BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN CYBER OPERATIONS
Become part of a critical layer of cyber defense.
Find out how the BAS CO is the right program for you:
Offered at the University of Arizona's main campus and online, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations prepares you to lead in a world shaped by technology, security and digital innovation.
Students choose from three emphasis areas: Cyber Engineering, Defense and Forensics and Cyber Law and Policy. In the BAS CO, you’ll gain hands-on experience and technical expertise to secure, analyze and shape the digital landscape, preparing you for impactful careers at the forefront of cybersecurity and modern society.
* Average bachelor's in cybersecurity salary for cybersecurity analysts according to Zippia, July 2025.
The University of Arizona is a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, and the BAS in Cyber Operations (Cyber Engineering emphasis) holds the prestigious Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) designation from the Department of Defense and National Security Agency.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THE BAS CO
- Offensive and Defensive Cyber Operations: Simulate attacks and build layered defenses to protect critical systems.
- Malware and Forensics: Analyze malicious software and investigate digital evidence from cyber incidents.
- Network and System Security: Understand how networks and operating systems function—and how to secure them.
- Cyber Threat Intelligence: Assess adversaries' tactics to help organizations defend against evolving threats.
- Law, Ethics and Policy: Explore legal frameworks, ethical challenges and policy issues in cybersecurity.
- Problem Solving with Code: Apply critical thinking and scripting to detect anomalies and solve complex cyber problems.
The BASCO is a four-year undergraduate degree requiring 120 units offered at the University of Arizona's main campus.
A capstone project and digital engagement course or other experiential experience—independent study, directed research or internship—are required.
Students choose from one of three emphasis areas:
- Cyber Engineering
- Defense and Forensics
- Cyber Law and Policy
In the U of A BASCO, students are prepared for a wide variety of dynamic jobs across industries. Positions include:
- Information Security Analyst
- Penetration Tester
- Incident Responder
- Cyber Forensic Specialist
- Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst
- Malware Researcher/Analyst
- Cyber Network Defender
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst/Operator
- Forensic Computer Examiner
- Cybersecurity/Cyber Operations Analyst
- Counter Cyber Threat Intel Analyst
Are you ready to become part of a critical layer of cyber defense?
Learn more about the Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations by contacting us at infosci-ugrad@arizona.edu or begin your application today: