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  • Online Master’s in Computer Security & Privacy

    Master of Science in Computer Security & Privacy

    From the software that runs global finance and electronic commerce, to the technology that controls smartphones and medical devices, all data is susceptible to malware. Drexel’s online Master’s in Computer Security & Privacy provides the computer science, information science, cybersecurity, and software engineering fundamentals necessary to address the increasing need for information security and privacy expertise. The curriculum in the master’s in information security online program combines foundational courses in programming, data algorithms, and cryptography with electives in advanced operating systems, software architecture, artificial intelligence, and more, to provide well-rounded knowledge in the domain of computer security and privacy.

    MS In Computer Security & Privacy Program Features

    Drexel’s master’s in computer security online is designed for working professionals, so you can earn your degree on your own time to fit your busy schedule. The customizable curriculum allows you to focus on specific areas in which you would like to excel. Other program features include:

    • 100% online
    • 45-credit program can be completed in as little as 2 years
    • Learn from respected faculty in Drexel’s College of Computing & Informatics
    • Transfer credits from related certificate programs directly to the MS in Computer Security & Privacy

    Requirements for The Computer Security & Privacy Master’s Program

    Those with a prior degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM degree plus work experience are best suited for the master’s in computer security online program. Those with a non-computer science background may have to take additional prerequisites. The best candidates for this program will have:

    • Both a bachelor’s degree in a related field and relevant work experience
    • A GPA of 3.0 or higher*
    • One letter of recommendation­­

    *The program may offer provisional admission to those with a GPA lower than 3.0

    Does the MS in Computer Security & Privacy Require Coding?
    Basic programming knowledge and strong analytic skills, such as those obtained through undergraduate math courses, are required for Drexel’s master’s in information security online. Technical skills should align with the Graduate Certificate in Computer Science to be best prepared for advanced computer science courses.

    What Can I Do with A Masters In Computer Security & Privacy?

    Information technology and data have dominated the physical, economic, health, and cultural aspects of the modern world. Drexel’s online master’s in computer security prepares you to face security and data privacy challenges across myriad industries in positions such as:

    • Computer and Information Systems Manager
    • Computer Network Analyst
    • Cyber Risk Manager
    • Information Security Analyst
    • IT Network Security Engineer
    • Network and Computer Systems Administrator
    • Network Security Architect

    MS in Computer Security & Privacy Salary Expectations

    A master’s in computer security online prepares you for jobs in a field that is expected to grow 33% by 2023, much faster than average for all occupations. While salaries across the computing security field can vary based on exact title, location, and years of experience, below are average annual salaries for related job titles:

    • Computer and Information Systems Manager - $159,010
    • Computer Network Analyst - $99,043
    • Cyber Risk Manager - $159,010
    • Information Security Analyst - $102,600
    • IT Network Security Engineer - $102,600
    • Network and Computer Systems Administrator - $80,600
    • Network Security Architect - $120,515

    Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/ (visited October 2022)

    Related Programs


    Drexel University offers a variety of Graduate Minors that can be added to any master's degree program.
    State restrictions may apply to some programs.

    Curriculum

    This program is organized into four 10-week quarters per year (as opposed to the traditional two semester system) which means you can take more courses in a shorter time period. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.

    Core Courses
    CS 523 Cryptography 3.0
    CS 543 Operating Systems 3.0
    CS 544 Computer Networks 3.0
    CS 590 Privacy 3.0
    CS 645 Network Security 3.0
    SE 578 Security Engineering 3.0
    Major Specific Electives 15.0
    Choose 5:
    CS 510
    Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
    CS 613
    Machine Learning
    CS 615
    Deep Learning
    CS 647
    Distributed Systems Software
    CS 660
    Data Analysis at Scale
    CT 605
    Cloud Security and Virtual Environments
    CT 620
    Security, Policy and Governance
    INFO 517
    Principles of Cybersecurity
    INFO 710
    Information Forensics
    SE 575
    Software Design
    SE 576
    Software Reliability and Testing
    SE 577
    Software Architecture
    Flexible Electives 12.0
    Choose 4 additional courses, which may include:
    Any graduate-level course within the College (CI, CS, CT, DSCI, INFO, SE)
    Up to 6 credits of independent study
    Up to 6 credits of related graduate-level coursework outside of the College, with prior approval by the College
    Optional Coop Experience  0-1
    COOP 500
    Career Management and Professional Development for Master's Degree Students
    Total Credits 45.0-46.0

    View Course Descriptions

    Admissions Criteria

    • A four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or an equivalent international institution
      • Those without a prior degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM degree plus work experience equal to Drexel's Gradute Certificate in Computer Science Foundations may have to take additional prerequisites before pursuing advanced computer science courses
    • 3.0 GPA preferred in a prior completed degree, bachelors or above

    Required Documents

    With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.

    • A completed application
    • Official final transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions attended (including trade schools)
      • For those who have attended an institution outside of the US, it's highly recommended to submit a NACES approved course-by-course transcript evaluation (i.e., WES) for expedited review of your application. This approved evaluation will take the place of the transcript requirement to complete your application.
    • One letter of recommendation required, two suggested (academic, professional, or both)
    • Essay/Statement of Purpose
      • In approximately 500 words, describe what professional goals you hope to achieve, how an advanced degree facilitates that success, and anything else you want the Admissions Review Board to know about you.
    • Resume
    • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores (must be five years old or less) are not required but recommended for international students and domestic students below a 3.0 GPA
    • Additional requirements for International Students

    Tuition

    The tuition rate for the academic year 2023-2024 is $1396 per credit.

    For the academic year 2023-2024, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.

    This program is eligible for Financial Aid.

     

    Academic Calendar

    2023-2024 Academic Year

    Term

    Classes Begin

    Classes End

    Exams Begin

    Exams End

    Fall 2023

    September 26, 2023

    December 9, 2023

    December 11, 2023

    December 16, 2023

    Winter 2024

    January 8, 2024

    March 16, 2024

    March 18, 2024

    March 23, 2024

    Spring 2024

    April 1, 2024

    June 8, 2024

    June 10, 2024

    June 15, 2024

    Summer 2024

    June 24, 2024

    August 31, 2024

    September 3, 2024

    September 7, 2024

     

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