Written By - Sharmila Bannu
Last Updated: November 6, 2024Edited By - Anjana Sharma
Introduction
An online master’s degree in cybersecurity is a specialized program that aims to provide advanced knowledge and skills on computer systems, networks, data, threats, and the ways to resolve them.
With the increase in cyber threats, there is a need for a course that explains the reasons for such threats, the solutions, and the best ways to overcome them. The course mainly deals with cybersecurity principles, technologies, and strategies that are growing across industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and technology.
What is Masters in Cyber Security?
A master’s in cybersecurity online can be defined as a course that helps the aspirants gain both skills and knowledge about cybersecurity laws, and the way they should be used in computers, networks, and data protection strategies. The course is a mix of theoretical and practical lessons which prepare the students for a strong and well-paid career in cybersecurity.
In today’s digital world, with the increasing platforms, identifying and eliminating cyber threats is a difficult task. For this, an aspirant needs to know the security protocols and encryption techniques to be followed on the computer system.
An online masters in cybersecurity helps with the understanding of cybersecurity issues in the real world, practical skills, and offers hands-on training to resolve the problems faced in different industries in the real world. Also, being a base of every industry that assures the safety and security of information on different platforms, the course is in high demand.
This is because cyber security is a field that is connected with Government, finance, technology, healthcare, and related fields wherein the most essential information is to be handled.
Top Colleges for Masters in Cybersecurity Online
Below are a few of the online masters degree in cybersecurity offered by some of the top institutions in the field. These colleges, known for their excellence in cybersecurity education, bring together a new and challenging course with futuristic career opportunities, renowned faculty, and the flexibility of online learning.
| S.No. | College Name | Tuition Fees | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Southern New Hampshire University 2500 North River Road, Manchester, New Hampshire 03106 | $19,467 | 41% |
| #2 | Saint Leo University 33701 County Road 52, Saint Leo, Florida 33574 | $15,840 | 49% |
| #3 | Utica University 1600 Burrstone Rd, Utica, New York 13502 | $24,480 | 58% |
| #4 | Franklin University 201 S Grant Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43215 | $12,060 | 49% |
| #5 | Bellevue University 1000 Galvin Rd S, Bellevue, Nebraska 68005 | $11,682 | 41% |
| #6 | The University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514 | $7,088 | 53% |
| #7 | Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 | $36,234 | 78% |
| #8 | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus 225 North Ave, Atlanta, Georgia 30332 | $14,064 | 93% |
| #9 | Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $62,840 | 94% |
| #10 | Regent University 1000 Regent University Dr, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23464 | $16,128 | 55% |
| #11 | DePaul University 1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604 | $22,135 | 69% |
| #12 | DeSales University 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, Pennsylvania 18034 | $22,960 | 68% |
Source:Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
***Tuition Fees Rates are for In-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
***NA – Data Not Available
Most Affordable For Masters In Cyber Security Online
Some universities provide online master’s degree in cybersecurity programs for professionals and students with financial limitations. An online course helps self-paced learning and keeps their learning at a low cost. This helps in improving their educational experience and keeps their budget and also helps the students grab their dream career with the best competitive salaries.
| S.No. | College Name | Tuition Fees | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 48% |
| #2 | Thomas Edison State University 111 W State St, Trenton, New Jersey 08608 | $12,150 | N/A |
| #3 | American National University 1813 East Main Street, Salem, Virginia 24153 | $12,756 | 26% |
| #4 | Sam Houston State University 1806 Ave J, Huntsville, Texas 77340 | $5,765 | 56% |
| #5 | University of Maryland Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $9,432 | 30% |
| #6 | Wilmington University 320 Dupont Hwy, New Castle, Delaware 19720 | $9,432 | 23% |
| #7 | Old Dominion University 1 John Marshall Dr, Huntington, West Virginia 25755 | $11,016 | 48% |
| #8 | Grand Canyon University 3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85017 | $10,138 | 45% |
| #9 | Marshall University 1 John Marshall Dr, Huntington, West Virginia 25755 | $7,710 | 50% |
Source:Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
***Tuition Fees Rates are for In-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
***NA – Data Not Available
Admission Requirements For Masters In Cyber Security Online
An online masters degree in cybersecurity requires a few important things which the students need to keep in mind well before applying for the course. Here are some of them:
Educational Background: Should be a bachelor in computer science or must possess any other computer degrees online and must have knowledge in networking.
