Find your perfect college degree
Data Points:
- Globally, the average cost of a data breach* reached $4.88 million in 2024, showing an uptick of 10% from 2023 ($4.83 million).
- It is projected that, at the end of 2025, there will be an estimated 3.5 million “unfilled” cybersecurity positions**.
- Within 2023 and 2033, information security analysts are projected to enjoy a 33% rise*** in job opportunities, translating to about 17,300 openings each year.
Are you interested in advanced job opportunities for ensuring information access control and curbing threats to security online? If so, an online Master of Cybersecurity may well be the best step to take! Choosing the best graduate degree program can be your ticket to a successful and rewarding field down the line.
Cybersecurity Professionals: Job Demand
The booming industry is expected to usher in thousands of employment opportunities for cybersecurity professionals, with an employment outlook that is projected to increase by 32% in the period between 2022 to 2032.
Overview:
Investing in an advanced degree can help you achieve a more successful career as a cyber professional. If you are interested in cyber security, network security, operating systems, discrete mathematics, and other mathematical structures, computer systems, protecting data, and stopping data breaches, you will want to consider earning a master’s degree in cybersecurity from an accredited institution. It is even possible to earn the degree online, so you won’t have to put your career on the line.
Quick audio summary:
Why You Need a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
A master’s degree in cybersecurity ushers in a wealth of benefits for working professionals in the cybersecurity field. You can gain basic familiarity with the newest trends and technology in cybersecurity and all the tools that are integral to its applications.
Master’s in cybersecurity programs are essential for cyber professionals who want to expand their knowledge and gain new skills for a more rewarding career in cybersecurity management and other related fields.
METHODOLOGY
Today, you have a range of master’s in cyber security degree programs online at your disposal, which makes it convenient for working professionals who want to pursue their continuing education while advancing their current careers, whether they are in the field of computer science or cyber security.
Looking at the numerous Cybersecurity master’s degree programs online, we evaluated the numerous options and came up with this list that stands out in these respects:
- 100% web-based or blended or hybrid learning format, enabling adult learners to obtain the master’s degree conveniently with flexible scheduling,
- Excellent coursework featuring the most up-to-date Cybersecurity principles, strategies, technologies, and practices,
- A curriculum that emphasizes Cybersecurity as a massive and significant part of ensuring the safety of organizations, businesses, and the government,
- Cybersecurity experts as professors, imparting the most relevant lessons they learn from real-world experience in the field,
- Constant support and school administration services for students so they are able to excel academically and explore their career options after the fact,
- Proper accreditation from agencies ensures that Cybersecurity programs online maintain high academic standards,
- and, Excellent feedback from students and academic publications, including Cybersecurity program rankings.
The 10 Online Master’s Degree Programs in Cybersecurity
University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Offered at the University of Arizona, the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is specifically tailored for working professionals aiming to master the technical aspects of the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity.
It is a joint program administered by the Management Information Systems (MIS) at the Eller College of Management, Systems and Industrial Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering at the College of Engineering.
While the program can be considered challenging with its rigorous cybersecurity coursework, it is a good foundation if you want to learn the assessment, prevention, and management of information and systems security-related risks by applying the best practices within the field. The hands-on, interactive classes are headed by an excellent and competent faculty.
- Students are required to complete 33 credit units composed of common core online courses.
- You have the option to select between two learning tracks: Information Systems or Physical Systems.
- The program’s 6 start dates are offered throughout the year, allowing you to study right away when you want to.
- In this degree, you will be focusing on how to effectively apply analytical and critical thinking to plan and execute security measures.
- You will be able to engage in both theoretical and hands-on approaches to learn the critical components of cyber security.
- Some of the courses that will be covered in this program include systems and security management, risk management, business intelligence data mining, penetration testing, network security, system cybersecurity engineering, and cyber warfare.
Standout Features:
In earning this degree, you may also earn the Department of Management Information Security Enterprise Certificate. The department is designated “Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense” by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
Did You Know?
