In the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations program, you will engage a deeper understanding of cybersecurity analytics and operations by blending education relating to technology, incident response, strategic planning and crisis management. An M.S. degree typically opens up advanced career opportunities, both in industry and as preparation for a Ph.D.
M.S. Course Requirements
The M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations is a 30-credit degree program, which takes one to two years to complete on a full-time basis. The M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations requires a minimum of 30 credits at the 400, 500, 600, or 800 level, with at least 18 credits at the 500 or 600 series combined; 27 of the 30 credits must be earned at Penn State. Candidates will complete either a thesis or scholarly paper.
A complete discussion of degree requirements can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.
Program Milestones
In addition to coursework, the M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations program includes several milestones:
- You will select a graduate faculty member as your adviser and begin working with your adviser by mid-September of your first year.
- In conjunction with your adviser, you will determine by the end of your first semester if you will complete a thesis or scholarly paper.
- You will formally select your M.S. degree committee no later than the completion of your first year of study.
- You will defend your thesis or submit your scholarly paper for approval.
Funding Opportunities
Financial support for M.S. students is not guaranteed. In special circumstances where there are research or teaching support needs, an M.S. student may receive funding in the form of a part-time wage payroll position for up to 20 hours per week. Positions terminate at the conclusion of each semester and carry no guarantee of renewal.
For other financial aid, contact the Office of Student Aid for information on loans and grants or the Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards for information on internal and external fellowships.
Graduate Research
Our students and faculty are engaged in cutting-edge projects in a variety of research areas, collaborating extensively with scholars within and outside the college on cutting-edge interdisciplinary and trans-disciplinary research.
Our research aims to solve society’s most challenging problems that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries—from responding to natural disasters to improving human health and well-being, from protecting national security to making sense of big data, from exploring the connections between gender and technology to utilizing GIS for humanitarian efforts.
Their work is done in the college's research centers and labs, which are led by national and international scholars that cover a broad spectrum of research areas. In addition to our own facilities, we maintain relationships with related centers and labs across the Penn State campus and collaborate around the world.
Additional Resources
Office of Graduate Programs
E103 Westgate Building
University Park, PA 16802
Resident Programs
istgradprograms@psu.edu
(814) 863-0591
Online Programs
istonlinegrad@psu.edu
(814) 863-9461