15 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs 2021
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Cybersecurity professionals use complex systems to identify technological security threats. Their duties may include monitoring individual security on a personal device or handling national security on large, mission-critical networks. With the recent uptick in demand for qualified cybersecurity specialists, earning a master’s in cybersecurity offers increased overall value.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects rapid, substantial growth for jobs in information security analysis over the coming years. A 2020 project from the Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG) and Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) reported an ongoing and worsening cybersecurity skills shortage. The industry needs qualified, skilled professionals, making right now a great time to earn a cybersecurity master’s degree.
Keep reading to learn more about how to earn your master’s in cybersecurity online and explore our ranking of affordable, accredited programs.
15 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs 2021
AdvertisementCyberDegrees.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.
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Top Schools With Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2021
If you want to advance your education in 2021, check out the following ranking of the 15 best online master’s in cybersecurity programs.
To learn more about how we rank top universities, visit the link below.
What the Best Online Cybersecurity Master's Programs Have in Common
Every school offers students a unique experience. That said, many top universities share similar characteristics:
They are accredited. Accreditation involves a rigorous third-party evaluation of a school’s academic quality. Regional and national accrediting agencies confer accreditation to schools that meet their standards. All schools on this list are regionally accredited by one of the following agencies:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Commission on HIgher Education (MSCHE)
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
The schools are academically excellent. Top universities have high student retention and graduation rates, faculty with industry experience, and low student-to-faculty ratios. Webster University — one of the schools included in our cybersecurity master’s rankings below — ensures each of their 13,000 students receives personal attention with an impressively low 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
They are reputable. The best colleges and universities are selective with admission offers. They also maintain the best employment and income outcomes for graduates. DePaul University, for example, reports that 95% of its School of Computing alumni were either employed, pursuing continuing education, or not seeking employment within six months of graduation.
They have a robust cybersecurity program. The best online master’s in cybersecurity programs offer cutting-edge classes to prepare students for advanced jobs in the field. Schools with robust cybersecurity programs also provide unique resources for online students, like Stevenson University’s innovative virtual laboratory, which allows remote learners to gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art digital forensic technology.
The University of San Diego sits on 180 acres overlooking the city and the Pacific Ocean. This private Catholic research university serves its diverse student body with compassion, academic excellence, and a collaborative spirit.
USD's online master's in cybersecurity enables graduate students to complete their degree in just 20 months. The 31-credit curriculum suits even learners with limited cybersecurity experience.
Students take one asynchronous course at a time; each class lasts seven weeks. Required courses include applied cryptography, cyberintelligence, and a final capstone course where students put together a cumulative portfolio.
Alongside theoretical knowledge and practical cybersecurity applications, USD's program emphasizes ethical leadership. Throughout the program, learners focus on key principles of management, business services, and strategic decision-making.
Applying to USD
USD admits new online cybersecurity students on a rolling basis, with spring, summer, and fall start dates. Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 2.75 may need to submit standardized test scores. All applicants must submit a statement of purpose, resume, and letters of reference.
One of the largest private higher education institutions in the country, New York University enrolls nearly 60,000 students annually, with graduates forming a vast global alumni network. NYU's campus buildings are spread throughout midtown Manhattan, Greenwich Village, and downtown Brooklyn.
NYU's Tandon School of Engineering offers a 30-credit master's in cybersecurity both online and on campus in downtown Brooklyn. Online learners can complete the degree in two years when studying full time and 2-3 years when studying part time.
In addition to core computer science and security courses, learners select three electives from options like digital forensic, machine learning, and mobile security. Students can also complete a research project or a thesis to culminate the degree.
NYU offers unique benefits, including a cyberops specialization, a remotely accessible virtual laboratory, and the NYU Cyber Fellows program, which provides a 75% tuition scholarship for part-time students.
