Master of Science in Cybersecurity

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Why Study Cybersecurity?

Starting Fall 2026

Our Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC) program is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. It combines technical expertise with management strategies to prepare you for leadership roles in protecting organizations from cyber threats.

What You'll Learn 

Gain skills in system and network defense, security data analytics, ethical hacking, governance, risk management, and compliance. Through a blend of technical and managerial courses, you will also develop your expertise in cybersecurity management, auditing, and incident response. You’ll be well-positioned to pursue leadership roles in corporate, government, or consultancy settings.

You have the opportunity to specialize in one of two tracks:

  • Cyber Operations and Engineering
  • Cybersecurity Management

A capstone project tailored to each track allows you to apply what you’re learning to real-world problems.

Program Details

A master's degree furthers your education upon completion of a bachelor's degree. A master's program requires a shorter period of study with a more concentrated focus on a specific subject matter. Oftentimes, a master's degree provides additional leadership opportunities and may increase earning potential.

We believe in the power of online programs to help you create your future on your terms. Our students are all over the world living their real lives, holding down jobs and caring for others, while learning their way to something better. That’s why we’ve developed a master’s program that’s 100% online. A flexible degree should have flexible options, so you can make a real difference for yourself and others, starting today.

The admission requirement for full admission to Columbia College graduate programs is a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

In addition, admission to the MS Cybersecurity program requires either a baccalaureate degree in computer science, information systems, cybersecurity, or related field

or completion of undergraduate prerequisite courses equivalent to the following with a grade of C or higher:

  • CISS 301 Operating Systems and Cloud Computing OR COSC 370 Operating Systems and
  • CISS 302 Business Data Communications and Networking OR COSC 410 Computer Networks and Communications.
  • Fundamentals of Cloud Security
  • Advanced Offensive Security
  • Security Automation and Engineering
  • Governance, Risk, and Compliance
  • Data Privacy and Security Architecture
  • Incident and Security Management

Careers & Outcomes 

Earning a master’s degree in cybersecurity opens up various career opportunities.

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.

because a future built by you is a future built for you.

Too many people have been made to feel that higher education isn’t a place for them — that it is someone else’s dream. But we change all that. With individualized attention and ongoing support, we help you write a new story for the future where you play the starring role.