Online Master’s in Cyber Security

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Brandon Mario D’Souza

Brandon is a registered social worker with Social Work England. He obtained his master’s in social work (personnel management & industrial relations) and used it in fields such as water treatment, construction, software, and education. Then he transitioned to the health and social care sector with an M.Sc. in health psychology. Brandon loves to write, cook, and play musical instruments (piano, guitar, melodica, ukulele, and kazoo) and enjoys the calmness and serenity of nature.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Last Updated: February 12, 2023

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Cyber security professionals use cutting-edge tools to monitor networks for malicious activity and prevent intrusions. As more businesses rely on technological infrastructure for routine tasks, there is a greater need for trained personnel to ensure the security of computer systems and other networks that store sensitive data. In fact, from 2020 to 2030, the employment of information security analysts is expected to expand by 33%, substantially faster than the average for all occupations. An online master’s in cyber security can help people who want to specialize in a specific aspect of the profession, as well as analysts and engineers who are already working in the field and want to learn more about leadership and management. Read on to find out more about this in-demand degree.

Best Online Master’s in
Cyber Security

Almost every student wishes to continue their education at a prestigious university. However, finding the best colleges for an online master’s in cyber security degree can be difficult because several factors must be considered when ranking them. These factors include the school’s reputation and infrastructure, curriculum, accreditation, affordability, etc. FBD teams identified and listed some of the best schools offering online cyber security master’s degrees using a proprietary formula and methodology. Here is the ranking list: *

University of California-Berkeley

Yeshiva University

Indiana University-Bloomington

Johns Hopkins University

Florida International University

University of Arizona

New York University

Bellevue University

Iowa State University

California State University

Robert Morris University

University of San Diego

Roger Williams University

Bay Path University

University of Maryland

University of South Florida

DePaul University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Syracuse University

Utica University

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.

What to Expect from the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program

Online master’s in cyber security programs prepare candidates for leadership positions in the field. They provide students with the knowledge and skills required to create effective security policies, comprehend cyber dangers, and mitigate the negative consequences of data breaches. Students can expect to spend approximately two years learning advanced cybersecurity concepts in these graduate-level programs. Most degrees require 30 to 36 credits, which equates to 10 to 12 courses. While some master’s degrees in cybersecurity courses concentrate on cybersecurity theory, others involve hands-on training in real-world issues encountered by professionals in the field. Capstone projects are common at the end of a program and may include research or fieldwork. Students at some cybersecurity schools are instead expected to conduct research and write a master’s thesis. It is also noteworthy that many schools include certifications as part of their programs.

Students can pursue a master’s in cyber security both online and off campus. Cybersecurity master’s programs, as an internet-focused major, lend themselves well to online learning. Students can take classes, work on concepts, research, and tackle course challenges just as easily from their homes as they can in traditional classrooms.

Some of the courses one can expect from this graduate-level degree include:

Security Risk Analysis and Planning

This course delves into fundamental aspects of information security risk and planning, such as risk analysis, disaster recovery, business continuity, security controls, and incident response. The training will also look at dangers in relation to financial rules and privacy.

Network Assessment and Defense

In this course, students learn about secure network basics, protocols, and analysis, as well as threats and vulnerabilities, data, application, and host security, identity management, and access control. Students examine defensive strategies for securing a company’s network and determine the overall network security posture and vulnerability assessment fundamentals.

Investigation and Digital Forensics

Students in this course understand the theory, practice, and concepts of digital forensics through investigating computer, operating system, network, mobile device, and other digital forensics areas. Identification, acquisition, collection, authentication, preservation, analysis, examination, and presentation of digital forensic evidence are among the topics covered.

Foundation in Information Assurance

This course addresses fundamental principles and provides students with the foundation skills for network, communication, and data security, as well as the knowledge for designing, implementing, and monitoring enterprise-level security and system integrity.

