Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Updated June 5, 2023
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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
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Clinton, Mississippi College offers an online master's in cybersecurity and information assurance. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing learners for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, graduates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a cybersecurity background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees complete internships locally to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Mississippi College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 42%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity and information assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250
#2 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#3 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
University of Charleston
Charleston, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#4 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- 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
#5 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#6 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online degree can enroll in the master's in cybersecurity program at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can help graduates advance in their current career or pursue a new career entirely.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in cybersecurity. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program recommends a background in cybersecurity or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#7 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#8 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Webster University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#9 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
DeSales University
Center Valley, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#10 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#11 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Robert Morris University
Moon Township, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#12 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Champlain College
Burlington, VT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#13 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Stevenson University
Stevenson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Stevenson, Maryland, Stevenson University hosts a top-rated online master's in cybersecurity and digital forensics. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares enrollees for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to cybersecurity. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants who majored in cybersecurity or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Stevenson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity and digital forensics
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,040
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,040
#14 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Valparaiso, Indiana, Valparaiso University offers an online master's in cybersecurity. The rigorous curriculum prepares learners for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on cybersecurity. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in cybersecurity or a related field.
Online enrollees can add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through networking events.
Valparaiso University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,700
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,700
#15 Best Online Master’s in Cybercrime
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
The online master's in cybersecurity technology, offered by University of Maryland Global Campus from its Adelphi campus, ranks as a top degree. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing students for leadership positions. A master's degree helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to cybersecurity technology. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants without a background in cybersecurity may need to complete prerequisites.
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.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity technology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,862
Online Master's in Cybercrime Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
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Featured Online Master's in Cybercrime Programs
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.
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.
Forensic Science Technicians
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $59,150 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 14% |
Forensic science technicians collect and analyze evidence for various crimes. They follow proper legal procedures when gathering evidence and then analyze that evidence and information, often in a laboratory. Cybersecurity professionals often work in digital forensics, investigating cybercriminals and cybercrimes, like fraud and identity theft.
Employers typically require a bachelor's degree and specialized investigative training. Technicians pursuing work for police departments may need to become police officers, which requires police academy training. Candidates need strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Private Detectives and Investigators
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $50,510 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 8% |
Private detectives and investigators seek out information on people, activities, and crimes. They research legal matters and personal backgrounds for organizations, lawyers, and individuals, collecting evidence for their clients.
For employment, investigators usually need a relevant degree and industry experience. To gain experience, many private detectives first work in a legal profession. Most states require licensure for private investigators, and industry certification may help candidates find employment.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $122,840 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 15% |
Computer information research scientists develop new technologies and advancements for existing technologies. They often begin with a problem or inefficiency and then research or develop solutions. They design new computing methods, test their inventions, analyze results, and publish their findings.
These scientists usually need a master's degree in a computer-related field for employment, though some employers accept applicants with bachelor's degrees. Industry certifications can improve a candidate's employability, but employers typically place more value on experience. These professionals need strong analytical, mathematics, and communication skills.
Information Security Analysts
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $99,730 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 31% |
Information security analysts protect organizations' computer systems from internal and external threats. They establish protections, create backups, test for vulnerabilities, and investigate suspicious activities. If a cyberattack occurs, analysts collect evidence and provide reports to management and the authorities.
While some employers prefer to hire professionals with master's degrees, many bachelor's-level candidates can also find employment. Though not required, information security professionals often pursue industry certifications to add more credentials to their resumes. Employers commonly seek out candidates with experience in leadership or network administration.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $146,360 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 10% |
Computer and information systems managers oversee computer-related activities and personnel within an organization. They ensure that all equipment receives proper maintenance, upgrades, and security. They also assess companies' technological needs and suggest improvements.
Computer systems managers typically need at least a bachelor's degree, though many employers prefer master's degrees. Management roles usually require substantial experience, and industry certifications also help bolster a candidate's credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Get a Master's in Cybercrime?
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.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Cybercrime?
With a master's in cybersecurity, graduates can pursue computer and information technology occupations. BLS data projects an 11% job growth rate in the sector from 2019-2029.
What Are the Top Five Math Careers?
Which math career is the best depends on individual job-seekers. The highest-paid math careers are mathematicians and statisticians; economists; financial analysts; actuaries; and computer systems analysts.
Is It Worth It to Get a Master's Degree in Cybercrime?
BLS projections indicate a 31% job growth rate for information security analysts from 2019-2029, with a $99,730 median annual salary in 2019 -- more than double the median annual salary for all occupations.
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