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Master's in Cybersecurity
On-Campus, Online

Columbus State University | Online MS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Defense

  • Columbus
About This Program

This online program focuses on the technical aspects of cybersecurity, preparing students to become frontline defenders against sophisticated cyber threats.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn
  • Implement network perimeter defenses and access controls to protect digital assets.

  • Conduct cyber risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies aligned with frameworks like NIST CSF.
  • Analyze cyber threats including malware, DDoS attacks, and social engineering for proactive defense.
  • Design incident response plans and ensure compliance with cybersecurity laws and regulations.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The Online MS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Defense at Columbus State University is a two-year graduate program emphasizing practical skills in cyber defense, network security, threat detection, and applied security operations for professionals in government, military, and enterprise environments.
Typical Course Topics
1. Network Security and Defense 2. Cryptography and Encryption 3. Cyber Threat Intelligence 4. Incident Response and Resilience 5. Risk Management and Compliance 6. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Program Specializations:
Cyber Defense & Cyber Operations
Cybersecurity Law, Privacy & Policy
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
A bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required; relevant work experience or technical prerequisites may also be preferred for admission.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Bachelor’s degree
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Not Required
β€’ TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

β€’ Statement of Purpose: Required
β€’ Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
β€’ Resume: Required
β€’ Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Career Opportunities in AI

Lead as Cybersecurity Analyst in Cybersecurity AI with cloud computing expertise

Estimated Industry Salary
Cybersecurity Analyst: $103,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
0.32%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Cyber Defense Analyst 2. Incident Response Specialist 3. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst 4. Cybersecurity Risk Manager
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers include government agencies like NSA and FBI, defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin, tech firms like Cisco and Microsoft, and enterprise security operations centers.
Program Details
Duration
  • 2.0 Year
Tuition
$ 10,110
Format
On-Campus, Online
Specializations
Cyber Defense & Cyber Operations
Cybersecurity Law, Privacy & Policy