U.S. Faces Shortage of Computer Science Graduates Amid Rising Cybersecurity Needs
Dec 14, 2010
The United States could soon face a significant shortage of computer science professionals unless it starts graduating more students in this field. At a time when computer hacking and security are critical issues for both the government and the private sector, the U.S. is producing only 9,000 computer science graduates annually. Among them, only 700 specialize in computer and information systems security. This number is far from sufficient, especially when considering that a single defense contractor, Booz Allen Hamilton, alone needs 1,000 computer security specialists. Meanwhile, the military is dealing with the rapid rise of cyber warfare. It is becoming increasingly clear that while a traditional military attack on the United States is unlikely, the nation's economic system could be vulnerable to a cyber attack. Conversely, the U.S. can leverage its cyber capabilities to attack other countries. For instance, in September, Iran's nuclear program was disrupted by a computer...