CA

Master's in Cybersecurity
Online

California State University San Marcos

MS in Cybersecurity

  • San Marcos
About This Program

This online Professional Science Master’s degree integrates advanced technical cybersecurity instruction with essential business management training to prepare students for leadership roles in cyber defense.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn

Students learn to develop secure software, apply cryptographic principles, assess organizational risk, and manage information security departments using real-world cases and technologies.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The program structure includes seven technical courses (cryptography, intrusion detection, offensive security), business modules (leadership, risk management), and a project-based capstone "Semester-in-Residence."
Typical Course Topics
1. Network Security 2. Applied Cryptography 3. Digital Forensics 4. Penetration Testing & Vulnerability Analysis 5. Secure Software Design 6. Cybersecurity Risk Management
Program Specializations:
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (some programs accept 2.75 with provisional admission).[2] Prior coursework in computer science, information technology, or related fields is typically preferred but not always required; a GRE score may be requested if undergraduate GPA falls below 3.0.[2
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Master of Science (MS)
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Optional / Conditionally Required (based on undergraduate GPA)
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 cybersecurity expertise

Industry Data: The following salary and job data reflects typical industry trends for AI professionals, not specific to New York University. Individual outcomes vary based on skills, location, and experience.

Estimated Industry Salary
Cybersecurity Professional: $102,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
33.0%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Security Engineer 2. Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker 3. Cybersecurity Analyst 4. Digital Forensics Specialist
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers include Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, Amazon Web Services, government agencies (NSA, FBI, CISA), and major financial institutions.[1][3
Program Details
Duration
  • 2 Year
Tuition
  • 22,572
Format
Online
Specializations