The Best Online Master’s in Network Security
With cyber attacks and security breaches on the rise, the fields of cybersecurity and computer science offer ample opportunities for graduates with online network security degrees.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects (BLS) projects information security analyst positions to grow by 33% from 2023 through 2033, while computer and information research scientists are projected to grow by 26%, with a median annual salary of $145,080.
Earning an online master’s degree in network security suits working professionals who want to advance their skills in computer science and network security. Below, you can find some of the best programs to build valuable skills that you can apply to most industries and organizations.
Featured Network Security Programs
The Best Online Master’s in Network Security Degree Programs
The University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in information assurance can earn their degree from the University of Southern California, located in Los Angeles. The master of science in cyber security engineering program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in network security. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants who majored in cyber security or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional 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.
The University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, enrolls master's students in its online information assurance program. The master of science in cybersecurity program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in cybersecurity.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled27,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its New York City campus, New York University offers an online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cybersecurity program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to Information Assurance. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without an information assurance background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
New York University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 16%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $33,408
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $33,408
- In-State$50,684
- Out-of-state$50,684
- In-State$33,408
- Out-of-state$33,408
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate16%
- Students Enrolled52,885
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, offers a flexible online master's in network security. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in cybersecurity program. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in network security. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with a background in cybersecurity typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
- In-State$52,146
- Out-of-state$52,146
- In-State$35,181
- Out-of-state$35,181
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled24,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Robert Morris University
- Moon Township, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, Robert Morris University hosts a top-ranked master's in computer forensics program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in cybersecurity program. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in computer forensics before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Robert Morris University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
- In-State$29,930
- Out-of-state$29,930
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled4,608
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Saint Leo, Florida, Saint Leo University hosts a top-ranked master's in information assurance program. The master of science in cybersecurity program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in cybersecurity before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 72%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,296
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,296
- In-State$23,100
- Out-of-state$23,100
- In-State$7,296
- Out-of-state$7,296
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled10,912
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Western Governors University hosts a top-rated online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cybersecurity and information assurance program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in information assurance may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,500
- In-State$6,380
- Out-of-state$6,380
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled136,139
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
University of Detroit Mercy
- Detroit, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Detroit, Michigan, University of Detroit Mercy offers an online master's in information assurance. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in information assurance in cybersecurity program. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on prior experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Detroit Mercy at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $29,268
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,268
- In-State$28,840
- Out-of-state$28,840
- In-State$29,268
- Out-of-state$29,268
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled5,080
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online information assurance degree can enroll in the master's program at Sam Houston State University, located in Huntsville, Texas. The master of science in information assurance and cybersecurity program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$15,984
- In-State$5,765
- Out-of-state$13,361
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled21,558
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in information assurance program at DePaul University, located in Chicago, offers a flexible online format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in cybersecurity program. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in information assurance 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 also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
- In-State$40,551
- Out-of-state$40,551
- In-State$19,584
- Out-of-state$19,584
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled22,064
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online network security degree can enroll in the master's program at Lewis University, located in Romeoville, Illinois. The master of science in cybersecurity program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with prior experience in network security or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Lewis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,400
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,400
- In-State$33,270
- Out-of-state$33,270
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled6,359
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Florida Institute of Technology
- Melbourne, FL
- 4 year
- Online
Florida Institute of Technology, located in Melbourne, offers a flexible online master's in information assurance. The master of business administration in cybersecurity builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program builds on prior information assurance experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Florida Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 99%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,128
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,128
- In-State$12,240
- Out-of-state$12,240
- In-State$16,128
- Out-of-state$16,128
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled1,841
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in La Jolla, California, National University hosts a top-rated online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cybersecurity program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in information assurance. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without an information assurance background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
National University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,480
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,480
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- In-State$15,480
