In an age where concepts such as big data and cloud-based information systems are rapidly becoming an essential part of the running of global infrastructure, the protection and management of these systems, critical data, and institutional privacy on the web are of great priority. This explains the rising demand for cybersecurity experts worldwide.
To be a cybersecurity professional, one must go through certain training to be able to handle what will be expected of them. Having this in mind, we’d be taking a look at universities for masters in cybersecurity.
As it is a highly specialized field, formal training in the field is required for professionals interested in participating in this important, fast-paced industry. If you already have a Bachelor’s, a top-notch Master’s in cybersecurity will build your knowledge and portfolio, putting you in a prime position for the best jobs in cybersecurity.
In this article, we will be looking at schools that offer the best master’s in cybersecurity degree programs in 2024.
WHICH COUNTRY IS BEST FOR A MASTER’S DEGREE IN CYBERSECURITY?
With universities offering some of the top-rated degrees in cybersecurity such as the George Mason University, Purdue University, Indiana University, and Penn State University, the USA easily takes the cake as one of the best universities for a master’s in cybersecurity. However, no official rankings exist yet; and there are several universities in Europe and Canada, where you can get some of the best education in cybersecurity.
IS A MASTER’S IN CYBERSECURITY WORTH IT?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity is expected to grow by 32% by 2028, making it among the top 10 fastest-growing industries. A Master’s in Cybersecurity helps you become one of the most sought-after professionals in the industry due to the set of skills it equips you with.
It also prepares you for important leadership roles such as Security Architect, Security Consultant, and Chief Information Security Officer, where you will be able to direct the activities of several other workers and gain valuable insight into company trends.
The take-home, on average, vastly improves, with the average Master of Cybersecurity taking home over $156,000 per year, as opposed to $98,000 for a Bachelor’s.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER’S DEGREE IN SECURITY?
With more than 43% of businesses in America have fallen victim to cyberattacks in 2018; and a projection that 1.8 million jobs in cybersecurity will be left unfilled in 2024, it is quite obvious that cybersecurity is a top-dollar, high-demand field where there is no shortage of jobs for skilled professionals.
Master’s in Cybersecurity can access a wide variety of senior-level positions in cybersecurity, including:
15 BEST UNIVERSITIES FOR CYBERSECURITY IN 2024
#1 University of Law-GISMA, Berlin, Germany
The University of Law is the UK’s longest-established specialist provider of legal and business education with an employability rate of 97%. This institute has over 100 years of experience supporting students to build successful careers.
This one-year specialist master’s program covers the fundamentals of data management and cybersecurity, with a core focus on technology, business, and policy. Students will develop their professional skills to meet the ever-changing demands of today’s digital world.
Course Requirements
- 2:2 or above from a UK Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent qualifications.
- International requirements – an English Language level equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or above with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- Non-standard entry: non-standard applicants are welcome to apply at GISMA. Applicants without a bachelor’s degree may apply if they possess at least 5 years’ managerial experience.
For more information and details on the non-standard application process please contact us.
https://www.masterstudies.com/MSc-Cyber-Security-and-Data-Governance/Germany/GISMA-ULaw/#requestinfo
#2 IUBH University of Applied Sciences – Online
The Master’s program in Computer Science combines central topics of computer science with data science and artificial intelligence: disciplines of increasing importance in the professional world. What’s more, you have the opportunity to gain key skills in cybersecurity.
With these skills, you’ll be prepared for a promising professional future in these fields – not just in Germany, but worldwide.
Your Master’s program, which is 120 ECTS, comprises four semesters, and you can complete your Master’s study in one or two years.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements:
• Completed undergraduate study from a public or officially recognized university/higher education institution (180 ECTS) in a related field.
• A final grade of at least “Satisfactory” or grade C (as commonly used in the U.S and Canada)
English Level:
• Proof of English skills.
If English is your native language or you graduated from an English-speaking school/university, you do not have to prove your English skills.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.onlinestudies.com/Master-Computer-Science-(MSc)/Germany/IUBHOnline/#requestinfo
#3 EPITA Graduate School of Science
EPITA’s Master of Science in Computer Science – Computer Security program spans 18 months and is taught 100% in English in Paris. Accredited by the CGE (Conférence des Grandes Ecoles), the program consists of 3 semesters of on-campus classes and 1 semester of internship.
