MD

Master's in Cybersecurity
On-Campus, Online

SANS Technology Institute | MS in Information Security Engineering

  • Bethesda
About This Program

This 36-credit master’s degree is designed for working professionals to reach high-level leadership positions by blending deep technical expertise with advanced management and communication skills.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn
  • Design and implement secure network architectures and encryption systems.

  • Conduct penetration testing and ethical hacking to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Manage cybersecurity risks and develop incident response strategies.
  • Apply security policies, governance, and compliance frameworks.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The MS in Information Security Engineering is a 36-credit online graduate program focused on advanced cybersecurity engineering, secure system design, and practical defense against cyber threats.
Typical Course Topics
1. Advanced Cybersecurity Risk Management 2. Network Security and Forensics 3. Cryptography and Encryption 4. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing 5. Security Architecture and Design 6. Information Security Policy and Governance
Program Specializations:
Other / General Tech
Tech
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Requires a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in computer science, information technology, engineering, or a related STEM field, with foundational knowledge in programming, networking, and operating systems. Non-technical backgrounds may require conditional admission with prerequisite courses.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Bachelor’s degree
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Optional
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

Thrive as Cybersecurity Analyst in Cybersecurity AI with hacking techniques expertise

Estimated Industry Salary
Information Security Engineer: $136,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
0.32%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Information Security Engineer 2. Penetration Tester 3. Security Architect 4. Information Security Analyst
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers include Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, and government agencies like NSA and FBI.
Program Details
Duration
  • 2.0 Year
Tuition
$ 54,000
Format
On-Campus, Online
Specializations
Other / General Tech
Tech