Degree Spotlight: PhD in Space Cybersecurity

One of Capitol Tech’s recently introduced graduate degrees could be the new frontier of cyber defense both on earth and throughout the cosmos. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Space Cybersecurity is equipping cyber professionals with the advanced protective measures needed to defend American and U.S. allied space tech from potential hackers.

With mass national security breaches being easy enough for teenagers to accomplish, it’s clear that modern technology calls for more sophisticated digital protection than ever. Russia stands at the forefront of these mass security threats, deliberating attacks after the hacking group known as “Anonymous” took down a few Russian satellites in protest of the invasion of Ukraine. All satellites are especially at risk from attack, with most of them having minimal to no security at the time of their launch.

Led by Dr. Ian McAndrew, Dean of Doctoral programs and Dr. William (Bill) Butler, Vice President of Academic Affairs, the PhD in Space Cybersecurity teaches students to thoroughly analyze and prepare for any hacking threats in regards to either military or commercial space technology.

The program's curriculum states that, “Much of the world's critical infrastructure is heavily dependent on space, specifically space-based assets, for its daily functioning. Essential systems—such as communications, air transport, maritime trade, financial services, weather monitoring and defense—all rely heavily on space infrastructure… This dependence poses a serious, and yet frequently under-recognized, security dilemma—especially cyber threats—for critical infrastructure providers and policymakers alike.”

With core courses such as Space Cybersecurity Research Methodologies, Space Cybersecurity Future Demands, and Strategies for Space Cybersecurity, doctoral candidates will be more than prepared to write and defend their dissertations and then graduate onto real-world space cyber threats. Plus, with Capitol Tech’s Center for Cybersecurity Research and Analysis, the university offers unique and in-depth opportunities for this program.

“Graduates from the proposed Ph.D. in Space Cybersecurity will possess the highest knowledge in Space Cybersecurity with the ability to serve as top leaders in their field. Graduates will also possess the required knowledge in Space Cybersecurity to serve as a subject matter expert and form their own private company,” the program description promises.

Aspiring students will be trained and thoroughly educated by respected working professionals to take on positions such as Chief Space Cybersecurity Operations Officer, Cybersecurity Officer of the U.S. Space Force, Senior Vice President of Space Cybersecurity, and many other leadership positions. And, because Capitol's graduate programs are 100% online, students can continue work at their day jobs with minimal schedule disruption.

The current age of technology is ever-evolving, and with enough dedicated, trained professionals, we can regain control of our safety even in the stars. 

To learn more about this degree or other programs at Capitol, contact admissions@captechu.edu.