Other examples of courses in the online master’s in cyber security degree include but are not limited to:

Risk Analysis
Cyberlaw and Ethics
Cyberlaw and Policy
Human Factors in Security
Designing and Implementing Cloud Security
Applied Cryptography
Advanced Mobile Forensics and Security
Securing Wireless Networks
Telecommunications and Networking
Network Security
Ethical Hacking & Countermeasures
Linux Networking and Security
Incident Detection and Response
Conducting Penetration and Security Tests
The Hacker Mind: Profiling the IT Criminal

Degree Types for Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Programs

Areas of Specialization in Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Programs

Specializations are an excellent way to study a niche topic within the subject domain. The online master’s in cyber security program provides students with a variety of specializations to choose from, allowing them to concentrate their academic efforts on specific subject areas that particularly interest them, each of which has a clear path to employment. Here are some online master’s in cyber security specializations:

Degree Specialization	Description	Career Options
MSCS Security Analyst	This specialization focuses on testing methods and techniques to identify and mitigate risks to a company’s infrastructure while providing application and network-based security and encryption using industry-standard protocols.	Cyber security analyst
MSCS Incident Management & Business Continuity	This specialization focuses on dealing with and responding to various security incidents, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing appropriate countermeasures to reduce the risk of information failure.	Cyber security incident handler, cyber incident responder
MSCS Digital Forensics	This specialization emphasizes demonstrating the necessary skill set of a computer forensic investigator. Candidates who want to become digital forensics experts will learn about various aspects of digital forensics, such as investigating network intrusions and mobile forensics, through this specialization.	Computer forensic investigator, digital forensic investigator, cybercrime analyst
MSCS Cloud Security Architect	This specialization focuses on designing, planning, analyzing, configuring, testing, implementing, maintaining, and supporting an organization’s cloud security infrastructure.	Cloud security architect
MSCS IT Management (Information Technology Management)	This specialization focuses on enterprise-level technology management, including the interactions between structure and process in project management. It also touches upon the management of IT functions within an organization.	IT project manager, systems security manager
MSCS Executive Leadership in Information Assurance	This specialization focuses on teaching students the fundamental skills needed to understand global leadership concepts, bringing together all the components needed for a C-Level information security position, and teaching students how to manage IT security projects to improve the success rate for both organizations and IT managers.	Information security manager, project manager
MSCS Data Analytics Fundamentals	This specialization introduces students to the role data analysis has within an organization. They will gain experience through real-world problems using critical data technologies, methods, and tools for actionable results.	Data analyst, data security specialist
MSCS Project Management Fundamentals	This specialization teaches students the tools and methods necessary to lead successful projects. They will develop project plans based on real-world scenarios and learn to work within the three constraints of time, cost, and scope.	Project manager, information security manager, IT auditor

Why should I do an Online Master’s
in Cyber Security?

The urgent need for highly educated security professionals will only increase as high-profile cyber-attacks become more frequent. All sizes of businesses are making significant investments in cybersecurity knowledge and tools. Graduate programs have many advantages for cybersecurity specialists. A master’s degree in cybersecurity can help professionals land information security leadership positions at businesses or governmental organizations in leadership, education, or research capacities.

Students are prepared for in-demand cyber security jobs with the help of the online master in cyber security program. They learn the knowledge and abilities required to create security measures that are effective, comprehend cyber threats, and lessen the effects of data breaches. With an online master’s in cyber security degree, one can gain a competitive edge in this lucrative, high-growth sector, where cybersecurity specialists are in high demand.

Graduates with a master’s degree in cybersecurity can anticipate a robust job market in their industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job growth for information security analysts is 33% from 2020 to 2030. Because technical expertise and specialization are frequently required for jobs in cybersecurity, pay typically exceeds the national median wage. Many cybersecurity jobs have average yearly salaries of over $90,000.

For ready employability, some of the skills graduates would have earned from this degree include the ability to:

recognize how industry norms and new developments impact the field of cyber security;
draft information security rules based on applicable legal and regulatory requirements;
employ leadership techniques to improve corporate effectiveness and moral behavior;
create risk management, business continuity, and recovery from disaster plans;
secure an IT infrastructure by analyzing and fixing security problems in networks and computer systems;
protect organizations and clients from typical cyberattacks;
investigate security issues forensically and interpret them;
create rules and procedures to manage security concerns in the workplace;
work well with others in a team and communicate effectively in writing and orally;
recognize, assess, and counteract cyber threats; and
plan, design, create, deploy, test, and assess secure software.

