CYBER SECURITY MASTER’S DEGREES
An undergrad degree may be all you need for entry level cyber sec roles. But, if you earn your master’s in cyber sec this can mean higher wages. This can also mean that you can compete for more advanced roles in the field. The programs looks at advanced topics like ethical hacking and digital forensics. You can further customize your education if you choose a focus based on your goals and interests.
Cyber Sec master’s degrees aim to prep you to fill in demand jobs. And, experts ISC2 and Cyber Security Ventures say that there are many of these that exist. In fact, they predict from 3 to 3.5 million new jobs will open by 2021. And to add to that, the World Economic Forum says cyber attacks are also on the rise. So much so, in fact, that the World Economic Forum ranks it one of the five highest risks. That’s due to the fact we keep so much of our data online.
To meet the demand for skilled pros, many grad schools now offer advanced graduate programs degrees. While distinct, they all teach ways to keep data safe, secure and private. These master’s in cyber sec programs come from many fields too. From comp sci to law and criminal justice.
WHAT IS A CYBER SECURITY MASTER’S DEGREE?
Master’s in cyber sec programs will start out with basics. Then, come with tracks to match your interests and goals. Some of the key parts are tech based. So, they look at the tools one can use to prevent, deter and end attacks. This may mean that you will learn codes to program networks and systems. Yet other topics may touch on leadership. As such, you may learn how to deal with a security team. Or, craft a defense strategy to keep a company’s data safe.
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TYPES OF CYBER SECURITY MASTER’S DEGREES
There are three main types of master’s degrees in cyber sec. A Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS). And there is also a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Along with the type, the degree may come with an anchor point also known as a field of study. This means you may focus on some classes around that theme.
One example is a MS in Cyber Sec Risk & Strategy. As the name suggests, you will learn ways to deal with and manage risk. Then, you will also learn ways to use your analysis when you craft a cyber sec policy. Another type is a Cyber Sec Strategy & Info Management Master’s degree. It takes a wide look at policy and cyber law. So, it deals with trends and tactics that are known to help leaders.
Cost of a Cyber Security Master’s Degree
As per NCES, the average cost of a master’s in cyber sec was $18,947. But since this is just an average, there are programs that will cost more. And ones that will cost less. For instance, you may get your degree in state and at a public school. The average cost of this type of school is $11,926. And this is much less than private schools which average at $25,442. And, apart from tuition, there are other costs you may need to budget for. Books, supplies and room and board are just a few.
Cyber Security Master’s Program Course Curriculum
To enter into a cyber sec master’s program, here are a few things you may need:
- Bachelor’s in a computer major
- GRE Scores that meet the school’s min. score
- Know how to speak English if you are not from the U.S.
- GPA that meet’s school’s min. score
The classes you will take change from one school to the next. So, here is a sample of what a study plan might teach.
- Social Impact of Information Security
- Data Mining
- Firewalls
- Mobile and Wireless Tech
- Network Sec
- Internet Media Sec
- Audit and Compliance
Core Curriculum:
How Long Does It Take to Earn an Master’s Degree in Cyber Security?
Many full time students take about 18 months to two years to earn a master’s degree in cyber sec. But you may need more time if you are doing research to prep for a PhD.
What Accreditation Should I Look For?
There is a stamp of approval in the form of a special status. It is for schools that have cyber sec programs. And it is part of a joint effort by two agencies.
- National Security Agency (NSA)
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
The status they give a school is as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE CD). Or CAE in Cyber Operations (CAE CO). To get this approval, the school must meet high standards. Both those of NSA and of the DHS.
Top 25 Schools with Cyber Security Master’s Degree Programs
So what is the difference from one school to the next and why should you care? The reality is, no two schools are the same. To help you in your search we ranked our top 25 schools. All have a cyber sec master’s degree program, so it may help you to narrow your choices down. Our process uses data from the NCES.
Master’s in Cyber Engineering
This is a program that requires 31 credit hours to complete. This program provides students with the ability understand cyber security systems.
Courses:
- Principles of Cyber Engineering
- Digital Forensics and Cyber Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Network System Engineering
Desired Outcome: To obtain positions in upper level management in the field of IT security. Use the abilities and skills acquired to assess security systems using network forensics.
Master’s of Science in Cyber Security
This program is designed to take approximately two years. Upon completion of the program students will be able to handle complex cyber security issues.
