Defend the digital frontier
You want to protect vital data networks and stand between global organizations and malicious hackers. A Master of Science in cyber security arms you with advanced technical skills to predict, prevent and neutralize sophisticated cyber threats. You'll graduate ready to step into high-demand, lucrative leadership roles in private corporations, defense sectors and government intelligence agencies.
Master defense analytics
Our hands-on approach puts you face-to-face with complex, real-world security challenges in a state-of-the-art laboratory environment. You'll learn how to audit network infrastructures, reverse-engineer malware and manage digital forensic investigations while navigating modern privacy laws. The curriculum moves beyond simple coding to train you as a strategic security architect.
Choose your track
Both are 36-credit-hour tracks. Both options deliver the comprehensive technical foundation needed to stand out in the tech industry. Choose based on your career timeline and ultimate professional goals.
- Thesis option: Focuses heavily on advanced data research and academic methodology. Choose this option if you want to continue your education in a doctoral program or pursue advanced research and development careers.
- Non-thesis option: Focuses on extra elective coursework in specialized technical topics. Choose this option if you're a working professional who wants to maximize your immediate corporate career advancement opportunities.
Applying to the cyber security master's program
Requirements for admission
To be eligible for consideration into the program, you must:
- meet the SFA Graduate School requirements
- achieve a 3.0 GPA or higher overall on any applicable leveling courses
- and be one of the following:
- in your final year of undergraduate work
- holding a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- or have 95 or more semester hours of undergraduate work at SFA and be approved as an overlap student.
If you don't meet the minimum requirements, you may be admitted on a provisional basis under the guidance of the graduate studies advisor.
Ready to complete your application?
To get started, apply to the Graduate School.
See curriculum
RequirementsAre courses face-to-face?
Yes.
What are my capstone options?
There are two options.
1. Non-thesis track with a comprehensive exam
2. Research thesis
How long will it take?
As little as one year, depending on your undergraduate degree.
Questions?
Get in touch! We're here to help.
Department of Computer Science
Cole STEM Building, Suite 312