Best Master's in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

portrait of Doug Wintemute portrait of Sarkis Kazandijan, MSME
by

Published May 15, 2023

check mark Edited by
Professionals with cybersecurity engineering degrees protect organizations' most valuable information and assets. Learn about which schools can help prepare you for this field.

CyberDegrees.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

African American young developer in eyeglasses concentrating on his online work on computer sitting at workplace Credit: AnnaStills / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Cybersecurity engineering degrees help prepare students for careers in secure hardware and software systems management. In a master's in cybersecurity engineering program, learners explore the design, development, and maintenance required for secure organizational systems and operations.

As computer systems become more complex, security demands grow more challenging. In response, governments, colleges and universities, and businesses have increased investments in cybersecurity education and initiatives.

Students have heard the call as well: According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of computer and information sciences master's degrees conferred grew nearly 200% between the 2009-10 and 2019-20 school years.

Discover what to expect from cybersecurity engineering programs and careers. We also rank the best cybersecurity engineering schools and programs to help students begin their search.

Why Get a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Engineering?

A master's in cybersecurity engineering can equip students with some of the most in-demand skills available. Cybersecurity affects all businesses with an online presence, as well as the military, the government, and healthcare.

According to CompTIA's State of the Tech Workforce, over 700,000 professionals work in cybersecurity, the third-largest group in the tech industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also projects information systems analysts will be one of the fastest-growing occupations between 2021 and 2031.

With a master's in cybersecurity engineering, graduates can qualify for security specialist jobs. These workers develop and manage advanced security systems of various sizes, using their skills to meet the growing security needs of organizations. Benefits of earning these graduate degrees include:

  • Professional Flexibility: Master's degrees provide advanced training that qualifies graduates for many positions and industries. Learners can also specialize their knowledge in these programs, which can lead to niche career fields.
  • Career Advancement: Professionals with a master's degree often develop strong leadership, project management, and decision-making skills. This can qualify them for promotions, as many management positions require graduate degrees.
  • Higher Salaries: Positions requiring master's degrees tend to pay higher salaries. According to Payscale, as of April 2023, workers with M.Eng. degrees in cybersecurity engineering earn an average salary of $104,000, while those with a bachelor of engineering in the same field average $60,000.
  • Job Security: Holding an advanced degree can help workers stand out in the employment field, leading to further job security.

Top Master's in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs for 2023

#1 Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

Duke University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a private research university founded in 1838. The university boasts an 8,600-acre campus, over 17,000 students, and a Blue Devil as its mascot.

Cybersecurity Master of Engineering

Duke University's cybersecurity master of engineering program in the Pratt School of Engineering develops skills in cybersecurity, risk analysis, and data-driven decision-making. Key topics covered include cyberdefense, cryptography, secure programming, and network security. 

Notable courses include introduction to cybersecurity perspectives and security incident detection. Each enrollee completes an internship or industry project as a capstone experience to foster real-world problem-solving skills. 

The program offers on-campus and online formats, with online students attending three on-campus residencies lasting one week each. Graduates can benefit from networking opportunities and develop the skills to pursue cybersecurity roles across industries.

Applying to Duke

Each candidate must submit a $75 application fee, along with transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a video introduction. GRE scores are optional.

Program at a Glance
  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $19,056/semester (online); $31,760/semester (in person)
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Delivery Format: Online with some in-person requirements, on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,880
Out-of-state
$55,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,900
Out-of-state
$57,900
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
16,172
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

Illinois Institute of Technology

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), founded in 1890, is a Chicago-based private research university. This school provides education in an environment that fosters scientific, technological, and professional knowledge. 

Master of Cybersecurity Engineering

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Illinois Institute of Technology offers a master of cybersecurity engineering degree. 

This comprehensive program covers topics such as cybersecurity, cyber-physical systems, cloud computing security, and network engineering. Learners also explore cybersecurity for smart grid power systems, security vision systems, coding theory, and secure wireless communications.

The program's esteemed professors, advanced technological resources, practical project experiences, and valuable internships help to prepare students for professional success. 

