Murray State University recruiting final cohort for Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate program

MURRAY, Ky. — The Murray State University Cyber Education and Research Center is currently recruiting the final group of eligible participants for its Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate Program. There are only a limited number of spaces available for individuals interested in pursuing careers in one of today’s fastest-growing workforce sectors. This is the last opportunity for those interested to participate in this unique and comprehensive program. 

The nine-month, 12-credit-hour certificate program was created to expand cybersecurity employment opportunities throughout the West Kentucky Delta Authority Region and strengthen the pipeline of skilled professionals entering the cybersecurity workforce. As the program enters its final recruitment cycle, interested individuals are encouraged to apply soon, as enrollment capacity is limited and only a few spots remain. Classes will begin August 17. 

Funded through a $1.5 million, three-year grant awarded by the Employment and Training Administration within the U.S. Department of Labor through the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), the program provides eligible participants with access to tuition-free University courses taught by Murray State University Cybersecurity and Network Management (CNM) instructors and comprehensive workforce support designed to reduce barriers to career entry and advancement. 

Participants accepted into the final cohort will receive: 

• Tuition coverage for 12 credit hours of coursework 
• A paid internship with industry partners 
• A laptop to support participation and learning 
• Career coaching and job placement support 
• Hands-on experience through real-world cybersecurity training 

The certificate curriculum is designed to prepare students with the technical knowledge and practical experience necessary to enter or advance within the cybersecurity and information technology workforce. Coursework includes network configuration, vulnerability assessment, traffic analysis and cyber threat identification and mitigation strategies. 

Students will engage in applied learning experiences that mirror real-world cybersecurity environments while building skills that help organizations protect systems, data and digital infrastructure. The curriculum is aligned with nationally recognized industry certifications and provides participants the opportunity to earn CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ credentials during the course of the program.

To support accessibility and workforce participation, classes are offered in an asynchronous format with instruction and learning opportunities provided both online and in person, allowing participants to balance educational goals with work and family responsibilities. 

The program is intended for incumbent workers and individuals entering the workforce who are interested in pursuing careers in cybersecurity or in related information technology fields. Recruitment efforts prioritize individuals seeking career advancement, transitioning into new career pathways, increasing earning potential or overcoming barriers to workforce participation. 

Individuals interested in joining the final cohort are encouraged to apply promptly, as availability is limited. 

“Over the past two years, individuals who have completed our certificate program have experienced both personal and professional growth,” said Cheryl Calvert, outreach coordinator for the Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate Program. “So far, 42 individuals have completed the program, leading to promotions within their current roles or new careers in cybersecurity. This program offers a valuable opportunity for students who wish to enter the cybersecurity field but may not have the time or resources to pursue a bachelor's degree, thus helping to address the employment gap currently affecting the Delta Authority Region.” 

Individuals interested in the Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate program as part of this Department of Labor grant opportunity can request more information by emailing Cheryl Calvert at ccalvert2@murraystate.edu. More information is also available at murraystate.edu/cyber. 

Murray State has expanded its cyber-related programs, which are now open for enrollment. The offerings include a bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity and Network Management featuring four specialization tracks: Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics, Cloud & Systems Administration, Industrial Cybersecurity, and, starting in fall 2026, Applied AI. Additionally, there is a master's degree in Cybersecurity Management and five certificates available: Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate, Industrial Cybersecurity Certificate, Cloud and Systems Administration Certificate, Digital Forensics Certificate and Cyber AI Certificate. 

In 1997, Kentucky House Bill 1 created Programs of Distinction through the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education at public postsecondary institutions, including Murray State University’s cybersecurity program. Murray State offers a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and Network Management, an accelerated online master’s degree in Cybersecurity Management (completed in 12-18 months) and certificates at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. 

In 2019, Murray State was designated a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, Murray State CNM has been certified through the Quality Assurance Commons for the Essential Employability Qualities Certification and has won multiple national awards from ITERA, including Program of the Year. 

Graduates join a global network of alumni who are employed at Google, Microsoft, Cisco Systems, Palo Alto Networks and Amazon Web Services, among others.