CYSE 368: Cybersecurity Internship (6 Credit Hours) provides a structured and in-depth exploration of the cybersecurity field through practical, hands-on internship experiences. This course requires students to either secure a new internship or continue with an existing one that is directly related to cybersecurity. Students must complete 300 hours of site work with each 50-hour block corresponding to one credit hour and one journal entry. The internship must be approved by the course instructor to ensure alignment with academic and career objectives.
Throughout the course, students will document their employment relationship, which includes detailing their roles, responsibilities, and the expectations set by their internship provider. This documentation helps to define the scope of their practical experience. Students are also required to articulate specific learning outcomes they aim to achieve, reflecting both their academic goals and career aspirations. Reflective assignments, including regular reflection papers, will prompt students to critically assess their experiences, challenges, and progress. Additionally, students will submit comprehensive midterm and final reports that outline their achievements, skills developed, and the impact of the internship on their professional growth.
The course emphasizes the enhancement of technical skills in cybersecurity, such as network security, threat analysis, and incident response, while also focusing on overall career readiness. Supervision and feedback from internship site mentors are integral to the course, providing valuable evaluations of the student’s performance and contributions. By integrating real-world experience with academic learning, CYSE 368 aims to prepare students for successful careers in cybersecurity, equipping them with practical knowledge, professional skills, and industry insights essential for future employment.