Best Online Master's Degrees in Cyber Security

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There is a growing need for organizations to hire professionals who are well educated and trained in keeping important information safe from cyber attacks. This rapidly growing field may mean increased job prospects and job security for graduates with their master's degree. Graduates may also qualify for multiple positions within the field with this flexible degree. Often, earning a master's degree in any field means career advancement to more leadership-based positions with additional responsibilities. This may lead to an increase in salary. The website, PayScale.com, reported that the median annual salary for those with an MS in Cybersecurity was $87,314, as of February 2021. In comparison, the website stated that those with a Bachelor of Science (BS/BSc) in Cybersecurity made a median annual salary of $70,623.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online Master's in Cyber Security?

Students wondering how long it will take them to earn an online master's degree in cyber security need to examine the format of their program of interest. Some programs are designed to allow students to finish as quickly as possible while studying full-time. Students may be able to complete these programs in as little as 15 months. Other factors that may allow students to finish more quickly include programs accepting some graduate transfer credit and/or an increased course load. There are some online master's programs in cyber security that may allow students to finish their degree more slowly. These programs may have students study part-time and finish their degree in 2 to 3 years.

Students enrolled in online master's degree programs in cyber security can expect to take multiple computer science and cyber security courses. Usually, students take some core courses in cybercrime studies and either electives or courses for a selected track. They may be required to take between 32 and 36 credits of coursework. Many courses in these degree programs provide students with hands-on experience using different software and technologies used in the field. Depending on the program, students may have the opportunity for unique learning experiences, such as competing in cyber competitions or earning an additional Enterprise Security Certificate. Some of these programs may require or provide an optional culminating experience of some sort. Explore more of the curriculum below.

Cyber Security Foundational Courses

Depending on the program, students may take somewhere between 11 and 27 credits of required courses. Some of these programs may break up core required courses into core computer science courses and core security courses. In general, core cyber security courses train students in computer networking, security design, security policies, and security strategies. Students may be able to choose an optional master's thesis or final research project as a culminating experience. Other programs may require a final practicum, internship, or capstone experience. Typically, culminating experiences are designed to help students apply what they have learned to real-world scenarios through a project of some kind or real, practical experience in the field. Course titles vary by school, but students in these online master's programs may take courses in subjects such as:

• Information security
• Data mining
• Systems cyber security engineering
• Operating systems
• Computer networking
• Network security
• Applied cryptography
• Security risk analysis
• Cyberlaw and ethics
• Network assessment

Cyber Security Specialist and Elective Courses

Most master's programs in cyber security allow students to take between 9 and 18 credits of electives or courses in a chosen track. These elective and specialty tracks are designed to help prepare students for specific careers in the field by providing them with specialized knowledge in a given area. Depending on the program, students may be able to choose from concentrations or tracks in areas such as:

• IT management
• Information systems
• Physical systems
• Policy
• Information security
• Cyber-physical systems

Coursework for these different tracks vary, but aim to provide students with detailed study of the subject. Programs that offer different elective courses may allow students to choose courses of interest in subjects like computer science, information technology, math, and other related areas.

Licensure and Certification in Cyber Security

While there is not usually a cyber security license that is required for positions, many employers may prefer to hire professionals that have professional certification in the field. Many professional certifications are available and demonstrate that these security professionals are up to date on the most recent techniques and best practices used in the field. One of the most common certifications in the field is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification from the (ISC)2, or the International Information System Security Certification Consortium. In order to earn the certification, students must register for and pass an exam. The (ISC)2 also offers certifications in more specific areas of cyber security, such as cloud security, secure software development, and healthcare security and privacy. There are a wide range of other organizations that also provide professional security certifications, including the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification. This certification is designed for information technology (IT) professionals and also requires an exam.

Admissions requirements for online master's degree programs in cyber security vary by school, and may even vary amongst program tracks in some cases. In general, applicants must have a bachelor's degree, and some programs may require or prefer that the degree is in areas such as computer science, computer engineering, engineering, science, or math. Some programs may require that students have prerequisite coursework in areas including discrete mathematics and science. Applicants may also be expected to have some knowledge of computer science fundamentals, such as algorithms, operating structures, and programming languages of data structures (like C++). Depending on the program, students may need to meet a minimum GPA, usually around a 3.0, and/or submit GRE test scores. Other programs may not require test scores. Applications for these programs may require items such as transcripts and a statement of purpose.

There are many different and unique online master's degree programs in cyber security available for students to choose from. When considering different programs, students should think about their career goals and personal preferences and find a program that best aligns with both. For instance, students may first want to consider programs that offer a specific track or specialization option in a particular area of interest, such as a management track for aspiring managers in the field. Students may also want to explore and consider any additional learning options that programs offer, such as the chance to participate in competitions or earn an additional certificate. Those who want to ensure that they are receiving a high-quality education in the field may consider regionally-accredited institutions that offer online master's programs that are designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security and/or align their curriculum with National Training Standards from the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS).

