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Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program

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The online Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University prepares students for multiple industry certifications and professional technical management roles requiring advanced credentials.

The program has an applied focus, emphasizing learning concepts and skills that students can put to use right away in their current jobs including:

  • Database analysis, design and administration
  • Networking and cloud computing architecture and security
  • Security practices in developing scripts/programs
  • Information assurance compliance and auditing
  • Penetration testing and digital forensics

Computer keyboard

Online Cybersecurity Program Overview

The demand for cybersecurity professionals with advanced skills recognizing and assessing cybersecurity issues, planning and managing solutions, and addressing current industry challenges is at an all-time high. In fact, job growth in the field is expected to increase by 33 percent over the next decade, much faster than the average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

¾«¶«Ó°Òµâ€™s online master’s program is designed for busy cybersecurity professionals offering:

  • Fully online program with no synchronized class times – allows for maximum flexibility.
  • Non-sequenced format – this allows students to set their own pace for completion. and provides for flexibility in choosing which courses to take and when to take them.
  • Only 30 credit hours (10 courses) required – full-time students can complete the program in 12 months or choose their own pace.
  • No GRE/MAT required.
  • Small classes – allowing faculty members the time and access to mentor and guide students.
  • Foundation course – allowing students with an undergraduate degree outside the field of cybersecurity to switch careers and fast-track into the cybersecurity master’s program by taking only six credit hours.
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National Designation

¾«¶«Ó°Òµ has been designated as a by the  and the . It is part of an elite group of colleges and universities nationwide to receive the designation.

Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education, supporting, celebrating and rewarding excellence on a diverse global scale.

Program Benefits

 
Customizable online curriculum

 
Real-world
capstone

 
Personalized academic & career advising

What is an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity?

¾«¶«Ó°Òµ's Online’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is a gateway to a flourishing career in digital safety, designed for aspiring IT professionals and technical managers. The curriculum blends theoretical learning with practical skills in vital areas like Penetration Testing, Network Security, and Computer Forensics. This program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), also prepares you for esteemed industry certifications such as CompTIA® Security+ and ISC2® CISSP.

¾«¶«Ó°Òµ's online format offers a flexible learning journey, accommodating your professional commitments while providing a robust educational experience. Engage with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in the CyberSaints organization, participate in real-world projects, and network with industry experts, all while preparing to safeguard the digital realm with ethical and technical proficiency.

Male in front of computer screen

What Will I Learn in This Cybersecurity Master’s Degree?

In the Online Master’s in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University, you will be immersed in a curriculum tailored for real-world application. The program is structured to build a strong foundation in crucial cybersecurity domains while preparing you for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA® Security+ and ISC2® CISSP. Here are key areas you will delve into:

  • Database Management Systems and Networking and Cloud Computing for safeguarding data and network infrastructures.
  • Hardware and Software Platforms to understand the security aspects of various technological platforms.
  • Basic Scripting and Programming for cybersecurity analytics and automation.
  • Cybersecurity Principles, Planning and Management for strategic cybersecurity operations.
  • Information Assurance Compliance and Auditing, Penetration Testing, and Digital Forensics for ensuring compliance, identifying vulnerabilities, and investigating cybersecurity incidents respectively

Is an Online Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Worth It?

Absolutely. Enrolling in Our Lady of the Lake University's Online Master's in Cybersecurity is a wise step towards a high-paying, in-demand career. This program prepares you to tackle modern digital threats, opening doors to managerial positions with median salary at $120,000 per year, according to the . With a projected 33% job growth rate for security analysts through 2033, the favorable job market outlook and the potential for career advancement justify the investment in this master's degree, making it a lucrative educational venture

Courses in the Online Cybersecurity Master's Degree

At ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical to give you skills and knowledge that you can put to work now in your current position and to prepare for the next level in your career.

The program requires only 10 courses (30 credit hours) that can be taken in a non-sequenced format. This allows you to take courses when you want to take them. The classes are presented in an asynchronous format which means you can study on your schedule. The online cybersecurity program is composed of the following courses: 

CISS 8302 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Analysis, design and administration of databases using information systems development methodologies and tools. Overview of SQL, data warehouses, distributed access, and security.

CISS 8304 |  3 CREDIT HOURS
Networking and cloud computing architecture and security with an overview of current technologies and solutions. Exploration of cloud architecture models, services, security issues, virtualization technologies and logical and physical components.

CISS 8305 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Study of hardware, software and architecture platforms used to deliver enterprise information systems. Current and emerging platform technologies supporting enterprise applications and networked environments.

