Top Online Cybersecurity Master’s in 2023
Explore the top online cybersecurity master’s degrees and see what it takes to enroll in, pay for, and graduate from your program.
Last Updated: 04/27/2023
2023’s Best Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Programs
Master’s level cybersecurity professionals play a crucial role in safeguarding individuals, companies, and governments against online threats. As online study options for cybersecurity master’s degree programs continue to increase, it can be challenging for prospective students to choose the right program. To assist in this process, we have compiled a list of the top online cybersecurity programs for 2023. Our rankings are based on several essential program components, including proper accreditation, flexible course delivery, affordability, and student support. Learn more about today’s top programs below.
Methodology for the STEPS Best Online Programs in 2022
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in subject area offered partially or fully online.
Assign Impact of Data Points
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability. Online program availability and overall affordability received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. When unable to verify this number, a star-based system was used to signify the number of programs relative to peers.
Affordability
- Cost:
Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year. - Students w/ Institutional Aid:
Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
Support Services
- Academic Counseling:
Existence of this service on campus or online. - Career Placement:
Existence of this service on campus or online.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2021
New York, New York
Total online programs: 2
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Total online programs: 2
Bloomington, Indiana
Total online programs: 2
Ames, Iowa
Total online programs: 2
Tucson, Arizona
Total online programs: 2
Valparaiso, Indiana
Total online programs: 2
Lynchburg, Virginia
Total online programs: 2
Atlanta, Georgia
Total online programs: 1
Austin, Texas
Total online programs: 1
Indianapolis, Indiana
Total online programs: 1
Charlotte, North Carolina
Total online programs: 1
Blacksburg, Virginia
Total online programs: 1
Seattle, Washington
Total online programs: 1
Huntington, West Virginia
Total online programs: 1
Henniker, New Hampshire
Total online programs: 1
Augusta, Georgia
Total online programs: 1
New Castle, Delaware
Total online programs: 1
Houston, Texas
Total online programs: 1
Morgantown, West Virginia
Total online programs: 1
Portland, Maine
Total online programs: 1
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Total online programs: 1
Omaha, Nebraska
Total online programs: 1
Denver, Colorado
Total online programs: 1
Springfield, Illinois
Total online programs: 1
Las Vegas, Nevada
Total online programs: 1
Frederick, Maryland
Total online programs: 1
Greenville, North Carolina
Total online programs: 1
Moscow, Idaho
Total online programs: 1
Saint Louis, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Springfield, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Big Rapids, Michigan
Total online programs: 1
Mississippi State, Mississippi
Total online programs: 1
Warrensburg, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Detroit, Michigan
Total online programs: 1
Charleston, South Carolina
Total online programs: 1
Saint Charles, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Saint Joseph, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Columbus, Georgia
Total online programs: 1
Macon, Georgia
Total online programs: 1
East Greenwich, Rhode Island
Total online programs: 1
Lebanon, Illinois
Total online programs: 1
Saint Louis, Missouri
Total online programs: 1
Norfolk, Virginia
Total online programs: 1
Miami, Florida
Total online programs: 1
Kennesaw, Georgia
Total online programs: 1
Norfolk, Virginia
Total online programs: 1
Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania
Total online programs: 1
Murray, Kentucky
Total online programs: 1
Exploring the Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
The subject matter of cybersecurity lends itself well to online study, and many schools offer most or all of their master’s degree courses in a fully online format. The affordability, convenience, and flexibility of online study make cybersecurity master’s degree programs increasingly popular. Many students pursuing these degrees are also working professionals who maintain full-time jobs while studying. Continue reading to discover more about the benefits of earning a master’s degree in cybersecurity and how online programs can help students achieve their goals.
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Options
Cybercrime is a significant issue in today’s world, affecting everything from individual computers to complex global digital banking, security, and military systems. Cybersecurity encompasses the protection against threats across all digital sectors and requires experts with specialized knowledge in various security-related fields. Consequently, specialized training is a crucial component of online cybersecurity master’s degree programs, and most offer students a variety of concentration options to choose from.