The University of Arizona is passionate about its commitment to transforming students’ lives through quality education. It has a diverse student body, with a proven track record of serving the Hispanic population. As a land-grant university, the institution is home to 22 federally recognized tribes, with Tucson being home to the O’odham and the Yaqui.
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida
Master of Science in Information Assurance & Cybersecurity
Florida Institute of Technology offers the Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity with the aim of equipping cybersecurity students with the advanced skills integral in stopping security threats faced by corporate, government, and military institutions such as threats to infrastructure security, identity, and intellectual property theft, and illegal access to personal information.
Designed for industry professionals, this degree program fosters collaborative study amidst a mature and great learning environment.
- The program is closely associated with an interdisciplinary center, the Harris Institute for Assured Information where disciplines like computer science, psychology, business, and biology come together for the most up-to-date information and research surrounding computer security.
- The small student-to-teacher ratio gives you a close and more professional connection with instructors.
- Graduates of this online degree can readily step into leading work teams in high-tech firms or advance in their current position at work.
- Some of the careers that graduates of the Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity program can pursue include threat intelligence analyst, cybercrime technology director, and computer network defense engineer.
Standout Features:
The degree boasts of cyber security thought-leaders who make up the faculty and a host of modern facilities with the latest technology for optimal learning. Located on the Space Coast’s high-tech corridor, Florida Tech positions online students to interact with the most respected names in technology, including NASA Harris Corp., and Leonardo DRS.
Did You Know?
Making its home in the beautiful city of Melbourne on Florida’s sunny “Space Coast,” the Florida Institute of Technology has cultivated a community of researchers, scholars, and learners from all over the world.
One of their primary missions is the advancement of science and technology for the benefit of the planet and all its inhabitants. It is also known as the STEM University, making STEM a driving force behind its existence.
Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
If you want an immersive learning experience, you may want to consider the Master of Science in Cybersecurity offered at Bellevue University.
This program prepares cyber security students to lead the charge in defending networks and systems in any field, including how to identify potential risks. It is ideal for professionals working in the cyber security field, especially information security analysts, cyber threat intelligence experts, and more.
Their faculty is made up of industry professionals with rich experiences in relevant fields, including the DOD, NASA, and USAF. The university is also designated the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS.
- The online program requires 36 credit hours, 27 of which are made up of core courses, and the remaining 9 credit hours are composed of elective courses.
- A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university is needed to be admitted to this degree program.
- Cybersecurity students in this program are expected to develop, evaluate, and communicate information and physical security policies, standards, and guidelines.
- Some of the courses included in the curriculum are Computer Forensics, Information Security Management, Human Aspects of Cybersecurity, Risk Management Studies, White Collar Crime, Control Systems Security, and Introduction to Cyber Ethics, among many others.
Standout Features:
One of the best online graduate programs in the country, this advanced degree has simplified the admission process for interested applicants. You can enter this career-focused program without the cost and hassle of admission tests. It is also 100% online, which means you can enjoy a convenient and flexible schedule. You can complete your assignments any time of the day.
Did You Know?
Bellevue University has been at the forefront of innovative online learning for more than 25 years. They have always been committed to delivering the highest quality digital experience, including quality online graduate programs. Online students can enjoy flexible learning formats where they can communicate seamlessly, submit assignments with ease, and collaborate in meaningful ways.
New York University
New York City, New York
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
The growing relevance of cybersecurity theory and research gives ample opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. Brush up on your skills and master the advanced level of the cybersecurity industry by enrolling in the Master of Science in Cybersecurity offered by New York University.
- The classes are headed by internationally known experts whose knowledge and experience in the field are quite valuable, ensuring students are in good hands.
- The school is designated as an NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations and Cyber Defense Research.
- The application process is easy and streamlined, with the application only taking as little as 15 minutes and receiving a decision within 15 business days.
- To earn the degree, you need to complete required cybersecurity courses, breadth electives, depth electives, and a capstone project. You can choose between a research project and a master’s thesis.
- You may choose among two specialized tracks, including Cyber Defense and Cyber Operations.
