The Sam Houston State University CyberSkills2Work program is designed to prepare individuals for careers in digital forensics and cybersecurity by providing foundational knowledge and hands-on training in forensic analysis techniques and tools. The program serves transitioning military personnel, first responders, military spouses, and veterans who are interested in developing new technical skills or pursuing careers in cybersecurity and digital forensics. Courses are delivered online in a structured learning environment and cover broad focus areas in cybersecurity and digital forensics, including evidence acquisition and preservation, file system analysis, operating system artifacts, network traffic analysis, and mobile device forensics. Participants gain hands-on experience using industry-standard forensic tools and technologies while developing practical skills aligned with entry-level forensic and cybersecurity roles. Key benefits of the program include career-focused training, preparation for industry-recognized certifications, practical lab experience, and no-cost participation for selected applicants.
This pathway focuses on digital forensics and forensic analysis techniques used to identify, preserve, collect, examine, and analyze digital evidence from computing and mobile devices. It develops skills in evidence acquisition and preservation, file system analysis, operating system artifact analysis, network traffic analysis, mobile device forensics, and forensic reporting. The pathway prepares learners for industry-recognized digital forensics certification exams and includes hands-on experience with forensic imaging, evidence recovery, operating system and network analysis, mobile forensic investigation, and the use of industry-standard forensic tools and technologies. The program prepares learners for roles such as Digital Forensics Analyst, Cybercrime Investigator, Incident Response Analyst, SOC Analyst, and other entry-level cybersecurity and forensic analysis positions. Graduates will be able to acquire, preserve, analyze, and document digital evidence, investigate cyber incidents, reconstruct user and system activities, and support forensic and cybersecurity investigations using industry-standard methodologies and tools.
*This pathway is currently in development, and all information is tentative and subject to change. It is offered independently by the partner institution and is not currently eligible for CyberSkills2Work funding.*
Format
Asynchronous Online
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Must be a veteran, transitioning military, first responder, military spouse, or federal, state, and local government personnel.
Must have at least a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. School transcripts of the highest level of education completed are required.
High School Diploma.
Fall 2027
Start Date: September 27, 2027 • End Date: November 5, 2027
Application deadline: September 20, 2027
The National Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program, CyberSkills2Work, is led by the University of West Florida and funded by the DoW CIO Cyber Academic Engagement Office and the NSA National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Program.