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Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership

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Our talented and experienced faculty members are some of our greatest resources.

The faculty for the MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership program are experienced instructor practitioners, who hold advanced degrees in the fields of Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, and Information Assurance/Cyber Security.  All of the instructors have extensive industry experience working in contested cyber environments to mitigate advanced persistent threats.  Many have developed solutions for high stakes systems that protect the lives and prosperity of the nation, and have been recognized as pioneers and leaders in the domain.

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Michelle Moore, PhD
Academic Director and
Professor of Practice
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Headshot of Danny T. Barnes
Danny T. Barnes, DSc
Adjunct Professor
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Donald Beidermann, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Ron Fulton
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of William Hess
William Hess, PhD
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Paul Keener
Paul Keener, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Jack McCready
Jack McCready, PhD
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Victor Nzeata
Victor Nzeata, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Thomas Plunkett
Thomas Plunkett, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Todd Raines
Todd Raines, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Melanie Thomas, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Headshot of Umesh Varma
Umesh Varma, PhD
Adjunct Professor
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Matthew D. Hollandsworth, Ph.D.
Adjunct Professor
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Lynn Hijar Hoffman, MS
Adjunct Professor
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Jerry Locke
Adjunct Professor
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Mansi Thakar, MS, PMP
Adjunct Professor
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Frequently Asked Questions

Who teaches in the University of San Diego MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership program?

The MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership courses are taught by faculty who combine academic expertise with hands-on cybersecurity experience. These scholar-practitioners bring backgrounds in information security, engineering and IT, helping students connect core concepts to real-world cyber environments and challenges.

Do faculty members have industry experience in cybersecurity?

Yes, faculty in USD’s MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership program have direct experience working in cybersecurity roles across industry and government settings. Their backgrounds include addressing real cyber threats, securing systems and supporting organizational risk management, which they bring into their teaching.

Do faculty have experience in specialized areas?

Yes, faculty bring expertise across a variety of specialized cybersecurity areas such as ethical hacking, cloud security, digital forensics and emerging topics like AI in cybersecurity. This range of experience helps students gain exposure to current tools, methods and evolving threats in the field.

Will I have opportunities to interact one-on-one with faculty?

Yes, students can engage directly with faculty through office hours, interactive course sessions and collaborative projects. Faculty maintain an accessible, supportive approach and often work closely with students to provide feedback and academic guidance.

How can faculty help with career guidance or networking opportunities?

Faculty can support students’ career growth by offering industry insight, sharing professional experiences and helping them think through career paths in cybersecurity. Through their own networks and field experience, they can also help students identify opportunities and make informed decisions about their next steps.

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