Courses:
- Network Security
- Cyber Threat Intelligence
- Web and Data Security
- Planning for Information Security
Desired Outcome: The goal of students in this program is to obtain upper level positions in the cyber security field. Including systems manager and cyber intelligence positions.
Southern New Hampshire University
MS in Cyber Security
This is a 36 credit program that can be completed in 15 months. The program will prepare students to assess and counter cyber threats.
Courses:
- Cyber Law and Ethics
- Network Assessment and Defense
- Human Factors in Security
- Investigation and Digital Forensics
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to prepare students to enter into cyber security management careers. The program will prepare students to use ethical behavior and leadership to guide and make decisions.
MS in Cyber Security
This is a 30 credit program that offers either a cohort or traditional track. This program will train students for a career in cyber security management.
Courses:
- Intro to Cyber Security
- Network Security and Defense
- Information Security Management
- Operating Systems Theory and Administration
Desired Outcome: The goals of this program is to produce students who will walk into the workforce as managers in their respective cyber security fields. Fields include analysts, penetration tester, and digital forensics investigator.
MFA in Game Development
This is a two year program that requires 63 credits to complete. To prepare students to be ready the enter the professional world of game programming.
Courses:
- Game Design Principles
- Scripting for Video Games
- Rapid Game Development
- History and Technique of Games
Desired Outcome: TO come out of the program as a game developer using the abilities gathered from school. Using the skills of developing game mechanics and designing fundamentals.
MS in Computing Security
This is a 30 credit program. It provides an understanding of the roles of technology and ethics in computing security.
Courses:
- Cryptography and Authentication
- Computer System Security
- Thesis
- Capstone
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to get a career in cyber security. Careers could include technology analyst, security analyst, or network systems engineer.
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
MS in Computer Science – Cyber Security Engineering
This a 48 credit online program designed to meet students needs of all types. The program helps to prepare students to develop procedures and policies for cyber security if they were in the working world.
Courses:
- Digital Forensics
- Database Systems
- Network Security
- Computer Networking
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to get a career in cyber security. Careers could include technology analyst, security analyst, or network systems engineer.
MS in Cyber Security Studies
This program requires the completion of 36 credit hours to attain the degree. The program focuses on policies and issues regarding cyber security.
Courses:
- Cyber Intelligence
- Computer Forensics
- Information Assurance
- Advanced Cybercrime Analysis
Desired Outcome: Students are expected to be able to look at and analyze cyber security threats on a national scale. Students should have the ability to study and knowledge of how to implement policies regarding the topic as well.
Purdue University-Main Campus
MS in CIT – Cyberforensics
This program requires the completion of 33 credit hours. This program is designed to work as a thesis degree and encourages students to continue to a doctorate.
Courses:
- Cyberforensics of Files Systems
- Advanced Network Security
- Cyberpsychology
- Network Forensics
Desired Outcome: The purpose of this program is to prepare students to continue on into a doctorate program in most cases.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
Masters in Cyber Security Analytics and Operations
This is a program that requires the completion of 33 credit hours for the master of science in cyber security. The program will give students the ability to deal with all types of threats when it comes to protecting online information.
Courses:
- Web Security and Privacy
- Network Security
- Information Security Management
- Network Management and Security
Desired Outcome: The students goal is to obtain a position in the field of cyber security upon graduation. Some of the positions to consider would be cybersecurity analyst, threat adviser, and security engineer among other positions.
MS in Information Technology
This program requires the completion of 10 courses and can be completed in 18 months. This program will provide students with knowledge in app deployment, security analysis, and routing.
Courses:
- Network and Systems Administration
- Virtual Systems
- Project Management
- Data Mining
Desired Outcome: The program provides students the ability to manage commercial business software. The graduates will also be able to manage and train IT professionals.
Purdue University Global
Masters in Cybersecurity Management
This is a 60 credit online master of science program that is completed in six week sessions. Learning is conducted through learning labs.
Courses:
- Computer Networks
- Ethical Hacking and Network Defense
- Database Concepts
- Network Administration
Desired Outcome: The goals of this program is to obtain a position in the cyber security field. Careers include cyber analyst and IT manager.
MS in Cyber Security
This program requires the completion of 38 credit hours for the master of science in Cyber Security. This program is designed to prepare students for a career in a leadership position in cyber security.
Courses:
- Computer Networks
- Ethical Hacking and Network Defense
- Database Concepts
- Network Administration
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students with the ability to get a position in cyber security. The positions available for this program would be IT manager, systems administrator, and penetration tester.
