UNLV’s Cybersecurity Program Soars in National Rankings, Prepares Students for a Critical Field

Launched in 2021 with just a handful of students, the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has grown exponentially in just a few short years. Now, with nearly seven times the initial number of graduates, the program recently earned the distinction of being ranked second among master’s programs in cybersecurity for 2025 by *Fortune*. This rapid rise reflects both the program’s innovative structure and the increasing importance of cybersecurity in today’s tech-driven world.

Greg Moody, the program’s director, attributes much of its success to its interdisciplinary approach. Unlike many programs that focus solely on business or engineering aspects, UNLV’s degree is a collaboration between the Lee Business School and the Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering.

“That structure between business and engineering is a rather unique approach,” Moody explained. “It’s well-liked by the students and by the employers.”

Bridging Business and Technical Knowledge

This dual-focus approach is resonating with students like Rakitha Perera, an IT professional at UNLV and a December graduate of the program. To him, the integration of technical and administrative skills in cybersecurity is a “no-brainer.”

“The whole program was a very, very nice balance between the two, and I really appreciated that,” Perera said, adding that the program’s flexibility made it especially appealing. “(For) someone like me who kind of has been exposed to both sides, it was very refreshing.”

The program’s emphasis on real-world application sets it apart. Students are required to work directly with businesses—often smaller ones without dedicated cybersecurity staff—to apply what they’ve learned. This hands-on experience benefits both the students and the companies they assist.

“We have them actually do cybersecurity with an actual business,” Moody said. “It helps the business, and it helps the student take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in the real world.”

Addressing a Critical Talent Shortage

UNLV’s cybersecurity program was established in response to local technology leaders’ demand for a stronger talent pipeline. Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the program has become a cornerstone of cybersecurity education in the region.

This demand for skilled professionals is echoed nationwide. A 2023 report by Cybersecurity Ventures identified over 750,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions in the U.S., with the gap between supply and demand expected to persist. At UNLV, Moody noted that internship offers from employers often outnumber the students available to fill them.

Sowmya “Sri” Nemani, a recent graduate and junior security analyst at UNLV’s Office of Information Technology, emphasized the breadth of career opportunities in the field.

“It’s a good employment opportunity,” Nemani said. “And for people who love solving problems and dealing with computers, it’s a great path to pursue.”

Cybersecurity’s Growing Relevance

The program’s focus on practical training is especially important as businesses face increasing cybersecurity threats. The relevance of the field was underscored last fall when MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment experienced significant cyberattacks, causing operational chaos and financial losses. These incidents highlighted the critical need for skilled professionals to protect both local and global organizations.

“Cybersecurity is about ensuring that the data we access and the resources that allow it are available and free from errors,” Moody said. “With increased reliance on technology, we need people who are well-trained for this exact role.”

Looking to the future, the program plans to integrate artificial intelligence into its curriculum to explore how AI can enhance cyber defense strategies. Additionally, UNLV is developing a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, providing high school graduates with a direct pathway into the field.

Impact on Local Las Vegas Businesses

The success of UNLV’s cybersecurity program is already rippling through the local economy. For businesses in Las Vegas, a strong cybersecurity workforce is crucial as more organizations rely on digital infrastructure. For example, Las Vegas-based companies, including trucking firms and law offices, may face heightened risks from cyberattacks targeting sensitive client data and operational systems.

A Las Vegas truck accident attorney, for instance, relies on secure systems to manage case files, client communication, and legal records. A breach could not only disrupt operations but also compromise client trust. As the cybersecurity program grows, local businesses stand to benefit from a steady supply of well-trained professionals who can safeguard their digital assets and mitigate risks.

A Bright Future for Cybersecurity Education

With a growing number of students, a strong emphasis on real-world application, and plans to expand into undergraduate education, UNLV’s cybersecurity program is poised to remain a leader in the field. As Moody noted, the program’s adaptability ensures it will continue to meet the needs of employers in the Las Vegas Valley and beyond.

“We anticipate that students of all ages and skill sets will keep coming back to retool and enter this dynamic space,” Moody said. “This program will keep evolving to meet the needs of our major employers and provide a strong talent pipeline for years to come.”