- Out-of-state$15,480
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled16,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Dallas
- Irving, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Dallas, located in Irving, Texas, enrolls master's students in its online information assurance program. The master of science in cybersecurity program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of Dallas at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $33,750
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $33,750
- In-State$39,680
- Out-of-state$39,680
- In-State$33,750
- Out-of-state$33,750
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled2,481
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- Online
From its campus in Adelphi, University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online master's in computer forensics. The master of science in cybersecurity technology program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to cybersecurity topics, including computer forensics. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in cybersecurity before applying to the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,862
- In-State$7,200
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$8,640
- Out-of-state$11,862
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled58,281
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Washington, City University of Seattle hosts a top-ranked master's in information assurance program. The master of science in cybersecurity program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the information assurance field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
City University of Seattle at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,430
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,430
- In-State$13,120
- Out-of-state$13,120
- In-State$11,430
- Out-of-state$11,430
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,960
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment80%
- AccreditationYes
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in information assurance can earn their degree from Bellevue University, located in Bellevue, Nebraska. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in cybersecurity program. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in information assurance before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,530
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,530
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$7,176
- In-State$10,530
- Out-of-state$10,530
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,637
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
Mercy College
- Dobbs Ferry, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online information assurance degree can enroll in the master's program at Mercy College, located in Dobbs Ferry, New York. The master of science in cybersecurity program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in information assurance or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Mercy College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,146
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,146
- In-State$18,934
- Out-of-state$18,934
- In-State$16,146
- Out-of-state$16,146
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled10,557
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Dakota State University
- Madison, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Madison, South Dakota, Dakota State University hosts a top-rated online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cyber defense program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in information assurance and cyber defense. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Cyber Defense
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,939
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,088
- In-State$7,541
- Out-of-state$10,611
- In-State$5,939
- Out-of-state$11,088
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled3,268
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Coastal Carolina University
- Conway, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in information assurance program, offered by Coastal Carolina University from its Conway campus in South Carolina, ranks as a top program. The master of science in information systems technology program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in information assurance.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Coastal Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Systems Technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,674
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,746
- In-State$11,460
- Out-of-state$27,214
- In-State$10,674
- Out-of-state$19,746
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled10,484
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Methodolgy
We selected the following programs based on their quality and the range of courses they offer, as well as awards, rankings, and reputation.
Why Get a Master’s in Network Security?
Employers in computer science and security typically determine candidates’ pay rates based on their education level. The field offers lucrative employment opportunities to bachelor’s graduates with online network security degrees; graduates can land jobs as computer programmers and network and computer systems administrators. These professionals earn median salaries of $99,700 and $95,360, respectively, according to the BLS.
Advanced degrees benefit working professionals who want to land higher–paying managerial jobs as computer and information systems managers. Computer and information systems managers must hold master’s degrees, and they earn a median annual salary of $169,510, according to the BLS. A master’s degree gives these graduates the platform to publish their research in journals or speak at conferences.
Individuals who want to work as professors at universities need a Ph.D. To learn more about potential salaries and careers for graduates with online network security degrees, read below.
Network Security Concentrations
Students can hone specific career skills by concentrating in a specific area of study, such as homeland security, emergency management, or information assurance. Read on to learn more about common concentration options for an online network security degree.
- Homeland Security
- A homeland security concentration teaches students to apply computer systems security practices to a career in homeland security. Students take classes in terrorism response, weapons of mass destruction, and homeland security.
- Careers this concentration prepares for: This concentration prepares students for careers in computer systems security at the Department of Homeland Security.
- Digital Forensics
- A digital forensics concentration gives students the knowledge and skills to detect security breaches and prevent cyber attacks. The coursework also teaches students to recover data.
- Careers this concentration prepares for: The tools students develop in a digital forensics concentration prepare them for jobs as information security analysts and computer and information research scientists.
- Information Assurance
- The information assurance concentration focuses on how to safely manage computer systems and store data. Students take classes to learn programming in Python, UNIX, and C++.
- Careers this concentration prepares for: The programming skills students learn in an information assurance concentration help them in positions as computer network architects and software developers.
- Secure Programming
- The classes offered in a secure programming concentration focus on cybersecurity protocols. Students learn to assess networks and systems and conduct audits and assessments. They also gain an understanding of common security breaches.
- Careers this concentration prepares for: A secure programming concentration gives students the skills to work as information security analysts.
- Analysis
- Students enrolled in an analysis concentration take classes in hacking and digital forensics. These classes introduce students to data–driven analysis and computation.
- Careers this concentration prepares for: After taking this concentration, students can work in government and corporations as intelligence analysts and computer systems analysts.
