Program Overview

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at Zayed University is designed to align with the UAE's Vision 2031 and key national priorities, such as fostering innovation, enhancing cyber and national security, promoting digital transformation, supporting economic development, building a knowledge-based economy, and encouraging research and development.

Program Overview

The program is crucial for addressing the growing cyber threat landscape, meeting the high demand for skilled professionals, and contributing to the protection of critical infrastructure and data. It provides students with specialized knowledge in various areas of cybersecurity, including network security, database security, digital forensics, ethical hacking, information security management, and cyber-criminal behavior.

Reasons to Enroll

There are six key reasons to enroll in the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program:

• Advanced Curriculum and Specialized Knowledge: Acquire specialized knowledge in various areas of cybersecurity.
• Focus on Practical and Applied Learning: Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on projects, real-world simulations, and industry collaborations.
• Expert Faculty and Research Opportunities: Benefit from learning under internationally experienced faculty members.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources: Access advanced labs, tools, and technologies dedicated to cybersecurity and research.
• Enhanced Career Prospects and Employability: The program provides ample job opportunities due to its strategic alignment with the UAE's national priorities.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Benefit from Zayed University's partial graduate scholarships or a full scholarship offered by the ICT Fund for UAE Nationals.

Program Details

• Program Duration: 4 semesters (on average)
• Location: Abu Dhabi and Dubai
• Credit Hours: 30
• Cost Per Credit Hour: AED 3,200

Curriculum

The rigorous curriculum integrates theory with real-world application, focusing on areas such as information and network security, digital forensics, understanding cyber-criminal behavior, and managing security systems. Students must complete a research-driven thesis, which allows them to explore complex cybersecurity challenges under the guidance of experienced faculty.

Required Courses

• SEC601 Research Methods
• SEC606 Information Security in the Digital World
• SEC615 Network and Internet Security
• SEC620 Information Security Management
• SEC625 Smart Digital Device Forensics
• SEC635 AI-Driven Cybersecurity
• SEC675 Cyber Criminal Behavior
• SEC699 Research Thesis

Elective Courses

• INS624 Architecture and Applications of Internet of Things Technologies
• SEC650 Advanced Database Security and Threat Mitigation
• SEC660 Special Topics in Cybersecurity

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of fundamental cybersecurity principles
• Conduct investigations and analyses into advanced areas of computer systems security and digital forensics
• Apply industry standards and best practices in cybersecurity management and regulatory compliance
• Critically evaluate global ethical, legal, and standardization challenges related to computer systems security
• Develop and implement cybersecurity policies, procedures, and AI-driven technical solutions
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and practical skills in designing, implementing, and managing secure computer systems and digital forensic solutions

Professional Outcomes

Graduates can find employment as information security experts in various upper-level positions in organizations, including information security management, cybersecurity specialist, network/internet security specialist, digital forensic analyst, and information security analyst.

Program Delivery

• Program Duration: 2 years
• Course Delivery Format: Full, 16-week semester
• Classes are generally scheduled on weeknights, starting at 6:00 PM

Faculty

Courses are taught by select professors from the College of Technological Innovation who are experts in their fields and possess diverse international research experience.

Program Cost

• Total of 30 credit hours at AED 3,200 per credit hour

Graduation

Students must complete all required courses in the approved program curriculum and achieve a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0.

Program Recognition

The program is recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

Program Admission Requirements

• Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Additional Requirements:
  • An interview is required

Next Steps

• Schedule a visit
• View the program study plan
• View the tuition fee payment plan
• View admission cycles and deadlines
• Start the application process
• Discover financial support opportunities