Standout Features:
Offered under the Tandon School of Engineering, this program provides an accessible path to career advancement and learning to build real-world solutions. Through the NYU Cyber Fellows, students can enjoy a 75% scholarship for the Master of Science in Cybersecurity online.
Did You Know?
Deeply rooted in a vibrant tradition of entrepreneurship, intellectual curiosity, and innovative solutions, New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering boasts 11 academic departments, 15 undergraduate programs, 34 graduate degree programs, and 5 online master’s degrees.
The U.S. News & World Report Ranking has recognized the school as among the top 10 when it comes to U.S. online master’s in information technology programs.
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
Cyber Security Master’s Degree Online
The Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering – Iowa State University offers the Cyber Security Master’s degree program that is available fully online. The degree’s online learning format is designed for those who want to advance their knowledge and career in the said field.
- Consists of 30 credit hours, the degree program’s curriculum includes a set of core courses, research for a master’s degree with a thesis or creative component or capstone course for a degree without a thesis, and a set of elective courses.
- Some of the courses included in the curriculum are Advanced Computer Networking, Information Warfare, Computer Security, Cryptography, Digital Forensics, and Steganography, among others.
- If you wish to earn the degree program entirely online, you need to choose Computer Engineering as your home department during the admission process.
Standout Features:
The flexible online learning degree program allows you to enroll at the beginning of any semester. You can then have the freedom to take graduate courses in any order and at a pace that suits your schedule and needs.
Since the classes are fully online via digital streaming video, you can choose the day, time, and location where you can observe the class lectures to allow for maximum flexibility.
Did You Know?
As a public, land-grant higher learning institution, Iowa State University stays true to its mandate of providing open higher education to all and sharing knowledge beyond campus. Over the years, the university has produced some notable alumni, including George Washington, John Vincent Atanasoff, and Carrie Chapman Catt.
University of Maryland
College Park, Maryland
Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
Tailored to those who want to advance their career or transition to a high-demand field, the master’s degree in Cybersecurity offered by the University of Maryland is a good starting point. The program resulted from a collaborative effort of the Departments of Electrical Engineering & Computer Engineering and Computer Science, and the Maryland Cybersecurity Center.
You can expect to learn a good blend of engineering applications and computer science principles. It will prepare you with the right skills and knowledge that are applicable to your job as a cybersecurity professional in various industries.
- The program requires you to complete four core courses, two cybersecurity electives, and four technical electives.
- The degree does not require a research or thesis.
- You may need to have a bachelor’s degree before you can get admitted into the program.
- After the first semester, you need to complete a preliminary course plan for your intended degree program to determine the core and technical elective requirements.
- For full admission, you need to have a bachelor’s degree, and a GPA of 3.0 or better in engineering, computer science, and other related programs from an accredited institution.
- The program allows you a special tuition rate that does not differentiate between residents and non-residents of Maryland. However, the rate is not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission.
Standout Features:
The Maryland Cybersecurity Center, which collaborated in setting up the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, presents a unique and comprehensive approach to cybersecurity education, research, and technology development. It puts emphasis on “more-than-tech” interdisciplinary solutions. The center has received $16.5 million in active research grants.
Did You Know?
The University of Maryland is the state’s flagship university. It is known as one of the nation’s preeminent public research universities. Home to more than 40,700 students and 14,000 alumni, the institution is leading in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, Virginia
Master of Information Technology – Cybersecurity
Virginia Tech offers a Master of Information Technology program 100% online. It is specifically designed with working professionals in mind. It has 12 specialization areas, and one of them is Cybersecurity.
The program has recognized the role of network security professionals in protecting consumers, businesses, government agencies, and citizens in general from cyber threats.
The program features the basic design and organization of computer systems, the fundamentals of computer and network security, and analyzes a client-server IT infrastructure for security weaknesses.
- The courses include Fundamentals of Computer Systems, Security and Trust, IT Security and Trust, and Cybersecurity and the Internet of Things.
- The program is fully online with a highly customizable curriculum that meets the needs of a vast array of computer science and information technology fields and roles.
