In a The Daily Upside feature, Chris Simpson, director of National University’s Center for Cybersecurity, discusses how cybersecurity training is evolving to meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing threat landscape and the rise of artificial intelligence. Simpson explains that as cyber threats grow more complex, educational programs are shifting from traditional theory to practical, hands-on learning that mirrors real-world environments, helping students become “more flexible, better trained, and ready to adapt to fast-changing threats.” He highlights that fundamentals like confidentiality, integrity, and availability remain essential, while skills in areas such as cloud security, threat intelligence, and communication become increasingly critical for the cybersecurity workforce.
Simpson also notes how lowered technical barriers, like easily accessible cloud-based labs, democratize access to cybersecurity education, allowing learners from diverse backgrounds to start building career-ready experience sooner. This emphasis aligns with broader efforts in cybersecurity education nationwide to bridge the talent gap by combining foundational knowledge with practical application and AI-augmented learning tools. As the field continues to evolve, Simpson underscores the need for programs that prepare students to use technology responsibly and effectively while meeting employer demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.
Learn More:
Read the full The Daily Upside article featuring Chris Simpson here. Explore National University’s cybersecurity degrees and hands-on workforce programs at nu.edu.
