Dean’s Welcome Message Summary
Welcome to the Interdisciplinary Schools, an innovative organization that includes the School of Cybersecurity, the School of Data Science, and the School of Supply Chain, Logistics and Maritime Operations. Each of these schools is designed to equip students with essential skills for thriving in high-demand fields.
The School of Cybersecurity focuses on training students to safeguard computer systems, networks, and online data from malicious threats. This program responds to the growing need for proficient cybersecurity specialists ready to protect information integrity in various sectors.
The School of Data Science imparts knowledge on how to leverage data to recognize trends, solve complex problems, and effectively communicate findings. In an era where data-driven decision-making is crucial, this program prepares graduates to harness the power of data analytics to enhance business operations across multiple industries.
Introducing the Major in Supply Chain and Maritime Logistics, this program is tailored to align with workforce needs in the maritime and supply chain sectors. Graduates will possess the skills needed to meet the demands of employers in these pivotal areas, particularly relevant to the Hampton Roads region and beyond.
Our faculty are engaged in innovative research within these fields, often collaborating with local institutions such as NASA Langley Research Center and the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (JLAB). We maintain strong organizational ties with several research institutes, including the Virginia Beach Data Science Institute and the Coastal Virginia Node of the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (COVA CCI). These partnerships not only enhance faculty research capabilities but also provide students with valuable internship opportunities and hands-on capstone projects.
I encourage you to explore our websites for further information and to consider joining one of our degree or certificate programs. Your future in these exciting interdisciplinary fields awaits!
Holly A. H. Handley, Ph.D., P.E.
Interim Dean, The Interdisciplinary Schools