Work Experience: The aspirants should have some experience in working with IT or cybersecurity.
Academic scores: Before applying for an Online Masters in Cyber Security, the applicant must match a score of 3 GPA with a few recommendation letters from previous institutions.
Test scores: The applicant must meet GRE and SAT test scores to enroll for the program. Such tests are not compulsory for all the programs though.
Letters of Recommendation: Including the letters of recommendation from the faculty of your previous institution can help you enroll for the program quickly and easier.
Statement of Purpose: The statement of purpose (SOP) should be drafted with all the points including what interests you in choosing this specific program and institution. It should explain a few things such as the reason for choosing a masters in cybersecurity online, your areas of interest and your previous academic scores.
Interviews: You may have to undergo an interview for the institution to understand your background as a candidate and vice versa so that you can complete your program successfully and effectively.
Finally, make sure that you read through the specific requirements of the program and can meet them all.
Why Get A Masters In Cyber Security Online
Having an online master’s degree in cybersecurity has many advantages, one of which is being able to find the most well-paid job opportunities in the field. Here’s why it is considered to be a good decision.
Flexibility:
An online master’s degree in cybersecurity can be learned at one’s own pace. The only thing that the aspirant has to check is to maintain the number of credit hours to complete the course.
Career Advancement:
The best way to step up in a career is to do a masters degree. Having a master’s in cybersecurity helps in getting the best paid jobs.
Networking:
Such online courses also help connect with professionals worldwide. This helps in understanding the new and the highest-paid opportunities and also helps in getting placed through recommendations.
Updates:
An online master’s degree in cybersecurity keeps you updated with the technology. This helps students to know the latest subject add-ons, and the change in curriculum, and keep their knowledge up to date.
Training:
Having your lessons learned thoroughly from the most experienced professionals helps you get a deeper understanding of the lessons. And moreover, you can also revisit your lessons from time to time to ensure that the training is complete and consistent.
Leadership opportunities:
After pursuing this course, the students have an oppportunity to take lead roles in an organization like an IT manager, or a cybersecurity consultant or a team lead.
Cost:
The cost of an online masters in cyber security is comparatively lesser than that of an on-campus setting. Also, you get to save a lot on the equipment costs, and travel costs. Also, there are scholarships and grants available in case you feel that your course is expensive online.
Contribution to technology:
By opting for this course, students are encouraged to do deep research on cybersecurity-related topics and come up with their innovative ideas. As a result, these ideas are further developed into solution by the research and development team, which can be used in future learning.
Curriculum For Masters In Cyber Security Online
Here’s what your online masters in cybersecurity program would take you through:
1. Core Courses:
✶ Cybersecurity Basics
✶ Network Security
✶ Cryptography
✶ Cybersecurity Policy and Governance
✶ Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
✶ Response and Management
2. Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts:
✶ Advanced Cryptography
✶ Threat Intelligence
✶ Security Risk Management
✶ Security Architecture and Design
✶ Cybersecurity Ethics
✶ Cybersecurity Law Compliance
3. Electives:
✶ Digital Forensics
✶ Cloud Security
✶ Mobile Security
✶ Internet of Things (IoT) Security
✶ Application Security
✶ Wireless Security
4. Introduction to Technology and Tools:
✶ Practice cybersecurity tools and software.
✶Understanding industry-standard tools
✶ Penetration testing, Vulnerability Assessment, and Security Monitoring.
