(MURRAY, Ky.) – Murray State University’s acclaimed Cybersecurity and Network Management (CNM) program has reached another milestone, welcoming its largest-ever freshman class while total enrollment soars to unprecedented levels.
The program enrolled 85 first-time students this fall—the highest number of incoming cybersecurity students in the university’s history. Combined with returning students, total CNM enrollment now exceeds 250, representing the third straight year of record-breaking growth.
This dramatic expansion reflects both the program’s stellar reputation and the surging national demand for cybersecurity professionals in an increasingly digital world.
Program Excellence Drives Growth
“Our students are more prepared than ever to step into the workforce, and their success reflects the strength of our program,” said Dr. Michael Ramage, Director of Murray State’s Cyber Education and Research Center. “This third consecutive year of record enrollment speaks to our outstanding faculty’s commitment to mentorship, real-world applications, and exceptional teaching.”
The program’s success resonates with students like Emery Vickery, a senior cybersecurity and digital forensics major from Madisonville, Kentucky. “I’ve gained real-world experience through labs, projects, and industry connections,” Vickery explained. “The faculty support has prepared me to step confidently into today’s cybersecurity workforce.”
Comprehensive Program Offerings
Murray State has significantly expanded its cybersecurity portfolio, now offering:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and Network Management with a new industrial cybersecurity track
- Three specialized certificates: Cybersecurity Analyst, Cloud Operations, and Industrial Cybersecurity
Graduate Programs:
- Master’s degree in Cybersecurity Management (available online)
- Graduate certificate in Risk Management
- Innovative 4+1 program allowing students to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cybersecurity
“Our transfer partnerships, along with flexible in-person and online courses, make it easier than ever for students to complete their cybersecurity degrees at Murray State,” said Randall Joyce, coordinator of the undergraduate CNM program. “We support students every step of the way, regardless of where they begin their cyber education journey.”
Distinguished Recognition and Results
Murray State’s cybersecurity program operates as a Kentucky Program of Distinction, established through the 1997 Kentucky House Bill 1 and the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education. The program has earned multiple prestigious recognitions:
- 2019: Designated as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security
- Quality Assurance: Certified through the Quality Assurance Commons with Essential Employability Qualities Certification
- National Awards: Multiple honors from ITERA, including Program of the Year
Career Success and Industry Impact
Murray State cybersecurity graduates have established themselves across both public and private sectors, securing positions with leading organizations including:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- U.S. Department of Energy
- Tennessee Valley Authority
- Multiple U.S. military branches
- Microsoft, Cisco Systems, Palo Alto Networks, and Amazon Web Services
The accelerated master’s degree program, completable in 12-18 months, provides additional pathways for career advancement in this rapidly evolving field.
For more information about Murray State’s cybersecurity programs, visit murraystate.edu/cyber.