Additionally, online cybersecurity students seek out degree programs with built-in study flexibility and shorter completion times that allow for quick advancement in their careers. Below is a look at how schools are accommodating all of these needs in their online master’s in cybersecurity programs.
Traditional Cybersecurity Master’s Degree
When most people think about the program length of a master’s degree program, they’re picturing the traditional four semesters put together into two years of full-time study. But, part-time study options that allow students three-to-five years for completion are not uncommon. Part-time programs are particularly popular with students who continue full-time employment while working on their degrees. Semesters typically begin each fall and spring, however, some programs feature summer sessions during which students can pick up extra program credits that count toward the completeion of their degree, thus speeding-up graduation time.
Traditional online cybersecurity master’s programs, both full-time and part-time, commonly require successful completion of 30 to 36 credits of coursework.
Accelerated Cybersecurity Master’s Degree
Accelerated cybersecurity master’s programs are designed to be completed in less time than traditional programs, typically 18 months or less, with some programs designed to completed in just a year. Each accelerated cybersecurity master’s program differs in its structure and length. Some allow for the transfer in of a substantial number of previously-earned college credits that can be applied toward degree requirements. Others combine bigger course loads during the fall and spring semesters with full course loads in the summer to shorten overall program lengths. Regardless of means, accelerated programs require completion of the same number of course credits as traditional standard-length programs and are just as rigorous.
The main advantage of an accelerated program is time. Students earn their degrees sooner, allowing them to get on with their professional careers more quickly. Additionally, some (not all) accelerated programs cost less than their standard-length counterparts. However, study in accelerated programs can be more intense than with traditional programs, and this is not recommended for students intending to maintain full-time employment while working on their degrees.
Online MS in Cybersecurity Programs with No GRE
GRE General Test scores are a common admissions requirement for master’s programs of all kinds. However, GRE scores are not always required for admission to many online cybersecurity master’s degree programs. Some programs waive the requirement for applicants who meet certain criteria, such as a minimum cumulative GPA on previous college coursework, a previously-earned master’s degree in another major, or relevant professional work experience. Others simply do not require standardized test scores, relying instead on the strength of a combination of other requirements. Some programs without this requirement allow the option of submitting GRE scores by applicants who believe the scores will strengthen their chances of admission, though it is not mandatory.
Types of Cybersecurity Master’s Degrees
The popularity of online cybersecurity master’s programs continues to increase, with more programs becoming available each year. The two most common degree titles at the master’s level are the Master of Science in Cybersecurity and the Master of Business Administration in Cybersecurity. Here’s a brief look at both:
By far the most popular degree title in the cybersecurity master’s field is the Master of Science in Cybersecurity. The coursework in these programs is designed to provide the specialized knowledge and skills required to meet current industry needs, allowing graduates to take their careers to a higher level. Areas of study include:
- Analysis of the breadth and scope of security issues on individual, corporate, national, and international levels
- Compliance, ethics, and legal issues in cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity theory
- Data analysis
- Leadership and communication
- Project management principles and their application to security-related risks
In many programs, students choose from a selection of specialization options to better tailor their studies to meet individual interests and career goals. Specializations available vary substantially from program to program. Examples include:
- Computer Security
- Cyber Intelligence
- Cyber Operations
- Digital Forensics
- Government, Risk Management and Compliance
- Health Care Security
- Information Assurance
Another very popular online cybersecurity degree offering is the Master of Business Administration in Cybersecurity. MBA in Cybersecurity degree programs prepare students for management roles related to information security across all industries within the business sector. Curriculums consist of a combination of courses that provide a solid foundation in business management, economics, and cybersecurity industry-specific knowledge. MBA in Cybersecurity students should expect to gain knowledge and skills regarding:
- Risk assessment from a system point of view, allowing them to understand the impact of data loss, and make recommendations to effectively reduce vulnerability.
- Techniques for securing and managing computers, networks, and enterprise computer systems.
- Participation in long-term security assessment and evaluation projects within business organizations.
- Cryptology and network protocols, including cryptographic algorithms and their relationship to authentication, communications, and e-commerce.
- Leadership and management within organizations and in the global marketplace.
