Masters in Cyber Security Courses in US
Cyber security is the study of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from theft, breaches, damage, or unauthorised access. It involves various technologies, procedures, and practices for protecting digital assets from malware, breaches, and virus attacks.
Cyber security measures include using antivirus software, firewalls, encryption, and access controls to protect against cyber threats. It is a constantly evolving field because of the dynamic nature of cyber threats and requires constant monitoring to avoid potential harm.
Cyber security is not only about responding to such cyber attacks but also involves taking measures to implement security protocols, educate users about risks and cyber threats, and stay informed about the current trends in cyber security.
Know more about this field and its current trends by pursuing an MS in cyber security in USA. Here's everything you should know about a master’s in cyber security in USA for international students.
MS in cyber security in USA: Key highlights
| Course type | Full-time |
| Course duration | 1-2 years |
| Educational qualifications | Students with an undergraduate degree in computer science, cyber security, or similar fields like information technology or systems engineering can pursue an MS in cyber security in USA. |
| English proficiency and entrance exam requirements | IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 GRE scores (Check with the university for the minimum IELTS, TOEFL or GRE scores) |
| Fees range | $7,000 - $35,000 |
Data updated as of December 2023
Cyber security: An overview
- Cyber security is crucial to protect sensitive and important information from theft and unauthorised access, to ensure data safety.
- Cyber security maintains proper protection and privacy of data for individuals and organisations.
- With the increasing use of technology, individuals, organisations, and governments require cyber security to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.
Why study cyber security courses?
Studying cyber security courses can offer several benefits. Here are three compelling reasons:
- Pursuing an MS in cyber security in USA is worth it since it provides specialised knowledge and skills in a field with growing demand. Graduates often find opportunities in various industries in the cyber security environment. Multiple universities in the USA offer cyber security courses to learners around the globe.
- This field is dynamic and ever-evolving, and one needs to adapt to threats and innovative security measures to stay ahead of cyberattacks and cybercriminals.
- Cyber security is considered a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program in the USA. This classification allows international students to qualify for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period after graduation. It can be extended to 24 months for STEM graduates.
Top courses for master’s in cyber security in USA for international students
- MS Cybersecurity
- MCS Computer Science Cybersecurity
- MS in Computer Information Systems and Cyber Security
- MS Cybersecurity-Technology Concentration
- MS Cybersecurity - Computer Security
- MS Cybersecurity (STEM)
Best universities for master’s in cyber security in USA
Some of the best universities for MS in cyber security in USA are:
- Sacred Heart University
- Arizona State University
- Auburn University at Montgomery
- Hofstra University
- DePaul University
- Avila University
Different study levels for cyber security
Eligibility criteria for master’s in cyber security in USA
When applying for a course, your profile should satisfy the eligibility criteria for the specific field of study. Here are the basic eligibility requirements for a master’s in cyber security in USA for international students.
Eligibility criteria for pursuing MS in cyber security in USA
| Factor | Eligibility criteria |
|---|---|
| Educational qualifications | Students with an undergraduate degree in computer science, cyber security, or similar fields like information technology or systems engineering can pursue an MS in cyber security in USA. |
| English proficiency and entrance exam requirements | IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 GRE scores (Check with the university for the minimum IELTS, TOEFL or GRE scores) |
| Visa | US Student visa |
Data updated as of December 2023
Note: The minimum grades and educational requirements differ with every university. Make sure to check if your scores meet the institution’s standards.
Student requirements to study MS in cyber security in USA
Once you satisfy the eligibility criteria, universities will request you to provide documents to proceed with your application. Check if you have the documents below to proceed with the application.
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport
- Admissions test results
- English language proficiency test scores
- Proof of funds
- Visa
Visa requirements for international students for studying MS in cyber security in USA
You need a student visa to study MS in cyber security in USA.
