Online master’s in cybersecurity
Develop advanced skills to safeguard sensitive data, stop intrusions, and mitigate losses. Compare admissions requirements, tuition costs, and potential career pathways below.
Explore online master’s in cybersecurity programs
Key takeaways
- Choose an online master's in cybersecurity to build skills in threat assessment, incident response, and risk management.
- Study secure networks, penetration testing, GRC, secure software, and cyber law through advanced coursework and applied learning.
- Most cybersecurity master's degree programs require about 30 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete.
Why earn a master's in cybersecurity online?
Build advanced cybersecurity skills
Gain advanced training in assessing threats, managing risk, and protecting systems and networks.
Develop specialized knowledge
Explore topics like cyber law, cryptography, forensics, ethical hacking, and risk management.
Safeguard data and privacy
Build skills to protect sensitive information and strengthen security across organizations.
What is a master's in cybersecurity?
A master's in cybersecurity is a graduate-level degree focused on safeguarding sensitive information, such as medical records and financial data, for public and private sector organizations. As an advanced program, it builds on subjects explored in undergraduate cybersecurity degrees to prepare graduates for more specialized tech roles.
Some people pursue these degrees to change careers if they have an unrelated degree, while others enroll to deepen their knowledge of the field and pursue advancement in their current roles. With an online master's in cybersecurity, they can pursue an advanced program from home. Still, some options may have in-person requirements.
What you'll learn in a master's in cybersecurity
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 may cover topics such as:
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 identify vulnerabilities and potential threats within a system.
Governance, risk, and compliance
Become familiar with the risks, laws, and ethical practices related 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.
What can you do with a master's in cybersecurity?
With an advanced degree in cybersecurity and relevant experience, you can pursue many tech-related professions, including those detailed below.
Computer and information systems manager
Professionals in this leadership role oversee tech operations for entire departments or organizations, including security protocols.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology; graduate degree often preferred
- Median annual salary (2025): $175,140
- Projected job growth (2025-35): +16%
Computer and information systems manager
Professionals in this leadership role oversee tech operations for entire departments or organizations, including security protocols.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology; graduate degree often preferred
- Median annual salary (2025): $175,140
- Projected job growth (2025-35): +16%
Is a master's in cybersecurity right for you?
Consider earning a master's in cybersecurity if:
- You have an unrelated undergraduate degree and you're looking to change careers or industries.
- You want to expand your knowledge of cybersecurity.
- You already work in tech or cybersecurity and you're looking to pursue more advanced roles in your organization.
Program length, cost, and credits
Admissions requirements for a master's in cybersecurity
Admissions requirements vary by program. As you compare programs, check the minimum undergraduate GPA, required coursework or experience, and application materials, such as letters of recommendation.
If your bachelor's degree is in another field, look for programs that offer bridge coursework or accept applicants without prior cybersecurity experience. Review each program's current requirements to understand whether you qualify and what you'll need to apply.
Not ready to start a full master's program yet?
If you're not ready to commit to a full master's program, you can explore edX's MicroMasters® Programs. These programs combine graduate-level courses to develop specialized skills and, in some cases, may count toward a master's degree if you are admitted to a participating university and meet its credit requirements. Check each program's credit pathways and eligibility requirements before enrolling to ensure it meets your needs.
