vermont senator patrick leahy delivering a speech at a cybersecurity conference

Designations

Our cutting-edge ITS facilities and programs are widely recognized for excellence, having earned national recognition from multiple designations from top agencies and institutions like the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center.

National Center of Digital Forensics Excellence

Not only is Champlain College a designated Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE) by the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), but we’ve been doing this for a long time!

Champlain was the first school in the northeast, first private college, and fifth higher education institution in the country to receive this distinction.

The CDFAE program was born out of the need to develop skilled professionals to address the explosion in digital crimes occurring in every area of government and industry throughout the world. DC3 established this program to address specific skills the Department of Defense identified as crucial for specialists to possess in the high-stakes professions of cybersecurity and digital forensics. The CDFAE designation creates an opportunity for colleges and universities to work with the government to ensure graduates are prepared to support the increasing digital forensic demands on law enforcement, government, and corporate security.

 

National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence logo and U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center logo

woman looks over the cubicle wall to take part in a discussion at a computer

CDFAE Program

As a CDFAE, Champlain College meets or exceeds the standards set forth by the DC3 to be leading educators of future digital forensics professionals. Champlain College has produced highly sought-after graduates within its digital forensics and cybersecurity programs—many of whom have received job offers across a broad range of industries well before graduation.

Learn More on the DC3 Website

National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education

Champlain College is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber institution by the National Security Agency (NSA).

First designated in 2007 and subsequently renewed, Champlain is proud to hold a Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation. Our cybersecurity course content, curriculum, and practices meet the criteria established by the NSA and its federal partners, which include the FBI and the Department of Defense Office of the Chief Information Officer.

National Security Agency logo and National Center of Academic Excellence logo

students working at computers

The goal of the NCAE program is to ultimately strengthen our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense. The designated institutions are active participants in setting a high standard for cybersecurity education and producing confident professionals who have extensive cyber defense expertise.

Visit the NSA's Website Visit the CAE Community Website

Cybersecurity Advisory Board

The Champlain College Cybersecurity Advisory Board is a volunteer body of external experts that provides input on curriculum, research, outreach, advocacy, and emerging trends. The board reviews educational objectives, learning outcomes, and guidance on preparing students for the evolving cybersecurity workforce. It also evaluates the quality and scope of students’ experiential learning and internship opportunities. Board members represent a wide range of industry sectors. Additional information about the board can be requested by contacting Adam Goldstein.