In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is greater than ever. Ensuring the quality and rigor of cybersecurity education programs is critical to preparing students for the challenges of protecting sensitive information and infrastructure. This is where ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) plays a pivotal role.

What is ABET Accreditation?

ABET is a globally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to accrediting college and university programs in applied and natural sciences, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. By setting rigorous academic standards and collaborating with industry experts, ABET ensures that accredited programs meet the evolving demands of the workforce. For employers, ABET accreditation is a hallmark of quality, signaling that graduates are equipped with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies to succeed in their professional careers.

The Value of Accreditation for Cybersecurity Programs

For cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation offers several key benefits:

• Quality Assurance: It ensures programs are held to high academic and professional standards.
• Industry Relevance: Accreditation criteria are developed in collaboration with industry experts, aligning academic training with real-world demands.
• Global Recognition: ABET accreditation enhances the reputation of institutions and the career prospects of their graduates.

Whether at the associate, bachelor’s, or master’s level, cybersecurity programs can leverage ABET accreditation to validate their curriculum and instill confidence in students and employers alike.

ABET and CSAB: A Collaborative Partnership

ABET collaborates with CSAB (Computing Sciences Accreditation Board), a member society that specializes in computing disciplines, including cybersecurity. This partnership ensures that the accreditation criteria for cybersecurity programs are both robust and aligned with the latest technological advancements and industry needs.

Becoming an ABET Program Evaluator

For professionals passionate about advancing cybersecurity education, becoming an ABET program evaluator is an excellent opportunity to contribute. Evaluators play a critical role in assessing programs for accreditation, ensuring they meet established standards. The process involves:

1. Understanding Accreditation Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the standards and expectations for cybersecurity programs.
2. Applying as an Evaluator: Submit an application showcasing your professional expertise and experience.
3. Training and Certification: Complete training provided by ABET to prepare for the evaluation process.

Program evaluators not only contribute to the advancement of education but also gain valuable insights into academic practices and trends in cybersecurity.

Get Involved

Interested in learning more? Download this handout outlining the accreditation criteria and the steps to become a program evaluator. Join us in ensuring excellence in cybersecurity education and shaping the next generation of professionals.

By supporting and participating in ABET's mission, we can collectively raise the bar for cybersecurity education and workforce readiness.

ABET Accreditation Criteria for Cybersecurity Programs & How to become a Program Evaluator

Elizabeth Hawthorne, Mary Jane Willshire-Fairley

CSAB - Become an ABET Program Evaluator (PEV)