Accredited online master’s in cybersecurity programs
Develop expertise in threat assessment, incident response, and risk management from top universities. Earn a master's in cybersecurity online through edX and expand your career opportunities in one of the fastest-growing fields today.
Explore online master’s in cybersecurity programs
Why earn an online master's in cybersecurity?
Advance your tech career
Gain real-world cybersecurity training and enter the field with confidence.
Develop specialized knowledge
Explore in-demand topics like cyber law, cryptography, forensics, ethical hacking, and risk management.
Safeguard data and privacy
Build skills to keep sensitive information private and secure for organizations of all sizes.
Gain the knowledge you need to stop cyberattacks, mitigate risk, and protect computer networks and systems by earning a cybersecurity master's degree online. Read on to find the right cybersecurity master's program on edX.
Browse cybersecurity online master’s programs
Types of master's in cybersecurity programs
Schools offer various online cybersecurity master's degree programs. Below are some cybersecurity specialties you can consider:
Computer engineering
Online master's in cybersecurity students who specialize in computer engineering can explore topics like , , and . In these programs, students can learn to design and integrate hardware and software systems that process, store, and transmit information.
Common job titles for computer engineering degree-holders include computer hardware engineer, information security analyst, and computer network architect.
Computer forensics
Computer forensics programs train students to respond to, analyze, and mitigate computer crimes and cyberattacks. Students will learn about digital evidence collection and examination, the foundations of cyber investigations, and cloud and network forensics.
Common job titles for computer forensics degree-holders include computer forensics analyst, security consultant, and computer forensics technician.
Information technology management
Information technology (IT) management master's programs focus on business skills and leadership in IT. Students learn about IT tools and technologies and how to integrate them into everyday business processes.
Common job titles for online master's in cybersecurity degree holders with information technology management specializations include IT security manager, IT director, and chief information officer.
The Bureau expects that an increase in cyberattacks will drive the high demand for cybersecurity professionals. As telehealth and digital healthcare services grow, the industry will need skilled security professionals to keep patient data safe.
What jobs can you get with an online master's in cybersecurity?
A master's in cybersecurity can prepare you for high-paying, , government, education, and private industries. Below are some potential jobs you can consider after earning your cybersecurity master's degree online.
Potential cybersecurity roles
Penetration tester
Helps companies find and respond to digital data and computer network security issues.
Security software developer
Builds applications that keep computer systems and networks safe.
Cybersecurity engineer
Designs technological security measures that protect computer systems.
Information security analyst
Coordinate and enact security measures that protect an organization's computer networks or systems.
Security analyst or manager
Oversee the cybersecurity needs of their organization and keep data safe.
If you want to become a manager or leader in your computer science field, you may also benefit from taking a on edX.
Salary expectations for cybersecurity graduates
After earning a master's in cybersecurity, you can pursue numerous lucrative career paths.
For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $124,910 as of May 2024.
Per the BLS, software developers (including security software developers) made a median annual salary of $131,450 during the same time period.
Your salary potential varies depending on many factors, including your:
- Education
- Experience
- Specialization
- Location
- Professional certifications
- Industry
Career outlook for cybersecurity professionals
Now is an excellent time to pursue a cybersecurity career and earn your online master's in the field.
The BLS projects that jobs for information security analysts will grow by 29% between 2024 and 2034. This is much faster than the average 3% for all jobs in the U.S. during this time.
What can you learn in an online master's in cybersecurity program?
An online cybersecurity master's degree program can prepare you to address vulnerabilities and protect an organization's computer systems and networks from attack. In these programs, you can learn techniques involving mathematics, cryptography, and machine learning to design and secure information systems.
Cybersecurity students usually complete core and elective courses, and some programs require a capstone project at the end of the program. An online cybersecurity master's curriculum usually includes courses like:
- Cybersecurity management: Build leadership and project management skills for cybersecurity management roles.
- Secure network design: Develop networks that secure critical data and meet your team's needs.
- Penetration testing: Explore techniques to examine vulnerabilities and potential threats within a system.
- Governance, risk, and compliance: Become familiar with the risks, laws, and ethical practices pertaining to cybersecurity and data privacy.
- Secure software design: Design secure software that protects user data.
Most cybersecurity master's degree programs require two years of full-time study to graduate, or about 30 credits.
Online cybersecurity master's programs may also offer asynchronous courses that allow students to attend class and complete their work on a flexible schedule.
Admission requirements for an online master's in cybersecurity
Admission requirements for online cybersecurity master's degree programs vary by school. in cybersecurity candidates may include a current résumé that demonstrates computer science or cybersecurity skills and experience, along with a technical skills assessment.
Make sure to research an online program's admissions criteria, deadlines, and required materials before you start the application process.
Frequently asked questions
Not ready to start a full Master's program yet?
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Last updated August 4, 2025