Program Overview

Cybersecurity Program Overview

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an interdisciplinary program offered by the departments of Computer Science (CSC) and Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) that trains the next generation of professionals for careers in industry, government, and academia to safeguard our society and our world. The program provides students with the latest technical knowledge and skills in cybersecurity and privacy principles and the engineering aspects of software and hardware security to build secure systems that are resistant to attack.

Program Objectives

• Design, develop, and analyze secure and privacy-aware systems
• Secure critical infrastructure (e.g., network, cloud, telephony, Internet of Things)
• Enhance security and privacy of end-user technologies (e.g., mobile, web, IoT, blockchain)

Eligibility

Applicants to the MS in Cybersecurity must have a bachelor’s degree with at least a B average. Non-Computer Science majors must demonstrate strong academic performance in computer science and mathematics. Additional requirements include a statement of purpose and three professional or academic recommendations. International applicants must submit GRE General Test scores and provide TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency.

Plan of Study

The MS in Cybersecurity requires 31 credit hours. Twelve credits should be taken from a group of Cybersecurity core courses, as well as twelve hours of Cybersecurity core or Cybersecurity foundations courses. Additional requirements include:

• 3 credits of Computer and Network Security
• 3 credits of Cybersecurity practicum coursework
• 1 credit of graduate orientation coursework

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity are prepared to enter one of the fastest-growing fields in technology. With demand for cybersecurity professionals projected to grow nationally, this degree opens doors to high-paying, high-impact roles across industries. The program’s interdisciplinary structure equips students with advanced knowledge in network defense, software and hardware security, cloud computing, cryptography, and privacy principles. These skills are essential for safeguarding critical systems and infrastructure in today’s digital world.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are well-positioned for roles such as:

• Information Security Analyst
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Systems Security Manager
• Chief Information Security Officer Many employers, such as tech firms, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, seek professionals who can architect secure networks, respond to evolving threats, and design privacy-aware systems. Graduates are also prepared for broader positions in IT strategy, project management, or consulting, where cybersecurity expertise is a competitive differentiator.

Accreditation

North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.