Online master’s in cybersecurity programs
Cybersecurity is a major concern for organizations and consumers, who rely on technology to conduct business and perform everyday tasks. In its survey of over 1,000 C-suite executives, Deloitte’s 2023 Global Future of Cyber Survey found that strong cyber initiatives lead to improved customer trust, increased talent recruitment, and greater operational stability.
Do you want to start or advance a career focused on keeping digital systems and the people that use them safe? Earning a master’s in cybersecurity online is a great way to gain the knowledge and skills to take your next professional step. Even better, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the demand for information security analysts is projected to grow by 32% between 2022 and 2032.
An online master’s in cybersecurity can prepare you for a variety of roles on the digital front lines. Learn more about what you can expect from a cybersecurity program, find out projected career and salary outlooks, and browse programs to find an option that works for you.
The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in July 2022 For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.
Sponsored Schools
University of California, Berkeley
Master of Information and Cyber Security
The UC Berkeley School of Information’s online Master of Information and Cybersecurity prepares students with the technical, conceptual, and practical skills needed for a professional career in cybersecurity.
- No GRE/GMAT required to apply
- Complete your degree in 20 months
Hawaii Pacific University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
The online MS in Cybersecurity program from Hawai‘i Pacific University prepares students to defend their organization from data breaches, strengthen their résumé by taking key certification exams, and advance their career as responsible leaders in cybersecurity.
- 12 months to complete full time and 24 months part time
- Standardized test scores not required (No GRE/GMAT)
- Prerequisite courses not required
- Three start dates per year in January, May, and August
Finding the best online master’s in cybersecurity program for you
As you determine the best online master’s cybersecurity program for your goals, consider factors like the program’s length, schedule (part time or full time), and format (online or hybrid). It’s also important to check the program requirements, which may or may not include a minimum GRE score.
Five steps to choose the right online master’s in cybersecurity
Enrolling in an online cybersecurity graduate program is a big decision that requires a significant financial and time commitment. Here are five steps you can take to narrow down your choices and pick a degree program that will help you make your next professional move.
- Consider your career goals. Look into different cybersecurity roles, including their responsibilities and education requirements, which can guide your criteria when browsing through different programs. Some may offer specialty tracks or courses that focus on different aspects of cybersecurity.
- Understand the difference between undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity degrees. A master’s degree in cybersecurity will build on students’ existing experience with the topic, deepening their knowledge and expanding their skills. If you’re looking to gain foundational industry knowledge, a bachelor’s degree may be the best place to start.
- Compare curricula. The courses that comprise your master’s degree in cybersecurity can differ across programs. Do you want to work on collaborative projects? Is specialization important to you? Take time to read class descriptions and the skills associated with each one. This way, you can pick a program that aligns with your goals and interests.
- Ask about student support. If student support is important to you, make sure that you seek out programs that offer professional development, financial aid, and academic assistance. Some programs may provide job placement services and networking opportunities.
- Pay attention to accreditation. Accrediting agencies set certain standards that institutions and programs must follow in order to receive and maintain accreditation. The two main agencies you should look out for are the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in July 2022. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.
Sponsored School
Is an online cybersecurity master’s program right for you?
Earning your master’s in cybersecurity online gives you the flexibility to learn while attending to existing commitments, allowing you to fit classes and coursework into your schedule. Many online programs offer the same benefits and curricula as their on-campus counterparts, such as experienced faculty and opportunities to complete relevant projects.
An online master’s program may not be suitable for students who learn best in an in-person environment, prefer hands-on assistance, or enjoy a more traditional format. These are important considerations when choosing how and where to study for your master’s in cybersecurity.
What can you expect from your online master’s in cybersecurity?
In an online master’s program, your coursework may be delivered in a variety of formats, including live virtual classes, pre-recorded lectures, and supplemental resources. You may also be required to collaborate on projects with classmates and complete assignments outside of class. Admissions criteria for these online programs, like minimum GPA and work experience, will vary by school.
