Why Utica University?
Utica University, formerly Utica College, is a small private university in Utica, New York. It offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program. The program accepts applicants with an undergraduate degree in any subject. Students without technical undergraduate degrees, such as in computer science, engineering, or information technology, may be required to take foundation courses prior to enrolling in the Master’s program.
Standardized test scores are not required, and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is expected.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | Utica College |
| Location | Utica |
| State | New York |
| Niche.com Grade | B- |
| Name of Degree | Master of Science in Cybersecurity |
| School or Department Administering Program | Department of Cybersecurity |
| Credits | 30 |
| Cost per credit | $895.00 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $26,850.00 |
| Test Requirements | None |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Campus Visit Required? | No |
| Typical Time to Complete | 2 years |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| Program Concentrations | · Computer Forensics
· Cyber Operations · Cyber Policy · Data Analytics · Electronic Crime · Intelligence · Malware Analysis |
| Synchronous Classes | Most asynchronous |
| Required Courses | · Principles of Cybersecurity
· Cyber Intelligence · Critical National Infrastructure and National Security · Principles of Cybercrime Investigations · Capstone Project I · Capstone Project Ii · 4 Concentration Courses |
| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | Yes |
| Does the Program Include a Practicum or Internship? | No |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | 2-day online virtual cybersecurity residency, National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE) by the Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), students can become a CipherTrace Certified Examiner (CTCE) and learn how to trace funds lost in cryptocurrency fraud and theft, prepare for industry certifications like CompTIA A+ and Security+, discount on certain certification exams |
| Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) | Apply cybersecurity and risk management tools, techniques and technologies to a wide variety of cybersecurity problems Demonstrate an understanding of how traditional intelligence methods and procedures are applied to the cybersecurity domain Demonstrate critical thinking, research and writing skills related to the domain of cybersecurity Demonstrate an understanding of cyber-attack methods and techniques (including malware) Demonstrate an understanding of the technical, legal, ethical, social, cultural and international aspects of cybersecurity and cyber conflict |
| Program Description | This 30-credit program is administered by a dedicated Department of Cybersecurity. Students are offered a choice of seven concentrations. . A capstone is required. The program follows a traditional course schedule |
What will I Learn?
Students in the Utica University cybersecurity program gain skills in applying cybersecurity and risk management tools and methods to a diverse array of real-world problems. Coursework teaches them traditional intelligence techniques are applied to the realm of cybercrime. Students learn to demonstrate critical thinking skills, research methods, and advanced communication skills as they solve problems, work in teams, and communicate with stakeholders. Graduates are equipped to recognize the most common types of attacks and vulnerabilities. They are ethical professionals well-versed in legal, social and institutional contexts.
Students in the program can choose one of the following seven concentrations: Computer Forensics, Cyber Operations, Cyber Policy, Data Analytics, Electronic Crime, Intelligence, or Malware Analysis. Students take four courses within their concentration, as well as two capstone courses.
In addition, all students are required to take the following courses: Principles of Cybersecurity, Cyber Intelligence, Critical National Infrastructure and National Security, and Principles of Cybercrime Investigations.
Students must also complete a 2-day long online intensive residency course, which enables them to work closely with peers and professors in an immersive experiential learning opportunity. Students can choose to become a CipherTrace Certified Examiner (CTCE) and learn how to trace funds lost in cryptocurrency fraud and theft, as well as prepare for standard industry certifications.
The program is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD), and a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE).
How much will the program cost?
Most students complete the program within 2 years and pay $895.00 per credit for a total of 30 credits, or $26,850.00 in total. Students get a discount on specific examinations because Utica is a CompTIA academic partner.
How does the program fit into my life?
Most 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, Spring or Summer semester. Students must attend a 2-day online virtual cybersecurity residency during the program.
Summary
This accessible university offers a cybersecurity master’s that is based in the Department of Cybersecurity and is mid-range in terms of cost. The program stands out for its wide range of seven possible concentrations, and an intensive capstone experience totalling 6 credits of coursework.
Some applicants will also be attracted to the immersive 2-day online cybersecurity residency, while others may be interested in the program’s emphasis on intelligence and international affairs issues, or its learning opportunities in the area of cryptocurrency.