MS in Information Security and Assurance
This is a 54 credit two year program. Students may learn how to assess and safeguard systems from cyber attacks.
Courses:
- IT Risk Management
- Cryptography
- Advanced Computer Architecture
- Theories of Security Management
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to obtain a position of leadership in the cyber security field. Positions to consider in this field are IT manager or systems analyst among others.
Master’s in Information Technology Management – Information Security
The program will cover areas such as data privacy database management. This program will take approximately two years to complete.
Courses:
- Business Intelligence Systems
- Network Security
- E-Business Security
- IT Governance
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students with the ability to obtain a position in the field of cyber security. Students may also consider going to further education with a doctorate.
MS in Cyber Defense
This program requires the completion of 30 credit hours in core courses by the graduate students. Students will gain knowledge in incident response and computer forensics.
Courses:
- Intrusion Detection
- Offensive Security
- Wireless Security
- Cryptography
Desired Outcome: The students will be able to prevent cyber attacks by using various tools. The students will look to seek employment in a number of positions in the cyber security field.
MS in Computer Science
This 36 credit program has multiple options for obtaining a degree. There is an internship or professional track option to consider when working at this program.
Courses:
- Intrusion Detection
- Offensive Security
- Wireless Security
- Cryptography
Desired Outcome: Students in this program will be trying to obtain a position in the cyber security field. Students may also consider looking to go on to get a doctorate.
Master of Information Systems – Cyber Security
This online master program takes about 20 months to complete and requires 36 credit hours. Students will learn information privacy management ant information system strategy.
Courses:
- Information Systems Concepts
- Auditing Processes
- IT Governance and Management
- Information Assets Protection
Desired Outcome: Students with this degree qualify to be an IT manager or director as well as other similar positions in the IT field.
MS in Cyber Security
The MS in Cyber Security requires 30 credit hours to complete the degree. This program will allow students to understand the technical aspects of cyber security.
Courses:
- Database Security
- Secure Software Design
- Web Services Security
- Network Security Management
Desired Outcome: Upon completion of this degree students can begin careers as cyber security professionals. Positions to consider may include cryptographer, chief infosec officer or security engineer.
MS in IT – Cyber Security and Forensics
This degree program is requires the completion of 30 credit hours for this cyber security degree. This program is designed to provide students with a background in different areas of the field.
Courses:
- Digital Forensics
- Network and Cyber Security
- Ethical Hacking
- Disaster Recovery, Planning, and Response
Desired Outcome: Upon completion of this degree program the student will be equipped to have a career in cyber security. Positions to consider may be IT manager, security analyst or penetration tester.
MS in Computer Science – Security
This degree requires the completion of 60 credit hours. This program will cover all areas of computer security including software and data.
Courses:
- Multi Agent Systems
- Computer Security
- Intelligent Systems
- Data Mining
Desired Outcome: To obtain a position in computer research and development focusing on security. Some students will choose to continue on to a PhD.
MS in IT
This program takes 24 months to complete and requires 30 credit hours. This program readies students for a career in IT management on many fronts.
Courses:
- Data Communications
- Network Systems Design
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Emerging Technologies
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is for students to acquire an IT management position. Some examples of positions may include network architect, security analyst or software developer among others.
Master’s in Digital Forensic Science
This is a 30 credit master’s program. This is a hands on program designed to prepare students to be ready to enter the field immediately upon graduation.
Courses:
- Data Communications
- Network Systems Design
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Emerging Technologies
Desired Outcome: This program prepares students for careers in digital forensics. Some of the career options include research scientist, systems analyst and systems manager.
MS in Information Assurance and Cyber Security
This program requires the completion of 34 credits. This program uses the combination technology skills with management to provide a unique experience.
Courses:
- Applied Cryptography
- Network Security
- Application Security
- Information Security Planning
Desired Outcome: This program is designed to prepare students for careers in management in information security. Positions prepared for include IT manager, security analyst, and penetration testing.
MS in Information Systems Management
This program requires 30-36 credits to graduate based on specializations. The program teaches skills such as strategic project management and business analytics through coursework.
Courses:
- Information Systems Security
- Data Networks and Security
- Business Intelligence
- Business Database Systems
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is for students to have the knowledge necessary to work in the world of business with knowledge of technology. Some careers include operations management and technology managers.
WHAT JOBS CAN YOU GET WITH A MASTER’S IN CYBER SECURITY?