- The cyber security specialization is taught by full-time, tenured, and tenure-track faculty who are experienced in research and industry.
Standout Features:
The program’s flexibility goes beyond schedule and location. You are allowed to choose your own timeline for completion by setting your own course load every semester. Typically, you can finish the program part-time in just 2.5 years.
Additionally, you can add up to two graduate certificates in this program without having to take any additional courses. You have 10 graduate certificates to choose from that you can earn with your degree or as a stand-alone credential.
Did You Know?
Virginia Tech is committed to providing quality higher-learning education while harnessing the power of technology. This approach transforms the way they learn, perform research, and engage with communities around the world. Currently, the university is home to nine colleges and graduate schools with hundreds of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs.
Champlain College
Burlington, Vermont
Master’s in Information Security
Designed for professionals involved in system and network operations at mid-sized to large enterprises, Champlain College’s Master’s in Information Security is focused on hands-on learning and real-world application.
The rising cyber attacks create a demand for cyber security professionals who can anticipate, mitigate, and thwart threats at an operational level.
- The program imparts technical acumen, subject matter expertise, and critical soft skills to students in preparation for more advanced roles in the information security field.
- The program required 12 to 15 credit hours to be completed with two learning track options, Operations or Management. The latter makes up 18 credit hours.
- Some of the required courses include Managing Risk in IT Organizations, Information Technology and Security, Security Design and Architecture, Threat and Vulnerability Analysis, and Incident Response and Event Management.
- For the Operations learning track, you can expect to learn all about security, intelligence, and automation, security regulations and compliance management, and cyber warfare and cybercrime, among others.
- While a two-year work experience is encouraged for admission into the program, it is no longer a requirement. You might need, however, to complete additional requirements while in the program.
Standout Features:
Online master’s degree students are allowed free access to the Fast Start Formula Career Course which is helpful for those who want to get noticed and get hired. It is taught by Jen Morris, a leading executive career coach who partnered with the university to support students on their job search journey. The course is entirely online and self-paced.
Did You Know?
Champlain College’s commitment to education goes beyond academic excellence. They also make it a point to offer career-focused academic programs, accelerated programs, and engaging online classrooms headed by expert scholar-practitioner faculty. Students are entitled to a dedicated academic advisor to help them uncover their strengths and realize their full potential.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, Maryland
Johns Hopkins University offers a master’s in cybersecurity program which is consistently ranked among the best online master’s degree cybersecurity programs in the field. The program is taught by experienced and competent instructors who are working to fight cyber security threats on the front lines.
In this program, you will be able to assess enterprise security risks and gain skills in encryption, hash functions, authentication, signature schemes, and research.
- The program can be earned part-time and 100% online.
- It focuses on equipping students with the necessary skills to protect the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of data, along with the preservation and restoration of systems and the development of risk management skills integral to anticipating and avoiding cyber threats.
- You will learn skills and knowledge that you can apply when assessing a corporation’s security breaches and formulating recommendations in both the hardware and software areas.
- You can choose among four areas of focus to narrow your study. This includes Analysis, Assured Autonomy, Networks, and Systems.
Standout Features:
As a student of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, you will have access to state-of-the-art computing facilities and technologically advanced virtual classrooms to ensure thoughtful and insightful engagement. The courses harness the latest techniques in cyber security, including Security Engineering, Applied Machine Learning, Reverse Engineering, and Vulnerability Analysis.
Did You Know?
The Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering, where the online master of science in a cybersecurity degree program is offered, is known as one of the largest continuing education schools in engineering in the United States. They are at the forefront of innovative education, providing students with the flexibility to earn master’s degrees and certificates while pursuing their careers.
Pennsylvania State University
Centre County, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics and Operations
Pennsylvania State University offers the Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics and Operations program for professionals seeking a more in-depth understanding of cybersecurity, particularly in the areas of analytics and operations.
This program puts together the power of technology, incident response, strategic planning, and crisis management to open up advanced career opportunities for both industry professionals and Ph.D. aspirants.
- This 30-credit degree program can take one to two years to complete on a full-time basis.