Some cybersecurity master’s degrees programs award degrees by the area of specialization chosen by the student. The degree title you earn will depend on the specific school and program you enroll in. Examples of cybersecurity-related online master’s degree titles currently available include:
- MS in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
- MS in Information Technology/Cybersecurity
- MS in Information Assurance
- MS in Information Security Engineering
- MS in Cybersecurity Management and Policy
- MS in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation
- Master of Information Technology (with specialization options in Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity Management, and Cybersecurity Policy).
Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Curriculum
The typical cybersecurity master’s program curriculum consists of coursework covering a range of core-subject topics, such as:
- Information assurance
- Cybersecurity engineering and architecture
- Secure network and software design
- Cybersecurity management
- Ethical hacking
- Forensics and network intrusion
Below we’ve listed several descriptions of the types of courses you’ll likely find in your curriculum:
Applied Cryptography
This course offers an in-depth exploration of modern cryptography, focusing on the theory and practical applications of “provable security” and “application case studies.” The course places particular emphasis on cryptographic primitives, including symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, hash functions, random oracles, pseudorandom functions, message authentication codes, digital signatures, and authenticated key exchange.
Cyber Law and Ethics
This course addresses the legal and ethical issues related cybersecurity, particularly e-business and e-commerce. Emphasis is placed on government approaches to a range of subjects, including access and jurisdiction regarding personal information, antitrust law, digital property rights, fraud, U.S. and international law, and more.
Design and Analysis of Algorithms
Development of skills to divide and conquer algorithms, including algorithms for social networks, graph, greedy, and optimization algorithms, computational biology, randomization, and algorithm analysis. Project work and assignments emphasize performance guarantees and boundary cases, algorithmic thinking, efficient solutions to practical problems, and understanding how to analyze algorithms.
Foundations of Information Assurance
Survey of the broad fields of enterprise security focusing on the nature of enterprise security requirements through identification of threats to access control and open systems, and systems product evaluation criteria. The course also examines risk management and policy considerations in regard to the technical nature of enterprise security.
Hacker Tools, Techniques, Exploits, and Incident Handling
A comprehensive look at the ritical activity of incident handling by adopting the viewpoint of a hacker. Students learn to manage intrusions by examining the techniques employed by attackers who exploit systems, and developing responses that can be adopted in an organized way within the framework of the incident handling process.
Internet Security
In-depth study of network attack techniques and the methods used to defend against them. Threats and vulnerabilities covered include attacks on DNS servers, routing attacks, denial of service (DOS), vulnerabilities of TCP/IP protocols, and TCP hijacking. Defending mechanisms include anonymous communication, firewalls, intrusion detection, and tracing the source of attacks.
Modeling and Simulation of Complex Systems
This course focuses on the application of modeling and simulation principles of complex systems (large-scale nonlinear systems consisting of interwoven or interconnected parts). An overview of complex systems is followed by modeling techniques based on networks, nonlinear differential equations, and stochastic models.
Principles of Operating Systems
This course provides a comprehensive review of classical operating system concepts, including device drivers, file systems, process and memory management, process coordination, starvation, and deadlock. Additionally, modern file system topics, such as distributed, log-structured, and memory-based systems, are covered. The course assignments emphasize operating system design, multiprocessor issues, and security-related aspects. Students also gain practical experience in inspecting and modifying operating system code.
Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree: FAQs
Achieving career success requires adequate preparation before beginning advanced degree studies. This preparation includes developing a consistent and disciplined work ethic and creating a thoughtful strategy for transitioning from study to professional practice upon graduation. The first step in this education is selecting the appropriate online cybersecurity master’s degree program. This entails understanding how these programs function, their associated costs, and the requirements for admission. Considering the answers to the following questions will help you learn more about online cybersecurity master’s degrees.
How Does a Master’s in Cybersecurity Work Online?
Each online cybersecurity master’s degree program features its own combination of curriculum requirements, program formats, and methods of course delivery. Let’s breakdown some of the options you will run into when choosing a program.