Learners can consider specializations in cloud security, network security, and digital forensics. Furthermore, the degree's interdisciplinary approach equips students with a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity engineering.

Applying to IIT

Each applicant must provide transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a resume, one letter of recommendation, and a professional statement. The non-refundable application fee is $100 for graduate students.

Program at a Glance
  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); ABET
  • Tuition: $1,712/credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,610
Out-of-state
$48,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,075
Out-of-state
$29,075
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
6,325
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

Auburn University

  • Auburn, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Auburn University, a public research university in Alabama, enrolls over 31,000 students. Along with its famous Tiger mascot, the university maintains a rich history in engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine.

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

Auburn University's master of science in cybersecurity engineering at the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering focuses on vital cybersecurity topics like secure software development, cryptography, and network security. 

This program offers experienced faculty, innovative technology, collaborative research projects, and internship possibilities. Notable courses include digital forensics and computer and network security.

Each enrollee must complete a capstone engineering project. Although no specific concentrations are available, elective courses allow learners to customize their programs. 

Students can complete the program on campus, online, or through hybrid delivery. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to cybersecurity, preparing graduates to tackle complex challenges in a rapidly evolving field.

Applying to Auburn

Each candidate must provide all transcripts and up to three letters of recommendation. The application fee is $60 for domestic students.

Program at a Glance
  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $785/credit (in state); $965/credit (out of state) 
  • Required Credits: 33
  • Delivery Format: Online, on campus, or hybrid
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$30,240
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
30,737
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

George Mason University

  • Fairfax, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

George Mason University (GMU) is a public research university in Fairfax, Virginia. The school promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and diversity as the largest public university in Virginia.  

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

George Mason University's master of science in cybersecurity engineering program provides students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in cybersecurity. Students explore software, hardware, cryptography, and systems engineering techniques to design and safeguard cyber-physical systems.

Enrollees can consider electives in cloud computing security and national security technology and policy. The program also offers a concentration in secure advanced manufacturing and supply chains. 

Each student must complete a thesis or non-thesis capstone project in which they apply their skills to real-world cybersecurity problems. 

Applying to GMU

Each applicant must provide college transcripts, a goals statement, two recommendation letters, and a resume. The graduate application fee is $75.

Program at a Glance
  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $679/credit (in state); $1,474/credit (out of state) 
  • Required Credits: 30 credits 
  • Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,510
Out-of-state
$32,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,594
Out-of-state
$33,906
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
38,541
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering Programs

University of New Hampshire at Manchester

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Campus

University of New Hampshire at Manchester (UNH Manchester) is a public university established in 1985. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, engineering, and liberal arts. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering

The University of New Hampshire at Manchester offers a master of science in cybersecurity engineering program through its Department of Engineering Technology. Students learn core and advanced information security to help protect an organization's information, communications, networks, and control systems. 

Each enrollee can complete a capstone or thesis option. Capstones may include a work-based project, internship experience, or another suitable activity. For the thesis option, students must author and defend publishable, graduate-level papers.

The program combines in-class and online learning with full-time and part-time enrollment options. Its interdisciplinary approach combines engineering and computer science for students to pursue careers in the field.

Applying to UNH Manchester

Along with a $65 fee, each candidate must submit their transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.

Program at a Glance
  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Tuition: $785/credit (in state); $965/credit (out of state) 
  • Required Credits: 33 credits (project); 30 credits (thesis) 
  • Program Length: 1.5-2 years (full time)
  • Delivery Format: Hybrid
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,150
Out-of-state
$32,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,170
Out-of-state
$15,590
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
717
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

What to Expect From Cybersecurity Engineering Degrees

At the master's level, cybersecurity engineering degrees prepare students to manage critical and emerging cybersecurity issues. The programs focus on engineering frameworks for developing cybersecurity software and hardware. Learners study advanced computer science theory while also completing hands-on projects that simulate actual scenarios.

