Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program
Get started on your Journey
The online Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University prepares students for multiple industry certifications and professional technical management roles requiring advanced credentials.
The program has an applied focus, emphasizing learning concepts and skills that students
can put to use right away in their current jobs including:
- Database analysis, design and administration
- Networking and cloud computing architecture and security
- Security practices in developing scripts/programs
- Information assurance compliance and auditing
- Penetration testing and digital forensics
Online Cybersecurity Program Overview
The demand for cybersecurity professionals with advanced skills recognizing and assessing cybersecurity issues, planning and managing solutions, and addressing current industry challenges is at an all-time high. In fact, job growth in the field is expected to increase by at least 15 percent over the next year, much faster than the average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
OLLU’s online master’s program is designed for busy cybersecurity professionals offering:
- Fully online program with no synchronized class times – allows for maximum flexibility.
- Non-sequenced format – this allows students to set their own pace for completion. and provides for flexibility in choosing which courses to take and when to take them.
- Only 30 credit hours (10 courses) required – full-time students can complete the program in 12 months or choose their own pace.
- No GRE/MAT required.
- Small classes – allowing faculty members the time and access to mentor and guide students.
- Foundation course – allowing students with an undergraduate degree outside the field of cybersecurity to switch careers and fast-track into the cybersecurity master’s program by taking only six credit hours.
National Designation
OLLU has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) . It is part of an elite group of colleges and universities nationwide to receive the designation.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
(ACBSP). ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education,
supporting, celebrating and rewarding excellence on a diverse global scale.
Program Benefits
Customizable online curriculum
Real-world
capstone
Personalized academic & career advising
What is an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity?
OLLU's Online’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is a gateway to a flourishing career in digital safety, designed for aspiring IT professionals and technical managers. The curriculum blends theoretical learning with practical skills in vital areas like Penetration Testing, Network Security, and Computer Forensics. This program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), also prepares you for esteemed industry certifications such as CompTIA® Security+ and ISC2® CISSP.
OLLU's online format offers a flexible learning journey, accommodating your professional commitments while providing a robust educational experience. Engage with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in the CyberSaints organization, participate in real-world projects, and network with industry experts, all while preparing to safeguard the digital realm with ethical and technical proficiency.
What Will I Learn in This Cybersecurity Master’s Degree?
In the Online Master’s in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University, you will be immersed in a curriculum tailored for real-world application. The program is structured to build a strong foundation in crucial cybersecurity domains while preparing you for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA® Security+ and ISC2® CISSP. Here are key areas you will delve into:
- Database Management Systems and Networking and Cloud Computing for safeguarding data and network infrastructures.
- Hardware and Software Platforms to understand the security aspects of various technological platforms.
- Basic Scripting and Programming for cybersecurity analytics and automation.
- Cybersecurity Principles, Planning and Management for strategic cybersecurity operations.
- Information Assurance Compliance and Auditing, Penetration Testing, and Digital Forensics for ensuring compliance, identifying vulnerabilities, and investigating cybersecurity incidents respectively
Is an Online Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Worth It?
Absolutely. Enrolling in Our Lady of the Lake University's Online Master's in Cybersecurity is a wise step towards a high-paying, in-demand career. This program prepares you to tackle modern digital threats, opening doors to managerial positions with salaries ranging between $100,000 and $200,000 annually. With a projected 35% job growth rate for security analysts through 2031, the favorable job market outlook and the potential for career advancement justify the investment in this master's degree, making it a lucrative educational venture
Courses in the Online Cybersecurity Master's Degree
At OLLU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical to give you skills and knowledge that you can put to work now in your current position and to prepare for the next level in your career.
The program requires only 10 courses (30 credit hours) that can be taken in a non-sequenced format. This allows you to take courses when you want to take them. The classes are presented in an asynchronous format which means you can study on your schedule. The online cybersecurity program is composed of the following courses:
CISS 8302 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Analysis, design and administration of databases using information systems development
methodologies and tools. Overview of SQL, data warehouses, distributed access, and
security.
CISS 8304 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Networking and cloud computing architecture and security with an overview of current
technologies and solutions. Exploration of cloud architecture models, services, security
issues, virtualization technologies and logical and physical components.
CISS 8305 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Study of hardware, software and architecture platforms used to deliver enterprise
information systems. Current and emerging platform technologies supporting enterprise
applications and networked environments.
CISS 8306 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Study of creating scripts and programs to automate and perform simple operations and
implement algorithms, regular expressions, and data/control structures. Basic security
practices in developing scripts/programs.