Free Courses for Online Master’s Cyber
Security Students

Although many free online courses are available over the internet, the majority of them are non-credit and unaccredited. However, they can benefit exam preparation or provide additional input for assignments. Here are a few platforms where students pursuing an online master’s in cyber security degree can find free courses:

Course	Description	Provided by
Topics Related to Cyber Security	A go-to place for many online learners, Udemy offers several graduate-level courses in cyber security that provide deeper insights into the subject. While most courses come at a small fee, some are free of charge.	Udemy
Topics Related to Cyber Security	Popular online learning platform edX offers courses such as Cybersecurity for Critical Urban Infrastructure, Cyber Security Economics, Cyber Security Risk Management, and more from popular universities worldwide.	edX
Topics Related to Cyber Security	MIT OpenCourseWare has over 400 graduate-level courses that relate to several topics within cyber security, such as Network and Computer Security, Computer Systems Security, Advanced Topics in Cryptography, etc.	MIT OpenCourseWare

How to get into the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program?

Online Master’s Cyber Security No
GRE Programs

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) tests a student’s capacity to finish graduate coursework independently and is often demanded as an admissions requirement at many universities. Fortunately, there is a trend for numerous schools to make GRE scores optional or redundant. An institution may leave out the GRE requirement in selective circumstances, but in doing so, it will be more selective and have higher requirements for minimum undergraduate GPA, work experience, certification, recommendation letters, and other criteria. Some examples of institutions that offer an online master’s in cyber security no GRE program are the Berkeley School of Information, where the GRE is optional, St. Bonaventure University, where no GRE/GMAT is required, and the University of Houston, where no GRE/GMAT is required until 2023.

How Long does it take to complete the Online
Master’s Cyber Security Program?

Accelerated Online Master’s Cyber
Security Programs

Accreditations for Online Master’s
Cyber Security Programs

How to Pay for an Online Master in
Cyber Security Program?

It can cost a lot of money to earn a master’s degree in cyber security online. Education Data reports that the average price of a master’s degree in the United States is $66,340. Although many would save money on living expenses, food, and transportation if they attended school online, the high cost of education is still a major deterrent. Financial aid is available for students who wish to pursue an online master’s in cyber security degree, and they may be eligible for the following sources of funding:

Scholarships

Scholarships are given to individuals who have demonstrated both academic and personal excellence/ Since they do not require repayment and are relatively easy to come by, they are the foremost choice of students.

Grants

Like scholarships, grants are not a form of debt that must be paid back. An applicant’s demonstrated financial need is usually given greater consideration than their GPA. Money from the grant can be put toward school fees, books, and supplies.

Work-Study Programs

Students can earn money for their tuition by participating in work-study programs. The majority of these occupations are related in some way to a student’s academic or extracurricular activities. Participants in work-study programs gain valuable skills and work experience and earn money too.

Graduate Assistantships

Students in graduate school interested in teaching or conducting research can apply for assistantships with faculty. Graduate assistants are often offered financial compensation or partial or full tuition waivers in exchange for their time and effort.

Student Loans

One option for covering higher education costs is to borrow money in the form of a student loan. Student loans are available from banks, financial institutions, and the federal government. It is critical to remember that interest is charged on loans, so that borrowing money will raise the overall cost of education. Learn about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans to learn how to apply for loan forgiveness and avoid repaying student loans.

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to determine if they are eligible for aid. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.

Read about What is Financial Aid? and find out everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.

