Last Updated on August 30, 2024
Masters in Cyber Security is a one- to two-year programme in the USA that trains students for executive positions in information assurance and cyber security at various enterprises, government agencies, and other organizations. The programme is offered on a full-time or part-time basis in online, offline, and hybrid modes by the universities.
Why Do Cyber Security Masters Programmes in USA?
The top universities in the US have created a strong reputation because of the standard of education. Students from around the globe dream of pursuing their masters there. The government over there has been funding some of the universities, as the campuses have been scattered around the state and are able to take in thousands of students. There are many reasons why you should pursue a masters in cyber security; a few of them are listed below:
- Universities in the US provide students with a sufficient number of scholarships and awards.
- The leading employer in the USA for graduates is the financial and insurance industries..
- Students pursuing a Masters in cyber security in the USA can benefit from excellent educational opportunities at top-tier institutions.are among the best.
Different types of Cyber Security Masters
Students in the USA pursuing a masters degree in cyber security have the choice of choosing a topic based on their skill set. Students from around the globe are given the opportunity to pursue different types of master’s at the top universities.
- Masters in Cybersecurity
In this programme, students will be given the opportunity to learn advanced computer systems, algorithm creation, and analysis.
- Masters in Information Technology
In addition to studying information systems and cyber security, students who register in the Master of Science in Information Technology programme also receive training in information technology.
- Masters in Computer Science with a Cyber Security Concentration
The curriculum is intended for students who want to become computer engineers and includes elective courses with a focus on cyber security.
Top Universities offering Cyber Security Masters Programmes in USA
Numerous top institutions in the USA that specialize in cyber security offer a variety of courses in this area. These universities offer real learning opportunities and have top-notch faculty. Now let’s discuss in detail what these universities have to offer.
| Cyber Security Masters Programmes | Name of the Universities |
| Masters degree in cybersecurity and information | University of California Berkeley (UC Berkeley) |
| Master of Science in Cybersecurity in Computer Science programme | George Washington University |
| Masters in Cybersecurity and Privacy degree | California State Polytechnic University |
| Masters in Cybersecurity and Privacy degree | New Jersey Institute of Technology |
- University of California Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
The first university in the USA to offer a master’s degree in cyber security is the University of California, Berkeley. Students who earn a Master of Information and Cybersecurity degree from the UC Berkeley School of Information are prepared to hold senior cybersecurity positions in organizations such as the military, government, and private-sector technology companies.
- George Washington University
This university is also known as the Centre of Academic Excellence for Information Assurance. In order to meet the rapidly growing demand for technical cybersecurity expertise in local and international businesses in both the public and private sectors, the Master of Science in Cyber security in Computer Science programme was developed. During the course, students will become proficient in deploying cyber tactics to defend against cyberattacks as well as the application of these approaches to policies.
- California State Polytechnic University
One of the top universities in the USA that offers a masters degree in cyber security is California State Polytechnic University. It has been determined that the Master of Science in Information Security degree programme is a STEM degree. It is for those who desire to work in the information security, IT auditing, and computer forensics industries. This two-year programme is a combination of up to 10 courses.
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) was once known as Newark Technical School before changing its name in 1975. Students will be able to aid businesses with data protection, cyber risk identification and management, and cyber-attack recovery with the master’s in Cybersecurity and Privacy degree that the university offers. After completing their master’s, students will be suitable for positions like that of policy advocates, legislative staffers working on cybersecurity and privacy concerns and many more. The masters programme has the capacity to enhance the practical and theoretical understanding of students.
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Admissions procedure for Masters in Cyber Security
Students can apply to US colleges for Masters in Cyber Security programmes if they have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related discipline. Each American university that offers a master’s in cyber security has its own unique requirements for admission. However, the usual requirements to adhere to are:
Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Cyber Security in USA
- English language proficiency test results
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Work Experience
- USA Student Visa
- Additional Requirements
- Score on Entrance Exam
Let’s discuss in detail:
English language proficiency test results
Students must submit their English Language Proficiency exam results while applying to US universities that offer masters degrees in cyber security.However, depending on the American university, the grade could change.
IELTS 6.5-7.0
TOEFL 79
Bachelor’s Degree
Bachelor’s degree related to computer science, cyber security, etc.
For the final two years of undergraduate study, many universities strive for an 8.75 GPA, or 83%.
Work Experience
It depends from university to university if they acknowledge job experience as one of the requirements for admission. If the university in question requires it, you should prepare yourself for the same.Â
How to apply for USA Student Visa?
International students will need a USA student visa in order to study Masters in cyber security there. Students must obtain an acceptance letter from the desired university in order to obtain a visa.Â
Visa requirements for international students:
- Valid passport with an expiration date that is at least two years beyond the postgraduate programme.
- Having enough money in the bank to pay for the first year’s tuition and living expenses.
- Bank statements that serve as evidence of any scholarships received by the candidate from US universities.
- SEVIS costing $200
Score on Entrance Exam
In general, a GRE score between 310 and 320 is considered excellent for admission; nevertheless, certain colleges in the USA provide masters in Cybersecurity admissions without the GRE. But it is preferred by the institutions if the candidate has a higher test score.
