City University of Seattle Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Why City University of Seattle?

City University of Seattle, a small private university in Seattle, Washington, offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Applicants to the program should hold an undergraduate degree in Information Technology or another computing-related subject such as Computer Systems, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Cybersecurity, Bachelor’s Degree. Students without the necessary technical background are required to take bridge courses prior to program enrollment.

Standardized test scores are not required, and there is no required undergraduate minimum GPA to apply.

Program Snapshot

University Name City University of Seattle
Location Seattle
State Washington
Niche.com Grade A-
Name of Degree Master of Science in Cybersecurity
School or Department Administering Program School of Management
Credits 30
Cost per credit $810.00
Tuition for Entire Program $24,300.00
Test Requirements None
Minimum GPA None
Campus Visit Required? No
Typical Time to Complete 2 years
When Can Students Start the Program? Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Program Concentrations ·   Cyber Defense

·   Cyber Operations

Synchronous Classes No
Required Courses ·   Orientation to Master’s Programs

·   Cybersecurity Overview

·   Systems Security

·   Human and Organization Security

·   Ethical, Legal, and Societal Security

·   Network and Wireless Security

·   Data Privacy and Security

·   Software Security

·   Components Integration Security

·   Capstone

·   Optional Internship

Does the Program Include a Capstone? Yes
Does the Program Include a Practicum or Internship? Optional internship
Other Features that Make the Program Unique CityU is a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security, City University of Seattle operates a special center whose mission is to conduct programs, courses, research, and consulting in Information Assurance
Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) Integrate a foundational knowledge of all areas of advanced cybersecurity, Apply fundamental principles and practices of advanced cybersecurity, Apply critical and ethical thinking to solve problems in advanced cybersecurity, Evaluate data to inform decisions and solve problems in advanced cybersecurity, Create the ability to develop and express ideas while applying a variety of delivery modes, genres, and styles, Collaborate efficiently on diverse teams to accomplish a common goal
Program Description This 30-credit program emphasizes business and management topics.  Two concentration options are offered. A capstone is required. Students can choose to participate in an optional internship. The program follows a traditional course schedule

 

What will I Learn?

Students in this program gain a foundational knowledge of all areas of cybersecurity, and use critical thinking skills, guided by ethics, to solve complex cybersecurity problems. Data evaluation is emphasized, as are communication skills, teamwork and collaboration. 

Required courses are as follows: Orientation to Master’s Programs, Cybersecurity Overview, Systems Security, Human and Organization Security, Ethical, Legal, and Societal Security, Network and Wireless Security, Data Privacy and Security, Software Security, and Components Integration Security. All students are required to complete a capstone. Students may participate in an optional internship.

Two concentrations are offered: Cyber Defense and Cyber Operations.

 CityU is a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. The university  also operates a special center whose mission is to conduct programs, courses, research, and consulting in Information Assurance

How much will the program cost?

Most students complete the program within 2 years and pay $810.00 per credit for a total of 30 credits, or $24,300.00 in total.

How does the program fit into my life?

All courses are asynchronous, meaning that students complete coursework on their own schedule each week, including watching pre-recorded lectures and participating in online discussion. No campus visit is required. Most students complete the program within 2 years. Students can enter the program in Fall, Winter, Spring or Summer semesters.

Summary

This accessible program at an urban university emphasizes business and management topics as well as cybersecurity fundamentals. Cost is comparable to similar programs. Following a traditional course schedule, students cover all fundamentals of cybersecurity, with a required internship and optional practicum. Although CityU is less prestigious than other schools, some students with non-traditional academic backgrounds may find the program more welcoming to their needs and goals.