CACI, NOVA Project-Based Learning Program

Seven NOVA students got immersed in real-world cybersecurity issues and gained mentored work experience while earning $20 to $25 an hour as part of the Friends of CCI Project-Based Learning Program.

A student works on a computer in NOVA's stem program — A student works on a project in Northern Virginia Community College's STEM program. Photo by Bryce Lenon, NOVA SySTEMic

This program provided experiential learning opportunities during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the program, students must have met specific qualifications:

Be a U.S. citizen
Be enrolled at Northern Virginia Community College.
Have completed one year of school (or will have completed one year or earned 30 credits when the program starts in fall 2023).
Be enrolled in cybersecurity, computer science, or related courses.
Commit to the program for the full academic year.
Have access to a computer or laptop.
Demonstrate an interest in cybersecurity (for example, Hack the Box or other online capture-the-flag-style activities, belong to a cyber club, etc).

Program Requirements

During the 2023-2024 academic year, they:

Worked in teams on a cybersecurity project.
Worked on the CACI program 2 to 4 hours per week.
Met once a month with CACI (either in person at CACI offices in Reston, Va., or virtually).
Completed the CCI Clearance Preparedness Program.

Participate in the CCI Project-Based Learning Program

If you're interested in seeing this program at your school or sponsoring such a program at your company, please contact Sarah Hayes at sshayes@vt.edu.