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Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Lead the Fight Against Cyberattacks
Learn to protect important assets with a powerful combination of technology skills, expertise, and business leadership skills. Through Saint Mary’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity, you’ll build your technology expertise with hands-on coursework in cloud security, intrusion detection, and ethical hacking techniques, and you’ll cultivate cybersecurity management and business leadership skills acumen to land a top-paying position.
Whether you are just beginning your cybersecurity career path, or are an experienced cybersecurity professional, the program features hands-on technology led by CompTIA global security certification standards as well as security programming and cloud security applications. The program also features security management
Estimates indicate the global cybersecurity market will increase to more than $538 billion by 2030.¹ This rapid growth is driven by data breaches, app testing, and an urgent need to protect vital data. Previously unaware of their vulnerabilities, businesses must act quickly to protect essential assets.
With two online graduate certificates in cybersecurity technology and cybersecurity management, you have the opportunity to supplement the training you receive in the M.S. in Cybersecurity.
- In the online graduate certificate in cybersecurity technology, you’ll develop innovative protection strategies with topics covering intrusion detection, incident response, and network security.
- In the online graduate certificate in cybersecurity management, you’ll develop leadership skills that will prepare you to apply the tenets of effective security policy, risk management, and security architecture.
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Put Success in Your Sights
Acquire a deep understanding of cybersecurity concepts and techniques with Saint Mary’s online Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Crafted by professionals to position students for success in a growing field, this online program provides specialized skills and provides hands-on experience in direct preparation for the CySA+/Security+/Network+ and other CompTIA and CISSP/CISM certifications. You’ll complete each course in a convenient format that fosters achievement in class and your career.
Program Highlights
- CISSP and CISM Certification Preparation
- Network+, Security+, and CySA+ Certification Preparation
- Online Graduate Certificates in Cybersecurity Management and Technology (embedded in Master of Science)
- Curriculum Designed by Cybersecurity Experts
- No Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Technology Required
- Official CompTIA Authorized Academic Partner
- Discover scholarships available through our partnerships with several regional and national employers. See if your employer is part of our Trusted Partnership Program. Learn more.
Course Requirements
View the courses and requirements for the online Master of Science in Cybersecurity.
Specialize with Graduate Certificates
Share Your Success
Saint Mary’s supports your success by providing you with the tools necessary to achieve your professional goals and share them with the world, especially the digital cybersecurity world in Minnesota and beyond.
As part of our commitment, Saint Mary’s offers an opportunity for you to be awarded digital badges. Digital badges are a graphic verification representing your achievement after completing a specific online course or program.
Admissions
When reviewing your application, we strive to get to know you beyond requirements like GPA and transcripts. We want a complete understanding of your career aspirations and how our program can help you.Take a look at our requirements below. We’re happy to provide you with any additional information you need if you have questions.
- An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale (If your overall GPA is below 2.75, you may receive provisional status in the program at the discretion of the MSCS program director.)
You don’t need prior work experience or a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity to be accepted. If needed, you can complete the following prerequisite course at Saint Mary’s University: CYBR 590 Computer Networking.
- This course does not apply to your degree
- This prerequisite can be waived with college courses, certificates, or work experience. Please speak with an enrollment counselor for more information
GMAT and GRE scores are not required.
You can transfer six credits you earned before admission to Saint Mary’s. Transfer credits are subject to graduate school and program criteria, as well as the recommendation of the program director and approval by the dean.
Work and life experience are not accepted as credit for this program.
Students with transcripts from universities located outside of the United States, unless from a waiver country listed here, are required to take and pass English Proficiency testing.
Saint Mary’s accepts the:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 72
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.0
- Michigan Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) with a minimum score of 74%
- International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP) with a minimum score of 4.0 or Pearson Test of English with a score of 51
- Duolingo with a minimum score of 100
Whether you apply through our online application, via hard copy, or in-person with a Saint Mary’s enrollment counselor, your application must include the following items:
- Official transcripts: An official transcript issued to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota from the institution posting the applicant’s completed degree and other relevant transcripts documenting program prerequisites and potential transfer credits must be sent separately and directly from your institution. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota accepts official transcripts electronically from previously attended institutions. Transcripts should be sent to oladmissions@smumn.edu or mailed to:
Transcript Processing Center
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
851 Trafalgar Court, Suite 420
Maitland, FL 32751 - A written statement: Describe your background, training, career goals, and experience. Tell us why you’re seeking admission to the MSCS program, your personal and professional strengths, and any other personal information you wish to share
- Two references: Please provide the names of two people (including title, organization, email, and phone number) who can serve as professional references, if needed, during the application review process. The best references are those who know you professionally, such as current or former supervisors
- An up-to-date résumé
- Official transcripts: An official transcript issued to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota from the institution posting the applicant’s completed degree and other relevant transcripts documenting program prerequisites and potential transfer credits must be sent separately and directly from your institution. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota accepts official transcripts electronically from previously attended institutions. Transcripts should be sent to oladmissions@smumn.edu or mailed to:
Upcoming application deadlines for Saint Mary’s online master’s in cybersecurity:
- Spring I: Dec. 20, 2024
- Spring II: Feb. 17, 2025
- Summer I: April 21, 2025
- Summer II: June 16, 2025
- Fall I: August 19, 2025
- Fall II: October 13, 2025
You’ll receive notice of acceptance approximately two weeks after your submission date.