Applying to NYU
For admission consideration, applicants must have a high undergraduate GPA. The program prefers applicants with a bachelor's in relevant disciplines like computer science, mathematics, or engineering. Other requirements include working knowledge of a programming language, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE, ABET
Tuition: $1,943/credit
Required Credits: 30 credits
Program Length: 2 years full (time); 2-3 years (part time)
Founded in 1898, DePaul University is a private Catholic research university located in the heart of Chicago. Over 22,000 students enroll each year to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
Students pursuing a master's in cybersecurity online at DePaul take a total of 52 credits -- though some students may need to take additional prerequisite coursework. The program offers three concentrations: computer security; governance, risk management, and compliance; and networking and infrastructure.
DePaul's online, asynchronous degrees provide maximum flexibility for students, with program start dates in fall, winter, spring, and summer. Online students view recorded lectures from campus classrooms. Lectures can be streamed or downloaded for offline viewing.
A survey of graduates from DePaul's School of Computing, which houses the cybersecurity master's program, found that 95% of students reported they were employed, pursuing continuing education, or not seeking employment.
Applying to DePaul
Applicants to DePaul's master's in cybersecurity program need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA. Students can also provide optional supplemental materials including letters of recommendation or a resume.
Independent, private, and nondenominational, Webster University operates a main campus in St. Louis and more than 50 sites near domestic military bases. A small, 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention for all 13,000 learners.
Offered through the George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology, Webster's master's in cybersecurity is available online and at select U.S. campuses. Cybersecurity students complete 36 credits in preparation for demanding public and private sector careers in fields like intelligence, digital forensics, and fraud prevention.
Required courses include cybersecurity infrastructures, encryption methods and techniques, and practical research in cybersecurity. Students can complete an optional internship to gain real-world job experience prior to graduation.
Webster fosters a flexible online learning environment through asynchronous formatting like discussion modules and weekly assignments.
Applying to Webster
Webster offers admission consideration to all prospective graduate students with a bachelor's degree and minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA. Applicants interested in the cybersecurity program should possess knowledge of computer systems, digital networks, and mathematics.
Founded in 1965 as Allentown College, this small Catholic institution underwent several decades of expansion and became a university in 2000. Today, DeSales University enrolls over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Delivered entirely online, the cybersecurity master's degree at DeSales is designed with working professionals in mind. The program offers a combination of asynchronous and interactive lectures, hands-on experience, group work, and research.
All students complete 36 credits to graduate. DeSales currently offers a concentration in information systems, with additional concentrations in development. The program's final capstone requires a comprehensive project in students' areas of interest.
Students in DeSales's cybersecurity program also benefit from the school's Center for Homeland Security. This institute offers resources that connect students to industry professionals for networking and training.
Applying to DeSales
Applicants should possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Two letters of recommendation, a resume, and personal statement are required. DeSales admits new students on a rolling basis.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $855/credit
Required Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 2 years (full time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
One of the world's top private research universities, the University of Southern California is a global center for the arts, technology, and international business. More than 45,000 students attend each year.
USC's unique computer science master's in computer security developed its curriculum in response to trends in government and private industry. Coursework emphasizes research, development, and deployment of computer security technologies.
The 32-credit degree requires classes like applied cryptography, advanced operating systems, and computer networking. Recent program alumni have found work at major companies like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Oracle.
The Viterbi School of Engineering offers unparalleled flexibility for online students, with options to view course lectures broadcast live or recorded later. Though in-person attendance is not required, students can also attend class at the USC campus if desired.
Applying to USC
USC computer security applicants must demonstrate proficiency with completed coursework in at least four designated computer science and mathematics areas. Transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement are required. Letters of recommendation are optional.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: WSCUC
Tuition: $2,148/credit
Required Credits: 32 credits
Program Length: 1.5-2 years (full time); 2.5-3.5 years (part time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous) or hybrid
Founded in 1872, Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education options focused on student success. This private institution enrolls nearly 11,000 individuals, with more than 7,000 pursuing online degrees and certificates.
The customizable, fully online master's in cybersecurity at Maryville offers three concentrations: a general focus, a technical focus, and a leadership focus. Students can also earn top industry certifications while they earn their degree, including certified information systems security and certified ethical hacking.
Maryville's 30-credit curriculum requires core courses in incident response and examination, legal aspects of privacy and compliance, and controls for effective cyber defense. Throughout the program, students analyze case studies and explore the latest developments in the field.
