Master of Science in Network Security
Master's Degree
Graduate
Every network has a vulnerability. The world needs professionals who can find it first.
This is not an introductory program. The Master of Science in network security is designed for students and professionals ready to go deeper. Whether you are building on an undergraduate foundation in cybersecurity or computer science, or transitioning into the field from a related discipline, this degree positions you as a leader in one of the fastest-growing and highest-compensating fields in the global economy. At SEMO, you'll learn from faculty with real industry experience, engage with hands-on technical challenges, and graduate with the credentials and skills to lead at the highest level.
What You'll DO in the ms network security program
In this program, you will engage with applied research, real-world security scenarios, and graduate-level coursework. You'll become prepared to lead security operations, architect enterprise defenses, and respond decisively to the threats organizations face every day.
Graduate students in Network Security may study and work in areas including:
- Advanced network defense and architecture
- Intrusion detection and prevention systems
- Cryptography and data protection
- Ethical hacking and penetration testing
- Digital forensics and incident response
- Cloud security and virtualization
- Risk management and security policy
- Malware analysis and reverse engineering
- Security operations and threat intelligence
- Compliance, governance, and regulatory frameworks
What Can I Do With a Masters in Network Security?
Graduates are prepared for senior, specialized, and leadership roles in organizations where protecting data, systems, and infrastructure is a top priority. Career opportunities exist across:
- Technology and software companies
- Financial services and banking
- Healthcare and health information systems
- Government and defense agencies
- Critical infrastructure and utilities
- Consulting and managed security services
- Higher education and research institutions
- Law enforcement and intelligence agencies
Career Opportunities With an M.S. in Network Security
Graduates may pursue roles as:
- Network Security Engineer
- Cybersecurity Architect
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Manager
- Penetration Tester
- Incident Response Manager
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- Threat Intelligence Analyst
- Cloud Security Engineer
- Digital Forensics Investigator
- Cybersecurity Consultant
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MS Network Security Outcomes and Careers
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$125K
Information Security Analysts
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual salary for an information security analyst is $125,000.
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$171K
Computer and Information Systems Managers
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual salary for a computer and information systems manager is $171,000.
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$123K
Database Administrators and Architects
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual salary for a Database Administrators and Architect is $123,000.
What You'll Study
The Master of Science in network security is a technically rigorous, application-driven program. You will move beyond foundational concepts and into the advanced tools, methodologies, and frameworks that define professional network security practice.
30 Hours Required
- CS500 or CS503 Fundamentals of Programing/Computing (3)
- TN563 Switching Essentials (3)
- TN565 Network Management (3)
- TN566 IP Telephony (3)
- TN625 Wireless Communication (3)
- TN635 Network Security (3)
- IM691 Understanding Graduate Research (3)
- Choose 3 hours from any 600-level CS, CY, IM, or TN.
- Choose 6 hours from any 500 or 600-level CS, CY, or TN.
In addition to the criteria established for general admission to
graduate studies, applicants must have the following:
- A bachelor's degree in networking, information technology, computer science, computer information systems, cybersecurity, or a related technical field. *Students with bachelor’s degrees from other fields may be required to complete up to two prerequisite courses in computer programming and/or networking as a condition of provisional admission.
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Six completed hours of science and six completed hours of
- mathematics in the undergraduate degree.
Probationary Admission
Applicants who do not meet the general and/or program's admission requirements may be considered for probationary admission upon approval by the graduate program coordinator. Students admitted on probation must complete nine credit hours that count towards the degree with a grade of "B" or higher to continue in the program.
Accreditations and Designations
Network Security Master's Degree Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about the Master of Science in network security? Here are answers to some of the most common ones.
Cybersecurity is the broader field, encompassing the protection of systems, networks, data, applications, and users from digital threats. A master's in cybersecurity typically covers a wide range of security domains including policy, governance, risk management, application security, and human factors alongside technical training.
Network Security is a specialized discipline within cybersecurity that focuses specifically on protecting the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data as it moves across and between networks. A master's in network security goes deep on network architecture, intrusion detection, encryption, traffic analysis, and the technical defense of infrastructure.
A master's in network security opens doors to senior, specialized, and leadership roles across virtually every industry. Graduates are prepared to move beyond entry-level positions. Jobs graduates may pursue include:
- Network Security Engineer
- Cybersecurity Architect
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Manager
- Penetration Tester
- Incident Response Manager
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- Threat Intelligence Analyst
- Cloud Security Engineer
- Digital Forensics Investigator
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Information Security Manager
- Vulnerability Assessment Specialist
Some of the biggest employers of network security professionals include:
- Technology & Software companies
- Government & Defense companies
- Financial Services companies
- Health insurance organizations
- Healthcare technology companies
- Consulting & Managed Security Services conpanies
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