To obtain their degree, students must acquire 120 ECTS (European Credits Transfer Systems) and a B1 level of French. Graduates of the program would adequately master cybersecurity and security management.
Admissions
This program is open to candidates holding a 4-year Bachelor’s degree (or higher) or a 3-year Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields. Candidates must also have strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
The admission process is fully automated. Candidates should submit their application and upload the following documents translated into English or French in digital format to our online application platform.
- Résumé
- Passport
- Official university transcripts
- Certified copy of the Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Certified copy of the high school certificate
- 2 letters of recommendation
- TOEFL 80, TOEIC 800, IELTS 6.0
- Statement of purpose
The application will undergo three phases:
- Validation of your candidacy
- Online interview
- Admission results
Candidates will be informed of the status of their applications by email during each phase of the process.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.masterstudies.com/Master-of-Science-in-Computer-Science-(MSc)-Computer-Security/France/EPITA-Graduate-School-of-Computer-Science/#requestinfo
#4. The University of Law Business School Postgraduate
London, United Kingdom (You can expand your study experience by rotating across our campus locations in London and Berlin.)
Starts
Duration: 1 year full-time or 18 months with internship
Tuition
MSc Cyber Security and Data Governance
The MSc Cyber Security and Data Governance course focus on a combination of technology, business, and policy. It is ideal for students who have an interest in developing in-depth specialist knowledge and a critical understanding of the key aspects of cybersecurity and data governance.
This course will equip students with the skills to manage and analyze an organization’s data assets and security measures, and provide an understanding of data governance principles, practices, and technologies.
Course Requirements
#5. EC-Council University Albuquerque, USA Starts Duration Tuition.
Cloud Security Architect Specialization
The Cloud Security Architect specialization trains you to harden enterprise architecture and cloud architecture from the most advanced attacks and secure programming practices to overcome these inherent drawbacks to pre-empt bugs from the code, and designing and implementing cloud security.
ECCU coursework is delivered through a 100% online degree program, providing the flexibility of time management whereby students can attend to coursework at any time of day/night or weekends (24×7).
ECCU understands the need today of students to be industry-ready and hence all of EC-Council’s relevant industry certifications have been included in the various specializations, allowing the student to graduate with not only a Master’s degree but, a string of certifications as well.
Admission Requirements
Applicants for admission must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a TOEFL score of 550 or better or proof of English competency.
Student Enrollment Application
APPLY NOW at
https://www.onlinestudies.com/MSCS-Cloud-Security-Architect-specialization/USA/EC-Council-University/#requestinfo.
#6. The George Washington University – School of Engineering & Applied Science
Starts
Duration
Tuition
Master of Science in Cybersecurity in Computer Science
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity in Computer Science degree program was created to respond to the large and fast-growing need for technical cybersecurity experts nationally and internationally. A large and lucrative job market with a variety of jobs is available to graduates of the program.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to the graduate programs in Engineering Management, Systems Engineering, or Data Analytics are required to have a minimum score of 7.0 with no individual score below 6.0.
Applicants who would like to be considered for funding opportunities must have an overall band score of 7.0 with no individual score below 6.0.
TOEFL:
80 on the Internet exam (iBT) or 550 on the paper exam
Applicants to the graduate programs in Engineering Management, Systems Engineering, or Data Analytics are required to have a minimum score of 100 on the Internet exam.
Applicants who would like to be considered for funding opportunities must have a 600 on the paper-based exam or 100 on the Internet-based exam.
PTE Academic
53. Applicants who would like to be considered for funding opportunities must have a minimum score of 68.
Exceptions
Exceptions are granted to applicants who:
Hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction AND the official language of the country in which the university is located.
Hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an institution located in a country that qualifies for the English language exam exemption.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.masterstudies.com/Master-of-Science-in-Cybersecurity-in-Computer-Science/USA/GW-SEAS/#requestinfo
#7. The University of Findlay, Findlay, USA
Master of Science in Applied Security and Analytics
The University of Findlay’s Master of Science in Applied Security and Analytics focuses on advanced coursework in leadership and technology, specifically big data and cybersecurity, and can be completed within two years.
