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Cyber Policy and Ethics, B.S.

College of Arts and Sciences

Go beyond coding and gain skills in analytics, ethics, psychology and more. Prepare for careers managing the complex opportunities and risks of online interactions, from social media to e-commerce to national security.

A relatively new field, the study of cyber policy and ethics is ideal for those interested in how technology is changing our connected communities. Learn how life online is reshaping society through an analytical approach that is sensitive to cultural, institutional and ethical issues. Gain experience with multiple technologies and solve problems that arise from the use and misuse of these tools.

Program Highlights

  • Globe with continents icon.

    Global Opportunities

    Explore how different countries and global players are enhancing or exploiting data privacy, cyber security and connected technologies.

  • Brain icon.

    Multiple Technologies

    Stand out from the crowd. Gain a variety of experiences and learn multiple technologies, as well as how to communicate effectively.

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    Interdisciplinary Studies

    Coursework combines technical skills with human factors, like behavior and cultural differences that affect cyber operations.

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    Make Connections

    Work with policy leaders and gain skills in diplomacy, communication and solving technological challenges.

What You’ll Study

Debate hot topics like censorship and free speech online. Enjoy guest speakers from major tech and government agencies. Apply digital data analysis tools to solve cybersecurity problems. Understand the psychological factors that influence humans’ relationship to digital information. Examine legal concepts relevant to cyber challenges.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • International and Domestic Business

    Building relationships and conducting transactions across borders

    Analytical Reasoning

    Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions

    Policy Analysis

    Evaluating policies for effectiveness and impact, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making

  • Legal Knowledge

    Interpreting and applying laws and regulations to specific situations or issues

    Manage Risk

    Identifying potential hazards and implementing measures to mitigate or prevent negative outcomes

    Problem Solving

    Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Manager
  • Administrator
  • Policy Analyst
  • Risk Analyst
  • Legislative Analyst
  • Data Analyst

Workplace Settings

  • Business
  • Law
  • Risk Mitigation
  • Government
  • Cyber Security

I was considering cybersecurity, but I knew the humanities aspect was out there somewhere. And that’s definitely where the cyber policy and ethics program nailed it. This program is a great opportunity to get a jump-start in a career field that's going to play major roles in the future.

Jake Karbowniczak
Portrait of Jake Karbowniczak

Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
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