Updated at: 29-03-2023 - By: Eden Wise

Overview

Earning a master’s degree in cybersecurity equips students with the technical expertise required to keep up with the ever-evolving digital landscape of the modern world.

Students of cybersecurity can learn to protect businesses. For their jobs, cybersecurity professionals must stay abreast of the latest research on cyberthreats, the personalities of bad actors, and the most effective methods for keeping data safe.

A degree earned online doesn’t have to interfere with a student’s personal or professional life. The rising need for qualified professionals in this field makes earning a degree in cybersecurity a wise investment. The (ISC)2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study estimates that 3.4 million additional skilled experts are needed in the cybersecurity sector worldwide, despite the fact that 4.7 million people are currently employed in the field.

This resource will help you learn more about the best online master’s degree programs in cybersecurity for the year 2023.

Best Online Masters Cyber Security

Best online masters cyber security

University of California–Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley’s online MS in Information and Cybersecurity program does not require applicants to submit a GRE score. On average, last year’s admitted students had a 3.46 GPA from their undergraduate studies and 10 years of professional experience. The program has a 95% retention rate after one year and requires TOEFL scores from international applicants. The 27-credit-hour curriculum necessitates the submission of two letters of recommendation.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University

Western Governors University’s online master’s in cybersecurity program does not require applicants to submit a GRE score. Bachelor’s degrees in STEM fields, business, or related quantitative fields are preferred, but not required. A relevant and current IT certification, related IT coursework, or two years of related work experience are also acceptable qualifications. The average undergraduate GPA of last year’s acceptees was 3.0. There is no minimum TOEFL score required from international applicants, and the program maintains a 768 percent retention rate after the first year.

Johns Hopkins University

To be considered for admission to the online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at Johns Hopkins University, GRE scores are not required. The average grade point average of last year’s admitted freshmen was 3.4. To be considered, international students must submit their TOEFL scores. In the academic year of 2020–2021, the program had a retention rate of 83%. The 30-hour program has no mandatory recommendation letter requirement.

Robert Morris University

Robert Morris University’s online master’s program in cyber investigations and Intelligence does not require applicants to submit GRE scores. The average undergraduate GPA of admitted students in 2013 was 3.47. Submission of TOEFL scores is mandatory for international applicants. As of the year 2021, 83% of students graduate within three years. This 30 credit-hour program does not require any recommendation letters.

University of San Diego

University of California- San Diego

Although the GRE is not required for admission to the University of San Diego’s online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, applicants with a 2.75 or lower undergraduate GPA may submit test scores to bolster their applications. The average undergraduate GPA of last year’s admitted students was 3.15, and they had nearly nine years of professional experience. Submission of TOEFL scores is mandatory for international applicants. The 31-credit-hour program necessitates either an employer’s letter of recommendation or two character references.

Norwich University Online

School of Education at Norwich; The Master of Science in Cybersecurity offered online by this institution stands out due to the specialized tracks it offers. Computer forensics investigation and incident response, team management, critical infrastructure protection, cyber crime, cyber law and international perspectives on cyberspace, project management, vulnerability management, procurement, and government or contract management are just some of the specializations available to students pursuing a Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Such specialized tracks are not commonly found in online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree programs. At Norwich’s, you can tailor your education to fit your specific objectives. Focusing on one of these specific areas will set you apart from other job seekers and make you a stronger candidate for positions that require your niche expertise.

Iowa State University

As its name implies, Iowa State University is a state-run institution located in Iowa. Engineering Online at Iowa State University provides access to a variety of top-tier online degree programs, including one in Cybersecurity. The fully online Cybersecurity program is offered by the Computer Engineering department and leads to either a Master of Science or a Master of Engineering. Coursework, research, a thesis, and/or a capstone project make up the Master of Science in Cybersecurity, while course work and some research make up the Master of Engineering. The Master of Science is typically more academic and research oriented, while the Master of Engineering is typically more applied.

Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is one of many institutions that offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, but they also offer a Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity. An MPS, in contrast to a Master of Science, is designed to help students advance their careers by providing them with the specialized knowledge and training they need. The MPS program at FHSU gives you the flexibility to tailor your education to your interests by combining a major with one or more cognate areas, giving you an edge in the competitive job market. The curriculum consists of required and elective classes, as well as a culminating experience or capstone seminar. Helping you develop abilities that are marketable is always a top priority.

NSU Florida

Every second counts in the tech world, as the NSU Florida College of Computing and Engineering puts it. That’s why N.S.U. offers fast-track Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity programs. It is possible to earn a Master of Science degree in as little as one year if you enroll in classes that last only eight weeks, year-round. You can start in August, January, or May, whichever works best for your schedule, and finish the whole thing online. NSU offers a fast-track online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity if you want to get ahead in your career sooner.

University of Arizona

More than 36,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate students attend the University of Arizona (UofA) in Tuscon, making it a primarily Hispanic institution. Financial aid is available to 90% of UofA students.

The Eller College of Management and the College of Engineering at the University of Arizona both provide online master’s degrees in cybersecurity for those already in the workforce. The Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense is a hands-on learning environment where students learn to identify, analyze, and respond to cyber threats.