Many graduates with a master's degree in cyber security go on to become an information security specialist of some kind. Some of these professionals may focus on cybercrime as cybercrime specialists or become a cybercrime agent to investigate incidents that occur. Others may focus on designing and maintaining networks and systems to be safe and secure. Cyber security professionals are needed in a wide range of industries that maintain online files and information that needs to be secure. Graduates may work in the field of healthcare, government, business, and more. Other potential job titles for graduates may include:

• Information security analyst
• Computer systems analyst
• Network and computer systems administrator
• Systems developer
• Firewall engineer
• Penetration tester
• Chief information security officer
• Contractor program security officer
• Risk management analyst

Job Outlook for a Master's in Cyber Security

In general, the number of cyber attacks has increased over the years, so the need for cyber security professionals has increased. Job prospects for graduates with their master's in cyber security should be positive, and students should qualify for a range of positions. Specific job outlooks vary by position, but typically are positive, which means additional jobs are being added to the workforce. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that information security analysts had a job outlook of 31% from 2019 to 2029. This outlook is much faster than the national average and equates to 40,900 new positions throughout the decade. Other related positions may also have positive outlooks, if not as high as information security analysts. For instance, the BLS stated that computer systems analysts had a job outlook of 7%, which is still faster than the average.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

Typically, information security analysts have to have at least a bachelor's degree. This degree may be in areas such as information assurance, computer science, or other related areas. However, some employers may prefer professionals who hold a master's degree, such as a master's in cyber security or Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Information Systems. Most of these analysts also need to have prior work experience and may begin their careers as computer systems analysts or network or computer systems administrators. These professionals may seek professional certification to demonstrate their expertise in the field and stay competitive. Some analysts may advance their careers by moving into management positions.

According to the BLS, information security analysts made a median annual salary of $99,730 as of 2019. These analysts work to prevent and monitor any type of information security breach for their organization. This may require them to install software, run and analyze reports, create security policies and standards, train users on products and procedures, and test systems.

How to Become a Computer Systems Analyst

Many computer systems analysts have at least a bachelor's degree, but some employers may want candidates with a master's degree. Usually, these analysts have a degree in a computer science-related field, but some employers may also like professionals with an MBA with a focus in information systems. Computer systems analysts must stay updated on the current technologies in the field to remain competitive in the job market. Job advancement usually comes with experience, and professionals may move into positions with more responsibilities, such as information security analysts or computer and information systems managers.

Per the BLS, computer systems analysts made a median annual salary of $90,920 as of 2019. Also known as systems architects, computer systems analysts carefully analyze an organization's computer systems and procedures in order to find ways to make their systems more efficient and effective. These professionals must understand the IT needs of their organization, decide what technologies may work the best, and then run cost and benefit analysis. They may need to test systems, help manage the installation of systems, and improve current systems.

With the constant emergence of new technologies and techniques in the field, cyber security professionals need to stay updated on news in the field. They may do this by joining a cyber security professional organization. Not only do these organizations provide professionals with news and updates from the field, but often, they offer professional development opportunities and other resources to help professionals advance their careers and knowledge in the field. These groups also provide networking opportunities, professional certifications, and access to research and other academic sources. A couple of examples of cyber security groups that students may join include:

• International Information System Security Certification Consortium- The (ISC)2 focuses on education in the field, but also provides news in cyber security and advocates for professionals in the field. The group offers professionals the CISSP and a wide range of other professional certifications to help advance careers in the field, as well as continuing education in the form of lab courses, immersive courses, and more.
• Information Systems Security Association International- The ISSA offers membership and local chapters for professionals to get involved in. The organization publishes an online journal, provides access to research, and hosts events, including forums and web conferences.

Although many online master's degree programs in cyber security will still accept students with a bachelor's degree in any field, several programs require or prefer students who have a bachelor's in computer-, math-, science-, or engineering-related fields. Most commonly, students applying to master's degree programs in cyber security already have some background and working knowledge in the field of computer science. Students who do not have a degree in one of these preferred areas may be required to take additional prerequisite coursework before taking master's courses.

Students interested in pursuing study at the doctoral level can pursue an online degree such as a Doctor of Science (DSc) in Cybersecurity, Doctor of Computer Science in Cybersecurity, or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. Some of these programs can be completed in as little as 3 years and are designed to prepare students for more advanced leadership- and/or research-based careers. Although these programs are available online, some may have a few in-person requirements, such as in-person symposium experiences.

Many students need to utilize various forms of financial aid to help pay for their education. Both undergraduate and graduate students should first see what federal or state loans or grants are available to them by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Then students may explore additional financial aid options available at their school of interest and/or from outside organizations.

Scholarships are one of the most common forms of financial aid and are widely available from schools, professional organizations, and other sources. These awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements, but do not have to be repaid. Specifically for students wishing to pursue their master's degree in cyber security, there are several scholarships available. A couple of examples of available scholarships for students include:

• NYU Cyber Fellows- NYU students who enroll in the Cyber Fellows cohort for the online MS in Cyber Security automatically receive a 75% scholarship toward their tuition. This saves students more than $38,700.
• (ISC)2 Graduate Scholarships- The (ISC)2 awards up to 20 scholarships each year to master's and doctoral students studying cyber security or information assurance. Awards vary in amount from $1,000-$5,000, and students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher to qualify.