In a first for Queensland, scholarships will be offered to female, non-binary and Indigenous people in a bid to improve representation rates in the field of cyber security.
QUT Online has announced the new cyber security scholarship for those looking to transition into the ICT industry and specialise in cyber security.
Scholarships will be offered to female, non-binary and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who enrol in the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Cyber Security and Networks), a one-year online course launching in February 2020.
Demand for cyber security professionals across Australia continues to grow, with almost 18,000 additional skilled professionals needed by 2026 to service what is expected to be a $6 billion industry. Currently, less than 20 per cent of the global cybersecurity workforce, and only 1 per cent of C-Level Executives, are women.
Dr Leonie Simpson, Senior Lecturer in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at QUT, says she hopes the scholarship will encourage diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry.
“There is an urgent need for skilled professionals with the right cyber security, and leadership, credentials to stay one step ahead of the ever-evolving national and global cyber threats facing government organisations and businesses,” Dr Simpson said.
“It’s essential that pathways into these positions are available to all Australians of all backgrounds, including female, non-binary and Indigenous Australians, to promote diversity in the burgeoning industry.”
The Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Cyber Security and Networks) will provide graduates the necessary cyber security and leadership expertise to pursue a range of careers, from ICT project manager, to cyber security lead, to network analyst. Delivered online, students will be part of a flexible and interactive learning environment that allows them to log on and learn when and where it suits them.
The scholarship will cover 25 per cent of successful students’ course fees. Scholarships are limited. Applications for the course close on 25 January and can be lodged online.
About QUT Online: QUT Online offers QUT excellence without borders across postgraduate courses in the disciplines of Business, Project Management, IT, Education, Health, Justice, Law and Digital Communication. Delivering a flexible, innovative learning experience that fits around competing, real-world priorities, QUT Online provides comprehensive support to ensure students succeed in their studies and beyond. Joining a community of likeminded individuals with broad perspectives and a shared desire to have a positive impact, students graduate with the adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Media contacts: QUT Media, 07 3138 9449 or media@qut.edu.au
