Cyber security is critical for all businesses. From leaked customer data to pushing malware guised as a software update, cyber security threats are rapidly making headlines. These breaches may persist, but there are options to educate yourself and help create solutions to protect businesses and consumers. Online cyber security degrees are offered from non-profit universities across the country. Students pursuing a cyber security masters online may learn about a variety of topics including, computer forensics, introduction to programming and database concepts and applications. Read on to learn if an online masters in cyber security is right for you, what to expect in an online master’s program, as well as potential careers and salary outlook.
Choosing an Online Cyber Security Degree
Most online cyber security masters degrees range from 30-40 credits and completion depends upon enrollment and cyber security program type. An online master’s degree in cyber security can take up to two years to complete. Because of a variety of factors from program to program, it can be important to ask these of your online cyber security degree program:
- How will an online master’s in cyber security help my career? A master’s degree in cyber security may help you to expand and broaden your skill set with coursework focused on creating assured systems, data mining, machine learning, cryptography and biometrics.
- What is the difference between a bachelor’s and master’s degree in cyber security? A bachelor’s degree in cyber security sets the foundations of the field. Applying and earning your master’s degree in cyber security allows for a more focused energy and attention on developing your technical skills, expand your knowledge on multiple systems and may account for years of experience.
- What does an online master’s degree in cybersecurity look like? No two online cyber security programs will be the same. Some programs offer electives, other degree programs will have a curriculum outlined already for you. There are some online master’s in cyber security programs that offer different tracks to pursue, such as analysis, networks or systems. It’s also important to look for faculty who have years of experience in the field and course of which they are instructing.
- What can the university offer for their online cybersecurity degree students? Depending on the learning format, some programs in cyber security may offer live classes where you are able to interact in real-time with other students. Some online masters in cyber security may also offer online-specific student support in the form of academic planning, career advisement and access to local or community events.
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Is an Online Cyber Security Masters Program Right for You?
Applying for a university often meant attending courses on campus. However, many programs have gone offline to go online. In fact, some online programs are comparable to the on-campus experience – students can collaborate with classmates on group projects and receive feedback from instructors in real time. Many online cyber security programs match their on-campus counterparts: students learn from best practices in monitoring and preventing online attacks and gain real world experience through on-site internships. Look for programs that are transparent about career outcomes and have connections with businesses and organizations to help launch your career.
What to Expect From Your Masters in Cyber Security Online
Every online master’s in cybersecurity program will vary in admissions requirements. Some programs prefer a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, technical, real-world work experience, relevant industry certifications, completion of specific coursework, an understanding of particular programming languages and/or competency in data structures, discrete mathematics and other skills.
While some online cybersecurity programs offer a decided curriculum, other’s allow for elective choices or tracks to choose from. These online courses may include a variety of approaches to learning such as interactive videos, face-to-face group projects or hands-on learning experience opportunities.
Curriculum
Comparable online cybersecurity degrees should offer coursework that is equivalent or better than their on-campus counterparts. For the most part, you may encounter the following in your online cyber security degree program:
- Foundations of Assurance: Explore concepts, theories, tools and risk management skills involved in creating an assured system through access control, enterprise security review and theorem proving.
- Cryptography: Introduction, review or application of cryptography incorporating classical techniques of influence, exploring authentication protocols, hash functions, cryptanalysis, pseudo-random sequences and related ethical and social concerns.
- Algorithm Design and Analysis: Develop and learn skills for dividing and conquering algorithms, create social network and optimization algorithms and application to the real-world. You will also study NP-completeness, greedy and graph algorithms and advanced data structures.
Faculty
Most graduate programs will have faculty leading courses who are experts in their field, currently working on real-world solutions and cutting-edge research. Take some time to review faculty profiles to check that the same instructors who teach on-campus are also leading the online courses. This may help to ensure continuity between programs. Ask yourself and faculty members these questions:
- Most full-time professors have published research and reports. Check out if they have worked with any companies in an information or cyber security role in the past. Are they engaged in any projects at this time?
- How long have they been teaching in the field of technology and security? Do they work within the community?
Online Masters in Cyber Security Career and Salary Outlook
The information security analysis field is expected to increase 32 percent between 2018 and 2028 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is much faster growth than average. The demand for cyber security professionals is high because of the need for innovative solutions to protect online data and fix computer network issues. CyberSeek has found that there were over 313,735 job openings for the cyber security industry from September 2017 through August 2018. According to the BLS, the average annual salary for a cyber security analyst is $98,350 per year, which is almost twice the national average.
