Program Overview

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program at Jouf University is one of the advanced academic programs aimed at preparing nationally qualified graduates with both scientific and practical competencies in the fields of digital systems protection, cybersecurity risk management, and securing information infrastructure.

Program Overview

The program is aligned with the requirements of digital transformation and national security. It is built upon the latest knowledge and technologies in cybersecurity and is committed to implementing the quality and academic accreditation standards issued by the National Center for Academic Accreditation and Evaluation (NCAAA).

Program Mission

Providing distinguished educational, professional, research, and community outcomes locally and regionally in the field of cybersecurity, consistent with quality standards and contributing to meeting the needs of the labor market and community service.

Program Goals

• Provide high-quality education through advanced curricula and equip graduates with essential knowledge and skills in the cybersecurity field.
• Promote research and technological development for professional growth in the Cybersecurity labor market.
• Empower students with essential skills to embrace lifelong learning.
• Support Saudi society by providing skilled cybersecurity consultants to address emerging challenges and enhance digital security.

Graduates Attributes

• Thorough understanding of theory, research, and recent development in the field of cybersecurity
• Familiarity with and ability to use advanced techniques of research and inquiry applicable to the field of cybersecurity
• Ability to synthesize and apply the results of research in analyzing, developing, and testing hypotheses, and proposing solutions to theoretical and practical problems
• Ability to communicate the results of advanced study and research through refereed publications to academic, professional, and community audience
• Ability to respond to cybersecurity issues, suggesting creative solutions and making sound judgments to address such issues
• Act autonomously in tackling and solving both anticipated and unpredictable problems and cooperate with others and provide leadership when appropriate in group situations
• Apply sound ethical and moral judgment in dealing with cybersecurity issues that may involve difficult value conflict
• Take responsibility for improving personal skills and continuing education
• Reflect high levels of loyalty, responsibility, and commitment to serve society

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

• Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrate deep understanding of modern and advanced developments, theories, and technical topics in cybersecurity
• Skills: Use and critically review a variety of specialized methods, techniques, tools, and practices to address advanced cybersecurity problems
• Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility: Participate effectively as a leader and/or a member of a team in professional projects in the field of cybersecurity with high integrity and responsibility while adhering to ethics and standards of the cybersecurity profession

Regulations and Policies

Students of the program are subject to the graduate studies regulations approved by Jouf University, which govern academic and administrative matters, including registration, course add/drop, withdrawal and deferment, academic warning, and graduation requirements.

Program Structure

The program consists of 33 credit hours, divided into four levels, including mandatory and optional courses.

Level One

• CS 611 - Cryptography for Cyber and Network Security (mandatory)
• CS 613 - Information Governance (mandatory)
• CS 612 - Security Risk Analysis Management System (mandatory)

Level Two

• CS 624 - Security of Mobile Systems (optional)
• CS 625 - Network Security (optional)
• CS 615 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing (mandatory)
• CS 614 - Secure Programming (mandatory)

Level Three

• CS 621 - Security of Cloud Computing Systems (optional)
• CS 696 - Selected Topics in Cyber Security (optional)
• CS 622 - Security of Operating Systems (optional)
• CS 623 - Security of Database Management Systems (optional)
• CS 616 - Digital Crime and Forensics (mandatory)

Level Four

• CS 698 - Research Project (mandatory)

Admission Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field from a recognized university
• Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.25 out of 5, or 2.25 out of 4, or 65 out of 100
• Pass the personal interview conducted by the academic department
• Achieve a minimum score of 60 in the General Aptitude Test for University Graduates
• Achieve a minimum score of 67 in the STEP English Language Test or its equivalent

Admission Competitive Weighting

Admission decisions are based on the following weighted criteria:

• Bachelor's cumulative GPA: 60%
• General Aptitude Test for University Graduates: 40%

Language and Study Mode

• Language of Instruction: English
• Mode of Study: On-campus (Face-to-face)
• Study Period: Morning and Evening
• Program Duration: Two years

Application Procedure

1. Submit the application electronically via the Graduate Studies Admission Portal at Jouf University
2. Upload all required documents during the announced application period
3. Admission results are announced through the official university channels