Applying to Maryville
To apply to Maryville's online cybersecurity master's degree, candidates need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, though lower GPA applicants may be admitted provisionally. Standardized test scores are not required, but applicants should submit official transcripts and a personal statement.
Since its founding in 1821, George Washington University has become the largest university in the D.C. metropolitan area. More than 26,000 students attend each year, representing all 50 states and 130 countries.
Requiring a total of 30 credits, GW's master of engineering in cybersecurity analytics provides students with the technical and business skills they need to identify cybersecurity issues and develop realistic solutions.
Learners explore topics such as cyberforensics, cloud computing security, and security data visualization. Course materials combine real-world cases and practical exercises to give students experience with the latest information security tools and techniques.
Though primarily designed for those with a technical background, students with nontechnical degrees can also enroll and find success in GW's online cybersecurity program.
Applying to GW
Prospective GW applicants need a bachelor's in a relevant discipline and a minimum 2.7 GPA. Applicants with a nontechnical degree should possess IT work experience. Admission requires a resume, statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. GRE scores are recommended.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $1,965/credit
Required Credits: 30 credits
Program Length: 2 years (full time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Founded as America's first research university in 1876, Johns Hopkins University has been a leader in higher education for more than 140 years. Nearly 30,000 learners enroll for classes at Johns Hopkins each year.
Johns Hopkins's Whiting School of Engineering offers several flexible graduate degrees for professionals, including a master's in cybersecurity online. Students can take classes asynchronously online, in person, in a hybrid format, and through synchronous virtual technology.
The 30-credit MS in cybersecurity offers five tracks: analysis, assured autonomy, networks, systems, and independent study. The independent study option allows students to conduct research or explore a topic in depth.
Required foundational courses for all students include cryptology and foundations of algorithms. If desired, learners can culminate their studies with a small-team capstone project.
Applying to Johns Hopkins
Successful Johns Hopkins graduate applicants typically have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Cybersecurity applicants should demonstrate completion of prerequisites in calculus, advanced math, Java, data structures, and computer organization.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $4,595/course
Required Credits: 30 credits
Program Length: Up to 5 years (part time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous) or hybrid
Established in 1889, Saint Leo University is the oldest Catholic higher education institution in Florida. Around 18,000 students enroll annually at Saint Leo's main campus, its 16 regional locations, and online.
Cybersecurity is one of several concentrations available for students in Saint Leo's MBA program. This unique degree provides students a broad business foundation, covering topics like professional development, management, financial accounting, and marketing.
Courses in this MBA concentration include principles of cybersecurity management, network security management, and strategic planning for cybersecurity. Students can also complete a full- or part-time MBA internship.
The 33- to 36-credit program is offered fully online. Graduates leave with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess an organization's information security needs and develop an applicable security plan.
Applying to Saint Leo
Admission requires undergraduate transcripts, a current resume demonstrating at least two years of work experience, two professional recommendations, and a statement of professional goals. Applicants should have some knowledge of computer operations, networking, and the computing field.
Located in Romeoville, Illinois -- 35 miles southwest of Chicago -- Lewis University is a Catholic university with more than 100 programs of study. Over 6,000 students attend each year, enjoying a low 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Lewis University's online master's in cybersecurity is designed to accommodate working professionals. Each eight-week session is offered on campus and online, with classroom lectures broadcast live and recorded for later viewing.
The 33-credit program requires courses in network security, IT governance and compliance, and disaster recovery planning. Learners without a background in computer science may need to take up to four additional foundation courses.
As a culminating experience, all cybersecurity students explore an information security research topic or complete an information security project. Students produce a publishable text with the help of a faculty mentor.
Applying to Lewis
For admission consideration, prospective students need to submit official college transcripts, a two-page personal statement, a professional resume, and two recommendations. A bachelor's degree is required.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: HLC
Tuition: $810/credit
Required Credits: 33 credits
Program Length: 1.5-2.5 years (part time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous) or on campus
Located in Irving, Texas, the University of Dallas offers a comprehensive catalog of bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and continuing education programs. The private Catholic institution attracts more than 2,500 learners each year.
