by Olivia Stipe, Student Public Relations Writer
A leader among computer science and cyber operations programs, Cedarville University has updated its computer science labs to meet the needs of the growing department. Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency (NSA), Cedarville’s cyber operations and computer science programs are closely aligned.
The new lab complex was designed by faculty and students. The recent renovations include a number of technological upgrades to better suit the preferences of students, who are now able to work off of their laptops while using the high- 
resolution, 34-inch monitors. They are also able to utilize new collaboration areas that are better suited to group projects and include all new furniture as well as wall monitors where students can connect and share their screens.
“The idea of a computer lab has changed over time,” said Dr. Seth Hamman, associate professor of cyber operations and computer science. “Our lab needed some updates and, ironically, that meant fewer computers.”
The space is now more suited to the way students work and collaborate with each other, and students are eagerly taking advantage of the new space and enjoying it.
The updated design, coupled with new technology, reflects the investment Cedarville University is making in the cybersecurity program.
Since we started our cyber program in 2018 within our computer science major, our department has tripled in size. We are now over 200 students,” said Hamman. “As the demand for cybersecurity professionals increases, we will continue focusing on meeting the demand for qualified professionals with valuable experience.”
Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 5,082 undergraduate, graduate, and dual enrolled high school students in more than 175 areas of study, including Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is one of the largest private universities in Ohio, recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, high graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings, and the #4 national ranking by the Wall Street Journal for student engagement. For more information about the University, visit cedarville.edu.