Tuition & Fees
A college education is invaluable. You can take it wherever you want to go or as far as you want to go. The cost of quality education should not get in the way of reaching your goals. Here at Saint Mary’s, we are committed to providing an accessible, quality education that is focused on enhancing your personal and professional growth.
Explore cost breakdowns for tuition and other fees of the Computer Science program.
Careers
Employers such as Booz Allen Hamilton, AT&T, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin are all looking for cybersecurity leaders. You’ll graduate from Saint Mary’s with the business leadership skills and technology expertise you need to compete for these lucrative opportunities. Some of the highest-paid cybersecurity careers include:
Computer Network Architects
$126,9002Information Security Analysts
$112,0003Information Security Engineers
$97,9904Information Security Officers
$99,1235Network and Computer Systems Administrators
$90,5206growth is projected for information security analysts from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations3
What You'll Learn
As a graduate of this program, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate the business management skills relevant to administering information security programs in organizations
- Apply leadership skills in information security planning
- Demonstrate proficiency in communicating technical information
- Balance business needs and overall information security architecture planning
- Evaluate risk management frameworks, methods, and strategies
- Plan for cyber-attacks on networks and computer systems
- Protect enterprise-wide information assets
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Saint Mary's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity different from other cybersecurity programs?
This program was crafted by real-world cybersecurity professionals who understand the needs of this fast-growing field. You'll gain the technical skills you need to prevent cyberattacks and the business leadership skills to promote your initiatives and communicate with non-cyber leaders.
Does this program prepare me for CISM and CISSP certifications?
Yes, we've created the program with these certifications in mind, and in addition to possessing this advanced credential, you will be prepared to sit for these exams when you graduate.
Is this program entirely online, or does it require on-campus residencies?
This program is 100 percent online and does not require on-campus residencies.
Is this a self-paced program?
No, these are instructor-led courses. While there are no set class times, there are assignments with set due dates.
How long does the program take?
The program is made up of 11 courses and 33 credit hours. You can complete it in less than two years.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Many different types of financial aid are available to those who qualify. To discuss tuition rates and several different financial aid options, call 877-308-9954 to speak with an enrollment counselor.
Is this program accredited?
This program does not currently have industry-specific accreditation. However, as a new program, it's designed to give you fresh perspectives and stand at the leading edge of cybersecurity trends and hiring manager needs. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
What will my fellow students in this program be like?
Your fellow students will have a broad range of business and IT experience and enrich your learning environment with perspectives in multiple disciplines. Individuals with military experience or an inclination for public service are particularly drawn to this field. There's great interest in information security from veterans and military personnel.
What type of support is available to me? What if I have a question about homework or need help with a technical issue?
All of the support systems available to Saint Mary's on-campus students are available to online learners, too, including academic support. A team of advisers is ready to assist you, and your professors are just a phone call, email, or Skype session away. You will also be paired with a dedicated student services specialist to ensure your educational and professional goals stay on track.
Will my degree say that it is from an online program?
No. It's also important to note that your degree is of the same quality and possesses the same prestige as an on-campus degree from Saint Mary's.
Can I transfer credits from another university and graduate program?
It is possible to transfer credits from another university if the course descriptions match the descriptions of Saint Mary's courses. The program director will review any possible credit transfers.
Is there prerequisite coursework for this program?
Students must have an undergraduate or graduate computer networking course completed before taking the first course in this curriculum. We provide a foundational course, CYBR590 Computer Networking, for those who need the prerequisite knowledge. Note that this foundational course does not count toward your 33-credit degree.
Latest Articles
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Sources
- Statista. “Size of the cybersecurity market worldwide from 2020 to 2030.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.statista.com/statistics/595182/worldwide-security-as-a-service-market-size/.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, “Computer Network Architects.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, “Information Security Analysts.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm.
- Payscale. “Average Information Security Engineer Salary.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Information_Security_Engineer/Salary.
- Payscale. “Average Information Security Officer Salary.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Information_Security_Officer/Salary.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, “Network and Computer Systems Administrators.” Retrieved September 7, 2023, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm.
*Completion times may vary