A master's in cybersecurity engineering typically takes 1-2 years of full-time study and requires 25-45 credits. These degrees may be classified as a master of science (MS), master of applied science (MAS), or master of engineering (M.Eng.). These classifications can shift a program's core course requirements or even their admission requirements. While most cybersecurity engineering degrees feature a final capstone project, some programs offer a thesis option.

Learn more about master's in cybersecurity programs

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by program, but applicants usually need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While most schools accept learners from a variety of academic backgrounds, some programs prefer a related undergraduate degree, like a bachelor's in cybersecurity. M.Eng. programs may require applicants to hold an engineering bachelor's degree.

Competitive programs often maintain entry requirements like a minimum 3.0 GPA and high GRE test scores. Schools may also require prospective students to have several years of professional experience.

Degree and Concentration Options

Cybersecurity engineering degrees come in different types. While most programs award graduates an MS, other schools offer M.Eng. and MAS degrees. Though all of these programs typically offer balanced training and opportunities, several differences separate them from one another.

For example, MS degrees tend to be more theoretical and may even offer a thesis option. Both MAS and M.Eng. programs are often focused on practical applications of cybersecurity concepts, though M.Eng. programs may incorporate more engineering principles. MS degrees, like MAS and M.Eng. programs, prepare graduates for the workforce; however, the research and theory emphases can make them ideal for students who want to pursue a Ph.D.

The best cybersecurity engineering schools also provide specialization options, such as network security and cloud computing. Concentrations can help learners pursue subfields within cybersecurity.

Popular Cybersecurity Engineering Courses

Every master's in cybersecurity engineering has its own unique curriculum, but the following list outlines several common courses.

  • Cyberphysical Systems: This class introduces concepts of cyberphysical systems, including behavioral modeling and control systems. Learners may also study security solutions for technologies like automobiles and medical devices.
  • Wireless Network Security: In this course, students learn what threats wireless networks face and the methods for securing them, including encryption and security controls. They also explore privacy issues and security protocols.
  • Applied Cryptography: Enrollees in this class study topics like cryptographic algorithms, hash functions, keys, and authentication protocols.
  • Incident Detection and Handling: This course prepares learners to manage, contain, and respond to cyberattacks. They explore hacker tools, detection processes, and investigation strategies and techniques.

How Much Do the Best Cybersecurity Engineering Schools Cost?

Tuition depends on many factors, including school type and reputation. According to NCES data, average tuition for all graduate degrees in the 2020-21 academic year was $19,749. Average tuition for public institutions was $12,394, while private colleges and universities averaged $26,621.

Along with tuition and fees, students may encounter costs for course materials, travel, room and board, and fees. To help pay for a degree, students can apply for federal financial aid, plus private loans, scholarships, and fellowships.

Jobs for Master's in Cybersecurity Engineering Graduates

A master's in cybersecurity engineering satisfies the educational requirements for many cybersecurity-related careers, helping qualify graduates for advanced roles in the field. Below, we look at several common cybersecurity jobs.

Information Security Consultant

Information security analysts help organizations improve their cybersecurity technologies and operations. They review systems, check for vulnerabilities, report their findings, and make suggestions for improvement. Analysts often provide services to smaller companies, though large organizations may hire them internally.

Required Education
Bachelor's degree

Median Annual Salary
$102,600

Job Outlook
35% increase from 2021-2031

Chief Information Security Officer

Chief information security officers (CISOs) manage cybersecurity projects, teams, and operations within organizations. These professionals establish security practices and policies and provide security insight for business decisions. CISOs typically work under chief information officers within large organizations.

Required Education
Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred

Average Annual Salary
$173,110

Job Outlook
6% increase from 2021-2031

Security Engineer

Security engineers design and develop cybersecurity systems to meet the needs of organizations and end users. Engineers identify system needs, oversee development and testing teams, and resolve problems that arise during development and delivery.

Required Education
Bachelor's degree

Average Annual Salary
$98,080

Job Outlook
25% increase from 2021-2031

Security Manager

Security managers oversee organizational cybersecurity needs and best practices. They often handle security technologies and upgrades, respond to incidents, and manage cybersecurity staff. Security managers find jobs in organizations of all sizes, though smaller companies and agencies often require more hands-on work, while large enterprises typically require more delegation and staff management.