Experienced industry professionals lead courses in the cybersecurity master's program at UD. The degree covers all eight domains of cybersecurity required to complete the certified information systems security professional exam, including security risk management, security operations, and security testing.
Ten classes, offering online or on campus, comprise the 30-credit cybersecurity degree. Full-time learners finish the program in 1-2 years. Graduates commonly pursue careers in cyberdefense, network security, threat analysis, and digital forensics.
During their final semester, students integrate prior course knowledge to complete a simulated cybersecurity management experience.
Applying to UD
UD graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Applicants should submit transcripts, a resume/CV, and optional GRE or GMAT scores. Required prerequisites include 12 undergraduate cybersecurity credits.
Davenport University was Michigan's first online learning community, acting as a leader in remote education for more than 20 years. The private nonprofit institution enrolls more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students annually.
For more than 20 years, DU's global campus has offered access to online college degrees. The online master's in cybersecurity and information assurance provides a blend of technology and management education, allowing learners to develop in-demand skills for cybersecurity risk management and analysis careers.
Along with required courses, DU offers electives in areas like healthcare security, banking and financial security, and mobile security. Students can also complete an optional internship. The 34-credit program culminates with an information assurance master's thesis.
The global campus offers several course formats for maximum flexibility: Learners may study synchronously or asynchronously, attend in-person classes, or use DU's innovative virtual reality experience.
Applying to DU
Prospective graduate students need a bachelor's degree in any discipline in order to apply. DU requires submission of transcripts, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: HLC
Tuition: $882/credit
Required Credits: 34 credits
Program Length: 2 years (full time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Southern Utah University boasts over 12,000 students and more than 140 undergraduate and graduate degrees. The public institution's 129-acre campus operates in rural Cedar City, Utah.
Cyber operations is one of two tracks available within SUU's MS in cybersecurity and information assurance program. The 33-credit degree requires five core courses and four emphasis courses -- these elective classes include advanced persistent threats, network and internet forensics, and cryptography fundamentals.
The program welcomes experienced students as well as those without cybersecurity-related education. Learners with unrelated academic backgrounds may need to take an additional three-credit foundational course before starting the program.
As a culminating experience, students may either write a master's thesis, participate in an approved internship, or take two additional emphasis courses.
Applying to SUU
Admission to the MS in cybersecurity requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a statement of intent, references, and a resume. Applicants with a GPA below 3.29 should demonstrate at least two years of relevant professional experience and submit standardized test scores.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: NWCCU
Tuition: $485/credit
Required Credits: 33 credits
Program Length: 3 semesters (full time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous) or hybrid (optional)
Founded in 1947 as Villa Julie College, Stevenson University adopted its current name in 2008. The private university welcomes more than 3,500 on-campus and online students each year.
Students pursuing the master's in cybersecurity and digital forensics at Stevenson can access the university's virtual lab environment. The virtual lab lets students use cutting-edge digital forensics to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity analysis.
The 33-credit program requires completion of exercises based on real-world events like electronic information theft, cyberattacks, and cybercrimes. Available courses include malware detection and prevention, mock intrusion and response, and file systems forensic analysis.
Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers as cybersecurity engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and network engineers.
Applying to Stevenson
Prospective cybersecurity students need either a bachelor's in a related field and two years of relevant work experience, or a bachelor's in an unrelated field and five years of relevant work experience. Stevenson requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and submission of a personal statement.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $695/credit
Required Credits: 33 credits
Program Length: 2 years (full time)
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
What Is a Master’s in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity master’s programs emphasize the systems and technology used in cyberdefense and operations. This differs from information security and information technology (IT); IT explores the use and storage of information using technology, and cybersecurity focuses on methods for securing computers, networks, and other technology from attack or misuse. However, some cybersecurity programs offer concentrations in IT and other closely related fields, as these topics overlap in many ways.
