Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies (MS)
Learn how to identify suspicious cyber behavior and respond accordingly. This online master’s degree program at American Military University (AMU) examines how cybersecurity professionals combat large-scale attacks.
Program Overview
This Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies program underscores the widespread impacts that sophisticated attacks have on political, economic, and social systems. Students examine advanced cyber defense strategies as they discuss how the modern threat landscape continues to evolve.
AMU’s interdisciplinary curriculum explores the relationship between cyber operations and national security strategies. Learners study how information technology facilitates asymmetric warfare. Courses also review the laws and policies that govern data security practices.
The program emphasizes career-relevant education, and students learn how to combat a wide range of threats through informed decision-making. Coursework sharpens critical-thinking skills and addresses the unique challenges of detecting and responding to security breaches. Students consider the ethical concerns and potential privacy violations surrounding the use of digital surveillance to mitigate cybercrime.
The program concludes with a capstone that enables students to showcase their knowledge and skills. This final requirement may consist of either a hands-on project or a formal academic paper. Students select the option that aligns best with their academic and professional interests.
American Military University is part of American Public University System, which has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the National Security Agency (NSA).
Spanish-language learners may complete the cybersecurity studies program through select courses.
Discover How AMU’s Cybersecurity Studies Degree Can Help You Pursue Your Goals
This online degree program follows an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes real-world applications for cybersecurity principles. Courses examine how information technology is embedded in criminal justice objectives, emergency management, and national security operations.
Students will:
- Understand homeland security and cybersecurity challenges arising from both external attackers and insider threats
- Study the social, regulatory, legal, and ethical issues related to securing information technology and national critical infrastructures
- Comprehend interdisciplinary policies, practices, perspectives, and products required to address the cyber threats to information technology and critical infrastructures
- Learn the methods of vulnerability assessment, risk mitigation, auditing, and certification of information technology and critical infrastructures
AMU’s cybersecurity courses examine the political, economic, and social implications of large-scale attacks. Students build career-relevant skills as they learn how to recognize and respond to suspicious cyber behavior.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Cybersecurity managers, who oversee cybersecurity operations supporting military missions and national security objectives
- Cyber operations planners, who integrate cybersecurity measures into military and/or government operational planning
- Information assurance managers, who manage policies, controls, and compliance to protect sensitive information
- Cyber risk or compliance leads, who oversee cyber risk assessments and compliance initiatives within service environments
AMU’s online master’s degree program emphasizes career-readiness with courses that focus on practical applications for information security principles. Assignments also integrate case studies that connect theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Students sharpen their cybersecurity skills as they learn how to:
- Develop cybersecurity strategies supporting mission assurance and operational resilience
- Evaluate cyber threats and adversary capabilities in defense and federal environments
- Apply government, policy, and compliance frameworks in service-oriented cybersecurity programs
- Integrate cybersecurity considerations into operational and strategic planning
- Conduct applied cybersecurity research to support command-level decision-making
- Deliver structured cybersecurity risk briefings aligned with chain-of-command requirements
“ The best cybersecurity managers need not only technical skills, but also the vision to outmaneuver hackers and the ability to communicate up the chain of command. The cybersecurity master's program takes people beyond the keyboard, learning the tactical and people relation skills to navigate evolving cyber situations. ”
Browse Online Courses from AMU’s Online Master's Degree Program in Cybersecurity Studies
Taught by highly experienced practitioners, AMU’s online cybersecurity courses explore advanced strategies that protect sensitive data from malicious actors. Students discuss how to mitigate cyber threats, respond to active attacks, and investigate digital crimes.
The University’s interdisciplinary curriculum focuses primarily on cybersecurity strategy while emphasizing career-readiness. Coursework provides an in-depth examination of today’s complex digital landscape, incorporating elements of criminal justice, emergency management, and national security. Students also consider how advancements in technology facilitate increasingly sophisticated threats, such as large-scale attacks that leverage AI automation.
The program concludes with a capstone that may consist of either a hands-on project or an academic paper.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
Spanish language learners may complete this course in Spanish.
All Course Requirements for Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies (MS)
Build New Connections While You Pursue Your Cybersecurity Studies Degree Online at AMU
Explore online student clubs and organizations that connect classmates, alumni, and faculty members with shared interests. AMU hosts more than 100 of these virtual communities to enrich the online learning experience.
Clubs such as the Technology Professionals Group and wSEC may be especially appealing to students in the cybersecurity studies program. The University also has organizations that connect servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses.
Learn more about student communities and other ways to get involved when you pursue your master’s in cybersecurity studies at AMU.
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AMU is here to support your student journey
Your mission matters, but so does your well-being. That's why we provide supportive resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.