After completing an online masters in cyber security, you can apply for a variety of IT jobs. Depending on your specialization, you could start a career as an analyst, engineer, auditor, or manager. Some careers to choose from include: cryptographer, security architect, forensic expert, source code auditor, security engineer, or security manager. Salaries for these positions may vary depending on where you live, your experience, and what industry you work in.
Finding the Best Online Master’s in Cyber Security Program For You
In searching for the best online master’s in cyber security across the United States, it’s important to take into account the length of the program, full-time or part-time options, and other prerequisites that may determine whether or not the program is a good fit.
Online Master’s in Cyber Security Programs
We found 20 universities in our directory offering online master’s in cyber security programs. If you represent a university and would like to contact us about editing any of our listings, or adding new programs, please send an email to mastersindatascience@2u.com.
Syracuse University
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Syracuse University
Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity program delivered online. This program requires 30 credits and prepares students with the necessary foundations to design and develop assured, secure computer systems to prevent and manage cyberattacks. Students will attend live, online classes that encourage collaboration, meet at on-campus immersions, and access coursework online at any time. The M.S. in Cybersecurity requires applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in a related technical field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement. GRE waivers are available for qualified applicants.
University of California, Berkeley
Online Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) from University of California, Berkeley
The UC Berkeley School of Information’s online Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) exposes students to the advanced technical, conceptual, and practical skills needed to become leaders in cybersecurity. The MICS curriculum offers a holistic approach to cybersecurity so students develop technical expertise while also gaining an understanding of the behavioral, economic, legal, and ethical concerns that shape security in the digital age. Delivered online, the program features live weekly classes taught by our renowned UC Berkeley faculty, interactive self-paced coursework, and in-person immersions where classmates and faculty have the chance to network. The program is 27 credits and can be completed in 20 months. Applicants must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of basic computer concepts and proficiency in computer programming. Official transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume are required to apply. GRE/GMAT scores are not required to apply. Candidates with a limited quantitative background may choose to submit GRE/GMAT scores to provide additional insight into their quantitative abilities. Additionally, candidates with mediocre undergraduate grades may choose to submit strong GRE/GMAT scores to help demonstrate their academic aptitude.
Bellevue University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that is comprised of 36 credits. Both online and in-person classes are offered. All online classes are asynchronous, with resources available 24/7. Both cohort and traditional format programs are available. Students are required to take 27 credits of core classes and 9 credits of elective classes on either a part-time or a full-time basis. A bachelor’s degree is required to apply to the program.
Brown University
Executive Master in Cybersecurity from Brown University
Brown University offers an Executive Master in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 27 credits. The 18-month program blends face-to-face and online learning, and features hands-on assessments of cyber vulnerabilities, attacks, and defenses. Every course begins and ends with a residential session, but is otherwise offered online. The Executive Master in Cybersecurity program is for mid-career executives with significant professional experience in technical or policy areas. They have an established track record of achievement and may already have an advanced degree in a technical or business domain. The program ends with a Critical Challenge Project, where a student analyzes this critical challenge from multiple perspectives and develops a comprehensive plan for addressing it.
Drexel University
Online Masters in Cybersecurity from Drexel University
Drexel University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 45 credits. Drexel’s highly interactive online learning environment engages and challenges students while remaining convenient for working professionals. In order to apply, a bachelor’s degree closely related to the field of cybersecurity is necessary.
Excelsior College
Master’s In Cybersecurity Degree from Excelsior College
Excelsior College offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 30 credits. Three concentrations are offered: Information Assurance, Medical Data Security, and Policy Administration. The program is fully online, with all courses being offered in an asynchronous format. Students are allowed to transfer 9 credits into the program, but at least 21 credits must be completed at Excelsior.
Johns Hopkins University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that is comprised of 30 credits. Students admitted to the program can choose from the following three areas of concentration: analysis, networks, and systems. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis, as long as the 10 required courses are completed within 5 years. Online instruction is asynchronous, but professors hold weekly office hours that give students an opportunity to interact with professors in a synchronous format. A bachelor’s degree is needed to apply to this program.
Liberty University
Master of Science in Cyber Security Online from Liberty University
Liberty University offers a Master of Science in Cyber Security that is comprised of 36 credits. All courses are offered 100% online and 50% of credits may be transferred from another institution. If a student does not have a bachelor’s degree in a related field to cybersecurity, the may still apply but will be required to take extra courses in order to complete the program.
