Cybersecurity

Online cybersecurity master’s degree

Master's

From phishing scams to unpatched system vulnerabilities, cybersecurity threats are a constant reality in today’s digital world.

As cyberattacks grow in frequency and sophistication, individuals and organizations alike must be prepared to defend sensitive data and critical systems.

Earning an online cybersecurity master’s degree equips you with the expertise to anticipate threats, respond effectively and protect what matters. The University of Wisconsin Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares you with in-demand skills aligned with today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Customize your degree by choosing one of two focused tracks—or expand your expertise by exploring both:

Secure Systems Design
Digital Forensics and Security Management

A program within Communication Studies

Program at a glance

Format: Online
Commitment: 2 years
Program start: Fall, Spring, Summer
Credits: 31

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Secure Systems Design

This track ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of modern digital environments. You will explore the foundations of cryptography, secure software engineering, and system architecture. Gain insight into how cryptographic tools, secure programming practices, and architectural safeguards work together to protect data and make sure the system meets the organization’s security requirements.

Digital Forensics and Security Management

This track unites digital evidence investigation with the governance and leadership needed to manage enterprise risk. You will learn how to collect and analyze digital evidence, plan and implement cybersecurity programs, and align security operations with business objectives, regulations, and incident response.

Start with core skills

Both tracks of the cybersecurity master’s begin with core coursework that builds a strong foundation in key areas such as:

Security planning
Risk assessment
Cybersecurity communication

Career outlook

Why choose UWL’s cybersecurity program?

Accredited program

Accreditation ensures your degree meets high academic and industry standards. This cybersecurity master’s program is approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission—giving you confidence that your education is both credible and career-relevant.

Collaborative program

This unique cybersecurity program is offered in partnership with multiple University of Wisconsin campuses, providing access to shared expertise and resources across a respected university system.

100% online

Access your classroom online, anywhere. You don’t need to be online at a certain time to participate in class or complete assignments.

Flexible structure to meet your goals

This two-track program structure allows you to align your studies with your professional goals and interests within the broader field of cybersecurity.

No GRE or GMAT requirement

Apply with confidence — no standardized test scores required for admission.

Featured courses

Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
CYB 700 | 3 credits
This course introduces fundamental concepts and design principles in cybersecurity. Students will understand what, why, and how to protect in the cyberworld. Topics include CIA (confidentiality, integrity, and availability), threats, attacks, defense, least privilege, access control and password management, security policies, critical controls, incident-handling and contingency planning, risk assessment and management. Consent of department. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.
Communication in Cybersecurity
CYB 720 | 3 credits
Students research, organize, and present technical information to audiences with varying goals and technical needs. There will be an emphasis on ethics, critical thinking, listening skills, and feedback to develop effective messages utilizing verbal and nonverbal communication strategies and visual aids. Individual and group presentations and projects will emulate professional scenarios in cybersecurity. Consent of department. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.
Security Architecture
CYB 770 | 3 credits
This course focuses on security architectures for the protection of information systems and data. Students completing this course can identify potential vulnerabilities in system architectures and design secure architectures. Topics include common enterprise and security architectures and their key design elements, such as secure cloud computing and virtualization infrastructures. Prerequisite: CYB 703. Consent of department. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

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Important dates

Application process

Rolling application process. To be considered for admission, all application materials must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the semester start date. View the course schedule and plan your start date.

Notification of acceptance

Continuous notification.