Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Help Protect Technical Infrastructures
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at City University of Seattle is a multi-disciplinary program offering professionals an opportunity to develop a broad understanding of the technical, business, management, and policy aspects of information security. When graduating from this program, you will be able to make critical business decisions for your organization when it counts.
The master’s in cybersecurity online program is a highly focused, 16-course program you complete at a pace you determine with the help of a CityU advisor.
In the MS in Cybersecurity program, you will study a core of basic information security standards and practices, which include courses such as Information Security Overview; System Administration for Information Security, Privac and Open Systems, The Senior Manager and Information Security, and Ethical Obligations of Information Security. In addition to taking these core courses, you can specialize in the following areas:
- Cybersecurity Environment
- Information Security Audit
The Depth of Study (DOS) sequence prepares students to demonstrate expertise in a specific area. The Choice courses allow students to expand their interests in other disciplines. The internship provides students a vehicle to apply what they have learned in the degree to real work problems at a for-profit or a non-profile organization.
CityU was designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
Center for Information Assurance Education
City University of Seattle operates a special center whose mission is to conduct programs, courses, research, and consulting in Information Assurance. Learn more about the Center.
Learning Outcomes
Throughout the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, you’ll learn:
- Changes in information security management
- Security implementations for digital networks, platforms, and applications
- The responsibilities of senior managers for ensuring the security of processes and information systems used in their organizations
- Risks and rewards of using information systems
- Ethical frameworks and their application to particular areas influencing and affecting information security
- Forms that cyber crimes can take, and the factors that make victims vulnerable to cyber crimes
- Warfare in the cyber domain
- Challenges in managing and enforcing security standards
Total Required Credits (39-59 Credits)*
For full course descriptions please refer to the current catalog.
Preparatory Courses (20 Credits)
*Preparatory course may be required for students entering the MS Cybersecurity degree program without sufficient related experience. Please see the program admissions criteria in the Academic Catalog for specific information.
- CS 132 Computer Science I (5)
- CS 330 Network Communications (5)
- IS 340 Operating Systems (5)
- IS 360 Database Technologies (5)
Pre-Entry Requirement (0 Credit)
Students must take this course in the first quarter of enrollment. Students may take another program requirement concurrently.
- CS 500 STC MS Orientation to Master's Programs (0)
Core Requirements (24 Credits)
- ISEC 500 Cybersecurity Overview (3)
- ISEC 505 Systems Security (3)
- ISEC 510 Human and Organization Security (3)
- ISEC 520 Ethical, Legal, and Societal Security (3)
- ISEC 525 Network and Wireless Security (3)
- ISEC 545 Data Privacy and Security (3)
- ISEC 612 Software Security (3)
- ISEC 628 Components Integration Security (3)
Depth of Study (6 Credits)
Cyber Defense
- ISEC 605 Cybersecurity Auditing (3)
- ISEC 640 Software Reverse Engineering (3)
Cyber Operation
- CS 533 Computer Architecture (3)
- CS 622 Discrete Math and Algorithms for Computing (3)
Choice (6 Credits)
Computer Science
- CS 504 Software Engineering (3)
- CS 519 Cloud Computing Overview (3)
Data Science
- DS 515 Data Science Overview (3)
- DS 520 Data Mining (3)
Internship
This internship course is repeatable. Each enrollment must be pre-approved by the Program Manager.
- ISEC 685 Cybersecurity Internship (3)
Capstone (3 Credits)
- ISEC 665 Cybersecurity Capstone (3)
In today’s technology-driven world, the need for skilled technological experts is ever-prevalent. Additionally, this field is more competitive than ever. A master’s degree in information security will give you the edge needed to compete for high-level positions in this industry.
Upon completion of this master’s program, you’ll be qualified to work as a systems security expert who can ensure the security of complex data and hardware networks in industries as varied as:
- Health care
- E-commerce
- Information technology
- International business
- Government
Common job titles for alumni with an MS in Cybersecurity may include:
- Senior cybersecurity engineer
- Information security consultant
- Chief information officer
Networking Opportunities
At CityU, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network by connecting with faculty working in your field, students from around the globe, and alumni employed at Seattle’s top companies. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive community that’s dedicated to helping you reach your career goals.
Tuition Cost
Learn more about tuition and fees for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Financial Aid Opportunities
At CityU, we’re committed to helping students achieve their academic goals no matter their economic situations. Our financial aid counselors are here to find the resources you need to pay for your education, including grants, loans, work study, and scholarships.
Learn more about financial aid opportunities at CityU, or contact our Financial Aid Team at 800.426.5596, 206.239.4540, or finaid@cityu.edu.
Military Tuition Benefits
As a Yellow Ribbon school, CityU is proud to serve those who have served in the military. We offer military tuition discounts for active-duty servicemembers and their spouses and accept military benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance.
Learn more about military tuition benefits, VA benefits, and military partnership programs designed to help you reach your military and career goals.
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WHY CHOOSE CITYU?
Founded in 1973, City University of Seattle offers over 60 on-site and online programs designed for busy working adults like you. When you enroll at CityU, you’ll have the support of a community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni who are dedicated to helping you finish your degree and reach your goals.
HIGHLY RANKED
City University of Seattle is recognized as a Top 10 educator of adults nationwide.1
IN-DEMAND SKILLS
Develop marketable, real-world skills in courses taught by faculty who are practitioners working in your field.
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
Expand your expertise and your global perspectives in on-site and online courses with students from around the world.
TOP EMPLOYERS
Network with alumni employed at Seattle’s top companies, including Boeing, Starbucks, Amazon, and Microsoft.