Information security in the public and private sectors, data mining for business intelligence, and business data communications and networking are just a few of the topics covered in the eight-week and 16-week courses. Information systems and physical systems are the two options available to students. Each student enrolled in the MS Cybersecurity program will also be able to earn a certificate in enterprise security.

Each candidate must have graduated from a 4-year college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Three years of professional technical experience in the field is required, as is a bachelor’s degree in management information systems or a closely related field, or a certification recognized in the industry.

Hampton University

Hampton University

Over 3,000 students are enrolled in 97 different majors at this private, HBCU in Hampton, Virginia. Beginning in 1868 as Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, the institution has come a long way since its humble beginnings.

Students can earn their master’s degree in cybersecurity from the comfort of their own homes thanks to Hampton University’s (HU) fully online, interdisciplinary program. Information security, software development, and professional ethics are just some of the topics covered in this course.

Participants must have completed their undergraduate studies in computer science or a closely related field. Students without this background may be admitted after completing “bridge” courses.

Courses in computer forensics and incident management, computer viruses and malicious software, and secure software engineering are just a few of the topics covered in this 37-credit program. There is a final exam worth one credit that all students must pass. Risk analysis, wireless networks, and computer security are just some of the topics that can be studied as electives.

Applicants must submit an online application, a minimum GRE score, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation to be considered for admission to HU. All applicants must provide a copy of their state or federal ID in addition to their official college transcripts.

Excelsior College

Excelsior College of Albany, New York, was established in 1971 and offers distance education to adults and working professionals. Military experience, prior college work, professional certifications, and even exams can all count toward a student’s degree.

A Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Excelsior College can be earned entirely online, and students can specialize in either information assurance or general cybersecurity. Up to 15 graduate transfer credits earned within the last five years may be applied to the 30-credit degree.

Software and application security, as well as reverse engineering, are among the topics covered in Excelsior’s online cybersecurity courses. Discussions, readings, and assignments are spread out over the course of eight or fifteen weeks. Excelsior has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by both the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency.

Georgetown University

The online master’s program in cybersecurity risk management offered by Georgetown University equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce vulnerability to cyberattacks. In 2-5 years, students can earn 33 credits online. Topics like security architecture and design are covered in depth in introductory classes. Participants acquire the skills necessary to analyze cyber threats and develop effective countermeasures.

Group projects are a great way for students to gain practical experience. This master’s degree in cybersecurity is available on a full- or part-time basis to interested students. A bachelor’s degree is required for consideration.

New York University

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at New York University requires 30 credits and can be finished in one academic year. Students can concentrate on either cyber defense or cyber operations. Students complete a capstone project at the end of their studies.

Students pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity can receive a 75% tuition scholarship through the NYU Cyber Fellows program. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a closely related field is required.

Brandeis University

Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, provides an online master’s degree program in information security management. There is a 30-credit minimum for the part-time option. Participants learn about crisis preparedness and handling.

Python programming and network security are two examples of elective topics that students can study. Launching a FinTech business is the subject of one available elective. No matter where they live, students pay the same tuition rate. A bachelor’s degree and official transcripts are required for entry.

FAQs

Is an online master’s in cybersecurity worth it?

A master’s in cybersecurity can help people break into the industry and position them for future leadership roles despite the rapid pace and constant evolution of the field. With hundreds of thousands of unfilled positions worldwide, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is high, and with that, their salaries have risen accordingly. Jobs in cybersecurity can pay well over six figures, and while a master’s degree isn’t always required, many professionals agree that it is helpful for those seeking advancement. Last but not least, most students enrolled in online master’s degree programs in cybersecurity are also working either part- or full-time, so they can immediately put their newly acquired knowledge to use.

Which degree is best for cybersecurity?

Those interested in a career in cybersecurity are better served by pursuing a specialized degree program rather than a general computer science degree, which may cover some cybersecurity topics. Many colleges and universities offer cybersecurity-specific undergraduate, graduate, and even doctoral degree programs, including three Ivy League schools (Harvard, Brown, and Columbia) that offer online cybersecurity graduate programs. What you want to do after college can help you decide which degree program is best for you.

What jobs can I get with an online master’s in cybersecurity?

Computer and information systems managers, cybersecurity consultants, and information security analysts are all possible careers for those with advanced degrees in the field of cybersecurity. From 2021-2031, information security analysts are expected to see a 35% increase in employment, which is significantly higher than the average for all occupations.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in cybersecurity online?

Traditional master’s programs in cybersecurity usually take students two years to finish. In a standard four-semester course, students earn 30–36 credits. It’s possible that you could finish a master’s degree program online faster. An accelerated master’s degree can be earned in as little as 18 months by those with significant work experience and a solid foundation in cybersecurity.

Conclusion

Numerous opportunities are open to those with a master’s degree in cyber security, particularly in the fields of administration, architecture, and security. The above-mentioned top-tier programs offer some of the most cutting-edge education in the field. Prospective students who are interested in learning more are encouraged to get in touch with the respective educational institutions and program offices.