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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.

    Foundation Courses or Additional Electives 12.0
    Foundation Courses for those without a CS or SE Background
    CS 501
    Introduction to Programming
    CS 502
    Data Structures and Algorithms
    CS 503
    Systems Basics
    CS 504
    Introduction to Software Design
    Electives that can be taken in lieu of Foundation Courses
    CS 510
    Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
    CS 643
    Advanced Operating Systems
    CS 647
    Distributed Systems Software
    CS 660
    Data Analysis at Scale
    SE 575
    Software Design
    SE 576
    Software Reliability and Testing
    SE 577
    Software Architecture
    Required CS Courses
    CS 543 Operating Systems 3.0
    CS 544 Computer Networks 3.0
    CS 613 Machine Learning 3.0
    CS 615 Deep Learning 3.0
    Required Security & Privacy Courses
    CS 523 Cryptography 3.0
    CS 590 Privacy 3.0
    CS 645 Network Security 3.0
    CT 605 Cloud Security and Virtual Environments 3.0
    CT 620 Security, Policy and Governance 3.0
    INFO 710 Information Forensics 3.0
    SE 578 Security Engineering 3.0
    Total Credits 45.0

    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 Computer Science graduate certificate 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, 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 are not required, but recommended for international students and domestic students with a GPA below 3.0.
      • GRE scores must be five years old or less
    • Additional requirements for International Students

    Tuition

    The tuition rate for the academic year 2022-2023 is $1396 per credit.

    This program is eligible for Financial Aid.

     

    Academic Calendar

    2022-2023 Academic Year

    Term

    Classes Begin

    Classes End

    Exams Begin

    Exams End

    Fall 2022

    September 19, 2022

    December 3, 2022

    December 5, 2022

    December 10, 2022

    Winter 2023

    January 9, 2023

    March 18, 2023

    March 20, 2023

    March 25, 2023

    Spring 2023

    April 3, 2023

    June 10, 2023

    June 12, 2023

    June 17, 2023

    Summer 2023

    June 26, 2023

    September 2, 2023

    September 4, 2023

    September 9, 2023

     

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