Why Southern Arkansas University?
The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity offered by Southern Arkansas University provides an opportunity for professional advancement through enhanced skills and competencies. Southern Arkansas university, a small public university in Magnolia, Arkansas expects applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field. Students without the necessary technical background are required to take bridge courses.
Standardized test scores are not required, and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 is expected.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | Southern Arkansas University |
| Location | Magnolia |
| State | Arkansas |
| Niche.com Grade | B- |
| Name of Degree | Master of Science in Cybersecurity |
| School or Department Administering Program | College of Science and Engineering |
| Credits | 30 |
| Cost per credit | $293.00 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $8,790.00 |
| Test Requirements | No |
| Minimum GPA | 2.5 |
| Campus Visit Required? | No |
| Typical Time to Complete | 2 years |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| Program Concentrations | Data Science; Cyber Security and Privacy |
| Synchronous Classes | No |
| Required Courses | · Advanced Programming Concepts
· Database Management Systems · Computer Networking · Information and Networking Security · Vulnerability and Risk Assessment · Traceable Systems and Computer Forensics · Wireless and Mobile Security · Privacy Compliant Systems Design · 2 Electives |
| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | Optional Thesis |
| Does the Program Include a Practicum or Internship? | Optional internship |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | Large program; The curriculum is constantly reviewed and updated to reflect the ongoing changes in the computer science field; optional internship or thesis; |
| Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) | The Master of Science in Computer and Information Science (MCIS) program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, with a specific focus on several key application areas including Information Technology, Data Science and Cyber Security. Anticipated career tracks for the MCIS graduates include working as data analysts, security experts, software engineers, or IT managers, or pursuing doctoral studies to serve in academic positions. |
| Program Description | Consisting of 30 required credits, this program emphasizes engineering approaches and skills Students choose between two concentrations. A capstone experience is optional. Thesis Students may choose to gain practical experience through an optional internship. internship Following a traditional course schedule, the program is designed for students wishing to work and study at the same time. |
What will I Learn?
The SAU-Magnolia curriculum is focused on meeting the needs of employers, ensuring that graduates are ready to enter careers with expanded skills. Students gain a strong foundation in computer science, including database management, networking and programming concepts. They learn how to evaluate and respond to cybersecurity threats, and how to communicate with stakeholders about cybersecurity issues. Graduates of the program can expect to work as analysts, software engineers, or managers, or they may decide to pursue further research at the doctoral level.
The following courses are required: Advanced Programming Concepts, Database Management Systems, Computer Networking, Information and Networking Security, Vulnerability and Risk Assessment, Traceable Systems and Computer Forensics, Wireless and Mobile Security and Privacy Compliant Systems Design. Students take two electives, which can include an optional internship or thesis.
How much will the program cost?
The typical time for completion of the degree is 2 years of study. Students pay $293.00 per credit for a total of 30 credits, or $8,790.00 in total.
How does the program fit into my life?
This program is asynchronous, meaning that students complete coursework on their own schedule weekly. Coursework can involve viewing pre-recorded video content and participating in online discussion. The typical time for completion of the degree is 2 years of study. Students can enter the program in Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
Summary
This lower-cost online cybersecurity program is taught from an engineering perspective. With lower GPA requirements than some programs, it is an accessible option for those with non-traditional backgrounds. Following a traditional course schedule, the curriculum is constantly updated to meet the needs of industry and other employers in this high-demand field. Applicants may be attracted by the opportunity to complete an optional internship to build professional-level competence.
