In the late 1990s, the National Security Agency, now in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, developed the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAE/IAE) program. This effort is an outreach program designed to reduce vulnerabilities in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education in information assurance and producing a growing number of professionals with IA expertise in various disciplines.

Universities that are designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education receive formal recognition from the US government as well as the ability to offer scholarships and grant opportunities to both students and faculty. Information assurance education is not an isolated need. The demand for research and for students who possess the needed education and skills is growing. In our global society, we have become dependent on information systems, and ensuring their continued operation is a critical need in our society.

University of Mary Washington is in the process of applying for National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (Winter 2024)