Build EcosystemConnect the Cyber Academic Communitydesignation

CCNC

Entry point for colleges seeking Academic Validation or NCAE-C Designation — providing mentoring, resources, and application support to improve cybersecurity education nationwide.

·KEY FACTS
TypeDesignation
AudienceFor Institutions
Sub-serviceConnect the Cyber Academic Community
CycleCohort cycle · Fall & Spring
Next deadlineAug 31, 2026 (Fall cohort)
Office of recordCAEO · Build Ecosystem
·01 — What is CCNC?

The gold standard in cyber education.

Join 387+ institutions recognized by the NSA and DoW for exceptional cybersecurity curriculum and research. NCAE-C designation comes in three tracks — Cyber Defense (CD), Cyber Operations (CO), and Cyber Research (CR) — each with a 5-year term and a pathway to CAEO grants and consortia.
·01

Designation tracks

Cyber Defense (CD), Cyber Operations (CO), and Cyber Research (CR) — choose the right fit.

·02

Curriculum mapping

Map your programs to the Knowledge Units and 8140 work roles.

·03

Community access

Once designated, join the CAE Community for resources, grants, and convenings.

·02 — Who it's for

Are you a fit?

·ELIGIBILITY
  • U.S. regionally accredited institution
  • Two complete cohorts in the program of study
  • Aligned program of study
  • Institutional CISO endorsement
·WHAT YOU GET
  • +NCAE-C designation badge (5-year term)
  • +Access to NCAE-C Grants
  • +Mentor pairing through CCNC
  • +Listing in the public CAE directory
·03 — HOW TO APPLYEST. 20 MIN

Four steps. Rolling review.

  1. 01

    Confirm eligibility

    Review the current solicitation and verify you or your institution qualify.

  2. 02

    Prepare materials

    Gather transcripts, statements, and institutional endorsements.

  3. 03

    Submit in portal

    File through the CAEO common applicant portal before the deadline.

  4. 04

    Award & enrollment

    Awardees are notified by the program officer and enrolled in CAMS.

Open application portal
·04 — Impact

What this program produced last cycle.

Outcomes from FY25 reporting via CAMS. Updated quarterly.
·01
387+
Designated institutions
·02
49
States + territories
·03
62
New / re-designations FY25
·04
5 yr
Designation term
·APPLY

Ready to start an application?

Most CAEO programs use a common applicant portal. You'll need a .edu or DoW email, a CV, and your institution's CAGE code if applicable.