Should you get a master's in cybersecurity or information technology?
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Master's degrees in information technology (IT) and cybersecurity can both lead to fast-growing, high-paying careers. Compare key details to help you decide between these two degrees.
Cybersecurity degree vs. information technology degree
Information technology and cybersecurity master's programs have some overlap. Both degrees typically prepare students to:
- Optimize computer networks and technology resources for organizational benefit
- Strategically apply computing and information systems to an organization's needs
- Protect the integrity of networked infrastructure and the data it contains
However, IT and cybersecurity programs have different scopes: Master's in IT programs are broader and more generalized, while master's in cybersecurity programs focus specifically on cybersecurity issues.
Master's programs in information technology cover the full spectrum of computer applications. While IT security may be part of IT curricula, these programs focus more broadly on configuring system and network infrastructure for optimal performance. Meanwhile, master's programs in cybersecurity exclusively focus on protecting IT systems and networks from attacks, threats, and unauthorized access.
Admissions requirements
Schools commonly require that applicants to both information technology and cybersecurity master's programs hold a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as:
- Computer science
- Information systems management
- Systems engineering
That said, you might also qualify for admission if you have:
- Professional IT or cybersecurity certifications
- Networking, computer architecture, and/or systems administration experience
- Working knowledge of networking, database management, programming, and information security
Students pursuing degrees in both disciplines may benefit from strong backgrounds in coding, programming, and mathematics. Some schools may even prefer or require that applicants have undergraduate coursework in these areas.
Curriculum
Master's in IT programs generally have broader curricula that explore the interrelated and interoperable elements of computing networks.
Cybersecurity master's programs usually focus on specific strategies, tools, and techniques for mitigating the external and internal threats that could compromise IT networks.
Both IT and cybersecurity master's programs usually offer concentration areas. As an IT master's student, you could specialize in topics like:
- Blockchain technology
- Cloud computing
- Project management
- Software development and quality assurance
Notably, some IT programs also offer cybersecurity concentrations.
If you choose to pursue a cybersecurity master's program, you could study:
- Cloud security
- Cryptography
- Digital forensics
- Network security
Program outcomes
A master's degree in information technology can lead to professional roles in:
- Cloud engineering
- Data analysis or engineering
- Database architecture
- Network engineering
- Software development
Cybersecurity master's programs may open doors to careers like:
- Cryptographer
- Digital forensics examiner
- Incident responder
- Penetration tester
- Security specialist
While IT master's degrees can prepare you for careers in cybersecurity, some employers may prefer candidates with more security-focused education and experience.
Cybersecurity is, by nature, a more specialized IT field. So, cybersecurity degrees may not transfer as readily to IT roles.
Salary and career outlook
Master's degrees in IT and cybersecurity can both lead to higher-than-average salaries and generally positive job growth. Salary ranges and growth projections vary by role, but consider these career options with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
| Job title | Median annual salary (May 2023) | Projected job growth (2023-33) |
|---|---|---|
| Database administrators and architects | $117,450 | +9% |
| Network and computer systems administrators | $95,360 | -3% |
| Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers | $130,160 | +17% |
| Information security analyst | $120,360 | +33% |
According to CompTIA, the cybersecurity field faces an acute nationwide shortage of qualified professionals. If you'd like to target a high-demand field, a cybersecurity master's program might be a good option for you.
Cybersecurity vs. information technology: which degree is right for me?
IT and cybersecurity master's programs both help learners develop valuable skills that are in high demand. Both fields have higher-than-average salaries, but cybersecurity roles like software developers and information security analysts have stronger overall job growth outlooks.
Beyond these considerations, a master's in IT program might be a better match if:
- You're interested in broader computer networking issues rather than niche cybersecurity topics
- You're seeking a career in computer science but aren't sure which specialization to pursue
- You'd like to develop versatile and highly transferable skills
You may prefer a cybersecurity master's program if:
- You have a strong interest in stopping hackers and organized attackers
- You're interested in topics like cryptography and digital forensics
- You want to target a fast-growing career path that is in high demand
Spend some time browsing accredited master's programs in both disciplines. Compare their curricula and concentration options, weighing them against your career goals and learning interests.