EARN YOUR MS IN CYBER SECURITY ENGINEERING
Master the technical skills to engineer solutions that defend critical systems, networks and organizations against evolving cyber threats. Advance your career with flexible online or on-campus options designed for the next generation of cyber security engineers.

Program Snapshot

Priority Application Deadline
November 2

International Applicant Deadline
October 1

Format
100% Online
On-Campus Part-Time
On-Campus Full-Time

Program Length
18-24 Months

Total Units
30-36
Cybersecurity Needs More Than Defenders. It Needs Engineers.
Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, and the systems organizations depend on are becoming more complex. Meeting those challenges requires professionals who can do more than identify and respond to threats, they need to understand how secure systems are designed, built and engineered.
The MS in Cyber Security Engineering at the University of San Diego prepares you to approach cybersecurity from an engineering perspective. Build the technical expertise to design secure systems, analyze vulnerabilities, address complex cyber threats and develop solutions that protect the technologies organizations rely on.
Why CHoose USD’s MS IN CYBER SECURITY ENGINEERING?
- Engineering Focused: Build the technical expertise to design and deploy secure systems and networks.
- Hands-On Experience: Apply what you learn in simulated contested cyber environments and cybersecurity labs.
- Nationally Recognized: The MS-CSE program has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the federal government.
- Flexible for Working Professionals: Complete your degree online while continuing to work, or choose a campus format that fits your schedule and career goals.
- Industry Informed Faculty: Learn from faculty and professionals with experience addressing real-world cybersecurity challenges.
Built for the next generation of cyber security engineers
You’re a great fit if you are:
An IT professional
Ready to move from maintaining systems to engineering secure ones.
A cybersecurity professional
Looking to deepen your technical expertise and qualify for more advanced roles.
An engineer or technologist
Interested in applying your technical background to cybersecurity.
A military or government professional
Looking to translate your experience into advanced cybersecurity expertise.
A career changer
Ready to build a technical foundation for a career in cybersecurity.
Admissions Snapshot
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3.0 GPA
- Statement of purpose (minimum 500 words)
- Letter of support from the candidate’s employer or two letters of reference

ASK OUR GRADUATES
What’s it really like to earn a Master’s in Cyber Security Engineering at USD? Hear directly from the graduates who’ve been there.
From choosing the program to applying what they learned in the real world, our graduates share their experiences, insights and advice for your next step.
Curriculum and Career Pathways
The MS in Cyber Security Engineering consists of 30–36 units across 10–11 courses, giving you the technical foundation to tackle complex cybersecurity challenges. With flexible online and on-campus options, you can choose a format that fits your goals while building skills you can apply throughout your career.
Engineer What’s Next
From securing critical infrastructure to protecting cloud environments, the skills you develop in the MS in Cyber Security Engineering can prepare you for a range of roles at the intersection of cybersecurity, engineering and technology.
Cybersecurity Engineer
Design and implement solutions that protect critical systems and networks.
Security Engineer
Build and maintain security controls across complex technology environments.
Security Architect
Design secure technology architectures that address evolving threats.
Network Security Engineer
Protect networks and infrastructure against cyber attacks.
Cloud Security Engineer
Develop security solutions for increasingly complex cloud environments.
Application Security Engineer
Build security into software and applications from development through deployment.
One Degree. Three ways to get there.
Choose the format that fits your goals, schedule and career path. Whether you’re balancing work and other commitments or ready to immerse yourself in your graduate studies, the MS in Cyber Security Engineering offers flexible options designed to help you earn your degree while building the advanced skills you need to succeed in cybersecurity.
100% Online
Units: 30-36
Unit Cost: $1,290
Months: 20-24
Campus Part-Time
Units: 30-36
Unit Cost: $2,000
Months: 20-24
Campus Full-Time
Units: 36
Unit Cost: $2,000
Months: 18
Priority Deadline
Applying to our master’s program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:
- Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
- Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
- Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
- Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.
Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future today by submitting your application by the priority deadline!
Learn it Today. Use it Tomorrow.
With the MS in Cyber Security Engineering from the University of San Diego, you’ll gain the technical expertise and engineering skills to design secure systems, address complex cyber threats and drive innovation while preparing to take on greater responsibility in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
Are you ready to advance your career? Take the next step today by connecting with a member of enrollment advising team. They’ll help answer your questions and guide you through the application process.