online Campus
The BSCO is a four-year undergraduate degree requiring 120 units offered at the University of Arizona's main campus and online.
A capstone project is required.
Students choose from one of two emphasis areas:
- Artificial Intelligence (CAE-CyberAI designation)
- Security (CAE-CO designation)
In the U of A BSCO, students are prepared for a wide variety of dynamic jobs across industries. Positions include:
- Information Security Analyst
- Penetration Tester
- Incident Responder
- Cyber Forensic Specialist
- Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst
- Malware Researcher/Analyst
- Cyber Network Defender
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst/Operator
- Forensic Computer Examiner
- Cybersecurity/Cyber Operations Analyst
- Counter Cyber Threat Intel Analyst
Are you ready to step into the future of cybersecurity and AI?
Learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations by contacting us at infosci-ugrad@arizona.edu or begin your application today: