Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Today there are close to 3 million cybersecurity jobs around the globe just waiting to be filled. As computers and network devices continue to play a role in day-to-day operations for businesses, banks, hospitals, universities, and government agencies, this number will only rise. There’s never been a better time to train as a cybersecurity professional and pursue a career in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors.

As Western New York’s only technology-based master’s-level cybersecurity program, our Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program teaches the skills, knowledge, and best practices to ensure the security and integrity of every type of computing and information system. Not only will you gain a complete understanding of 21st-century cybersecurity tools—you’ll learn how to build them.

The computers in our state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Lab will give you hands-on practice to extend your knowledge of computer forensics, cyber intelligence, risk assessment, infiltration techniques, malware analysis, electronic crime, cyber operations, and more. Working with our computer science faculty, you’ll also contribute to cutting-edge research to benefit a highly skilled profession that is perpetually evolving.

U.S. CYBERCOM Partnership

The Canisius Cybersecurity program is a proud member of U.S. CYBERCOM’s Academic Engagement Network, which gives students access to exclusive resources not found in other programs. This partnership connects students with cutting-edge problems in the Cyber domain.

Benefits include:

• Invitations to exclusive webinars about U.S. CYBERCOM’s most pressing technical and non-technical problems and how to benefit from key DoD programs that impact cyberspace
• Access to guest lecturers from U.S. CYBERCOM on cyberspace strategy, policy, law, innovation, and workforce issues

Cybersecurity Program Highlights

• Open to students of any undergraduate background. Programming bridge courses offered for students from a non-computer science background to meet STEM requirements
• Flexible schedule – enroll full- or part-time
• State-of-the-art Cybersecurity Lab on campus
• Personal mentorship and support are provided directly by experienced faculty who are industry experts in fields such as network security
• Strong local business connections and premier internship opportunities in industries including healthcare and banking
• A solid grounding in technology ethics and cyber justice guided by our Jesuit tradition
• The curriculum follows national recommendations set by ACM & NSA
• The program prepares students for general cybersecurity certifications
• Reduced certification costs through a partnership with CompTIA
• GMAT/GRE not required
• STEM major eligible for 24-month OPT extension

Featured Courses in the Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

• Cybersecurity Principles – Examine the landscape and broad areas of cybersecurity including database security, malware, software security, and many other topics while completing hands-on labs and exercises to reinforce your knowledge of computer, network, and information security. This course prepares students for CompTIA's Security+ Certification.
• Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing – Gain an in-depth understanding of how to effectively protect computer networks by learning the tools and penetration testing methodologies used by ethical hackers. This course prepares students for EC-Council's Certified Ethical Hacker Certification.
• Secure Software Engineering – Learn secure programming practices that are necessary to develop applications that withstand cyberattacks and common software exploits.

STEM Designation- International Students

Certain F-1 Students who receive science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) degrees can apply for a 24-month post-completion OPT extension. This program qualifies as a STEM-designated program. Speak with your admissions counselor to learn more.

Canisius University is a supportive community of people from all walks of life, engaged in conscientious academic, personal, and spiritual inquiry. Griffs learn how to think more deeply, create more boldly, dare more courageously, and live more compassionately, developing the skills and confidence to take the lead in their chosen field, career, and community.

Who We Are

We take the best in every student – and make it that much greater. We believe that greatness is in everyone, and as each individual flourishes, the world benefits. Our rigorous curriculum, vibrant and inclusive campus environment, and professional and community connections create a transformative educational experience that goes deeper than imparting necessary skills and knowledge. Griffs know how to think and how to lead, making them not only well-positioned to succeed in an ever-changing job market but also well-equipped to change the world.

Canisius at a Glance

• Founded: 1870 in Buffalo, NY
• Affiliation: Jesuit
• Students: 2,492
• Accredited schools and colleges: 3
• Majors, minors, and degree programs: 100+
• Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
• Percent of classes taught by faculty: 100%
• NCAA Division-I teams: 20
• Student-run clubs and organizations: 60+
• Alumni: 50,000+ worldwide

What We Stand For

• We are sensitive to the challenges that the world faces. As a university, we have the power to address injustice by expanding access to our transformative education, advancing equity, and producing new knowledge that advances humanity. And when our students graduate, they go on to meaningfully impact the areas that call out to them.
• Our community is respectful, creative, and tightly knit. Here, we cherish and challenge the individual, making space and providing support for everyone to discover their passions, articulate their purpose and become the greatest version of themselves.
• We are determined to make a difference. We understand that doing things the way that they have always been done only perpetuates the status quo and that there is no progress without action. Motivated by a vision of what could and should be, we move forward fearlessly.
• We see and respect every individual as a whole person. Every Griff, whether they’re a faculty member, staff person, or a student, plays a role in every other Griff’s development. When we lift each other up, we all reach even greater heights.