Courses in an Online Master’s in Network Security Program
Online master’s degrees in network security prepare students for integral positions ensuring the safety of an organization’s networks and electronic data. A typical master’s in network security includes advanced training in computer engineering, principles of information security, and disaster recovery. Coursework in computer communication networking familiarizes students with network design, routing, and transmission.
A solid foundation in network and computer systems operations allows students to pursue careers in IT security, systems management, and network administration. Many programs feature coursework in digital forensics, which prepares graduates for careers in law enforcement and intelligence operations.
Computer engineering and business programs often offer network security as a concentration, as well. Students who take courses in network security through an MBA program gain skills in business strategies and finance, plus knowledge of corporate IT security management. A network security emphasis as part of an engineering degree often features coursework in operating system design and systems theories.
Most programs offer electives that cater to specific career interests such as electronic commerce or telemarketing. Students usually complete a thesis or final project in addition to core coursework.
- Advanced Computer Networking
- In an advanced computer networking course, students build on their knowledge of computer networking, algorithms, and statistical probability theory. Through hands–on experiments, students learn to design network and security simulations and conduct network research. This class covers topics such as cryptography, DDoS defense, wireless and cloud security risks, and mobile communications.
- Forensics
- A course in forensics teaches students the advanced investigative techniques used in computer forensics. Students get hands–on experience setting up a forensics lab. They learn how to use forensics hardware and software. Coursework also covers email investigations, data acquisition, and data recovery. As a prerequisite, students must understand how to install and remove software.
- Ethical Hacking and Network Defense
- Companies hire ethical hackers to hack into their systems so they can better understand their computer network systems’ vulnerabilities. This class teaches students how to assess network risks and conduct penetration tests to help uncover operating system weaknesses. Students also learn techniques for hacking wireless networks and web servers.
- Network Administration
- A class in network administration gives students the tools to work as networking administrators, who operate networking connections. Students learn to configure and install network operating systems through hands–on assignments. They learn to back up storage, access files, and conduct server management.
- Information Systems Security
- An information systems security course teaches students how to implement security solutions to protect networks. Students learn to spot potential security threats and conduct risk analysis. In the course, learners conduct experiments to better understand security architecture.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Network Security?
Full–time students can expect to graduate from an online master’s degree in network security program within two years. A full–time course load consists of at least nine credits, or three classes each semester. Students who take additional classes each term or semester may graduate more quickly.
Many students can only take classes on a part–time basis, meaning they may take longer than two years to earn their online master’s degree in network security. Enrollment status also impacts the total cost of college. Tuition typically costs more for part–time students because they take longer to complete their degrees, and some schools charge higher per–credit tuition rates to part–time learners. The average online network security degree requires students to complete 30 to 36 credits. Programs with more credits may take longer to complete.
Students may graduate sooner if they transfer graduate–level credits from an accredited college. Accelerated programs also allow students to graduate in less than two years.
Network Security Salary Information
Graduates with online master’s degrees in network security find employment in several different industries. They may provide services for schools, large corporations, or nonprofit agencies. Duties include installing and maintaining local and wide area networks, fortifying network impenetrability, and helping users navigate computer software.
- Information Security Analyst
- Information security analysts work daily to protect their company’s computer systems and networks. Their duties include implementing security enhancements and documenting security breaches. Employers accept candidates with bachelor’s degrees, but they may prefer applicants with master’s degrees. Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $64,000
- Mid-Career: $86,000
- Experienced: $89,000
- Late Career: $98,000
- Senior Systems Administrator
- Senior systems administrators oversee the IT department and systems administrators. They manage a company’s computer systems and servers. Their duties include fixing computer system problems and installing hardware. Typically, they begin their careers in system administration, computer engineering, or programming. Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $68,000
- Mid-Career: $89,000
- Experienced: $97,000
- Late Career: $101,000
- Computer Network Architect
- Computer network architects, sometimes called network engineers, design communication networks. They also recommend hardware and software upgrades. A bachelor’s degree suffices for most employers, but some prefer a master’s degree. Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $70,000
- Mid-Career: $116,000
- Experienced: $135,000
- Late Career: $143,000
- Software Developer
- Software developers design and create applications and software. They oversee the process from beginning to end and solve problems that arise with the software. Most begin their careers writing code. These professionals work for software companies and finance and engineering companies. Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $69,000
- Mid-Career: $91,000
- Experienced: $102,000
- Late Career: $106,000
Source: PayScale