Cybersecurity master’s programs prepare students to take on more advanced roles in the field and include classes in specialized topics, such as applied cryptology. These programs vary in length depending on credit requirements. Typically, students can earn a master’s in cybersecurity in 1-3 years.
Master’s in cybersecurity programs often vary in course and credit requirements, but many require 30-45 credits. Students complete core requirements followed by courses in their chosen emphasis or concentration.
Many programs offer online students subsidized or flat-rate tuition, and some learners may incur lower costs by completing their degrees at an accelerated pace.
Admission requirements for MS in cybersecurity programs vary, but many programs maintain similar standards for admission and seek common characteristics among applicants.
Generally, master’s programs prefer applicants who already hold a bachelor’s degree. Cybersecurity programs may look for applicants with a background in computer science or experience with programming and the basic elements of cybersecurity. Some programs admit applicants without backgrounds in computer science or cybersecurity, typically requiring those students to complete prerequisite courses.
Some programs mandate that applicants submit GRE scores, and many admit only applicants with certain GPAs; for instance, top programs often require candidates to demonstrate a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
Graduate programs often require other application materials, as well, such as letters of recommendation or evidence of work experience in the field. Holding a certificate or degree in the field may offer applicants an advantage.
Typical MS in Cybersecurity Online Courses
Cybersecurity master’s programs cover concrete skills, analysis, critical thinking, and theory. Through coursework, students apply concepts and theoretical knowledge to real-world, hands-on cybersecurity systems and threat scenarios.
Core courses in these programs typically examine topics such as internet security, information security, algorithms, and engineering security systems. Depending on their chosen concentration, students may also pursue specialized courses in areas such as data mining, software modeling, programming, and information systems.
Master’s programs in cybersecurity may also require a capstone course, practicum, or thesis.
The list below describes some common offerings in MS in cybersecurity programs. Keep in mind that course content varies from school to school.
Cyberlaw and Ethics
This course explores the legal aspects of online commerce and business. Students explore issues in digital property and information, with a focus on how the law protects private data and online transactions.
Computer Security
This course builds upon foundational knowledge of computer security, exploring different types of computer security systems and how they function. Students learn about authentication processes, access control, viruses, and potential software vulnerabilities.
Network Defense
In addition to exploring techniques for building secure networks, students in this course examine various security protocols and security systems. Students learn to conduct vulnerability assessments and identify weak areas that are susceptible to breaches.
Jobs for MS in Cybersecurity Graduates
Fortunately, the cybersecurity field continues to grow at a rapid rate. According to some estimates, the number of job openings in cybersecurity greatly surpasses the number of qualified professionals, creating a critical shortage in workers. ESG and ISSA surveyed cybersecurity professionals for a 2020 report; 48% of respondents said the cybersecurity skills shortage had not improved in recent years, and 45% said it had gotten worse. Prospective cybersecurity professionals can leverage this skills shortage in their job search.
Careers in cybersecurity often provide highly competitive salaries. For instance, information security analysts earned a median salary of $99,730 as of May 2019. Earning advanced degrees and certifications may increase earning potential. Growth projections for most cybersecurity careers remain positive.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts examine an organization’s networks and computer systems to identify potential vulnerabilities. These analysts create defense systems for information systems and networks using tools such as firewalls, encryption, and security software. Employers in this field may look for applicants with a graduate degree and experience in the field.
Computer and information research scientists develop new computing and information technology and find new ways to apply existing technology to solve problems. They may design or improve upon computer hardware or software. These scientists typically hold at least a master’s degree.
Computer network architects design and implement networking systems for businesses and organizations. They design management systems for these networks and advise clients on best practices for protecting network data communication. They may work as independent contractors or for businesses as network professionals.
Computer systems analysts look at an organization’s network system and examine IT needs and functions. They stay up to date on new technology and computer systems and present upgrades to management, identifying the benefits of implementing those systems.
Network and computer systems administrators oversee all IT-related functions within a business or organization. They manage the network, security, and IT within the company and may supervise employees in those areas. They install new hardware and software systems, monitor security, and help employees use new programs and devices.