| Visa | Cost |
|---|---|
| USA student visa | $510. This is for the F1 student visa and includes a $350 SEVIS fee and a $160 application fee. |
Data updated as of December 2023
Documents required for international students to apply for a visa
- Your passport
- A letter of acceptance from your course provider
- Proof of financial support
- Letter of explanation (explain your purpose and requirement for visa)
- Necessary medical test results
Average fees to study MS in cyber security in USA
| Fees for master’s in cyber security in USA | Average fees |
|---|---|
| Minimum fees | £5,600 |
| Maximum fees | £27,998 |
Data updated as of December 2023
Cost of living for international students in USA
The average annual cost of living for an international student in USA is as follows:
| General expenses | Monthly cost (in USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| Share of Utilities | $150 - $300 |
| Food | $300 - $500 |
| Mobile and related services | $50-$100 |
| Local transportation | $100 - $300 |
| Health insurance | $200 - $600 |
| Entertainment | $100 - $300 |
| Clothing | $50 - $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 - $200 |
Data updated as of December 2023
Scholarships to study MS in cyber security in USA
A scholarship is a financial aid that grants a certain amount of tuition fees for students and reduces their expenses while studying abroad. Edvoy has partnered with institutions worldwide to offer scholarships for international students pursuing higher education. The scholarships are:
Academic scholarships
Academic scholarships award international students with remarkable academic performance. Institutions choose student profiles with good scores and provide scholarships based on their grades.
Government-funded scholarships
Government-funded scholarships are awarded to international students who accept the institution’s offer and pay a certain amount of tuition fees. These scholarships reduce student expenses by waiving a certain amount of tuition fees.
Note: Edvoy acts as a platform for you during the application process. Only the university deems your profile eligible and determines the final amount.
Job opportunities for cyber security graduates in USA
There is a high demand for cyber security graduates in USA, increasing the job opportunities for international students.
How much does a cyber security professional earn in USA?
The average annual salary for cyber security professionals in the USA ranges from $80,000 to $150,000.
(The above salary range is approximate and is taken from various sources.
Sources: Talent.com, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn)
Top career options for cyber security graduates in USA
After completing an MS in cyber security in USA, there are a lot of career opportunities that you can take up. Some of the job roles available are:
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Cyber Security Operations Engineer
- Cyber Security Consultant
- Security Architect
- Information Technology Architect
- Penetration Tester
- Cyber Security Engineer
- Principal Consultant
(Sources: Talent.com, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn)
Post-study work permit after completing MS in cyber security in USA
| Country | Name of post-study work visa | Length of time to stay in the country |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) | 1 year |
Data updated as of December 2023
Related cyber security courses
Top MS in cyber security courses in USA
You don’t have to stop at cyber security courses in USA. If you are interested in a topic, refer to the list below - you might see something jump out!
- Graduate Certificate in CybersecurityWestcliff University$9,120
- MS Cybersecurity (STEM)Avila University$10,800
- MSIT Master of Science in Information Technology - CybersecurityWestcliff University$14,310
- Graduate Certificate CybersecuritySacred Heart University$14,775
- Certificate Cyber Security and Information AssuranceUniversity of Colorado Denver$19,028
- MS CybersecurityUniversity of North Texas$19,571.36
- Graduate Certificate Cybersecurity and DefenseUniversity of Colorado Denver$19,391
- MS CybersecurityMontclair State University$19,916
- GradCert Information SecurityMarshall University$21,486
- MS Cyber Forensics and SecurityMarshall University$21,486
- Postgraduate Systems science in US
- Postgraduate Robotics in US
- Postgraduate Informatics in US
- Postgraduate Television in US
- Postgraduate Machine Learning in US
- Postgraduate Software Design in US
- Postgraduate Data Sciences and Big Data in US
- Postgraduate Systems Analysis in US
- Postgraduate Information Technology in US
- Postgraduate Cloud Computing in US
FAQ
Definitely! Pursuing a master’s in cyber security in USA is worth it since it provides specialised knowledge and skills in a field with growing demand. Graduates often find opportunities in various industries in the global cyber security environment.
Students with an undergraduate degree in computer science, cyber security, or similar fields like information technology or systems engineering can pursue a master’s in cyber security in USA.
Yes, the USA is considered a popular hub for cybersecurity. The United States is a global leader in technological innovation. Many of the world's leading cybersecurity companies and research institutions are in the USA. Many universities provide specialised programs and courses in cybersecurity.
Many universities in the USA do not require GRE scores for admission into a cyber security course. Students can submit their GRE test scores as an option during the application process to stand out among other applicants.
Cybersecurity doesn't require coding experience or knowledge, but knowing coding and programming can help you grow in your career.
Some cyber security professions in the USA pay up to $170,000. The average annual salary for cyber security professionals in the USA ranges from $80,000 to $150,000.
Some of the best courses for a master’s in cyber security in USA are:
Studying cyber security might be challenging, but if you understand the concepts well and have an interest in learning more about the topics, cyber security can be an interesting field of study. You can also learn some basic concepts in coding or programming to help you with your career.
The average annual tuition fees for masters courses in cyber security in USA range from $7,000 - $35,000.
