Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Advance Your Career in the Growing Cybersecurity Industry

Prepare for advancement in the cybersecurity industry with the online MS in Cybersecurity from California State University San Marcos. This nationally ranked program* is designed for working professionals and builds on your previous experience, preparing you to become a skilled analyst with a deep understanding of system configurations, compliance, incident response and more.

The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated CSUSM as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, so you can be confident you’re earning a graduate degree that meets the highest industry standards.

100% Online Courses

2-3 Year Duration

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Essential Training for Cybersecurity Leaders

The courses emphasize real-world application and practical learning through hands-on labs and a capstone project addressing a relevant cybersecurity challenge or issue. You’ll learn in a synchronous format that lets you make connections with your peers and work closely with expert faculty.

A combination of advanced technical topics and management training ensures you’re ready to lead tech teams, develop effective information security strategies, and pursue industry certifications like CISSP.

Development of Secure Software

Explore the development of secure software during all phases of the development life cycle with an emphasis on secure code implementation and common pitfalls and security bugs found in programming languages.

Intrusion Detection and Incident Response

Learn to investigate threats against computers and network systems while studying intrusion detection principles, such as network traffic analysis, packet analysis, common protocols and log analysis.

Information Systems and Security Management

Study the fundamental principles and components of information system management at the organizational level, including the integration of security into the systems design process and life cycle of information security management.

Online Learning

Ideal for working adults with busy lives, our 100% online programs let you learn from anywhere and study in a format that fits your life. Full- and part-time scheduling is available, and some of our programs offer multiple starts per year to provide maximum flexibility. Plus, personalized academic and career services ensure you have the resources to succeed.

Qualify for New Professional Opportunities

Employers across industries rely on cybersecurity experts to keep valuable data assets secure, and a graduate-level credential can help position you for success. Computer and information technology occupations are expected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, adding 682,800 new jobs to the market.1

In-Demand Cybersecurity Careers

  1. Computer systems analyst: $99,270 per year1
  2. Information security analyst: $102,600 per year1
  3. Penetration tester: $90,766 per year2
  4. Computer systems administrator: $80,600 per year1

About Us

Building on an over 30-year history, California State University San Marcos is dedicated to preparing future leaders, building great communities, and solving critical issues. Our programs advance the academic, social, professional and personal development of all students through education, innovation and community partnerships.

CSUSM is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the official accrediting body for institutions of higher learning in the West.

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Sources and Disclaimer

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Computer and Information Technology Occupations.” Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov.
  2. Payscale.com. “Average Penetration Tester Salary.” Retrieved from https://www.payscale.com.

*Ranked 7th among the nation’s best online cybersecurity master’s programs for 2022 in a list compiled by Fortune magazine. Retrieved from https://fortune.com.