Fresh off the press: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published and released strategy guidelines for the enforcement of cybersecurity. It provides a road map for cybersecurity efforts while observing the need to preserve civil liberties, protect privacy, bolster national security, and provide the ability for the private sector to effectively operate and innovate in cyberspace. The full text of the Blueprint for a Secure Cyber Future: The Cybersecurity Strategy for the Homeland Security Enterprise can be found here:
Source: http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/nppd/blueprint-for-a-secure-cyber-future.pdf
I think it is a sound document that is probably worth taking the time to read, especially for cybersecurity professionals whether working in government or private sectors. Let’s face it, we all share the same cyber “ecosystem.”
One area in the blueprint caught my attention:
…10. Develop the Cyber Workforce in the Public and Private Sectors: Maintain a strong cadre of cybersecurity professionals to design, operate, and research cyber technologies, enabling success against current and future threats.
Core capabilities for the homeland security enterprise are:
• Development of a rigorous cybersecurity and software assurance curriculum, and sustained enrollment in targeted fields of study. Relevant disciplines include science, technology, engineering, and math. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) will strengthen formal cybersecurity education programs and use competitions to develop skill sets from kindergarten through 12th grade, and in higher education and vocational programs. Additionally, four-year colleges and graduate-level universities may apply to be designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.
There are two points I would like to highlight from this quote:
1. The fact that you are reading this blog on the Center for Cybersecurity Education website means that you are making an effort to increase your knowledge on cybersecurity issues. Good job!
2. Bellevue University is very serious about developing the rigorous curriculum described above. In fact, BU is in the process of applying to be designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education. We should know the results in the next few months.
So, what are your thoughts about the blueprint? Is it relevant or useful?