This degree is designed to enhance your current IT knowledge within the areas of security and big data analytics as well as expand your business skills in accounting, finance, project management, and the overall management and leadership of information and technology.
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Admission Requirements
Admission to the Master of Science in Applied Security and Analytics (MSASA) degree requires the following:
- APPLY NOW at
- https://www.masterstudies.com/Master-of-Science-in-Applied-Security-and-Analytics/USA/Univ-of-Findlay/#requestinfo.
#8. Tufts University – School of Engineering Medford, USA.
The Tufts University M.S. in Cybersecurity and Public Policy is an innovative on-campus master’s degree offered jointly by The Fletcher School and the Department of Computer Science in the Tufts School of Engineering. Graduates will be able to help organizations analyze policies for reducing risk and improving security, identify and manage cyber risk, and recover from cyber-attacks.
Application Requirements
Students with an interest in cybersecurity policy and a background in either policy or technology are encouraged to apply. Prospective students should have a solid background in computer science (major, strong minor, or the equivalent) or an undergraduate degree in political science, international relations, economics, or a related field.
Students must have taken an introductory course in computer programming before enrolling in the program. This is not an admissions requirement to be accepted into the program but is an entrance requirement – if a student is accepted into the program before they have taken an introductory course in computer programming, they must take the course before starting the program.
The course can include programming in C++, Python, or Java, but should not be Javascript based. The course needs to teach not only programming but also to introduce algorithmic thinking and data structures.
Required documents include:
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#9. Leiden University Leiden, Netherlands, The Hague, Netherlands.
Introduction.
The executive master’s program in Cyber Security takes a multidisciplinary approach that helps you develop effective and sustainable solutions to cyber risks and threats.
You will study contemporary security challenges from local and global points of view, gaining an understanding of the ‘wicked problem’ of security and crisis topics in a complex and globalizing world.
During this multidisciplinary career-relevant master’s program you will become familiar with the academic, political, and societal dimensions of the governance of (in)security and crisis. You will study contemporary security challenges from both local and global points of view, gaining a deep understanding of the ‘wicked problem’ of security and crisis topics in a complex and globalizing world.
The combination of theory, practical insights, and analytical skills will prepare you for work in a vast array of public or private organizations.
Reasons to choose Cyber Security at Leiden University?
As a student in the Cyber Security program, you will benefit from:
Admission and Application
Do you want to apply for this master’s program at Leiden University? Find out how to apply for your program by following the step-by-step guide in the application and admission section:
APPLY NOW at
https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/education/study-programmes/master/cyber-security/admission-and-application
University of Ottawa Acceptance Rate in 2024
#10. Eötvös Loránd University Budapest, Hungary
Introduction
The goal of this program is to train Computer Scientists with professional knowledge based on solid theoretical background knowledge. They have the skills to take part in program development, in developing information systems, and in system management in various areas.
The Computer Scientist often acts as a mediator between the customers of information systems and the producers. In this way, the job of a Computer Scientist synthesizes the constructive activity of engineers with the general problem-solving attitude of mathematicians while participating in teams of large-scale projects.
Our programs provide students with a broad education in Computer Science in combination with specialized work in programming languages, cybersecurity, data science, web engineering, autonomous systems, multimedia design, etc.
Admission requirements
Further comments:
At least Intermediate level English language skills are required. English language exams are preferred (but not required) and any certificate is accepted.
Documents to submit with the application
#11. Swansea University Swansea, United Kingdom
Introduction
The MSc in Cyber Security covers critical modern technology issues from the security and privacy of personal data to cyberterrorism, cybercrime, and mobile security.
The cybersecurity lab enables you to explore the security landscape, undertake experiments in network security, mobile security, and investigate threats in the context of the Internet of Things.
You will complete this course with an informed and alert mindset suitable for a career in cybersecurity.
The College is ranked:
Entry Requirements:
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#12. King’s College London OnlineLondon, United Kingdom
The Advanced Cyber Security MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert (online) at King’s College London will give you the opportunity to gain the knowledge, technologies, practices, and skills to solve the world’s most complex cybersecurity challenges – without taking a break from your career.
