Master of Science in Information and Cybersecurity: Online Courses and Curriculum
To address the diverse background of the professional students, the degree begins with two foundational courses covering foundational computer science material relevant to information security. The subsequent computer science courses include two core courses and four other security courses. These six computer science courses provide a thorough knowledge base of the technical aspects of information security with an emphasis on systems, network, data, and software security, and the use of cutting-edge security techniques. Online labs and projects will develop and strengthen a students' expertise in using tools and assessing security needs. Most coursework will be project-based, possibly with some industry involvement.
For details on courses (PDF).
Two electives allow a student to broaden the degree by selecting from a wide range of related courses offered at Purdue University.
Focus Areas covered by the degree include:
- Foundations of Information Security
- Cryptography
- Network Security
- Software Security
- Social, Economic, and Legal Aspects
- Security Analytics
- Data Security and Privacy
The table below summarizes the Professional Master's Degree requirements.
The foundational courses should be taken first. Once you are admitted to the program, you can work with your advisor on the best electives based on your professional goals. It is recommended that you complete both core courses before taking an elective course.
| Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Foundational | Two 3-credit foundational courses (CS 50010, CS 50011) |
| Core | Two 3-credit information security courses (CS 52600, CS 55500) |
| Focus | Four 3-credit information security courses (CS 52300, CS 52700, CS 52800, CS 52900, CS 59000-DSP ) |
| Electives | Two 3-credit courses from the list of approved electives and based on availability |
| Total credits | 30 |
| GPA | At least 3.0 for plan of study courses |
| Ethics and Communication requirements | The graduate advisor will provide you the ethics and communication material and videos that need to be completed as part of the program requirements. |