As cybersecurity threats and artificial intelligence continue to reshape the way organizations operate, Niagara University is bringing business, technology and ethics together through the launch of its new School of Cybersecurity within the Holzschuh College of Business Administration.
The new school incorporates Niagara’s Department of Cybersecurity and Operations into the Holzschuh College, creating opportunities for students to explore how cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies intersect with business strategy, operations and ethical decision-making.
“At Niagara University, we are committed to providing an innovative, values-based education that prepares our students to lead in an increasingly complex world,” said the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University. “The launch of the School of Cybersecurity reflects our proactive approach to higher education – equipping future leaders with both the technical expertise and the ethical foundation needed to navigate the global digital landscape and serve the common good.”
The launch comes as demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow across industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 28.5% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 52,000 jobs.
For Niagara, the new school represents an opportunity to prepare students for careers at the intersection of technology and business.
“Business and technology are no longer separate spheres,” said Dr. Mark Frascatore, dean of the Holzschuh College of Business Administration. “Today’s leaders must understand how artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data, operations, and ethics shape decision-making across every type of organization. This new school positions Niagara to prepare leaders who can bridge technical expertise with business strategy and ethical decision-making.”
The school will deepen the integration of cybersecurity and emerging technologies throughout the business curriculum. Students studying accounting, finance, marketing, management, data analytics, food industry management and supply chain management will have opportunities to engage with technologies and cybersecurity issues affecting their respective industries.
The initiative also creates a foundation for future interdisciplinary programs that combine technical knowledge with business strategy, ethical reasoning and leadership.
Niagara enters the new school with established strengths in both business and cybersecurity. The university’s Holzschuh College of Business Administration holds AACSB accreditation, while Niagara is designated by the National Security Agency as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
The university’s Master of Science in Cyber Defense is an NSA-validated program with a focus on digital forensics and incident response. The program is ranked ninth in the country for online cybersecurity education by Cybersecurity Guide.
“Employers increasingly need professionals who understand cybersecurity not only from a technical perspective, but also in the context of business strategy, risk, and organizational decision-making,” said Dr. Petter Lovaas, chair of the Department of Cybersecurity and Operations and chief information security officer at Niagara University. “By bringing these disciplines together, we can prepare students to communicate across technical and business functions and help organizations respond to cybersecurity challenges in ways that are both strategic and effective.”
The university formally introduced the school during its Cybersecurity Demo and Drinks event Tuesday, Aug. 25, in Bisgrove Hall. The event brought together university leadership, cybersecurity faculty, students and members of the community for a closer look at Niagara’s cybersecurity programs and expertise.
The event featured a press conference followed by hands-on cybersecurity demonstrations, networking, food and drinks, giving attendees an opportunity to explore the field and learn more about the growing career opportunities in cybersecurity and emerging technologies. Members of the media came to interview Dr. Lovaas, along with Father Maher about the opening of the school.
With the launch of the School of Cybersecurity, Niagara is expanding its approach to cybersecurity education beyond technical training, preparing students to understand the broader business, ethical and societal implications of the technologies shaping the future.
The School of Cybersecurity plans on hosting more interactive sessions in the future and is excited to welcome students to this new endeavor.
