Mapúa University will roll out a full Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program starting in the 2026–2027 academic year, as demand grows for specialists capable of defending digital systems against escalating cyber threats.
The degree is positioned as a dedicated program rather than a specialization, offering a structured curriculum focused on areas such as digital defense, threat analysis, and computer forensics. It will run for three years and one quarter, according to the university.
Ariel Kelly Balan, dean of Mapúa’s School of Information Technology and head of its cybersecurity program, said the course is designed to address both technical and industry needs as data-driven systems expand.
“We know that data is exponentially growing. Data will become the next oil and we need to safeguard and protect it,” Balan said.
The program was developed with input from international certification bodies, including CompTIA and EC-Council, to ensure alignment with global standards and evolving security requirements.
Graduates are expected to take on roles such as cybersecurity engineers, security analysts, ethical hackers, and digital forensics specialists — positions that continue to see strong demand locally and abroad.
Balan said the program goes beyond technical training, noting that students must also be prepared for continuous learning to keep up with rapidly changing threats.
“Based on our studies, our government infrastructures are being attacked every day in significant numbers. We need not just IT generalists but highly skilled cybersecurity professionals not only to defend our facilities but also to help the business perspective. There’s a big demand in the industry – locally and internationally – for cybersecurity experts,” he added.
