If you have an analytical mind and enjoy sleuthing and detective work, HCU has a new online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program for you. Launching in Fall 2023, the graduate degree program will provide the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills to detect cyber threats and online vulnerabilities.
Curriculum for the program was developed by Dr. Justin Joshuva and Dr. Steve Lyford, with input from engineering faculty and College of Science and Engineering Advisory Board members with extensive expertise in the field in response to growing need in the industry.
A projected 2 million cybersecurity professionals are needed to protect the computer networks, databases, software and computer programs, cloud computing, individual workstations and operational technology of businesses of all sizes.
“I’m pleased to see the launch of this new cybersecurity degree program that will help us upskill the workforce desperately needed to meet cyber threats facing our world today. Because of our Christian mission, HCU is well-positioned to graduate cyber professionals who have been taught and challenged to confront the ethical considerations of their profession from the time they enter our programs,” said Dr. Katie Evans, HCU Dean of the College of Science & Engineering.
Graduates earning the HCU MS Cybersecurity degree will gain knowledge in focused areas surrounding cybersecurity, including:
- Cryptography
- Cybersecurity regulations and assurance
- Network security and defense
- Cloud Security
- Wireless and IoT security
- Ethical hacking, and
- Penetration testing
These topics will be taught with a project-driven approach using labs to familiarize the students not only with the different aspects of cybersecurity but also how to apply what they have learned to make better cybersecurity professionals after they graduate.
HCU students will have Christian ethics and forethought integrated into their understanding of the cybersecurity industry. Each topic will include Christian ethics to ensure that our graduates are the best addition to society and to this industry.
A variety of positions are available in the cybersecurity field, including Information Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Operations Operator, End User Support, IT auditor, Software developer, Cybersecurity Consultant, Network technician and System Administrator.
To be eligible to apply for admission for HCU’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity Online degree program, candidates need:
- A 3.0-grade point average (unconditionally); 2.5 (conditionally – students will need to achieve 3.0 in first 5+ hours)
- A professional resume
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution
- A minimum of 2 years of industry experience in Computer Programming, Computer Networks or Operating Systems
- 18 credit hours of Computer Science/Information Systems courses in a STEM-related field (for students)
- Proficiency in the above courses (for students with non-STEM related degrees)
Interested students or professionals also will need references from a college professor or an employer/supervisor. International students who meet the applicable criteria must also successfully complete the English Proficiency Test to apply for admission.