- Complete either a thesis or scholarly paper in order to earn the degree.
- Students select a graduate faculty member as their adviser and you will work with them by mid-September of your first year.
- While financial aid is not guaranteed, you might be able to take advantage of funding opportunities in the form of a part-time wage payroll position for up to 20 hours per week.
Standout Features:
Since the students and faculty are often engaged in cutting-edge projects in a variety of research areas, you will get to collaborate extensively with scholars within and outside the college on interdisciplinary and trans-disciplinary research. You will be able to work in the college’s research centers and labs led by national and international scholars, often covering a broad spectrum of research areas.
Did You Know?
The College of Information Sciences & Technology at Pennsylvania State University puts emphasis on innovative research and a student-centered approach to interdisciplinary education. Since 1999, it has been offering 24 degree and certificate programs across 21 campuses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you expect in a Cybersecurity degree program for graduate students?
The program often covers a variety of relevant subjects, including the foundations of cybersecurity, network security, computer security, and cybersecurity law and ethics.
On top of the foundational courses, you might need to choose among available electives. This can include digital forensics, cybercrime, critical infrastructure, data structures, malware analysis, and many more. You may even touch on the computer science fundamentals, networking protocols, and cyber law.
There are also hands-on experience opportunities for this particular master’s degree, including working in labs, internships, and capstone projects.
What do you need to get admitted into an online Cybersecurity Master’s degree?
While not all universities require GRE or GMAT, it is still important to know that these exams might be part of the admission process, so preparing for them early can make it easier for you to get into online cybersecurity programs. Some might require you to have a bachelor’s degree in related fields and others need you to have minimum years of work experience.
If you have a cyber security background, the admission process could be easier for you. Some institutions might just require you to take preparatory courses in lieu of this, like in the case of the New York University Tandon School of Engineering where you can take the Cybersecurity Bridge program course.
What options are there to fund your Cybersecurity Master’s degree?
There are various financial aid options available in many colleges and universities for those who want to earn a master’s in cybersecurity online. Some may be in the form of student loans, scholarships, research grants, or work-study programs.
You might also want to check with your employer if they have available financial aid in the form of employee education programs that will help you pursue the advanced degree without having to shoulder all the costs.
It is important to note that out-of-state and international students might have different tuition rates, depending on the university or college policies.
What career paths are available to professionals who earn a Cybersecurity degree through online programs?
With a master of cybersecurity online degree, you will be able to work in various industries, whether in the public or private sectors.
Some of the job positions that you can acquire with the help of your online cybersecurity master’s degree include information security analysts, chief security officers, information managers, security architects, and many more.
While earning the degree, you can also make meaningful industry connections that can help advance your career.
Key Takeaways
- A master’s in cybersecurity can be earned as an on-campus degree or an online program from an accredited institution. Both have the same quality of education and are taught by competent and experienced faculty. Prospective students can find affordable online MS in cybersecurity from the list.
- If you choose the online program, you will find it easier to juggle your career with your graduate education. It is important to weigh your options before making a decision.
- A cyber security degree program at the master’s level instructs you in advanced techniques and the most up-to-date and innovative technology used today in cyber security, such as needed in homeland security, digital forensics, computer security fundamentals, ethical hacking, security architecture, and much more!
- You’ll also learn how to develop cyber security technologies, cloud security, wireless security, and cyber intelligence.
- A master’s in cybersecurity can be earned as an on-campus degree or an online program from an accredited institution. Both have the same quality of education and are taught by competent and experienced faculty. Prospective students can find affordable online MS in cybersecurity from the list.
- If you choose the online program, you will find it easier to juggle your career with your graduate education. It is important to weigh your options before making a decision.
- A cyber security degree program at the master’s level instructs you in advanced techniques and the most up-to-date and innovative technology used today in cyber security, such as needed in homeland security, digital forensics, computer security fundamentals, ethical hacking, security architecture, and much more!
- You’ll also learn how to develop cyber security technologies, cloud security, cyber intelligence, cloud security, and wireless security, to name a few advanced programs.
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