An online master’s degree in cyber security may teach students the fundamentals of network security, information intelligence, and principles of cyber crime. In this one to two-year program, students may learn techniques used to investigate and analyze network crimes and incidents. Program coursework may include electives in the student’s chosen focus area alongside major-specific courses including cyber intelligence, principles of cyber security, and computer forensics investigations.

Upon graduation, students may either seek employment or pursue a doctoral degree in cyber security. Master’s-level graduates may seek employment opportunities in government agencies, finance, telecommunications, local and state law enforcement, and healthcare.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 22% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level cyber security degree programs may include core classes as well as specialized courses in the student’s chosen focus area. These courses may teach students how to understand major concepts in computer forensics, apply cyber technology to resolve network issues, and maintain the integrity of cyber evidence. Possible cyber security courses may include the following:

• Principles of Cyber Security
• Cyber Intelligence
• Counterterrorism and Cyber Conflict
• Advanced Topics in Cyber Security
• Computer Forensics Investigations
• Computer and Network Operations
• Advanced Telecommunications Forensics

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in national security, finance, healthcare, law enforcement, and corporations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in information security are projected to increase by 22% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Information Security Analyst
• Web Developer
• Computer Network Architect
• Computer Systems Administrator
• Database Administrator

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s-level program in cyber security may wish to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in cyber security may provide students with the opportunity to do industry-specific research to develop innovative solutions to challenging cyber security issues.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook