University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

Last week, University of Advancing Technology (UAT) once again partnered with the FBI Phoenix Field Office this summer to host the FBI Cyber Academy, marking the second consecutive year the university has welcomed Arizona high school students for an immersive cybersecurity and digital forensics experience.

Guided by FBI Agents and Cyber Experts

Held on UAT’s Tempe campus, the weeklong academy gave students a rare behind-the-scenes look into the world of cybercrime investigations and federal law enforcement. Participants worked directly with FBI special agents, cyber specialists, intelligence analysts, and evidence technicians while learning how digital investigations unfold in real-world cases.

From Dorms to Digital Forensics: A Student Investigator Experience

Unlike a traditional summer camp, the FBI Cyber Academy placed students in the role of investigators from day one. Teams analyzed digital evidence, tracked online activity, conducted mock interviews, and reconstructed a criminal case using forensic techniques and investigative tools commonly used in cybersecurity and law enforcement fields. The experience culminated in a courtroom-style presentation before a real U.S. Attorney, where students argued whether their findings supported an indictment.

Students also lived on campus inFounder’s Hall during the academy, allowing them to experience college life while building teamwork and leadership skills alongside peers from across Arizona. UAT faculty and student mentors played a key role throughout the week, helping guide participants through technical exercises and demonstrating how cybersecurity education translates into real career opportunities.

Partnering to Strengthen Cybersecurity

The continued partnership between the FBI and UAT reflects Arizona’s growing emphasis on cybersecurity workforce development and hands-on STEM education. Following the success of the inaugural academy last year, the program has continued to expand opportunities for students interested in cyber defense, ethical hacking, and digital forensics careers.

As a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, UAT has continued to strengthen its reputation as one of Arizona’s leading cybersecurity universities. The institution also supports academy graduates through the FBI Phoenix Cyber Academy Scholarship, helping students continue their education in cybersecurity and related technology fields.

Featured in the Local News

The program’s impact and growing importance in Arizona’s cybersecurity ecosystem were recently highlighted by 12News, which featured the FBI Cyber Academy hosted on campus for the second consecutive year. The coverage spotlighted how students engaged directly with FBI professionals, worked through a mock criminal investigation, and presented their findings in a simulated courtroom—underscoring the academy’s role in building real-world cyber skills through immersive, hands-on learning experiences. See more below:

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UAT is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA).—giving you a proven foundation to build your career.

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