As the global need for unfilled cybersecurity positions is projected to reach nearly 3.5 million by 2021, cybercrime proliferates. Talent shortage in cybersecurity continues to reach widespread magnitudes and individuals are inadequately prepared to assume positions requiring significant responsibilities. The challenge of filling the cybersecurity skill gap with professionals is great. The problem studied is higher education institutions with cybersecurity programs are lagging in preparing skilled personnel for the workforce. This qualitative research examines 31 cybersecurity curricula and 25 syllabi to provide insight as to how real-life skills are introduced to undergraduate students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and to understand the impact and acquisition of skill set development based upon cybersecurity standards. The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate cybersecurity course activities of undergraduate colleges and universities to determine if learning outcomes support the necessary capabilities needed for entry-level positions. This study engages summative content analysis of cybersecurity course descriptions and syllabi to identify frequencies and patterns of learning engagements. The findings in this study reveal that institutions with cybersecurity programs are more theory based with less emphasis on experiential learning. Applied learning through simulations, internships, service learning, and apprenticeship are important to master concepts, promote critical thinking and solve problems. However, institutions are providing inadequate learning experiences. The writing component of the curriculum is well addressed through various courses and written course assignments; more technical writing engagements are needed as well as improvement with oral communication. Professional certifications prepare graduates for cybersecurity positions and was least represented in the study. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]