5. Thesis:
✶ Knowledge evaluation in Masters on Cybersecurity online by choosing a topic of their choice and doing deep research and bring their findings out.
6. Industry Certifications Preparation:
✶ Support aspirants to find a well paid career with certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
7. Cybersecurity Leadership and Management:
✶ Strategic Cybersecurity Management
✶ Cybersecurity Governance and Compliance
✶ Cybersecurity Leadership and Communication
8. Emerging Trends and Technologies:
✶ Learn about the latest trends and familiarize with the needful technologies.
9. Internships:
✶ Students are involved in cooperative educational activities to get an idea of cybersecurity jobs.
✶ Opportunities for internships, cooperative education programs, or practical experiences are provided to acquire hands-on exposure in authentic cybersecurity settings.
10. Research Seminars:
✶ Participate in seminars or workshops focusing on current cybersecurity research topics.
This curriculum is just a general guide, and specific programs may have variations based on the institution, faculty expertise, and industry demands
Duration For Masters In Cyber Security Online
The duration of an online master’s in cyber security is subject to many factors such as the availability of students, the overall duration of the program, the thesis etc. However, the program may take anywhere from one year to five years to be completed based on the preference of the students and the number of credit hours needed.
Why Get A Masters In Cyber Security?
Before starting your masters, make sure that the program you have chosen meets your career goals. To highlight your degree and gain additional knowledge and experience. Such projects and internships also help to a great extent in finding jobs at cybersecurity domains.
Obtaining a Masters in Cybersecurity offers numerous advantages. Here’s why it’s considered a strategic move:
Demand in the Job Market:
Cybersecurity is highly demanded, and acquiring a Masters degree can open doors to promising opportunities in a rapidly growing field. The job market is expected to grow by 10.09 percent in the next four years. Therefore, there will be 18% more growth and demand for opportunities in the field, thus helping students find the best and highest-paying job openings worldwide. Also, after 2027, there will be 18% more opportunities till 2032, creating a new and reputable set of job vacancies.
Specialized Skill Development:
Concentrate deeply into areas such as network security and ethical hacking, enhancing the proficiency and making as an attractive candidate in the cybersecurity sector.
Career Advancement:
Managerial positions such as cybersecurity manager or consultant often prefer candidates with Masters degrees, providing a pathway to higher-level roles.
Increased Earnings:
Those with Online Masters degrees in cybersecurity typically get higher salaries than the other jobs. The highest profile that earns the best is that of the cyber security manager who earns $166,450, reflecting the value of their advanced qualifications.
Networking Opportunities:
Find the best people to connect with in the industry and get the best knowledge from them through internships.
Research and Innovation:
Participate in research projects during the Masters program, providing an opportunity to introduce fresh ideas and contribute to advancements in the cybersecurity field.
Staying Updated:
The cybersecurity landscape evolves rapidly, and a Masters degree ensures to stay ahead of the latest trends and developments in the field.
Research and Innovation:
Participate in research projects during Masters program, providing an avenue to introduce fresh ideas and contribute to advancements in the cybersecurity field.
Satisfaction in Impact:
Contributing to the protection of organizations and individuals from cyber threats is inherently rewarding, and a Masters degree deepens the ability to make a meaningful difference.
Real-world experience
Through completing such a program and working with a huge group of professionals students get to understand real-time problems and how to solve them.
Job Security
Jobs in cybersecurity are in demand and are expected to grow over the next five years. Hence, there is no question that aspirants would lose their jobs.
Job Specialization
After an online master’s in cyber security, aspirants would have more clarity on what jobs to take up or change into.
Scholarship For Master In Cyber Security Online
Scholarships for online masters in cybersecurity are offered on different criteria such as:
Providers: Offered by industrial leaders, professional organizations, and government agencies for skilled professionals.
Qualification criteria: The applicants may belong to merit-based, need-based or underrepresented groups , should have academic achievements, or financially weak.