Mercy College
Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Mercy College
Mercy College offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 30 credits. They also offer a dual-degree 5 year program that allows you to get both your B.S. and M.S. in Cybersecurity. All courses are offered online in an asynchronous format. Graduates from other fields will be accepted provided they complete the following prerequisite courses prior to starting the graduate program: Local Area Networks, Database Management Systems, Cryptography and Computer Security, Operating Systems, and Statistics.
National University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from National University
National University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that is comprised of 58.5 graduate units. Students have the option to specialize in either Ethical Hacking & Pen Testing or Information Assurance and Security Policy. The program is available offline in an asynchronous format. The program ends with the student creating an original project with practical applications using cybersecurity policy, regulatory, and testing frameworks.
New York University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity Online from New York University
New York University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that is comprised of 30 credits. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis, with options for fully-online, on-campus, or a mixture of the two. To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree from any field, but a degree from one of the following is preferred: computer science, mathematics, science, or engineering. While not required, the program has opportunities for both a Research Project and a Master’s Thesis.
Pennsylvania State University
Master of Professional Studies in Information Sciences – Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Pennsylvania State University
Penn State offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 33 credits. The online courses are interactive and collaborative, allowing you to build strong ties with other students and gain perspectives from other disciplines and industries. Maximum flexibility is maintained by the program in an effort to meet both the professional needs of individual students and academic quality standards. Those who hold a bachelor’s degree in a technical or scientific discipline, including applied mathematics, computer information systems, computer science, information sciences, engineering, statistics, or a related field will be considered.
Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master of Science in Cyber Security from Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 36 credits. The program is fully online and can be completed in as little as 15 months. All courses are offered in an asynchronous format. The program ends with a curriculum-encapsulating capstone project where students synthesize prior learning to design, develop, and execute an analytics project on their chosen subject as a culmination of their studies.
University of Arizona
Master of Science in Cybersecurity from University of Arizona
University of Arizona offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 33 credits. Students can either follow an Information Systems track or a Physical Systems track. The course mix includes a variety of active learning opportunities including projects, discussions, chats, labs, extra credit opportunities, quizzes, and exams – all delivered online. A bachelor’s degree is required to apply, and prior knowledge of the field is necessary.
University of Dallas
Master of Science in Cybersecurity from University of Dallas
University of Dallas offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that is comprised of 30 credits. The school uses a trimester system, with fall, spring and summer terms. With year-round classes and multiple starting points each term, students can choose from 12-week, 6-week, or inter-semester classes. To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree. The last course is a practicum where each student completes a practical exercise in a simulated cybersecurity management role.
University of Detroit Mercy
Master of Science in Information Assurance with Cybersecurity Major from University of Detroit Mercy
University of Detroit Mercy offers a Master of Science in Information Assurance with a major in Cybersecurity that is comprised of 30 credits. The program is available online and can be completed as quickly as a year. Classes are offered in an asynchronous format. The degree provides comprehensive knowledge of the entire field of cybersecurity. This holistic understanding helps with developing total protection solutions that will mitigate cyber-risks to acceptable levels in government, business and industry.
University of Maryland – University College
Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology from University of Maryland – University College
The University of Maryland – University College offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology that is comprised of 36 credits. The degree is offered for both part-time and full-time students, but must be completed within 5 years. All courses are offered in an asynchronous format, but students still have the opportunity to work with professors and participate in group projects. A bachelor’s degree in a field related to Cybersecurity is not required, but extra courses are recommended for those with no experience.
University of Southern California
Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering from University of Southern California
University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering degree that is comprised of 28 credits. Of these 28 credits, 8 are elective courses, while the other 20 are required courses. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are given in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, with high amounts of interactivity encouraged. Typical students generally have a bachelor’s degree in one of the following: computer science, electrical engineering or information security.
Utica College
Master of Science in Cyber Security from Utica College
University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering degree that is comprised of 28 credits. Of these 28 credits, 8 are elective courses, while the other 20 are required courses. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are given in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, with high amounts of interactivity encouraged. Typical students generally have a bachelor’s degree in one of the following: computer science, electrical engineering or information security.
Western Governors University
Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance degree that is comprised of 30 credits. The online program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. All classes in the program are asynchronous and can be completed on the student’s terms. To apply, students must have a bachelor’s degree and be able to demonstrate some knowledge of IT. The final course in the program is a cumulative capstone course.
Note: Information for the following online computer science programs is up-to-date as of February 2018.