How the University of Tulsa is educating and training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals

The University of Tulsa has a long history in cybersecurity education and research. As a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, it has helped prepare students for roles across the public and private sectors. However, the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to outpace supply, and the field requires continuous skill development.

Traditional academic programs often struggle to keep pace with the hands-on demands of modern cybersecurity roles. Students need more than theoretical knowledge. They need practical experience that reflects real-world environments and prepares them for immediate impact after graduation.

The University also needed a way to support learners at different stages. This included undergraduate students just entering the field, graduate students advancing their expertise, and professionals transitioning into cybersecurity careers.

The University of Tulsa partnered with OffSec to embed hands-on cybersecurity training directly into its academic programs and workforce development initiatives.

Structured curriculum integrationUsing OffSec’s “Pathways in a Box,” the University embedded hands-on content, labs, and exercises into existing courses. These pathways aligned with academic semesters, making integration straightforward.

PEN-200 delivered in two parts

A key part of the program was integrating PEN-200 into the graduate curriculum. The course was split into two parts:

• Part one was delivered within the Practical Penetration Testing course
• Part two was delivered within the Advanced Penetration Testing course

This structure allowed students to build skills progressively while working through real-world lab environments.

Undergraduate foundation training

Undergraduate students enrolled in Introduction to Penetration Testing could access Network Penetration Testing Essentials. This gave them a foundation in Linux, networking, scripting, and Active Directory before moving into more advanced topics.

Hands-on labs and simulations

OffSec’s lab environments allowed students to apply concepts in realistic scenarios. This helped them develop both technical skills and a problem-solving mindset.

Bootcamps for broader access

The University also launched immersive bootcamps for both Network Penetration Testing Essentials and PEN-200. These programs supported career changers and professionals looking to build or advance their skills.

The partnership strengthened the University’s cybersecurity programs and improved outcomes for students.

Career-ready skills

Students gained hands-on experience through labs and simulations, preparing them for real-world cybersecurity roles.

Clear certification pathway

By aligning the curriculum with PEN-200 and OSCP, students worked toward a recognized, performance-based certification while still in university.

Support for multiple learner paths

The program supported undergraduate, graduate, and non-degreed learners, creating a more flexible and inclusive approach to cybersecurity education.

Improved career outcomes

Access to OffSec materials helped students improve their success in career development and gain skills that support long-term growth.

Stronger workforce pipeline

By combining academic learning with practical training, the University contributed to closing the cybersecurity skills gap and building a more capable workforce.

The University of Tulsa chose OffSec for its hands-on training, structured learning paths, and alignment with real-world roles. Integrating PEN-200, including its two-part delivery, allowed the University to deliver practical skills and prepare students for OSCP and careers in cybersecurity.