Our leading academics provide you with cutting-edge theory in the field of cybersecurity, and you’ll have access to our Virtual Lab, providing you with practical experience of real-world security analysis and problem-solving.
All King’s College London (online) programs are taught in English.
Entry requirements – Academic/professional requirements
Non-standard entry
International Requirements
Visit our admissions webpages to view our International entry requirements.
Band D: Applicants from a UKVI deemed non-majority English-speaking country may be required to take an English language proficiency test from an approved testing center.
Visit our admissions webpages to view our English Language entry requirements. Decisions regarding English language entry requirements will be made on a faculty level.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.onlinestudies.com/MScPG-DipPG-Cert-in-Advanced-Cyber-Security/United-Kingdom/Kings-College-London-Online/#requestinfo .
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#13. University of Tampa – Sykes College of Business Tampa, USA.
Introduction
The University of Tampa’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students for careers in the dynamic and growing cybersecurity industry. Rapid technology changes and the evolving threats that face modern organizations require educated and equipped cybersecurity professionals. With small class sizes and a cutting-edge cybersecurity lab, this specialized graduate program emphasizes hands-on learning using real-world tools and virtual environments.
The curriculum covers critical topics in cybersecurity and gives students the option of taking valuable courses in project management, business analytics, enterprise systems, and SAP certification. The program is also ideal for those wishing to advance in the fields of law enforcement, criminology, criminal justice, forensics, law, and government.
Admission Requirements and Documents
To apply, please fill out either the paper or online application. Applications are not reviewed until the Office of Graduate and Continuing Studies receives all required materials. Students are notified of admission decisions after materials have been received and evaluated.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.masterstudies.com/M.S.-in-Cybersecurity/USA/UT-Sykes/#requestinfo
#14. Northumbria University London Campus, London, United Kingdom.
The MSc Cyber Security program aims to provide students with the knowledge on how to handle security incidents, identifying new and existing threats, and are taught methods on how to minimize and/or extinguish them.
The course extends upon already acquired knowledge and provides in-depth coverage of fundamental concepts, principles, and technologies for network security. Going beyond theoretical theory, students will be taught a practical understanding of governance and assurance, along with technology risk management practices.
University of Windsor Acceptance Rate in 2024
Academic requirements
#15. University of Essex, Essex, UK
This MSc Cyber Security will provide you with an insight into all areas of cybersecurity, from technical approaches and managerial concerns to legal ramifications and the psychological background to breaches.
The course will prepare you to cope with cyber attacks in a measured and decisive way and will also help you to develop essential skills in teamwork and communication. Through this course, you will gain a strong academic foundation that will enable you to unlock a range of careers available to cybersecurity professionals.
Admissions requirements
We offer two flexible entry routes onto our MSc Cyber Security, which consider your academic and work-based experience:
1. Academic entry route
In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirement, you must have one of the following qualifications as a minimum:
An undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree; or
A relevant professional qualification.
2. Work experience entry route
To apply for the work experience entry route, you must meet the following criteria:
At least three years relevant work experience
3. English language requirement
If English is not your first language, you must have an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 or equivalent. If you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification, you will be required to pass a free online English test to assess your proficiency.
APPLY NOW at
https://www.onlinestudies.com/MSc-Cyber-Security/United-Kingdom/University-of-Essex-Online/#requestinfo
Antwerp Management School
Antwerp, Belgium.
Antwerp Management School, the autonomous management school of the University of Antwerp (Belgium), offers 8 accredited Advanced Masters in a truly international context with study options in Belgium, China, Brazil, Italy, and the USA. Moreover, we are ranked #37 in the Financial Times for our Master in Management (2019)
APPLY NOW at https://www.antwerpmanagementschool.be/en/program/executive-master-risk-cyber-security-management?utm_source=Keystone&utm_medium=CTA-link&utm_campaign=Keystone
CONCLUSION
With cybersecurity already a major component of the running of global and industry operations the world over, professionals in cybersecurity need to improve on their existing knowledge in order to obtain access to the best opportunities in the field. A Master’s in Cybersecurity is one of the most important ways of doing so.
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