Curriculum
Cybersecurity combines a range of digital techniques and approaches, including forensic computing, cryptography, and security engineering. A master’s program can deepen your understanding of the field and prepare you for more advanced career opportunities. Here are some of the topics you may encounter during your studies:
- Cryptography: authentication protocols, hash functions, cryptanalysis, random numbers, steganography, and digital signatures
- Cloud computing: cloud computing models, characteristics of cloud platforms, typical development modes, and more
- Algorithm design and analysis: optimization algorithms, NP-completeness, greedy and graph algorithms, and advanced data structures
- Information ethics and policy: information policies for various organizations and what kind of social responsibility companies have in regard to cyber security
- Security engineering: foundational elements of security engineering, such as security protocol, access control, and interface problems
Faculty
Graduate programs can also provide students with direct access to experts in the cybersecurity field. Faculty members may have ample industry experience, which can enrich your learning and give more context with real-world situations and professional insights.
You can evaluate a program’s faculty and experience on the program website, or reach out to them directly via LinkedIn or email. Here are some questions you can ask to get a better idea of their expertise:
- Have you recently published any research or reports?
- What types of projects are you currently working on?
- Have you worked in an information or cybersecurity role in the past?
- How long have you been teaching in the technology and security field?
Online master’s in cybersecurity requirements
Every cybersecurity master’s program will come with its own specific conditions for application. Prospective students may be required to submit the following:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Official transcripts
- CV including industry experience
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- GRE/GMAT scores
Learners who are transitioning from a different industry, or those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-technical field, may benefit from a cybersecurity bootcamp, which can be a more accessible entry point than a master’s program.
What Are the Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook Associated With an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity?
As mentioned above, the BLS reports that employment for information security analysts is expected to increase by 32% between 2022 and 2032. Further, professionals in these roles earned a median annual salary of $112,000 in 2022.
After completing an online master’s in cybersecurity program, you may qualify for a variety of information technology jobs. Career paths to consider include:
- Cryptographer
- Security architect
- Forensic expert
- Source code auditor
- Security engineer
- Security manager
If you have chosen a specialized degree track, you could start or advance your career as an analyst, engineer, auditor, or manager. Salaries for each position will vary depending on the company, location, and industry, as well as your industry experience.
Online master’s in cybersecurity programs
Browse online master’s in cybersecurity programs below.
If you represent a university and would like to contact us regarding a listing, please send an email to mastersindatascience@2u.com. The university’s website is the best place to find the most up to date information on programs and offerings.
University of California, Berkeley
School of Information
Master of Information and Cyber Security
Berkeley, California
The UC Berkeley School of Information’s online Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) prepares students with the technical, conceptual, and practical skills needed for a professional career in cybersecurity. The MICS program features live online classes, interactive course work originally developed by faculty from the I School and the College of Engineering, and an in-person immersion. Graduates will be prepared to pursue leadership roles in organizations across sectors and industries.
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 20 months
Credits: 27
Data Science
Hawaii Pacific University
College of Professional Studies
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Honolulu, Hawaii
The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program from Hawai‘i Pacific University prepares students to defend their organization from cyberattacks and advance their career as responsible leaders in cybersecurity. Students gain foundational skills in computer security, network security, and information security, and prepare for crucial certification exams.
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 12 months full time; 24 months part time
Credits: 30
Maryville University
Master's in Cybersecurity
St. Louis, MO
With Maryville University’s 100% online MS in cybersecurity, you’ll develop from wherever you are the technical and leadership skills to defend your organization’s systems and data. Learn from case studies pulled from the headlines, complete coursework using the Maryville Virtual Lab, and prepare for industry-relevant certifications. Graduate in as few as 12 months. No GMAT/GRE scores required.
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: As few as 12 months.
Choose your own electives for the online master’s in cybersecurity based on your professional interests and career goals — or select a technical or business/leadership focus area:
- Technical: Focus on network security, mobile device hacking and forensics and security log management.