Earning a master’s in cyber sec may help you start or advance in the field. Each of the jobs below fits under the job title Computer and Information Systems Manager as per BLS. And some are types of jobs you may want to seek out. All these jobs take a strong leader. One who can plan, manage, and also direct a company’s computer systems.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
2019 median salary: $122,840 per year
2019 -29 Growth rate: 15%
Per the BLS, computer and information research scientists work with new computing technology. They will try to find new ways to enhance existing technology. They also try to find new ways to incorporate new technology with old technology. They typically work full time and require a master’s degree though in some cases only a bachelor’s is necessary.
Computer Network Architects
2019 median salary: $112,690 per year
2019-29 Growth rate: 5%
According to the BLS, computer network architects work with local area networks as well as wide area networks. They will also work with Intranets. They will work to design and build these networks to meet the needs of many. They typically work full time and typically need at least a bachelor’s degree.
IT Director
2019 median salary: $146,360 per year
2019-29 Growth rate: 10%
An IT director or computer and information systems manager are in charge of all computer related activities. The BLS states that this includes planning, coordinating and troubleshooting all computer related issues for the organization. People in this position typically work full time and in many cases will need a mater’s degree.
CISO
2019 median salary: $196,050 per year
2019-29 Growth rate: 0.7%
A CISO or CIO are chief executives in an organization when it comes to the technology in an organization as per the BLS. Their job is to oversee not only the running of all things technical in the company but to maintain the a position of authority in the upper hierarchy of the company. This position in many cases requires at least a master’s degree and is full time.
Top Salaries by State for Computer Network Architects
Per O*NET, these are the top salaries by state for Computer Network Architects in the United States for the 2019 year.
Alabama
Median Wage: $103,650
Number of Jobs: N/A
Growth Rate: 5% nationally
Alaska
Median Wage: $97,820
Number of Jobs: 60
Growth Rate: 0%
Arizona
Median Wage: $103,360
Number of Jobs: 140
Growth Rate: -7%
Arkansas
Median Wage: $87,260
Number of Jobs: 950
Growth Rate: 13%
California
Median Wage: $125,590
Number of Jobs: 11,900
Growth Rate: 8%
Colorado
Median Wage: $118,720
Number of Jobs: 6,370
Growth Rate: 18%
Connecticut
Median Wage: $112,230
Number of Jobs: 820
Growth Rate: 7 %
Delaware
Median Wage: $130,740
Number of Jobs: 630
Growth Rate: 2%
Florida
Median Wage: $105,710
Number of Jobs: 10,630
Growth Rate: 12%
Georgia
Median Wage: $113,920
Number of Jobs: 5,120
Growth Rate: 7%
Hawaii
Median Wage: $96,210
Number of Jobs: 410
Growth Rate: 0%
Idaho
Median Wage: $112,690
Number of Jobs: 610
Growth Rate: 5%
Illinois
Median Wage: $123,180
Number of Jobs: 5,410
Growth Rate: 1%
Indiana
Median Wage: $91,070
Number of Jobs: 3,690
Growth Rate: 10%
Iowa
Median Wage: $101,370
Number of Jobs: 1,290
Growth Rate: 11%
Kansas
Median Wage: $98,640
Number of Jobs: 1,750
Growth Rate: 6%
Kentucky
Median Wage: $76,940
Number of Jobs: 1,190
Growth Rate: 3%
Louisiana
Median Wage: $77,370
Number of Jobs: N/A
Growth Rate: 5% Nationally
Maine
Median Wage: $101,220
Number of Jobs: 660
Growth Rate: -6%
Maryland
Median Wage: $121,800
Number of Jobs: 4,530
Growth Rate: 14%
Massachusetts
Median Wage: $125,280
Number of Jobs: 4,720
Growth Rate: 10%
Michigan
Median Wage: $104,520
Number of Jobs: 3,340
Growth Rate: -4%
Minnesota
Median Wage: $114,120
Number of Jobs: 3,240
Growth Rate: 4%
Mississippi
Median Wage: $92,350
Number of Jobs: 270
Growth Rate: 4%
Missouri
Median Wage: $93,420
Number of Jobs: 2,980
Growth Rate: 3%
Montana
Median Wage: $88,890
Number of Jobs: 230
Growth Rate: 13%
Nebraska
Median Wage: $103,160
Number of Jobs: 1,440
Growth Rate: 10%
Nevada
Median Wage: $102,450
Number of Jobs: 190
Growth Rate: 16%
New Hampshire
Median Wage: $128,970
