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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 | |
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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