The Funded Grant
In academic year 2023–24, IUP received nearly $1 million from the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity to establish a pilot program for cybersecurity students to develop language foundations and proficiency in Chinese. In the 2024 first cycle, the program consists of two components—a 10-week camp offered in summer 2024, and involved immersive and innovative experiences for all participants as well as a series of online follow-up activities throughout AY 2024–25 to emphasize the knowledge and skills developed during the summer camp. In the 2025 second cycle, the program will be offered to a new cohort and will consist of a three-week summer camp in addition to follow-up activities throughout fall 2025.
Project Summary
“An Innovative and Immersive Chinese Language Pilot Summer Program for Cybersecurity College Students,” led by Waleed Farag, program director, and Shijuan Liu, lead instructor, has a goal of helping develop cybersecurity professionals with listening and writing proficiency in Chinese. The program will implement an engaging blend of activities that include small-group sessions, one-on-one tutoring, competitive exercises, and real-world projects. The program will include participants from across the USA and offer both online and in-person experiences.
Language Immersion Program
2025 Program Details (NEW!)
- The three-week summer camp will be held online from May 19 to June 6, 2025.
- For additional information, download the program flyer.
Covered Topics
- Essential Chinese cybersecurity terminology and phrases.
- Discussions of related cultural and social issues through film and media.
- Practical use of the Chinese language for cybersecurity professionals.
Advantages
- $1,500 stipend for successfully completing the three-week summer program and all follow-up activities in fall 2025.
- Fall 2025 follow-up activities include a total of four synchronous monthly meetings and additional asynchronous activities.
- Instruction provided by Chinese language and cyber experts.
- Networking with top selected students from across the US.
Application Eligibility
- Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents.
- Sophomore or junior standing (AY 2024–25) in a cybersecurity or related degree program with an accredited US institution for higher education.
- Preference given to students who have finished at least one Chinese language course in college.
How to Apply
To apply for the program, complete the online application by March 14, 2025.
2024 Program Details
For details on the 2024 program that was held June 3–August 9, 2024, please visit the 2024 Program page.
Contact
Please contact the program director, Waleed Farag, at chinese-immersion-program@iup.edu with any questions.