- Fully-online vs. partially online:
The vast majority of programs feature coursework that can be completed 100% online, with others combining mostly online coursework and some on-campus course participation. Some programs also offer students the choice of fully-online or partially-online study. - Asynchronous vs. synchronous course delivery:
Most courses are delivered in an asynchronous format, meaning that students can access and complete all coursework (lectures, readings, quizzes, etc.) at any time they choose. Some programs include courses with synchronous components, like lectures, that must be attended and viewed online in real time according to a given schedule. - Full-time vs. part-time study:
Program offererings can be either full-time or part-time, or both. Part-time formats are designed primarily for students who intend to continue full-time employment while pursuing their degrees and feature longer program lengths to accommodate them. - Field experience and other in-person requirements:
Most programs can be completed without any in-person participation whatsoever. However, some programs require attendance at on-campus immersion sessions that feature activities such as guest speakers and collaborative workshops. These immersions typically last from two days to one-week, and are usually scheduled at the beginning of terms. Additionally, some programs require in-person participation as part of a capstone project, or an IT internship, typically in a government, industry, academic, or commercial setting.
Who Accredits Online Cybersecurity Master’s Programs?
Accreditation is the means by which students can be assured that their degree program meets or exceeds minimum standards of academic quality. There are two types of accreditation that students should expect from any master’s in cybersecurity degree program they are considering:
- Institutional accreditation:
Schools themselves are accredited by one or more agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Institutional accreditation is additionally important in that it is required for student eligibility for federal student aid (scholarships, grants, and loans). - Programmatic accreditation:
Currently, cybersecurity master’s degree programs in the U.S. are not strictly accredited. However, cybersecurity degree programs may receive one or more designations from the National Security Agency (NSA)-sponsored Centers for Academic Excellence’s Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) (co-sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security) and/or Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) programs.
Will You Get Accepted into a Cybersecurity Master’s Program?
Specific admissions requirements for online cybersecurity master’s degree programs vary from program to program, but the following basic requirements tend to be similar across most programs:
- Possession of a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university, or international equivalent, earned with a minimum cumulative GPA. Most programs accept students with prior degrees in majors other than cybersecurity, but preference is for degrees in closely-related subjects such as computer science, science, mathematics, engineering, and (in some cases) business.
- Prior college-level coursework or demonstrated experience in mathematics (discrete mathematics, linear algebra, or differential equations) and computer-related subjects such as programming (Java, C++), operating systems, and networking protocols.
- Minimum GRE scores. Some programs offer waivers for this requirement if the applicant meets other specified criteria.
- Current resume, letters of recommendation, and/or a written statement of purpose.
- TOEFL exam meeting a stated minimum score may be required for non-native English speakers.
Some programs offer advanced standing status upon admission to students meeting specific criteria, such as previously-completed relevant college coursework or possession of GIAC certifications. Advanced standing students are typically able to waive a specified number of credit hours otherwise required for earning their degrees.
How Long Does an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Take?
Program lengths vary depending on several factors, including format (traditional vs. accelerated), full-time or part-time study, the number of previously-earned credits that can be applied to the program, and specific program requirements (total credits needed, capstone vs. thesis, etc.). Below is an example of an academic plan for a typical standard-length (four-semester) cybersecurity master’s program:
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Information Security and Assurance | 2 |
| 1 | Secure Network and Design | 3 |
| 1 | Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering | 4 |
| 2 | Ethical Hacking | 4 |
| 2 | Forensics and Network Intrusion | 4 |
| 3 | Cybersecurity Management I – Strategic | 4 |
| 3 | Cybersecurity Management II – Tactical | 4 |
| 4 | Secure Software Design | 2 |
| 4 | Capstone Project | 3 |
What is the Cost of an Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree?
The total cost of obtaining an online master’s degree in cybersecurity can vary significantly depending on the particular school and program. Numerous factors impact program cost, with the most significant being whether the institution is public or private and whether the student is a resident of the state where the school is located.
This chart provides examples of per-credit costs for five online cybersecurity master’s degree programs, as of the summer of 2019.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit* | Total Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | 36 | $585 | $21,060 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) | 32 | $310 | $9,920 |
| Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota | 36 | $665 | $23,940 |
| University of Rhode Island | 36 | $855 | $30,780 |
| University of Southern California | 28 | $2,075 | $58,100 |
*Additional fees may apply.