About the Clinic
The Google Cybersecurity Clinic at West Virginia State University (WVSU) connects
academic learning with hands-on cybersecurity practice through a service-based partnership with
Google. The clinic enables students to gain real-world experience while providing
free cybersecurity services to under-resourced organizations across West Virginia.
Modeled after clinical programs in law and medicine, the WVSU Cybersecurity Clinic allows students
to apply classroom knowledge to real cybersecurity challenges, helping protect small businesses,
nonprofits, schools, healthcare organizations, and critical infrastructure.
What the Google Cybersecurity Clinic Does
- Conduct cybersecurity risk and vulnerability assessments
- Identify security gaps and recommend practical mitigation strategies
- Deliver cybersecurity awareness and best-practice training sessions
- Support organizations with limited cybersecurity resources
- Promote responsible data protection and cyber hygiene
Mission
The mission of the Google Cybersecurity Clinic at WVSU is to prepare future cybersecurity
professionals while strengthening the digital security of local communities. The clinic emphasizes
experiential learning, ethical practice, innovation, and community engagement.
Goals
- Train Future Cybersecurity Professionals: Provide students with hands-on experience in risk assessment, security analysis, and client communication
- Serve the Community: Offer free cybersecurity services to small businesses, schools, and nonprofits
- Build Regional Cyber Resilience: Strengthen cybersecurity readiness across West Virginia
Recognition & Partnership
The WVSU Cybersecurity Clinic officially opened on March 19, 2025, becoming the
first cybersecurity clinic of its kind in West Virginia. The clinic was established
through $1 million in grant funding and wraparound support from
Google’s Cybersecurity Clinics Fund.
In addition to funding, Google provides volunteer mentorship from cybersecurity professionals,
Google Titan Security Keys, and scholarships for the
Google Cybersecurity Career Certificate. The clinic operates in collaboration with
the WVSU Cybersecurity Innovation Center (CIC) to enhance cybersecurity across
critical infrastructure sectors.
For Students: Launch Your Cybersecurity Career
Students participating in the Google Cybersecurity Clinic gain meaningful, career-building
experience while making a measurable impact.
- Real-World Client Experience: Lead cybersecurity assessments for community organizations
- Technical Skill Development: Apply industry frameworks, controls, and risk methodologies
- Professional Mentorship: Work under faculty guidance with exposure to industry experts
- Career Readiness: Build a competitive portfolio aligned with workforce needs
Get Involved
The Google Cybersecurity Clinic at WVSU welcomes students and community partners to participate
in this impactful initiative.
