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Cybersecurity M.S.

Master of Science
  • 30 Credits
  • School of Liberal Arts
  • Bronx
  • Manhattan
  • Online
  • Westchester
Students in computer class

Cybersecurity Overview

Information systems and computer networks are under constant attack from hackers, viruses and worms. The Cybersecurity Master of Science degree prepares students with the technical and analytical skills to secure data files, defend computers, shield computer networks and protect critical national electronic infrastructure. 

Learn more about computer science opportunities

Career Opportunities

Students in the cybersecurity program can pursue careers as:

  • Information system security officer 
  • Network security administrator 
  • Information security analyst
  • Forensic analyst 
  • IT auditor 
  • Information system governance officer 
  • Information assurance engineer 
  • Information assurance analyst 

Join us for our Upcoming Graduate Events

Join us for an upcoming graduate admissions event to learn more about our Cybersecurity program and explore how Mercy can help you meet your goals. 

RSVP for an event today. 

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32% Growth

Career Outcomes

Career outcomes are expected to rise 32% through 2028*
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$122K Salary

Average Pay

For information security analysts in the New York region*
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30 Credits

Total Credits to Earn Your Degree

Classes in forensic computing, wireless communication & security and applied cryptography
Computer Science Mercy advantage

The Mercy Advantage

  • Take courses on-campus, online or a hybrid of the two.
  • The program is offered fully online.
  • The National Security Agency (NSA) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recruit directly from our programs.
  • Mercy offers rolling admissions for this program.

 

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Program Outcomes

Students who graduate with a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity should be able to:

  • List the fundamental concepts of information assurance and cyber defense.
  • Identify the vulnerabilities in network infrastructures, and monitor the attack activities.
  • Describe proactive/reactive protocols, tools and techniques, apply the countermeasures.
  • Produce secure software components and perform software security analysis.
  • Describe cryptographic protocols, tools and techniques and apply crypto algorithms.
  • List applicability of laws and policies and describe the compliances and their impacts.

Application Requirements

Qualifications: Applicants must demonstrate foundational knowledge in computer science, which includes proficiency in any programming language, as well as an understanding of operating systems and computer networks. 

Prerequisites: Prerequisites are deemed fulfilled under the following conditions: 

  • The candidate holds a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. 
  • The candidate has earned an undergraduate degree in one of the following fields: Computer Science (CS), Cybersecurity (CSEC), Computer Information Systems (CIS), Information Science (IS), Information Technology (IT), Computer Networking (CN), Computer Engineering (CE), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Electrical Engineering (EE), or a related program that covers the aforementioned courses. 

Candidates whose degrees are not in the specified majors but who can demonstrate mastery of the foundational knowledge may also be considered. Acceptable proofs of competence include: 

  • A certificate from the NYU Tandon Bridge program for non-STEM majors. 
  • Verified coursework from accredited institutions such as universities, colleges, or community colleges. 
  • Certificates from recognized online platforms like Coursera or EDX, subject to evaluation.

Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit at least one letter of recommendation from an individual qualified to assess their academic or professional qualifications. 

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5-Year B.S./M.S. Cybersecurity Program

Our Dual Degree Program in Cybersecurity provides talented students the opportunity to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. Graduates of this challenging but rewarding dual program go on to take leadership positions in business and in the government.

Learn More
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Bridge Program

Mercy University has partnered with the NYU Tandon Bridge Program to provide students without a background in science or computers a path toward earning their M.S. in Cybersecurity or M.S. in Computer Science degree. 

Learn More
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Cybersecurity Accolades

Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Graduates will be accepted provided they fully understand concepts and possess necessary skills in coding or scripting, computer networking and computer systems (operating systems, database systems or cloud systems) prior to or during the first semester. 

Yes. For specifics on transferred credits please speak to program director.

You must demonstrate proficiency in English. That means reading, writing, speaking and an understanding of the spoken language at a graduate level. Proficiency will be determined by a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a test(s) approved by the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Students typically complete this program in 1.5-2 years.

Program Details & Curriculum

Cybersecurity Core: 6 Credits
Application Category: 3 credits
Network Category: 3 credits
Legal/Management Category: 3 credits
Special Category: 3 credits
Major Electives: 9 credits 
Capstone: 3 credits

Total: 30 Credits

For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog. 

 

30 credits are required to earn an M.S. in Cybersecurity. Full course information is listed in our catalog.

The Master’s Project (IASP 600) is required. Students who successfully complete a Master’s Project (IASP 600) may obtain approval from the program head to complete a Master’s Thesis (IASP 601).

Download a copy of the sequence map:

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