• Career Coaching• 24/7 Mental Health Support
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CAREER COACHING
Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or pursuing advancement within your branch of service, AMU’s Career Services are here to help. Our coach-guided experiences empower you to translate your military skills into new opportunities, develop your professional strengths, and chart a course to your next mission.
Learn More24/7 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Resilience is critical to mission success, and that starts with your mental health. AMU offers confidential, flexible, 24/7 access to support resources to help you manage stress, find balance, and stay mission-ready.
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We understand the unique needs of military students. That’s why our admissions and advising teams provide personalized guidance from day one, helping you navigate enrollment, maximize your benefits, and plan your academic journey around your service commitments. We’re here to help you succeed wherever duty calls.
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At AMU, you’ll be part of a strong, service-minded community that understands your goals and values. Through student organizations like the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and access to the university directory through ecampus, you’ll connect with peers and mentors who can help you build your professional network and lifelong camaraderie.
Learn MorePursuing a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies is Affordable at AMU
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
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We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
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Transfer Credits
AMU recognizes the value of your service and experience. Our generous transfer credit policy ensures that you get credit for prior college coursework, military education and training, exams, and certifications so you can save time, keep costs low, and stay focused on your education mission.
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In addition to special rates and grants for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families, we also participate in federal financial aid programs for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office team can help ensure you have the support you need.
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AMU students may explore private education loans or scholarship options to supplement their education funding. Before pursuing these options, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn about your eligibility. We encourage all borrowers to research their choices, review interest rates and repayment terms, and make an informed decision that aligns with their goals.
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As a leader in higher education for the nation’s military and a top choice for veterans using education benefits, AMU proudly accepts Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits. Our experienced Military Tuition Assistance team can help you understand your eligibility, apply your benefits, and make the most out of your available resources.
Learn MoreApply to AMU's Online Cybersecurity Degree Program Today
This cybersecurity studies program is designed to accommodate active-duty servicemembers, working professionals, and students who are balancing their schoolwork with other responsibilities. Online courses begin monthly and have no set login times. Learners may participate in class discussions and submit weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access. The University’s rolling admissions also enable new students to enroll in the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies program all throughout the year.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No GRE® or GMAT®4 required for master's programs
- No Application Fee For master's-level courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
All master's degree and graduate certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
In order to be considered for the M.S. in Cybersecurity program, students should meet one of three admission requirement options.
Option A
The student must have earned at least one of the following:
- An undergraduate IT degree or a degree in a closely related field
- One of the University’s IT-related certificates
- An IT-related minor or concentration during an undergraduate program
- 9 credits in cybersecurity, information technology, or other closely related courses
Option B
The student must have acquired at least one of these IT or cybersecurity certifications:
- CompTIA Security
- CompTIA Network+®
- CompTIA A+®
- CompTIA Project+®
- CompTIA CySA+®
- CISSP®
- SSCP®
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)®
- Cisco CCNA® Security
A student can also have earned a valid and current Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute.
Option C
The student must have acquired demonstrable knowledge acquired from another source, such as:
- A combination of closely related field and relevant work experience in the industry of at least two years
- A completion of closely related education or certification (not listed in option A or B) coupled with relevant work experience
Important Notes
- If the IT-specific requirements are not noted in the official bachelor's or master's transcript, you must provide official copies of your undergraduate transcripts that show the appropriate coursework.
- The verification of the two years of work experience needs to be sent to the university via a formal resume or CV.
- Preadmission courses must have been completed within the last 5 years and at the undergraduate level must be graded C or better; B or better at the graduate level.
CEH® and Certified Ethical Hacker® are registered trademarks of EC-Council.
CompTIA Security+®, CompTIA Network+®, CompTIA A+®, CompTIA Project+®, and CompTIA CySA+® are all registered trademarks of the Computer Technology Industry Association, Inc.
CISSP® and SSCP® are registered trademarks of International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc.
CCNA® is a registered trademark of Cisco Technology, Inc.
Please visit our graduate admission page for more information on institutional admission requirements.
Need help?
If you have questions regarding a program’s admission requirements, please contact an admissions representative at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].
Learn More About AMU’s Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Program
Typically, full-time students can complete a master's program within two years. However, time to completion will vary depending on several factors, including transfer credit eligibility and academic performance.
AMU allows students up to 7 years to complete master’s degrees.
Many of AMU’s faculty members bring real-world experience from the cybersecurity field to the virtual classroom. Some of these educators have held roles as:
- Chief compliance officers
- Chief information security officers
- Chief technology officers
- Cybersecurity consultants
- Data scientists
- Cybersecurity planners
- Security directors at major brands as well as government agencies
AMU’s curriculum aligns with content in the following certifications:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®)10
- Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®)11
- Certified Ethical Hacker® (CEH®)12
- Security+®13
Many students pursue certification either during or after the program to complement this master's degree.
Related Programs
American Military University offers more than 200 career-relevant degree and certificate programs online.
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The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
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