How to Find the Right Online Master’s Cybersecurity Program
Schools in our top 25 boast outstanding credentials. They hold NSA CAE designations, they have great professors, and they are concerned with real-world challenges. When making a decision, you may also consider factors such as the following.
Degree Options
An MS or master of engineering degree from a school of engineering or department of computer science is a concentrated degree with a focus on technical coursework. An MS in information systems or information management from a school of business or professional studies often presents a less tech-heavy and more management-focused path. In either case, you may have the option to specialize in a certain field.
Curriculum
Does the curriculum give you a chance to gain hands-on experience in virtual labs? Does it include a capstone project where you can apply your knowledge to your job? Will you be able to earn professional certificates, continuing education units, and/or credits toward professional designations?
Online Admissions and Student Profile
This section can help you decide whether the program offers the right fit for your level of experience. Is it designed for IT professionals who want to move into security, for mid-stage tech gurus who aspire to become chief information security officers, or for executives who need a systematic view of information security? Is the program friendly to veterans, women, and minorities? Pay attention to the acceptance rate and the average GPA, as these metrics often indicate high-quality technical programs.
Career Support and Outcomes
Career assistance is a huge plus in an online degree, especially if you’re working toward a promotion or new career. How many students in your class receive sponsorship from their employers? Does the university arrange interviews or hold virtual career fairs? Can you receive job coaching via phone or Skype? In this section, you’ll also find statistics on job placement rates and graduate debt.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship and fellowship programs exist for students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity or computer science. Students may also take advantage of employee discounts, veterans’ benefits, and university aid. Public schools are usually more affordable than private schools, but private schools often offer more scholarships and sponsorship deals.
Remember, too, that an online master’s in cybersecurity is just one option. This ranking does not include schools that only offer online cybersecurity graduate certificates. Visit our directory of online certificate programs for alternative ideas.
Why Get Your Master’s in Cybersecurity Online?
More and more, students turn to online options to earn their degrees. Earning a degree online offers a great deal of flexibility for learners, particularly those with personal and professional obligations that make traditional on-campus programs difficult. Online programs often allow students the option to complete all work asynchronously and move through course requirements at their own pace.
Earning a master’s in cybersecurity online offers even more advantages specific to this field. For instance, students practicing skills in cybersecurity can do so from their own computers and devices. Students already working in the field may find that online courses in cybersecurity help them grow and prepare to take on more professional responsibilities.
Prospective online learners should consider their lifestyle when deciding whether online learning will suit their needs. Distance learners must possess strong skills in time management and organization. They must also commit a certain number of hours per week to coursework and studying, in addition to their other commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may want to earn a cybersecurity master's degree?
A degree in cybersecurity can lead to a fulfilling, lucrative career in fields such as business, homeland security, and forensics. Individuals with a background or interest in information technology, computer systems, and related topics can gain insights into how to keep data safe.
Why should you earn a master's in cybersecurity?
By earning an advanced degree, entry-level cybersecurity professionals enhance their existing knowledge and skills and can advance to leadership roles with higher earning potential. An online master’s in cybersecurity covers advanced topics including digital forensics, ethical hacking, and risk management.
What are a few career paths one may take with an MS in cybersecurity?
Opportunities for individuals with a master’s degree in cybersecurity include computer and information systems manager, cybersecurity consultant, and information security analyst. The BLS projects a 31% job growth rate for information security analysts from 2019-29, indicating strong employment potential in the field.
How long does it take to earn a master's in cybersecurity?
Students can complete a traditional cybersecurity master’s degree in two years. Over four semesters, learners complete 30-36 credits. Online master’s programs may offer opportunities to earn a degree on an accelerated schedule. Individuals with extensive experience and a strong background in cybersecurity can earn an accelerated master’s degree in as few as 18 months.
What are some skills that may be learned in a cybersecurity master's program?
A master’s in cybersecurity trains students to identify, analyze, prevent, and combat electronic security breaches and threats. Students may find opportunities to specialize in computer and network security, governance and compliance, or information technology auditing. Learners also build transferable research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Learn More About Cybersecurity Degrees and Careers
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