Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Cyber Systems

The Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity and Cyber Systems is an interdisciplinary program offered through the School of Computing and the School of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering.

Admission

Applicants with a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Information Systems, or equivalent degrees will be admitted directly as long as their GPA satisfies Graduate School requirements. The M.S. in Cybersecurity and Cyber Systems requires 30 credit hours. Students can select an area of study in cybersecurity or in cyber systems. For applicants lacking the required specific background, we offer conditional admission status until completing prerequisite courses.

Admission to the M.S. in Cybersecurity and Cyber Systems program is based on the following factors: grade point average of 2.75 or higher on a scale of 4.0 on the entire last undergraduate GPA earned at the time of application, class ranking, and faculty recommendation letters. Although GRE scores are not required for admission, they are important to qualify for the High Achievers Tuition Rate. The minimum TOEFL score requirement for international applicants is 550 (paper-based) or 80 (computer-based).

Retention

Any student whose cumulative grade point average falls below 3.0 on courses that count towards the degree will be placed on academic probation. Any graduate student on academic probation whose grade point average remains below 3.0 on courses that count towards the degree for two consecutive semesters in which she or he is enrolled will be permanently suspended from the program, unless the program grants an exception.

Curriculum

The degree requires 3 courses from 3 key areas that will ascertain understanding of fundamentals and help build a solid foundation for the remainder of the program. These courses are:

1. Fundamentals in computer security. This requirement will be completed by either CS 505 or ECE 508. Only one of these courses will count towards the degree.
2. Fundamentals in systems programming. This requirement will be completed by either CS 517 or ECE 536. Only one of these courses will count towards the degree.
3. Fundamentals in network systems. This requirement will be completed by either CS 502 or ECE 553. Only one of these courses will count towards the degree.

A student should then seek an area of study in either cybersecurity or cyber systems by selecting at least 5 elective courses in these areas. The lists of these courses are given below. A maximum of six credit hours from academic units outside the School of Computing and the School of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering can be applied towards the degree.

In the area of cybersecurity, students must complete 4 courses in cybersecurity and 1 course in cyber systems. In the area of cyber systems, students must complete 4 courses in cyber systems and 1 course in cybersecurity. A fundamental area may be satisfied by a course that was taken prior to admission or a documented record of accomplishment in the subject matter content. In this case, the student must select an additional elective course either in cybersecurity or in cyber systems for each satisfied fundamental area. Students must take at least two CS/ECE five hundred level courses not cross-listed to a four hundred level course. Students must take at least three ECE and at least three CS courses. Only three credit hours of ECE 592 or CS 598 can count towards the degree.

MS Thesis option: 6 credit hours of thesis in ECE or CS (ECE 599 or CS 599) may substitute for 6 credit hours in an area of study (cybersecurity or cyber systems).

The Master of Science degree program in Cybersecurity and Cyber Systems has an online option for the non-thesis track.

List of Courses

• List of cybersecurity courses for the MS degree:
  • CS 508
  • CS 509
  • CS 513
  • CS 519
  • ECE 502
  • ECE 517
  • ECE 518
  • ECE 519
  • CS 525
  • CS 531
• List of cyber system courses for the MS degree:
  • ECE 509
  • CS 523
  • CS 541
  • ECE 575A
  • ECE 512
  • ECE 528
  • ECE 536
  • CS 540
  • ECE 541

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.