Scholarships for Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Students

Scholarships are the most practical solution to the problem of how to pay for college. Fewer students will incur debt to pay for college if they can access these ‘free’ funds. Schools, nonprofits, corporates, and even private individuals offer scholarships to deserving students. Some examples of these are:

Scholarship	Description	Award/Amount	Application Deadline
(ISC)² Graduate Scholarships	(ISC)² and its Center for Cyber Safety and Education encourage and support students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field.	Between $1,000 and $5,000 x 20 awards	February 2023
Scholarship For Service (SFS)	The Scholarship For Service (SFS) program provides undergraduate and graduate (MS or Ph.D.) cybersecurity students with scholarships for up to 3 years of support. In exchange for their scholarships, recipients must agree to work for the U.S. government in a cybersecurity-related capacity after graduation for the award period.	Varies	Varies
SWISS Scholarships for Women	The SWISS Scholarships for Women program aims to increase the representation of women in the information security workforce and help them in the early stages of their careers.	$2,000 or more	February 1, annually

FAQs Related to the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program

What are the best cyber security online master’s?

Can I do a master’s in cybersecurity online?

Can I do a master’s in cyber security without a bachelor’s?

Will I gain practical skills in cyber security through a master’s program?

How many years is a master’s in cyber security degree?

How much does a master’s in cyber security cost?

Can I take a non-thesis master’s in cyber security online?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after an Online
Master’s Cyber Security Degree

Cyberthreats are present in every major industry because so many businesses now run their day-to-day operations using network technology. Graduates of an online master’s in cyber security degree frequently find employment in a variety of settings, including large and small companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. The career prospects for cyber security professionals seem very bright too. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that about 16,300 openings for information security analysts will be added each year, on average, between 2020 and 2030. Some of the typical roles cyber security graduates take up include:

Operating System Security Specialist
Cyber Security Analyst
Information Assurance Manager
Security Operations Center Analyst
Cyber Incident Responder
Information Systems Security Administrator
Security Administrator
Mobile Security Specialist
Information Systems Security Manager

Here are some examples of jobs in the field, as well as their median annual salaries and projected job growth:

Occupation	Job Description	Skills Required	Median Annual Salary	Job Growth (up to 2030)
Computer and Information Research Scientists	Computer and information scientists develop novel uses for current and emerging technology. They research and create complicated computing problems in science, medicine, business, and other disciplines.	Logical thinking, problem-solving skills, math skills, analytical skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, detail-oriented	$131,490	22% (much faster than average)
Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers	Software developers construct computer programs that enable users to perform specific tasks, as well as the underlying systems that power devices or operate networks. Analysts and testers dealing with software quality assurance design and run software tests to look for flaws and learn how products work.	Interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, creativity	$110,140	22% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Systems Managers	Computer and information systems managers organize, coordinate, and direct computer-related operations inside an organization. They are also known as information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers. They contribute to developing an organization’s information technology goals and are responsible for putting those goals into action using computer systems.	Organizational skills, communication skills, analytical skills, business skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills	$159,010	11% (faster than average)
Information Security Analysts	Information security analysts create and implement security safeguards for a company’s computer networks and systems. They develop security standards and evaluate computer and network systems for flaws.	Creative skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented	$102,600	33% (much faster than average)

Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Students

Additional Resources for Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Students

Establishing and maintaining connections with other IT and cyber security professionals is essential for career development. Graduates and working professionals can benefit from membership in a professional organization by gaining access to relevant journals and publications, keeping abreast of the latest developments in their field and cyber threats, and establishing professional connections that can lead to the discovery of innovative solutions. For those who have already earned a master’s degree in cyber security online, here are some resources to consider:

Center for Cyber Safety and Education

The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, formerly known as the (ISC)² Foundation, is a charitable non-profit dedicated to making the internet safer for all. Through educational programs, scholarships, and research, the organization works to ensure that people all over the world have a positive and safe online experience.

National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS)

The National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing small businesses with cybersecurity education, awareness, and advocacy. The NCSS assists small companies in assessing their cybersecurity risk, disseminating threat information to owners, and providing advice on the services required to stay safe online.

Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)

The Information Systems Security Association, Inc. (ISSA) is a non-profit international organization of information security practitioners and professionals. It offers publications, educational forums, and peer interaction opportunities to its members to help them improve their knowledge, skills, and professional growth.

International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)

The International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT) employs a variety of strategies to advance computer science and information technology. It is a registered international scientific association of computer science and information technology scholars dedicated to promoting and conducting collaborative interdisciplinary research in cutting-edge methodologies and technologies in its areas of expertise.

International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) is a resource for professionals looking to advance their careers by assisting their organizations in risk management and data protection. IAPP claims to be the world’s largest and most comprehensive global information privacy community.

Author Bio:

Brandon Mario D’Souza

Brandon is a registered social worker with Social Work England. He obtained his master’s in social work (personnel management & industrial relations) and used it in fields such as water treatment, construction, software, and education. Then he transitioned to the health and social care sector with an M.Sc. in health psychology. Brandon loves to write, cook, and play musical instruments (piano, guitar, melodica, ukulele, and kazoo) and enjoys the calmness and serenity of nature.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Disclaimer:

The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
University of California-Berkeley	200 California Hall, Berkeley, California 94720	$11,442	93%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Yeshiva University	500 W 185th St, New York, New York 10033	$34,800	80%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Indiana University-Bloomington	107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405	$9,909	81%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Johns Hopkins University	3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218	$58,720	95%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Florida International University	11200 S. W. 8 Street, Miami, Florida 33199	$8,912	67%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Bellevue University	1000 Galvin Rd S, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005	$10,980	23%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Roger Williams University	One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island 02809	$17,476	70%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
DePaul University	1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604	$17,951	70%

Online Master’s in Cyber Security

By Brandon Mario D`Souza

Updated February 12, 2023

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

On this page

Back to top

Best Online Master’s inCyber Security

What to Expect from the Online Master’s inCyber Security Program

Degree Types for Online Master’s in CyberSecurity Programs

Master of Arts in Cyber Security (MA Cyber Security)

Master of Science in Cyber Security (MS in Cyber Security)

Areas of Specialization in Online Master’s in CyberSecurity Programs

Why should I do an Online Master’sin Cyber Security?

Free Courses for Online Master’s CyberSecurity Students

How to get into the Online Master’s inCyber Security Program?

Online Application & Application Fee

Academic Transcripts

Undergraduate Degree + Grade Point Average

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores

Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

Letters of Recommendation

Proof of English Proficiency

Online Master’s Cyber Security NoGRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the OnlineMaster’s Cyber Security Program?

Accelerated Online Master’s CyberSecurity Programs

Accreditations for Online Master’sCyber Security Programs

How to Pay for an Online Master inCyber Security Program?

Student Loans

Scholarships for Online Master’s in CyberSecurity Students

FAQs Related to the Online Master’s inCyber Security Program

What are the best cyber security online master’s?

Can I do a master’s in cybersecurity online?

Can I do a master’s in cyber security without a bachelor’s?

Will I gain practical skills in cyber security through a master’s program?

How many years is a master’s in cyber security degree?

How much does a master’s in cyber security cost?

Can I take a non-thesis master’s in cyber security online?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after an OnlineMaster’s Cyber Security Degree

Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s inCyber Security Students

Additional Resources for Online Master’s inCyber Security Students

Author Bio:

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

Disclaimer:

Best Online Master’s in
Cyber Security

What to Expect from the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program

Degree Types for Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Programs

Areas of Specialization in Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Programs

Why should I do an Online Master’s
in Cyber Security?

Free Courses for Online Master’s Cyber
Security Students

How to get into the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program?

Online Master’s Cyber Security No
GRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Online
Master’s Cyber Security Program?

Accelerated Online Master’s Cyber
Security Programs

Accreditations for Online Master’s
Cyber Security Programs

How to Pay for an Online Master in
Cyber Security Program?

Scholarships for Online Master’s in Cyber
Security Students

FAQs Related to the Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Program

Career Opportunities and Salaries after an Online
Master’s Cyber Security Degree

Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Students

Additional Resources for Online Master’s in
Cyber Security Students