Dr. Gregory Laidlaw emphasizes students need a broad IT foundation (networking, systems, databases) because most entry jobs aren’t purely cybersecurity.
He explains the program aligns with national frameworks (including CAE) and industry feedback while focusing on principles over specific tools. He keeps courses like ethical hacking and forensics intentionally challenging, grading documentation, process, and ability to pivot—not just outcomes—while stressing ethics: written permission, clear scope, and leaving no trace.
His advice: stay open, try areas you think you won’t like, and use certifications to signal readiness to employers.
Find the full episode on Cybersecurity Guide.