Welcome to the Combined Master’s in Cyber Security Engineering pROGRAM

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MS in Cyber Security Engineering Combined Program Overview

This Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering (MS-CSE) provides essential knowledge and skills training for information security practitioners (public or private) who work to protect the safety and prosperity of companies, communities, and the nation.

Offered through USD’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, the MS-CSE program has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the federal government. Colleges and universities that receive this designation have met rigorous requirements and are recognized for a robust curriculum that is aligned with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework.

This program emphasizes a mission-centric focus while engaging students in academically rigorous training on the engineering aspects of software and hardware security. It is designed for those that want to effect positive change by developing and deploying engineering solutions to mitigate cybersecurity threats.

This Cyber Security Engineering master’s degree program is distinguished by:

  • An integrated approach to cybersecurity education developed in collaboration with industry, military, intelligence community and government stakeholders to deliver specific, in-demand knowledge and skill sets.
  • Dynamic, highly relevant curriculum designed by instructors with years of applied experience protecting national assets from the worst types of cyber threats.
  • Intensive, in-depth focus on the most critical issues and threats being confronted by cybersecurity professionals today.

The combined program is a connection between undergraduate and graduate studies. USD has created an opportunity for undergraduate students to earn their Bachelor’s in Computer Science while taking Master’s in Cyber Security Engineering courses as well. In doing this, it is possible for a student to earn their undergraduate and graduate degree in less than the typical 6 years.

Make sure to submit the form at the top of this page to get in contact with your graduate enrollment advisor to begin the process of applying for the M.S. in Cyber Security Engineering program.


Who is the Combined Cyber Security Engineering Degree for?

Our Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering Combined Program is ideal for computer science and engineering students like yourself that are aspiring to work as a security engineer.

The program is for those that wish to effect positive change by developing and deploying engineering solutions to safeguard systems and networks, and mitigate cybersecurity threats.

Anyone interested in gaining a deep understanding of cybersecurity engineering concepts, theories and threat mitigation strategies will benefit from this program, which is designed to be an invaluable asset for those starting in their cybersecurity careers or looking to advance within the field.

Cyber Security Professionals from Across the Nation Earn Master’s Degrees from University of San Diego

Requirements of Eligibility

  • 3.0 Overall GPA
  • Must be a University of San Diego BS or BA Computer Science undergraduate student or BS/BA in Engineering undergraduate student
  • Academic advisor approval is required to be considered for the program
  • Student must complete a total of 12 units of the Cyber Security Engineering program during their undergraduate studies and must complete a total of 6 units (CYBR 501 and CYBR 502) prior to applying for the combined degree program.

Combined Degree Application Flow

To be considered for the Combined Cyber Security Engineering program at USD, first make sure that you meet all eligibility requirements and work on completing the steps below. Make sure to fill out the form at the top of this page to get connected with your graduate enrollment advisor who can help you navigate your application into the MS-CSE program.

Step 1Step 2step 3step 4step 5step 6
Connect with your Academic AdvisorInterviewStart CYBR 501 and CYBR 502Apply for the Combined Degree ProgramEnroll and Complete More CYBR CoursesStart the MS-CSE Program
Sometime during your junior year, approach your Academic Advisor to show interest and verify program prerequisitesInterview with and be recommended by Dr. Jon Glick (Computer Science) or Dr. Susan Lord (Engineering)During the 2nd to last semester of your senior year, enroll and complete CYBR 501 and CYBR 502 with approval from MS-CSE Academic Director Chuck BaneApply for the combined degree program while completing CYBR 501 and CYBR 502In the Final semester of your senior year, enroll and complete any of the following CYBR course pairings: CYBR 503 & CYBR 504, CYBR 506 & 508, or CYBR 510 & 512. Note: you will need to complete all courses during MS-CSE program, but you will enroll in the scheduled courses offered during your final semester.After completing your undergraduate degree and 12 units of MS-CSE campus program, you will officially enter the MS-CSE program the immediate next semester. If your final undergraduate term is Spring, you would start the MS-CSE program in the Summer term.
Combined Degree Application Flow Steps

Benefits of a Combined Degree

Start Graduate Studies Early

Begin working towards your advanced degree while earning your bachelors

Incur Less Cost

Earn your degree in a shorter time with less tuition

Waive your graduate application fee

Apply for your graduate program for free

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No GRE Required

Apply for the program without having to take additional testing