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.
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:
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:
*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.
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:
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:
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/ (visited October 2022)
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.
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 | ||
| Choose 5 of the following: | 15.0 | |
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CS 510
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Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | |
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CS 589
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Responsible Machine Learning | |
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CS 613
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Machine Learning | |
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CS 615
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Deep Learning | |
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CS 616
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Robust Deep Learning | |
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CS 647
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Distributed Systems Software | |
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CS 660
|
Data Analysis at Scale | |
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CT 605
|
Cloud Security and Virtual Environments | |
|
CT 620
|
Security, Policy and Governance | |
|
INFO 517
|
Principles of Cybersecurity | |
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INFO 710
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Information Forensics | |
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SE 575
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Software Design | |
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SE 576
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Software Reliability and Testing | |
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SE 577
|
Software Architecture | |
| Flexible Electives | ||
| Choose 4 additional courses, which may include: | 12.0 | |
| Any 500-900 course in the following: | ||
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Any CI (Computing and Informatics)
|
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Any CS (Computer Science)
|
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Any CT (Computing Technology)
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Any DSCI (Data Science)
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Any INFO (Information Science & Systems)
|
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Any SE (Software Engineering)
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| 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 | |
With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.
For the academic year 2025-2026, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.
2025-2026 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Exams Begin
Exams End
Fall 2025
September 22, 2025
December 6, 2025
December 8, 2025
December 13, 2025
Winter 2026
January 5, 2026
March 14, 2026
March 16, 2026
March 21, 2026
Spring 2026
March 30, 2026
June 6, 2026
June 8, 2026
June 13, 2026
Summer 2026
June 22, 2026
August 29, 2026
August 31, 2026
September 5, 2026