Southeastern adds AI, cybersecurity concentrations

https://neworleanscitybusiness.com/blog/2026/06/24/southeastern-ai-cybersecurity-concentrations/

Publish Date: 2026-06-24 11:25:00

Source Domain: neworleanscitybusiness.com

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Southeastern added new concentrations in applied artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
AI curriculum includes machine learning, generative AI, computer vision and predictive modeling.
Cybersecurity program focuses on ethical hacking, security operations and critical infrastructure protection.
New offerings aim to meet growing employer demand for technology and cybersecurity professionals.

Southeastern Louisiana University has added new academic concentrations in applied artificial intelligence and cybersecurity as demand for technology-focused workforce training continues to grow across multiple industries.
The new programs, housed within the university’s College of Science and Technology, will be offered through existing bachelor’s degree programs in computer science and information technology, according to the university.
The applied artificial intelligence concentration will be available within Southeastern’s computer science bachelor’s program. Coursework will focus on machine learning, computer vision, predictive modeling, generative AI and data mining, providing students with training in developing and deploying AI systems.
Associate Professor Kazim Sekeroglu said the program is designed to provide both theoretical instruction and practical experience through hands-on projects and exposure to industry-standard tools.
University officials said graduates could pursue careers in fields such as AI engineering, machine learning operations and computer vision, serving industries including healthcare, finance, robotics, defense and technology.
The curriculum includes advanced AI coursework, a capstone project centered on real-world applications, and foundational studies in calculus, linear algebra, statistics and discrete mathematics.
Southeastern also introduced a cybersecurity concentration within its information technology bachelor’s degree program, aimed at preparing students to protect information systems and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
The cybersecurity curriculum combines foundational computing subjects such as algorithm design, data structures and software engineering with specialized coursework in ethical hacking, security operations, cybercrime and governance.
“Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical needs in today’s digital world,” Chief Information Security Officer Matthew McNulty said in a statement. “Our new cybersecurity concentration prepares students to protect information systems and critical infrastructure through a curriculum that integrates foundational computing and software engineering with advanced security practices.”
University officials said the program is designed to address increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals in both public- and private-sector organizations. Students will receive project-based instruction and industry feedback throughout the program.
The cybersecurity concentration is offered through Southeastern’s information technology program, which is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. An honors curriculum also is available.
The additions come as colleges and universities nationwide expand offerings in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to meet workforce needs driven by rapid technological advancement, increasing digitalization and growing concerns over cybersecurity threats.
Southeastern said both concentrations are intended to provide students with specialized skills that align with evolving employer demands in Louisiana and beyond.