What began as an innovative graduate program 25 years ago at the start of a new millennium has grown into one of the most comprehensive cybersecurity education ecosystems in the nation. Designated by the NSA as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD), Capitol Technology University’s stellar cybersecurity programs continue to prepare generations of professionals to defend modern digital infrastructure. This academic year, the university celebrates 25 remarkable years of innovation and excellence in cybersecurity education.
A Series of Firsts
Capitol Tech’s cybersecurity journey began in the late 1990s, when faculty recognized the growing importance of protecting digital networks and data. In response to increasing industry demand, the university developed a master’s program in what was then known as “network security,” which officially launched in 2001. At the time, cybersecurity topics were typically taught only as electives within computer science programs.
The driving force behind this initiative was Dr. David Ward, a veteran Marine Corps lieutenant colonel and telecommunications lawyer who joined the university in 1998. Dr. Ward recognized that cybersecurity would become a defining challenge of the digital age and envisioned a new kind of academic program to prepare graduates to meet that challenge. Capitol Tech’s program was groundbreaking not only for its subject matter but also for its online delivery—an approach that was rare in higher education at the time.
As technology evolved, so did Capitol Tech’s academic offerings. In 2004, the university introduced a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Assurance, expanding opportunities for students at the undergraduate level. By 2010, Dr. Ward again pushed the boundaries with a national first: a Doctor of Science (DSc) in Information Assurance delivered synchronously online. This degree would become today’s DSc in Cybersecurity that continues to attract students from around the world.
Recognition and Growth in Cyber Leadership
Capitol Tech’s cybersecurity programs have grown significantly in scope and reputation since those first pioneering degrees. The university now offers more than 20 cyber-focused undergraduate and graduate degrees, ranging from aviation cybersecurity to offensive cyber engineering.
The university has also received national recognition. Since 2003, Capitol Tech has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA), a distinction awarded to institutions that help establish standards for cybersecurity curriculum and academic excellence, value community outreach and leadership in professional development, integrate cybersecurity practice across academic disciplines, and actively engage in solutions to challenges facing cybersecurity education.
In 2020, Capitol Tech was chosen to lead the NCAE's Northeast Regional Hub, which includes 14 states, the District of Columbia, and hundreds of institutions offering cybersecurity programs. This multi-year distinction reflects the importance of long-standing dedication to cybersecurity education, active leadership roles within the region, and ever-expanding global reach.
Capitol Tech has also received numerous additional awards and recognitions over the decades, including ranking #1 in Maryland for graduate salaries, #1 for Best Online Cybersecurity PhD by Cybersecurity.org, Forbes Top Best Colleges in America, America’s Best Cybersecurity Program by SC Media, and more.
Industry Partnerships and Initiatives
Capitol Tech's leadership in cybersecurity is strengthened by a wide network of partnerships, outreach programs, and industry initiatives that connect students with the broader cyber community. The university collaborates across government, private organizations, and academic institutions to expand cybersecurity education and workforce development. Capitol Tech also advances diversity in the cyber workforce through its Center for Women in Cyber (CWC), an initiative that empowers and mentors the next generation of cyber leaders through partnerships with organizations such as Black Girls Code, Black Girls Hack, and Uniting Women in Cyber.
In addition, the university convenes industry leaders, researchers, and practitioners through on-campus events like GreyCon, a professional conference exploring the intersection of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, space systems, and cybersecurity. Together, these collaborations and initiatives reinforce Capitol Tech’s commitment to innovation and building a strong cybersecurity workforce for the future.
Dedicated Faculty and Student Leadership
Students in Capitol Tech’s cybersecurity programs benefit from the expertise and leadership of renowned faculty including Dr. William Butler, Vice President of Cyber Science Outreach and Partnerships, and Dr. Kellep Charles, Professor of Cybersecurity. Drawing on decades of experience in cybersecurity operations, research, and policy, they bring real-world insight into the classroom while mentoring the next generation of cyber professionals. Their work reflects Capitol Tech’s commitment to hands-on education, industry engagement, and preparing students to meet the evolving challenges of the cyber landscape.
Capitol Tech also offers an opportunity for students to join the elite Signal‑9 cyber battle team. These talented students represent the university in hands-on cyber defense exercises at national competitions, including the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (MACCDC), RIT’s Information Security Talent Search (ISTS) Qualifiers, National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC), and other capture-the-flag cyber challenges.
In the on-campus Cyber Lab, students practice defending networks, responding to live cyberattacks, conducting digital forensics, and solving complex security challenges in real time, translating what they learn in the classroom to real-life simulations while building teamwork, leadership, and professional connections within the cybersecurity community.
Join the Celebration
Were you a part of a Capitol Tech cybersecurity degree program, either at its beginning or anywhere along the way? Post your memories on your favorite social media platform using #CapTechCybersecurity. You can also celebrate 25 Years of Cyber by showing off your Capitol Tech pride with our official merchandise.
25 Years of Cyber, 100 Years of Capitol Tech
Capitol Tech continues to build on the foundation laid 25 years ago, remaining committed to advancing cybersecurity education every day. With expanding programs, strong industry partnerships, and a global community of cyber professionals, the university is poised to lead the next chapter of cybersecurity education.
This anniversary is a prelude to another historic milestone for the university, which will celebrate its 100-year anniversary in 2027, a marker of the enduring mission empowering students to solve the complex technological challenges of an ever-changing modern world.