Core subject prerequisites:
- calculus for 1–2 years
- Courses in mathematics that go beyond calculus, such as those on linear algebra, discrete mathematics, differential equations, etc.
- Courses in computer science, such as those on programming, data structures, computer architecture, etc.
- English proficiency certification
Documents Needed for Admission to a Masters Programme in Cyber Security in the USA:
- Authentic transcripts
- SOP or Statement of Purpose(At least 500 words)
- A writing sample from a prior job or academic endeavour.Â
- An alternative is to submit a two-page, double-spaced, word-processed essay that tackles the following two subjects:
- Talk about two achievements that show the applicant has a good chance of succeeding in the graduate programme.
- Describe the applicant’s special characteristics and life experiences that set them apart from other graduate programme applicants.
- Recommendation letter
- Proof of your ability to speak English
- A financial certificate and the associated paperwork.
- CV (a current resume that includes a thorough account of one’s educational background, character traits, employment history, and extracurricular activities)
- A copy of a current passport, immigration paperworkÂ
- Bank letter, sponsor letter, Recommendation letter
The cost of a masters degree in cyber security in USA for foreign students
The USA is not just one of the most sought-after countries for international students, but it is also one of the most expensive. Therefore, you need to be aware of the following expenses when making plans to pursue a Masters in Cyber Security in the USA.
- Education Fee
The total cost of a master’s degree in cyber security in the USA varies depending on the university you want to attend. Around USD 69,984 in annual fees are charged. - Living expenses
Depending on the region you live in, the cost of living in the United States varies. In the US, the monthly average cost of living is approximately USD 627.65.
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Accommodation | USD 200 |
| Food | USD 200 |
| Transport | USD 100 |
| Study Materials | USD 1000 |
| Groceries | USD 200 |
Scholarships offered by different universities
It can be challenging to study and live in the United States. One method to avoid the load on your pocket is to apply for one of the scholarships offered to overseas students. Mentioned below are few of the scholarships that you can avail:
| Scholarships offered by different universities | Cost |
| Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship | Varies |
| Women Techmaker’s Scholarship | 7.81 lakhs |
| Stokes Educational Scholarship | 23.44 lakhs |
| NSF CyberCorps Scholarship for Service | 39.07 lakhs |
Scope after completing Masters in Cyber Security in USA
In businesses across all industries, but particularly in the financial, healthcare, and even educational sectors, where transactions, assets, and health information must be protected from hackers, cyber security expertise is required. They share excellent wages and a high demand for technical expertise, focus on detail, a problem-solving mindset, and risk analysis skills. A few of the job designations are mentioned below:
| Designation | Average Annual Salary |
| Network Security Systems Manager | 73.69 lakhs |
| Forensics Expert | 55.48 lakhs |
| Data Security Analyst | 66.89 lakhs |
| Chief Information Security Officer | 97.68 lakhs |
Being a cyber security expert doesn’t limit you to these jobs. You have more areas to explore in this field. If you have an eye for hacking, jump into this field and explore the ways to enhance your skills and be the best.
The dream of pursuing a masters in cyber security from the top university in the USA is now easy with all the information provided in this article. You can become the master of your dream by contacting Admissify. Admissify is the friend you need to help you pursue your masters degree in the USA. By linking you with the top teachers and assisting you on your trip from your home nation to your ideal country, Admissify makes it simple for you to become the master of your desires. We go beyond that; we assist you with the lodgings and all the necessary necessities so that you won’t have to fight alone.
FAQ
How many credits are required to enroll in a Masters of Cyber Security programme in the United States full-time?
9 credits (3 courses) are required each semester to be considered a full-time student. One or two courses are required each semester to be considered part-time.
Is Python knowledge a requirement to apply to the Master of Cyber Security programme in the USA?
Yes, knowledge of Python is a requirement for entry into the US Masters in Cyber Security programme.Students are required to give a skill exam before they enroll in any python related course. Students who do not pass the Python skills test are expected to take additional coursework or pursue independent study in order to pass the test.
What is the price of a masters in cyber security in the USA?
In the USA, the annual cost of a masters degree in cyber security can range from 30,800 to 119,000 USD.
If a person’s prior degree was not in computer science, can they still apply for a Masters in Cyber Security in the USA?
If you don’t have a background in computer science, you can still apply to the Masters in Cyber Security programme in the United States. If your prior coursework is reviewed by an advisor and you demonstrate the necessary skills for the programme, conditional admission can be made available. Students who are conditionally admitted must complete a few prerequisite computer science courses.
Can I complete my Masters in Cyber Security totally online in the United States?
Yes, certain universities in the USA provide totally online Masters in Cyber Security programmes for students. Nowadays, almost all electives are available online. Universities like Mercyhurst University and UC Berkeley are just a few that offer the degree online.
Avinash Singh is a study abroad consultant with over 10 years of experience helping students achieve their academic goals. He is an expert in the US, Australian, German, and Canadian education systems and has helped hundreds of students secure admission to top universities around the world. In his spare time, Avinash enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with his family. He is also an avid reader and loves to learn new things.
