Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Specialized degree to protect our digital world.
Drawing on faculty from both the information technology and the computer science programs at UW-Whitewater, the Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an interdisciplinary degree that will allow students to develop deep expertise in current cybersecurity issues. All courses in the program are focused on cybersecurity, and the curriculum has been designed to align with the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) program, which is jointly sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. The goal of the CAE program is to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education and expertise in cyber defense.
Why UW-Whitewater Online?
- Asynchronous program lets you learn day or night
- Build connections through online assignments and discussion boards
- Strong alumni network
- AACSB Accredited - 50 years of continuous accreditation
Fully Online
No requirements to come to campus.
CAE Aligned Curriculum
Aligns with the National Centers of Academic Excellence program.
Advanced Skill Development
In current issues.
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
The MS in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit program. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you.
For a comprehensive overview of the program structure and required courses, please refer to the Graduate Catalog.
To qualify for admission to the online master’s program, you must meet graduate admission criteria.
Deadlines vary by term and are subject to change without notice. Accurate and up-to-date admission deadlines can be found on the graduate admission deadlines website.
If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please email us to determine if you could be admitted on a contingent basis.
International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for information and assistance.
From the theft of personal data to threats against critical infrastructure systems, cybersecurity is a national concern impacting businesses as well as government agencies. Because of these rapidly growing threats, there is a shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals.
Recent data from CyberSeek—a project supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce, and National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education—showed that there were nearly 1.2 million persons employed in cybersecurity and that there were over 440,000 additional job openings, while in Wisconsin there were over 11,000 persons employed in cybersecurity and nearly 4,500 additional job openings.1
In addition, CyberSeek's national data showed the average salary for a Cybersecurity Engineer was $136,000 and the average salary for a Cybersecurity Manager/Administrator was $160,000.2
1CyberSeek.org Cybersecurity Supply/Demand Heat Map
2CyberSeek.org Cybersecurity Career Pathway
This graduate program at UW-Whitewater are a superior value at $695 USD per credit for the 2024-25 academic year — whether you are a Wisconsin resident, an out-of-state student, or international student within the major. Additional fees and non-resident tuition may apply to other courses. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.
Course materials
Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.
Financial aid
Students completing a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.
Like to learn more about degree options through UW-Whitewater School of Graduate Studies? There are a few ways you can get the information you need.
Visit our information sessions website to select a virtual information session related to the program you are interested in.
You can also fill out a request for information to connect with an advisor who can discuss your goals and help guide you to the right program to pursue your dreams.
Interested in taking a tour of UW-Whitewater campus? You can visit in person or virtually.
Online MS in Cybersecurity - Emphases
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program offers studies in core areas of cybersecurity that include offensive and defensive security operations, security awareness training, security tools design and implementation, cybersecurity management, security policy and law, and emerging areas in security and privacy. The proposed program offers both hands-on experiential learning and in-depth theoretical studies.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
The M.S. in Cybersecurity is designed for both professionals and recent college graduates who aspire to advance their careers in cybersecurity. The degree program consists of 30 credits, including 15 credits of core courses and 15 credits of courses in security engineering emphasis. The program will prepare students to obtain positions such as cybersecurity analyst, cybersecurity manager, cybersecurity engineer, or cybersecurity architect.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
Online Graduate Certificate Program in Cybersecurity
Designed for those who have some programming experience, the online Cybersecurity graduate certificate will give you fundamental knowledge and hands-on practice in designing, maintaining, and protecting secure computing systems.
The online Cybersecurity Management graduate certificate is designed for working professionals interested in pursuing careers in cybersecurity, such as security analysts and security managers.
