Cybersecurity (M.S.)

Information systems and computer networks are under constant attack from hackers, viruses and worms. The cybersecurity master of science degree prepares students with the technical and analytical skills to secure data files, defend computers, shield computer networks and protect critical national electronic infrastructure.

Career Opportunities
Students in the cybersecurity program can pursue careers as:

• Information system security officer 
• Network security administrator 
• Information security analyst
• Forensic analyst 
• IT auditor 
• Information system governance officer 
• Information assurance engineer 
• Information assurance analyst 

The Mercy Advantage

• Take courses on-campus, online or a hybrid of the two.
• The program is offered fully online.
• The National Security Agency (NSA) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recruit directly from our programs.
• Mercy offers rolling admissions for this program. 

Program Outcomes
Students who graduate with a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity should be able to:

• List the fundamental concepts of information assurance and cyber defense.
• Identify the vulnerabilities in network infrastructures, and monitor the attack activities.
• Describe proactive/reactive protocols, tools and techniques, apply the countermeasures.
• Produce secure software components and perform software security analysis.
• Describe cryptographic protocols, tools and techniques and apply crypto algorithms.
• List applicability of laws and policies and describe the compliances and their impacts.

Application Requirements

• Qualifications: Applicants must demonstrate foundational knowledge in computer science, which includes proficiency in any programming language, as well as an understanding of operating systems and computer networks. 

Prerequisites: Prerequisites are deemed fulfilled under the following conditions: 

• The candidate holds a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. 
• The candidate has earned an undergraduate degree in one of the following fields: Computer Science (CS), Cybersecurity (CSEC), Computer Information Systems (CIS), Information Science (IS), Information Technology (IT), Computer Networking (CN), Computer Engineering (CE), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Electrical Engineering (EE), or a related program that covers the aforementioned courses. 

Candidates whose degrees are not in the specified majors but who can demonstrate mastery of the foundational knowledge may also be considered. Acceptable proofs of competence include: 

• A certificate from the NYU Tandon Bridge program for non-STEM majors. 
• Verified coursework from accredited institutions such as universities, colleges, or community colleges. 
• Certificates from recognized online platforms like Coursera or EDX, subject to evaluation.
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit at least one letter of recommendation from an individual qualified to assess their academic or professional qualifications.