Mar 28, 2024  
2021-2022 SGPP Catalog and Handbook 
    
2021-2022 SGPP Catalog and Handbook [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Cybersecurity, M.S.


Program Description

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity equips students to manage information security programs in organizations.  The program provides up-to-date knowledge and skills in the technology and application of cybersecurity. Students learn to apply risk management frameworks, methods, and strategies; enhance the protection of enterprise-wide information assets; and detect and plan for cyber-attacks on networks and computer systems. Students prepare to manage security information functions and teams in all business, nonprofit, healthcare, government, educational, and other sectors.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to be able to do the following:

  1. Demonstrate business management skills relevant to administering information security programs in organizations.
  2. Apply leadership skills in information security operations.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in communicating technical information.
  4. Develop a strategic balance between business needs and overall information security architecture planning.
  5. Evaluate risk management frameworks, methods, and strategies.
  6. Plan for cyber-attacks on networks and computer systems.
  7. Protect enterprise-wide information assets.

Program Structure and Delivery

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is delivered fully online.

Degree Requirements


Foundation Course* 3 cr.
Core Courses 36 cr.
Total 36 cr.

*Foundation course does not count toward the degree.

Faculty


The faculty members for this program have earned doctorate or master’s degrees. Faculty are selected for their combination of educational and professional experience and expertise.

Admission Requirements


Applicants may apply for admission to master’s degree programs at any time during the year. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution and maintained an overall grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale. Applicants must demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful graduate coursework. Applicants may complete an interview with a program administrator as part of the admission process.

Application Process


Applicants may apply for admission to master’s degree programs at any time during the year.  Applicants may have completed an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution and maintained an overall grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale. Applicants must demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful graduate coursework. Applicants may be required to complete an interview with a program administrator as part of the admission process.

Applicants must submit:

  1. Completed application form with the nonrefundable application fee (fee not required for alumni or students seeking readmission or veterans and active military personnel and their immediate family) and,
  2. An official transcript issued to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota from the institution posting the applicant’s completed bachelor degree and other relevant transcripts documenting program prerequisites and potential transfer credits. (An official transcript is one that is sent to the university by the credit-granting institution. Transcripts from countries other than the U.S. must be evaluated on a course by course basis by a university accepted evaluation service, such as World Education Services, Educational Credential Evaluators, Educational Perspectives, or One Earth International Credential Evaluators and be deemed equivalent to accredited U.S. university standards).  Evaluations from an approved member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES.org) will also be accepted. 
  3. A personal statement which includes:
  • brief description of the applicant’s background, training, and experience and,
  • statement indicating the career goals of the applicant and his or her reasons for seeking admission to the program and,
  • description of the areas the applicant considers to be his or her strengths and areas in which the applicant wishes to develop greater strengths and abilities and,
  • personal information the applicant wishes to share.
  1. Names of two people (including title, organization, email, phone number) who could serve as professional references, if needed, during the application review process. The best references are those who know you in a professional capacity, such as current or former supervisors.
  2. A current résumé listing educational background and work experience.

See individual programs for additional application requirements.