Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Cybercrime master’s degrees train candidates in math concepts, classroom technologies, research skills, cultural considerations, and the history of cybercrime.
Freshman applicants must submit high school transcripts or GED scores. Some online universities require high school prerequisites, FAFSA results, and standardized test scores. Applicants with college experience should also provide official undergraduate transcripts to receive transfer credit, lower their overall tuition bill, and reduce the time needed to graduate.
The Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime Programs
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of science in cybersecurity operations and leadership at California-based University of San Diego uses a flexible distance learning format. The program helps learners increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Master's degree-holders can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in cybersecurity. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in cybercrime or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of San Diego at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 49%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of science in cybersecurity operations and leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $27,288
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,288
- In-State$55,690
- Out-of-state$55,690
- In-State$28,854
- Out-of-state$28,854
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate47%
- Students Enrolled9,106
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
University of Charleston
- Charleston, WV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of science in cybersecurity at University of Charleston, located in West Virginia, prioritizes flexibility. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing students for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree can also lead graduates to new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to cybersecurity. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in cybersecurity before applying to the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of Charleston at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of science in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,584
- In-State$21,110
- Out-of-state$21,110
- In-State$16,600
- Out-of-state$16,600
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled2,758
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment81%
- AccreditationYes
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 year
- Online
The master of science in information security and assurance at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, offers a flexible online format. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the information security field and related industries. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without an information security background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of science in information security and assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,268
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,268
- In-State$11,640
- Out-of-state$11,640
- In-State$9,672
- Out-of-state$9,672
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate62%
- Students Enrolled12,268
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in cybersecurity offered by University of Arizona from its Tucson campus, ranks as a top degree. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training enrollees for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in cybersecurity. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in cybersecurity.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with local internships. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Arizona at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,938
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $32,065
- In-State$11,210
- Out-of-state$35,628
- In-State$12,718
- Out-of-state$32,290
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled53,187
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Illinois University
- Charleston, IL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Charleston, Eastern Illinois University hosts a top-ranked master's in cybersecurity. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing enrollees for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in cybersecurity. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in cybersecurity.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. These and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Eastern Illinois University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,356
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,654
- In-State$9,903
- Out-of-state$9,903
- In-State$8,060
- Out-of-state$19,345
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled8,804
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Webster University, located in Saint Louis, Missouri, offers a flexible online master's in cybersecurity. Enrollees prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree also helps graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on cybersecurity. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a cybersecurity background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Webster University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,500
- In-State$30,530
- Out-of-state$30,530
- In-State$13,140
- Out-of-state$13,140
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled4,324
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
DeSales University
- Center Valley, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, DeSales University offers an online master of science in cybersecurity. The program helps students move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to cybersecurity. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with a background in cybersecurity typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
DeSales University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of science in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,520
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,520
- In-State$43,000
- Out-of-state$43,000
- In-State$22,960
- Out-of-state$22,960
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled2,929
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Maryville University of Saint Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Missouri-based Maryville University of Saint Louis enrolls students in its online master's in cybersecurity program. The program helps degree-seekers move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in cybersecurity. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a degree in cybersecurity or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Maryville University of Saint Louis at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,346
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,346
- In-State$24,766
- Out-of-state$24,766
- In-State$14,346
- Out-of-state$14,346
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled9,883
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment84%
- AccreditationYes
Robert Morris University
- Moon Township, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, Robert Morris University offers an online master's in cybersecurity. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing students for leadership positions. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends a background in cybersecurity or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Robert Morris University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: Data not available
Graduate Tuition Out of State: Data not available
- In-State$33,360
- Out-of-state$33,360
- In-State$19,167
- Out-of-state$19,167
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled4,737
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Champlain College
- Burlington, VT
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Burlington, Vermont, Champlain College offers an online master's in information security. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to cybersecurity. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in cybersecurity before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify local internships. Graduate students grow their professional connections through virtual networking events.
Champlain College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master's in information security
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,310
- In-State$45,100
- Out-of-state$45,100
- In-State$10,710
- Out-of-state$10,710
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled2,228
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
What Is an Online Master’s in Cybercrime?
An online master’s in cybersecurity equips graduates with the skills to detect and protect against cyberattacks. They learn to analyze systems for vulnerabilities and investigate any suspicious or malicious activity. These programs typically take two years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated programs online.
Completing a master’s in cybersecurity most often leads to information technology occupations, including advanced positions as computer scientists and management-level professionals. Master’s degrees help learners develop expertise in different operating systems, industries, and emerging technologies. Students can specialize their degrees to focus on niche areas like digital forensics, cybersecurity law, or incident management.