Number of Jobs: 420
Growth Rate: 12%
New Jersey
Median Wage: $127,860
Number of Jobs: 5,150
Growth Rate: -3%
New Mexico
Median Wage: $96,240
Number of Jobs: 610
Growth Rate: 16%
New York
Median Wage: $118,660
Number of Jobs: 9,080
Growth Rate: 7%
North Carolina
Median Wage: $106,800
Number of Jobs: 4,950
Growth Rate: 3%
North Dakota
Median Wage: $85,570
Number of Jobs: 150
Growth Rate: 13%
Ohio
Median Wage: $100,530
Number of Jobs: 4,950
Growth Rate: 0%
Oklahoma
Median Wage: $81,840
Number of Jobs: 870
Growth Rate: -1%
Oregon
Median Wage: $110,060
Number of Jobs: 1020
Growth Rate: 9%
Pennsylvania
Median Wage: $104,890
Number of Jobs: 7,360
Growth Rate: 3%
Rhode Island
Median Wage: $127,830
Number of Jobs: 360
Growth Rate: 6%
South Carolina
Median Wage: $86,770
Number of Jobs: 1,150
Growth Rate: 12%
South Dakota
Median Wage: $103,650
Number of Jobs: 420
Growth Rate: 17%
Tennessee
Median Wage: $95,880
Number of Jobs: 2,210
Growth Rate: 14%
Texas
Median Wage: $118,800
Number of Jobs: 10,940
Growth Rate: 15%
Utah
Median Wage: $106,590
Number of Jobs: 590
Growth Rate: 31%
Vermont
Median Wage: $92,290
Number of Jobs: 80
Growth Rate: 0%
Virginia
Median Wage: $126,930
Number of Jobs: 10,000
Growth Rate: 14%
Washington
Median Wage: $112,560
Number of Jobs: 4,990
Growth Rate: 6%
West Virginia
Median Wage: $94,830
Number of Jobs: 220
Growth Rate: 5%
Wisconsin
Median Wage: $96,280
Number of Jobs: 2,150
Growth Rate: 8%
Wyoming
Median Wage: $95,260
Number of Jobs: 90
Growth Rate: 11%
CYBER SECURITY CERTIFICATIONS TO CONSIDER
CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Created by (ISC)2, CISSP certs focus on two things. Security policy and management. It is also the most popular of the cyber sec certs, according to CyberSecurityCC.
You need at least 5 years of experience before you can take the CISSP exam. So, it is not for those new to the field. And, your experience must be in at least two of these areas.
- Sec and Risk Management
- Asset Sec
- Sec Engineering
- Communications and Network Sec
- Identity and Access Management
- Sec Assessment and Testing
- Sec Operations
- Software Development Sec
To remain current, cert holders must also join the (ISC)2. Then, they must renew their cert every three years.
As a CISSP, each year you must also do two things to stay current. One is to pay an $85 fee. The other is to submit 40 CPE credits.
CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor
Offered by ISACA®, more than 140,100 people have CISA cert.
To get your CISA, you need to take an exam that covers 5 core areas.
- Auditing
- Governance & Management of IT
- Info Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation
- Info Systems Operations, Maintenance and Service Management
- Protection of Info Assets
As a CISA cert holder, you must renew every three years. Then also, you have to pay a yearly fee of $45 for ISACA® members. Or $85 for non members.
You must also submit at least 20 CPE credits each year for the three year period.
CISM: Certified Information Security Manager
CISM gives guide lines for Cyber Sec management to those in charge. So, one of the things it asks of you is to be able to explain complex information security issues.
It is another of SACA® credentials. And one that over 40,000 pros have once they know these four content areas.
- Information Security Governance
- Managing Info Risk
- Develop and Manage an Information Security Program
- Information Security Incident Management
To remain current, CISMs must renew every three years. Also, pay a yearly fee. This is $45 for ISACA® members or $85 if not a member. You must also submit at least 20 CPEs for the three year period.
GCIH: GIAC Certified Incident Handler
GCIH cert deals with how to handle incidents. So, you must know how to detect, respond to and resolve them. You must also master core areas.
- The incident handling process
- Detect harmful apps and network activity
- Common attack methods that can compromise a host
- Spot and assess system and network weak areas
- Know how to find the root causes of incidents
Once you have your GHIC, you need to renew it every 4 years. This means a fee of $429 and 36 CPE credits.