Alignment of AI Knowledge Units and Cybersecurity Competencies for PUPR’s Programs of Study

Abstract

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into cybersecurity practice has increased the need for precise, curriculum-level alignment between emerging artificial intelligence concepts and established national cybersecurity education frameworks. This master’s degree project presents a structured alignment of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity knowledge units with the proposed Master of Science in Computer Science curriculum at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico. Rather than designing new curricular content, this work analyzes existing and planned graduate courses to identify where artificial intelligence– enabled cybersecurity concepts are already embedded and how they can be formally documented to support accreditation and program evaluation requirements. In addition, competency statements were developed for cybersecurity-related courses and aligned with nationally recognized cybersecurity workforce frameworks to support workforce relevance. The results demonstrate that a curriculum-first alignment strategy can meet the expectations of the Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity program while preserving existing course structures. This approach provides a replicable framework for institutions seeking to integrate artificial intelligence considerations into graduate cybersecurity education without redesigning the curriculum. Key Terms – AI Cyber Knowledge Units, Cybersecurity Education, Graduate Competencies, Workforce Development.