Fairmont State University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core scientific and technical subjects with applied coursework in security, risk management and incident response. Students complete general education requirements alongside a major sequence that emphasises hands‑on laboratory work, applied projects and a professional practicum.

• Foundations: introduction to security science, principles of risk and vulnerability assessment, ethics and legal issues in security.
• Technical core: computer systems and networking fundamentals, basic programming, operating systems, network security, and introductory digital forensics.
• Applied security: physical security design, surveillance systems, access control, intrusion detection, and security systems integration.
• Analytical skills: threat and hazard analysis, quantitative risk assessment, incident command and crisis management methodologies.
• Electives and special topics: cybersecurity analytics, industrial control systems security, penetration testing, human factors in security and intelligence analysis.
• Practical components: laboratory exercises, simulated incident response exercises, team projects, and a capstone project or internship with an industry or government partner.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions considerations include academic transcripts, completion of college preparatory subjects (particularly mathematics and a lab science), and evidence of motivated interest in security or technology, such as related coursework, extracurricular activities or technical certifications.

Specific programme requirements commonly include a minimum cumulative GPA for admission to the major, and transfer applicants are assessed on previous college coursework for equivalency. Some practical placements or internships may require background checks and proof of immunisations or clearances where relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in both the public and private sectors that require a blend of technical knowledge and security management. Common entry and mid‑level job titles include:

• Security analyst or information security technician
• Physical security specialist or security systems integrator
• Incident response coordinator or digital forensics technician
• Risk assessor or loss prevention manager
• Emergency management support specialist and continuity planner

Alumni also move into law enforcement, corporate security management, infrastructure protection, critical‑infrastructure operations, or pursue graduate study in cybersecurity, emergency management, engineering or public administration.

Why study at Fairmont State University

Fairmont State offers a campus environment with relatively small classes and direct access to faculty who combine academic and professional experience in security and technology fields. The university emphasises applied learning through labs, simulation exercises and regional internship placements that connect students with employers in government, energy, manufacturing and IT sectors.

Students benefit from support services such as career counselling, assistance arranging practicum placements, and opportunities to participate in multidisciplinary projects that mirror real‑world security challenges. The programme is suited to learners who want a practical, career‑focused degree that bridges theoretical foundations and hands‑on technical skill development.