Required Education
Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred

Average Annual Salary
$137,540

Job Outlook
N/A

Security Architect

Security architects find and analyze vulnerabilities in computer and cybersecurity systems. They develop and upgrade security architectures, which include hardware, software, and networks. These professionals may work as third-party consultants for smaller organizations or hold internal positions within larger organizations.

Required Education
Bachelor's degree required; master's degree preferred

Median Annual Salary
$134,440

Job Outlook
N/A

Selecting the Right Master's in Cybersecurity Engineering Program

Prospective students should consider a variety of factors when choosing a master's in cybersecurity engineering, including their needs, interests, and priorities. The following list showcases several possible considerations.

  • Institutional and Programmatic Accreditation: Investigate whether each college or university holds institutional accreditation, which verifies that the school meets standards of academic excellence. Some cybersecurity engineering programs may hold programmatic accreditation from agencies like ABET. Programmatic accreditation verifies that a particular department or program offers classes that help prepare learners for jobs in the field.
  • Program Length: Applicants may seek programs they can finish more quickly. Though accelerated programs exist, they can be intensive and may not align with learners' career and family obligations. Some master's in cybersecurity engineering degrees may offer slower part-time calendars that suit those students' needs better.
  • Program Curriculum and Concentrations: The best programs align with the student's career goals. Prospective learners should think about the kinds of jobs they want, then determine which degrees' courses most directly prepare them for these roles. Indecisive students may benefit from a more generalized or interdisciplinary curriculum to better explore their options.

Other considerations include:

  • School location
  • Program delivery methods and schedule requirements
  • Support services
  • School and class size
  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Program faculty
  • School and program prestige and reputation
  • Alumni network and mentorship programs
  • Admission processes, requirements, and competitiveness

Should You Get Your Cybersecurity Engineering Degree Online?

Some of the best cybersecurity engineering schools offer online programs to accommodate distance students and working professionals. An online master's in cybersecurity engineering degree typically covers the same content as on-campus programs. Online learners can attend lectures, engage with peers, and complete the hands-on components in virtual environments.

Prospective learners should think about their learning style and engagement needs before committing to an online program. Some online and hybrid degrees also have on-campus requirements that may be challenging or costly for distance students to complete.

Explore Related Programs

Top Cyberscurity Schools and Programs

Top Cyberscurity Schools and Programs

Learn More
Computer Science Degree Programs

Computer Science Degree Programs

Learn More
Computer Engineering Degree Programs

Computer Engineering Degree Programs

Learn More
IT Management Degree Programs

IT Management Degree Programs

Learn More

FAQ About Master's Degrees in Cybersecurity Engineering

What can you do with a master's in cybersecurity engineering?

A master's in cybersecurity engineering can lead to many careers, including systems architect, cybersecurity engineer, and security manager. Graduates can access positions in many sectors, including the business and finance, government, military, and healthcare industries. Master's-holders can qualify for advanced roles, which typically offer higher salaries and more responsibility.

Can I get a master's in cybersecurity engineering degree online?

Yes. Students can complete online cybersecurity engineering degrees. While some online programs have on-campus residencies, many run entirely online with flexible, asynchronous schedules.

What degree is best for a cybersecurity engineer to have?

While most cybersecurity engineering positions require a bachelor's degree at minimum, employers often prefer professionals with a master's degree. Advanced credentials like a graduate degree can help cybersecurity workers qualify for advanced roles and increase their earning potential.

Can I get into cybersecurity with an engineering degree?

Cybersecurity professionals come from many different fields and disciplines. Computer-related degrees like computer science and information technology can lead to cybersecurity careers, especially if students complete a cybersecurity concentration. Professionals with degrees from other fields may also land cybersecurity jobs, though they may need experience, certifications, or other formal training in cybersecurity.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

Recommended Reading

Take the next step toward your future.

Discover programs you’re interested in and take charge of your education.