CISS 8306 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Study of creating scripts and programs to automate and perform simple operations and implement algorithms, regular expressions, and data/control structures. Basic security practices in developing scripts/programs.

CISS 8310 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
In-depth study of specialized topic chosen by instructor.

CISS 8321 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Advanced survey of key concepts of cybersecurity. Access control; security operations, administration, and personnel; risk identification, monitoring and analysis; incident response and recovery; cryptography; network and communications security; physical and environmental security; systems and application security. Privacy, risk, ethics, and legal regulations. 

CISS 8322 - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Management of information security including planning for security and contingencies, development and implementation of security programs. Security management models and practices, risk management, laws and ethics.

CISS 8323 | 3 credit hours
In-depth coverage of audit planning, standards, and issues related to compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

CISS 8324 |  3 credit hours
Introduction to methodologies, techniques, and tools for system vulnerability identification, analysis and mitigation.

CISS 8325 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Exploration of forensics techniques, tools, and legal requirements as they apply to different operating systems, devices, media, and applications.

 

Admission Requirements

  • Application (no application fee)
  • An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or related technical discipline, or successful completion of the Foundation Course
  • An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0
  • Official transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges or universities attended; transcripts must include baccalaureate or higher (if applicable) degrees earned and date conferred
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Faculty

Full-time faculty members in the Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) Department have extensive professional and academic experience. Most have doctoral degrees and/or professional certifications. Seasoned practitioners who teach selected courses complement full-time professors as adjunct faculty. View CISS Faculty


Vanessa ClarkVanessa Clark

Associate Professor and Chair 

 

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What Can You Do With an Online Master's Degree in Cybersecurity?

An Online Master's Degree in Cybersecurity from Our Lady of the Lake University opens doors to a multitude of career opportunities. Whether you aspire to develop secure systems, analyze vulnerabilities, or lead in cybersecurity strategy, there's a path for you.

Here are some sample job titles you might pursue:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Computer Network Architect
  • Cybersecurity Manager
  • Penetration Tester
  • Digital Forensics Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Compliance Officer
  • Incident Responder

In these roles, you'll leverage coding skills, knowledge of operating systems, cloud services, and database management, all fortified by your advanced cybersecurity education, to protect organizations from digital threats and ensure a secure digital landscape.

Tuition & Financial Aid

The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an investment in your career. Unlike other area programs, the ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ program allows you to continue working full-time while pursuing your degree so you don't lose valuable on-the-job experience while completing your advanced degree.

Tuition Costs
Our Tuition (2024–2025 rate) $2,973 per three credit hour course
Average Tuition of Peer Online Institutions $4,330 per course
Average Total Cost of Tuition $29,730

You should begin the Financial Aid application process at the same time that you apply to the graduate program.  To be considered for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at . Please list Our Lady of the Lake University, federal school code #003598, as one of the schools to receive your application information. ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ will receive your results electronically and use them to award your financial aid.

Please note:  You must be officially accepted for admission to the university before a financial aid award can be processed.

Foundation Course

Our foundation course allows students with an undergraduate degree from outside the IT field to join the program. If admitted, students will take a six-credit-hour foundation course designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the graduate program.

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Center for Cyber Leadership

Students in ¾«¶«Ó°Òµâ€™s Cybersecurity program have access to the University’s Center for Cyber Leadership (CCL). The center provides information about events, competitions, industry standards, news and other available resources and opportunities. 

Center for Cyber Leadership

CyberSaints

Cybersecurity students at ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ have the opportunity to join the CyberSaints student organization. Becoming a member of the CyberSaints allows for students to network with industry professionals, participate in regional and national competitions, keep up to date on industry trends, and explore leadership opportunities, among other benefits.

CyberSaints

FAQs

A cybersecurity degree is an educational program that teaches students the skills and knowledge to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and attacks. 

The length of the Online Master’s in Cybersecurity degree program can vary dependingon  whether you are studying full-time or part-time. The online Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University can be complete in as little as 12 months.

Admission requirements for the Our Lady of the Lake University Online Master's in Cybersecurity include an undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or related technical discipline,  a  GPA of at least 3.0, official transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges attended, and a résumé. For individuals with an undergraduate degree outside the cybersecurity field, successful completion of the Foundation Course is required.

With a cybersecurity degree, you can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of cybersecurity, such as:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Security Engineer
  • Cybersecurity Consultant
  • Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester
  • Security Architect
  • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The cybersecurity field is generally considered stable in terms of job security. As long as cyber threats exist, there will be a need for cybersecurity professionals. According to governmental data, cybersecurity-related careers are projected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032. 

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