Choosing an Online Master’s in Cybercrime Program
When choosing an online master’s in cybersecurity, students should consider several factors that can impact experience and outcomes. For online programs, learners should pay close attention to program length, tuition costs for in-state and out-of-state students, and residency requirements.
Cybersecurity degree-seekers should also consider each program’s curriculum, offered specializations, and practical training opportunities. It’s best to choose a program that aligns with your career goals and interests. Try making a priority list and creating your own rankings to help narrow your options.
What’s the Difference Between Cybercrime, Cybersecurity, and Computer Forensics?
An online master’s in cybersecurity typically provides similar core training and requires the same amount of time as degrees in cybercrime and computer forensics. However, cybersecurity focuses more on establishing protections and thwarting criminal activity, while cybercrime programs focus on analyzing criminal behavior. Computer forensics emphasizes investigative analysis.
These programs can lead to many of the same cybersecurity careers, such as information security analyst and computer and information systems manager. While each specialization offers unique strengths, online master’s in cybersecurity degrees are the most common, so more employers recognize the training.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Cybercrime Programs
Before deciding on a school, students should always check for accreditation. Required by most employers and financial aid organizations, regional accreditation ensures that the program meets necessary educational quality standards.
Though not always required, cybersecurity programs can also receive programmatic accreditation from ABET. Like regional accreditation, this recognition assures students and employers that the program provides training that meets or exceeds industry standards.
What Can I Expect When Pursuing a Master’s in Cybercrime Online?
Each master’s in cybersecurity offers a unique curriculum, but there are a few core topics that most programs include. The following section explores the most popular courses in cybersecurity.
Common Courses in Cybercrime Online Programs
- Information Assurance: This course covers basic concepts for protecting networks, communication, and data, including how to plan, implement, and manage security and system integrity. Students examine the most contemporary approaches to preventing, detecting, and recovering from information loss; fundamentals and applications of cryptography; and security in networks and distributed environments.
- Digital Forensics Investigation: Enrollees explore investigation practices for uncovering digital crime in computers, networks, operating systems, mobile devices, and other areas of digital forensics. Coursework covers the identification, collection, authentication, preservation, and presentation of digital forensic evidence.
- Security Risk Analysis and Planning: Degree-seekers receive training in risk analysis, disaster recovery, incident response, security controls, and business continuity. Students examine internal and external partnerships, governance, emerging threats and vulnerabilities, and security capabilities. The course also addresses risks in financial regulations and privacy.
- Network Security: Students learn to apply defensive measures to secure networks, identify the overall network security posture, and implement basic practices in vulnerability assessment. Topics include data and host security; protocols and analysis; threats and vulnerabilities; and application, access control, and identity management.
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Security: Cybersecurity professionals must understand the legal and ethical issues related to the rise of global connectivity and information sharing. Students examine confidentiality, privacy, and local, federal, and international laws. The course emphasizes government regulation, e-commerce, and e-business.
Cybercrime Professional Organizations
Professional organizations provide students and professionals with access to supportive career resources. In the cybersecurity industry, these organizations help members find employment and advance their careers. Some of the most significant professional organizations in the industry are listed below.
International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists
Established in 1989, IACIS is a leading organization for computer forensic professionals, serving over 2,200 members from more than 60 countries. The association administers certification courses, including the certified forensic computer examiner program. It also hosts a forum for information exchange on emerging cyberthreats.Information Systems Security Association
ISSA offers continuing education courses and networking opportunities for its membership of about 10,000 international cybersecurity specialists. Members receive access to professional development training, webinars, and a career center that offers services to employers and job-seekers. The organization also hosts an annual conference that attracts cybercrime experts from around the globe.Association of Certified Financial Crime Specialists
As one of the few organizations dedicated to the detection and prevention of financial crime, ACFCS offers certification, training opportunities, and networking for financial security specialists. Membership includes access to webinars, bi-weekly newsletters, and daily news briefs. ACFCS also administers the certified financial crime program for financial intelligence specialists who work in regulatory agencies and law enforcement.
Cybercrime Careers
Earning a master’s in cybersecurity opens many professional doors. The specialized training equips them for various leadership and computer information technology careers.
While graduates usually qualify for the positions listed below, some employers may require additional training or certifications. When considering jobs in cybersecurity, it’s best to check with local employers and ask about their employment requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many schools offer a master’s in cybersecurity or a related discipline, such as cybercrime or computer forensics. Some programs offer cybersecurity and cybercrime as specializations within a master’s in computer science.