Requirements: The applicants may also have several requirements like financial support, exploring the industrial opportunities, learning, and better pay.
Opportunities: Exploring the most well-paid jobs improves the organization’s security.
Career path after completing Masters in Cyber Security Online
After completing an online master’s degree in cyber security, there are many career options waiting for you. Here’s a rundown:
| S.No | Job Role | Job Description | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cybersecurity Analyst | Protects against cyber threats by analyzing and responding to security incidents. | $106,006 – $115,979 |
| 2. | Security Architect | Designs and implements secure network and system architectures to safeguard against cyber threats. | $116,981-$146,099 |
| 3. | Security Consultant | Advises on cybersecurity strategy, compliance, and best practices to enhance organizational defenses. | $109,038 – $114,627 |
| 4. | Security Engineer | Designs, implements, and maintains security solutions to protect against cyber threats. | $75,435 – $95,190 |
| 5. | Cybersecurity Manager | Oversees security initiatives, teams, and budgets to safeguard organizational assets against cyber threats. | $135,330 – $166,450 |
| 6. | Cybersecurity Trainer | Educates individuals and teams on cybersecurity concepts and practices to enhance awareness and defense capabilities. | $47,352 |
Remember, the field is always changing, so keep learning and find the path that fits interests. Whether its into solving problems or teaching others, there’s a spot there in the cybersecurity world.
FAQs for Online Masters in Cyber Security
1. Is an online masters degree in cyber security hard?
An online master’s degree in cyber security might seem hard provided the individual is unaware of the technology and tools used. With these aspects known, the course might be quite easy for students.
2. What is cyber security degree, and why is it significant?
A cybersecurity degree is a degree that prepares students for the protection of computer systems and their confidentiality. It also teaches them on how to keep the information safe and the different updates to be aware of .
3. What are the typical admission criteria for an online masters degree in cyber security program?
Admission requirements often encompass a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, relevant professional experience, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and, in some instances, standardised test scores.
4. How long is the duration of a masters in cyber security online program?
Program durations vary, but a standard Master’s in Cybersecurity program can span from 18 months to two years for full-time students. Part-time alternatives may require a more extended time commitment.
5. Is it possible to pursue a masters in cyber security online?
Numerous universities provide online Master’s in Cybersecurity programs tailored for both working professionals and those seeking flexible educational pathways.Yes John Hopkins and George Washington University are two of the prominent institutions that offer masters in cyber security online.
6. What career prospects are available upon completing a masters in cyber security online?a
Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Architect, Penetration Tester, Security Engineer, Incident Manager, Malware Analyst, IT Auditor, and Cyber Policy and Strategy Planner. These are some of the job roles that are experiencing high demand after completing a masters in cyber security online.
7. Are certifications valuable in addition to a masters in cyber security online?
Certainly, certifications such as CISSP, CEH, and CompTIA Security+ hold significant value in the cybersecurity field. While a master’s degree offers theoretical understanding, certifications showcase practical competencies and proficiency.
8. What is the typical curriculum structure for a masters in cyber security online program?
The curriculum generally comprises essential classes covering cybersecurity fundamentals, network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and may incorporate specialized tracks or elective options such as digital forensics or cloud security.
9. What is the approximate cost of a masters in cyber security online program?
The average cost of a masters in cyber security online program is $10000 to $80000 based on the university and the course type that the aspirant is planning to join.
10. Are there financial aid options or scholarships available for masters in cyber security online students?
Yes, many universities and organisations offer scholarships, grants, or financial aid opportunities for students pursuing a Master’s in Cybersecurity. It’s advisable to check with the specific institution and explore external scholarship options.
11. How can students stay informed about the latest trends in masters in cyber security online during their master’s program?
To get a deeper understanding of the latest trends in masters in cyber security, students are encouraged to participate in cyber security webinars and conferences.
