December 29, 2024— San José State University has received the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation through 2029. This designation underscores the university’s leadership, excellence in cybersecurity education, and alignment with national priorities. Institutions receiving the CAE-CD designation are recognized for meeting rigorous standards in cybersecurity education, demonstrating competency development for students and faculty, and engaging in meaningful community outreach and workforce development initiatives.
Benefits of the Designation
The designation significantly benefits SJSU’s students, programs, and community. According to Dr. Tonia San Nicolas-Rocca, Co-Director of SJSU’s Silicon Valley Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity (CAIC) and Associate Professor in the School of Information,
“For students, it ensures they receive a comprehensive and robust cybersecurity education that meets NSA and DHS standards, preparing them for successful careers in the cybersecurity field. For the SJSU community, it reflects a university-wide commitment to cybersecurity awareness, the development of skilled cybersecurity professionals, and fosters stronger partnerships with government and industry.”
Dr. Simon Shim, Chair and Professor of the Department of Applied Data Science and CAIC Co-Director, emphasized the designation’s alignment with the College of Information, Data and Society’s mission:
“It ensures students gain rigorous, NSA- and DHS-approved cybersecurity education, demonstrates CAIC’s leadership in national cybersecurity priorities, and fosters partnerships that advance the workforce and protect our digital future.”
About CAIC
SJSU’s Silicon Valley Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity is at the foundation of this work. Established in 2014, the CAIC is a hub of multidisciplinary collaboration within SJSU. With nearly 20 full-time and adjunct faculty members, CAIC operates at the forefront of artificial intelligence, big data and cybersecurity research and education, addressing some of the digital world’s most pressing challenges.
Advancing Cybersecurity Education and Workforce Development
The CAE-CD designation recognizes the quality and relevance of SJSU’s cybersecurity programs and strengthens its ability to build connections with government and industry leaders. It also positions SJSU as a leader in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to address evolving threats in an increasingly digital world.
With this recognition, SJSU stands as a leading institution for innovation and research in Silicon Valley, empowering students with the knowledge and skills needed to safeguard our digital future.