- Business/leadership: Explore cybersecurity auditing, data security and analysis, risk analysis and metrics and cloud migration.
Admission Requirements:
We offer multiple start dates per year, so you can apply and start learning sooner than you think. You will need to submit the following materials to apply:
- Simplified, no-cost online application
- Official academic transcripts
- Personal statement explaining qualifications for graduate work
- English proficiency scores (International applicants may be required to submit scores that meet a certain threshold.)
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Bellevue University
Master of Science in Cyber Security
Bellevue, Nebraska
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Cyber Security
Enrollment Type: Self-paced
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- 2.5 GPA
- Bachelor’s Degree
- No GRE or GMAT
Brown University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Providence, Rhode Island
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 45
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- GRE Not required
- Transcripts
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume
- TOEFL/IELTS
Drexel University
Master's Degree in Cybersecurity
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 45
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Personal Essay
- GRE scores (preferred, but not required)
Excelsior College
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Albany, New York
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- 3.0 GPA
Johns Hopkins University
Whiting School of Engineering
Cybersecurity Master's Program
Baltimore, Maryland
Name of Degree: Cybersecurity Master’s Program
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: N/A
Concentrations:Analysis, Assured Autonomy, Networks, Systems
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- 3.0 GPA
- Official transcripts
- CV or Resume
- Completion of of prerequisites coursework
Liberty University
Master's in Cybersecurity
Lynchburg, Virginia
Name of Degree: Master’s in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- College Transcripts
Mercy College
Master of Sciecne in Cybersecurity
New York , New York
Name of Degree: Master of Sciecne in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Resume
- Personal statement
- Letter of Recommendation
National University
Cybersecurity Master of Science
San Diego , California
Name of Degree: Cybersecurity Master of Science
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 68.5
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Professional resume
- Official or Unofficial transcripts
New York University
Polytechnic Institute
Cybersecurity Master's Degree
New York , New York
Name of Degree: Cybersecurity Master’s Degree
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university
- Official transcripts
- Resume or CV
- One letter of recommendation
- Personal Essay
- Copy of front (photo) page of passport
- TOEFL scores may be requested for non- native English speakers after initial review
- A minimum of five years of professional, full- time Work experience
Pennsylvania State University
Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
State College, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 33
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Official transcripts
- 3.0 GPA
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- CV or Resume
Southern New Hampshire University
Master's in Cyber Security
Manchester, Manchester
Name of Degree: Master’s in Cyber Security
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree
- Official transcripts from all programs attended
- TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
- Prerequisite courses
- Professional resume/CV
- 2.75 GPA
- No GRE/GMAT Scores
University of Arizona
Master of Science Cybersecurity
Tucson, Arizona
Name of Degree: Master of Science Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 33
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree
- Unofficial/Official transcripts
- TOEFL/IELTS Score for International Students
- Prerequisite courses
- Professional resume
- Essay
- Statement of purpose
- 3.0 GPA
- GRE Scores
University of Dallas
Satish and Yasmin Gupta College of Business
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Dallas, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- GRE scores
- Three letters of recommendation
- 3.0 GPA
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Resume
University of Detroit Mercy
College of Liberal Arts & Education
Master's in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity
Detroit, Michigan
Name of Degree: Master’s in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1 year
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
University of Southern California
USC Viterbi
Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
Los Angeles, California
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: 28
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree in STEM or related social science from a regionally- accredited university
- GPA minimum of 3.0
- Programming experience or one year of calculus
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- English language proficiency for international applicants
Utica College
Master's in Cybersecurity
Utica, New York
Name of Degree: Master’s in Cybersecurity
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 3.0 GPA
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
- Personal statement
- Resume
Western Governors University
Cybersecurity Master's Degree Program
Durham, North Carolina
Name of Degree: Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 31
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Transcripts
Last updated: January 2024