Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is home to a one-of-a-kind academic unit designed to meet the demands of today’s security, intelligence, and business environments. The College of Business, Security and Intelligence (CBSI) stands as the only college of its kind in the United States, offering students an education that blends technical expertise, strategic thinking, and real-world experience.
Graduates of CBSI benefit from a strong professional network and a reputation for excellence that helps distinguish them in competitive global industries.
Learning From Industry and Intelligence Experts
Students at CBSI learn from faculty members with extensive professional backgrounds, including former FBI agents, intelligence analysts, polygraph examiners, and cybersecurity specialists. This depth of experience brings classroom concepts to life and gives students exposure to real-world challenges faced by organizations worldwide.
Beyond lectures, students engage in hands-on lab work, applied research, and in-person learning opportunities designed to mirror professional environments. These experiences help bridge the gap between academic study and career readiness.
Preparing the Next Generation of Cyber Intelligence Professionals
The Department of Cyber Intelligence and Security focuses on equipping students to confront the rapidly evolving threat landscape faced by governments, corporations, and critical infrastructure. Programs emphasize the full lifecycle of cyber defense—from threat detection and analysis to response and recovery.
Students can pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Cyber Intelligence and Security, preparing them for leadership roles across public and private sectors. The programs are fully accredited and approved at the state level, ensuring academic rigor and professional credibility.
Graduates of the bachelor’s program demonstrate strong career outcomes. Recent surveys show that all alumni either secure employment or continue their education within a year of graduation, with average earnings exceeding $92,000.
National Partnerships Driving Innovation
Embry-Riddle’s leadership in cybersecurity and aviation safety has led to high-profile partnerships. In 2024, the university collaborated with NASA and the National Science Foundation to advance research and workforce development in aviation cybersecurity.
This collaboration builds on Embry-Riddle’s designation as a National Science Foundation CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service institution, reinforcing its role in preparing highly skilled cybersecurity professionals to serve the nation.
Advancing Global Security and Intelligence Education
The Department of Global Security and Intelligence Studies offers programs designed to develop analytical, strategic, and operational expertise. The bachelor’s degree provides a comprehensive foundation in identifying and addressing global security threats, while the master’s degree deepens those skills for advanced professional practice.
Students also benefit from Embry-Riddle’s partnership with Verensics, a company that applies artificial intelligence and behavioral science to corporate security and fraud prevention. Selected students participate in competitive internships that provide direct industry experience while strengthening their resumes.
Student Success Stories
Riley Grant (’26), a Global Security and Intelligence Studies major, exemplifies the impact of these programs. As a recipient of a Presidential Scholarship, Grant completed an internship with Geogentia, a geospatial intelligence firm, contributing to projects focused on tracking terrorist activity and disrupting human trafficking networks.
Such experiences reflect the program’s emphasis on applying classroom knowledge to real-world intelligence challenges.
Business Education Built for Real-World Impact
At Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus, the School of Business offers multiple undergraduate degrees tailored to today’s global economy. Students can choose from programs in Aviation Business Administration, Global Business and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, and Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination.
All business students complete a comprehensive core curriculum covering finance, accounting, management, marketing, ethics, economics, law, information systems, and quantitative analysis. This foundation ensures graduates are well prepared for a wide range of careers.
Outcomes for business graduates are equally strong. Alumni of the Aviation Business Administration program report full employment or continued education within a year of graduation, with average salaries exceeding $72,000.
Excellence in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination
The Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination program provides students with opportunities to engage directly with federal agencies and industry leaders. Kiara Bean (’23), a graduate of the program, interned with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and completed her studies as a Distinguished Graduate.
She now works at a leading advisory firm in San Diego, illustrating how experiential learning at Embry-Riddle can open doors to prestigious career opportunities.
A Distinctive Path Forward
Through its integrated approach to business, cybersecurity, and intelligence education, Embry-Riddle’s College of Business, Security and Intelligence offers students a clear advantage in today’s complex professional landscape. With expert faculty, strong industry partnerships, and proven career outcomes, the college continues to prepare graduates to lead with confidence, integrity, and expertise.
