Advancing Research, Education, and Workforce Development for the Future of Cyberspace Operations
The Cyberspace Operations Research and Education (CORE) Center at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a nationally recognized leader in cybersecurity research, workforce development, and public service, driving a safer, more resilient digital future for Arkansas and beyond.
About CORE
The CORE Center is a leading hub for advancing cybersecurity, digital forensics, operational technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and other emerging technologies through research, education, and workforce development. Established with a $1 million gift from the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, CORE provides state-of-the-art labs and collaborative spaces that empower students, researchers, and community partners to drive innovation, strengthen cyber resilience, and develop practical solutions for complex digital challenges.
Through workforce development, service learning, and applied research, CORE prepares highly skilled, workforce-ready professionals while advancing ethical, effective and responsible technology use.
Values
CORE’s Pillars of Excellence:
- Student Success: Empowering students with knowledge, skills and opportunities to thrive in cybersecurity and related fields.
- Innovation: Fostering curiosity and bold thinking to develop practical, ground-breaking solutions for complex cyber challenges.
- Collaboration: Leveraging diverse perspectives and interdisciplinary teamwork to amplify impact and foster shared learning.
Program Services
The CORE Cybersecurity Clinic provides hands-on assessments, service-learning, and expert guidance to support critical infrastructure, government agencies, and non-profits while preparing students for workforce-ready careers in cybersecurity.
CORE’s Advanced Digital Forensics Lab equips students and researchers to analyze and process digital evidence in support of law enforcement, cybercrime investigations, and cutting-edge research initiatives.
Signature Research Initiatives
- Simulating sophisticated cyber-attacks targeting ICS and OT to study vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.
- Prepare and analyze digital forensic evidence to support local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
- Delivering cybersecurity assessments and service-learning opportunities to critical infrastructure entities, the Department of Defense (DOD), state agencies, local governments, and non-profits through the cybersecurity clinic.
Partnerships
