UMBC Cyberdefense Team
The CyberDawgs are a group of UMBC students, both undergraduate and graduate, who share a common interest in computer and network security. The team holds general meetings once a week, and no prior experience is required to attend. Team meetings are an inclusive environment conducive to learning relevant cybersecurity tools and techniques and a place to meet like-minded students and discuss all things cybersecurity. The CyberDawgs are based in the DREAM lab, with Drs. Nicholas and Forno as faculty advisors.
The CyberDawgs are the 2017 National Champions of the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC), 2019 National Champions of the DOE CyberForce competition, and repeat winners and/or finalists at the Maryland Cyber Challenge, among other regional and national cyber competitions. In addition to competing in competitions, the team regularly hosts and conducts free CTF-type events and workshops to bring cybersecurity interests to a wider audience across campus. Visit the team’s website here.
Women in Cybersecurity
UMBC Women in Cybersecurity Chapter is part of Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS). a non-profit membership organization with national reach that is dedicated to bringing together women in cybersecurity from academia, research, and industry to share knowledge, experience, networking, and mentoring. UMBC’s WiCyS chapter is a welcoming space for every student, regardless of gender, and is committed to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in cybersecurity. UMBC’s chapter was founded by Deborah Kariuki, who is a Women in Cybersecurity International Co-Mentor Lead and serves as Co-Lead in the 2025 WiCyS Program Committee.
UMBC Graduate Cybersecurity Association at USG
The USG Cyber Association promotes the study of cybersecurity and raises general cybersecurity awareness and knowledge in the community through discussions, guest speakers, campus outreach, and cyber competitions in/around the UMBC campus at Shady Grove in Rockville, MD. Contact Dr. Ben Shariati for information.
UMBC Information Systems Security Association Chapter
UMBC hosts a student chapter of the Information Systems Security Association , an International organization of information security professionals and practitioners. It provides educational forums, publications, and peer interaction opportunities that enhance the knowledge, skill, and professional growth of its members.