CISS 8310 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
In-depth study of specialized topic chosen by instructor.
CISS 8310 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Advanced survey of key concepts of cybersecurity. Access control; security operations,
administration, and personnel; risk identification, monitoring and analysis; incident
response and recovery; cryptography; network and communications security; physical
and environmental security; systems and application security. Privacy, risk, ethics,
and legal regulations.
CISS 8322 - 3 CREDIT HOURS
Management of information security including planning for security and contingencies,
development and implementation of security programs. Security management models and
practices, risk management, laws and ethics.
CISS 8323 | 3 credit hours
In-depth coverage of audit planning, standards, and issues related to compliance with
applicable laws and regulations.
CISS 8324 | 3 credit hours
Introduction to methodologies, techniques, and tools for system vulnerability identification,
analysis and mitigation.
CISS 8325 | 3 CREDIT HOURS
Exploration of forensics techniques, tools, and legal requirements as they apply to
different operating systems, devices, media, and applications.
Admission Requirements
- Application (no application fee)
- An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or related technical discipline, or successful
completion of the Foundation Course
- An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0
- Official transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges or universities attended;
transcripts must include baccalaureate or higher (if applicable) degrees earned and
date conferred
- Résumé
Faculty
Full-time faculty members in the Computer Information Systems and Security (CISS) Department have extensive professional and academic experience. Most have doctoral degrees and/or professional certifications. Seasoned practitioners who teach selected courses complement full-time professors as adjunct faculty. View CISS Faculty
Vanessa Clark
Associate Professor and Chair
What Can You Do With an Online Master's Degree in Cybersecurity?
An Online Master's Degree in Cybersecurity from Our Lady of the Lake University opens doors to a multitude of career opportunities. Whether you aspire to develop secure systems, analyze vulnerabilities, or lead in cybersecurity strategy, there's a path for you.
Here are some sample job titles you might pursue:
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Network Architect
- Cybersecurity Manager
- Penetration Tester
- Digital Forensics Analyst
- Cybersecurity Compliance Officer
- Incident Responder
In these roles, you'll leverage coding skills, knowledge of operating systems, cloud services, and database management, all fortified by your advanced cybersecurity education, to protect organizations from digital threats and ensure a secure digital landscape.
Tuition & Financial Aid
The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an investment in your career. Unlike other area programs, the OLLU program allows you to continue working full-time while pursuing your degree so you don't lose valuable on-the-job experience while completing your advanced degree.
| Tuition | Costs |
|---|---|
| Our Tuition (2023–2024 rate) | $2,943 per three credit hour course |
| Average Tuition of Peer Online Institutions | $4,330 per course |
| Average Total Cost of Tuition | $29,430 |
You should begin the Financial Aid application process at the same time that you apply to the graduate program. To be considered for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov . Please list Our Lady of the Lake University, federal school code #003598, as one of the schools to receive your application information. OLLU will receive your results electronically and use them to award your financial aid.
Please note: You must be officially accepted for admission to the university before a financial aid award can be processed.
Foundation Course
Our foundation course allows students with an undergraduate degree from outside the IT field to join the program. If admitted, students will take a six-credit-hour foundation course designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the graduate program.
Center for Cyber Leadership
Students in OLLU’s Cybersecurity program have access to the University’s Center for Cyber Leadership (CCL). The center provides information about events, competitions, industry standards,
news and other available resources and opportunities.
CyberSaints
Cybersecurity students at OLLU have the opportunity to join the CyberSaints student organization. Becoming a member of the CyberSaints allows for students to network with industry professionals, participate in regional and national competitions, keep up to date on industry trends, and explore leadership opportunities, among other benefits.
CyberSaintsFAQs
A cybersecurity degree is an educational program that teaches students the skills and knowledge to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and attacks.
The length of the Online Master’s in Cybersecurity degree program can vary dependingon whether you are studying full-time or part-time. The online Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity at Our Lady of the Lake University can be complete in as little as 12 months.
Admission requirements for the Our Lady of the Lake University Online Master's in Cybersecurity include an undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or related technical discipline, a GPA of at least 3.0, official transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges attended, and a résumé. For individuals with an undergraduate degree outside the cybersecurity field, successful completion of the Foundation Course is required.
With a cybersecurity degree, you can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of cybersecurity, such as:
- Information Security Analyst
- Network Security Engineer
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester
- Security Architect
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
The cybersecurity field is generally considered stable in terms of job security. As long as cyber threats exist, there will be a need for cybersecurity professionals. According to governmental data, cybersecurity-related careers are projected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032.