Student Success Center
MS in Cyber Security Engineering (Part-Time On-Campus)
Log into your courses
Welcome!
As a student at the University of San Diego, most of your interactions with the university will be done through various websites. For example:
- You’ll use your USD Email Address for all university-related communications.
- You’ll use Canvas for all of your coursework and assignments. See Canvas Tips and Tricks page.
- You’ll use My.SanDiego.edu for tuition payments and to access most campus resources.
- You’ll use this site, your Student Success Center, to get specific information about textbook information, deadlines, and more!
- If you identify as alumni, visit our Alumni page to remain engaged.
Your Program Coordinator
Imari Washington
(619) 260-4726
Stay Connected with your Program
COMPLETE YOUR MANDATORY NEW STUDENT CHECKLIST
Our number one priority is you! Our team has prepared a checklist of items that will set you up for success and clarify all action items as a new student. After you are enrolled for your first term and receive a confirmation email from a member of our team, please complete and review all of the following before classes start.
1. View Your Mandatory New Student Welcome Webinar
This webinar will go over a comprehensive look at your program and what to expect as a student, including resources and tips for success. Each webinar should last around 30-40 minutes. Once you have been registered for classes and received a confirmation email from our team, you will be emailed the link to view your welcome webinar to your @sandiego.edu email address.
2. Schedule Your New Student Check-in Call
In this call, you’ll “meet” a member of your Student Success Team for your program. This will be a chance for us to answer any additional questions you have before you start your first term. Please be sure to have any Canvas-related, program-related, or finance-related questions prepared. After attending the Welcome Webinar, you will be prompted to schedule your call using a scheduling link.
3. Attend Your New Student Orientation - August 21, 2026 @ 4pm
Join us on Friday, August 21st from 4:00 – 6:30 pm for your New Student Orientation on campus. Please note that this orientation is mandatory for all new students. We are excited to officially welcome you to the program and look forward to meeting you!
4. Complete Your Online Orientation Course in Canvas - Due January 1, 2027
Once you have been registered in your classes, you will be able to access your online New Student Orientation Course on Canvas within 4 hours. When accessing Canvas, please make sure to use Firefox or Chrome as your browser.
The New Student Orientation course is designed to help you navigate your way around your course's layout prior to beginning your first class. You will learn where to find the syllabus, course schedule, assignments, and discussion boards.
Your Orientation is mandatory, and must be completed before the first day of class—so we encourage you to get started! Please plan to spend about 8 hours completing the Orientation course. You can move through the Orientation at your own pace, so schedule your time accordingly.
Looking for assistance?
View the guide for navigating your Canvas Orientation course
5. Finalize Your Tuition Payment Plan
We recommend that students start this planning early as some funding sources can take some time to process. Tuition payments should be completed in full by the first day of the semester. Visit the "Tuition and Payment Methods" section for more information.
6. Review your Student Handbook
Please make sure to review your student handbook prior to the first day of class, and reference it as needed throughout your program. The handbook is where you can find information on academic expectations, drop and refund policy, technology requirements, curriculum, frequently asked questions, and more.
IMPORTANT DATES
Below is a list of significant dates regarding the registration process, payment deadlines, and other important academic and program deadlines.
Fall 2026 Dates and Deadlines
| Important Dates | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | June 29, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline | August 14, 2026 |
| Financial Aid Requirements | August 14, 2026 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | August 31, 2026 |
| Payment Due Date | September 1, 2026 |
| Semester Begins | August 31, 2026 |
| First Course Start Date | M/W Class: August 31, 2026 T/Th Class: September 1, 2026 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | September 4, 2026 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | September 28, 2026 |
| First Course End Date | M/W Class: October 21, 2026 T/Th Class: October 20, 2026 |
| Second Course Start Date | M/W Class: October 26, 2026 T/Th Class: October 22, 2026 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | November 16, 2026 |
| Second Course End Date | M/W Class: December 16, 2026 T/Th Class: December 15, 2026 |
| Semester Ends | December 16, 2026 |
Spring 2027 Dates and Deadlines
| important dates | date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | November 2, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline | December 14, 2026 |
| Financial Aid Requirements | December 14, 2026 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | January 4, 2026 |
| Payment Due Date | January 5, 2026 |
| Semester Begins | January 4 (M/W) or 5 (T/R), 2027 |
| First Course Start Date | M/W Class: January 4, 2027 T/Th Class: January 5, 2027 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | January 8, 2027 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | February 1, 2027 |
| First Course End Date | M/W Class: February 24, 2027 T/Th Class: February 23, 2027 |
| Second Course Start Date | M/W Class: March 1, 2027 T/Th Class: March 2, 2027 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | March 22, 2027 |
| Second Course End Date | M/W Class: April 21, 2027 T/Th Class: April 20, 2027 |
| Semester Ends | April 21, 2027 |
Summer 2027 Dates and Deadlines
| important dates | date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | March 1, 2027 |
| Registration Deadline | April 16, 2027 |
| Financial Aid Requirements | April 16, 2027 |
| Last Day to Drop with 100% Refund | May 2, 2027 |
| Payment Due Date | May 3, 2027 |
| Semester Begins | May 3, 2027 |
| First Course Start Date | M/W Class: May 3, 2027 T/Th Class: May 4, 2027 |
| Last Day to Drop with 95% Refund/ Drop Deadline | May 7, 2027 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course A | May 31, 2027 |
| First Course End Date | M/W Class: June 23, 2027 T/Th Class: June 22, 2027 |
| Second Course Start Date | M/W Class: June 28, 2027 T/Th Class: June 29, 2027 |
| Last Day to Withdraw from Course B | July 19, 2027 |
| Second Course End Date | M/W Class: August 18, 2027 T/Th Class: August 17, 2027 |
| Semester Ends | August 18, 2027 |
Download a pdf of your academic calendar
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on connecting with your University of San Diego global community through a variety of events - featuring academic workshops, cultural celebrations, networking events, and more. There’s something for everyone!
Class Registration Directions
You have most likely already filled out an Enrollment Commitment, which enables our team to register you for classes each term. No further action is required on your part, but you may view your course registration on your MySanDiego portal.
If you are not able to register for both of your courses in a given term, please contact your Program Coordinator or email [email protected] immediately. This often happens for students who need to take a leave of absence.
Textbook information
Students are required to have their textbooks on hand by the first day of class. Unless otherwise specified, students may select any vendor they prefer (such as Amazon.com, Half.com, Alibris.com, etc.) to purchase their course materials. In the event a specific vendor is required, it will be specified in the course materials list. The best way to ensure that you have the correct book is to search by the ISBN number(s) listed on the book list.
Physical copies of books are not on hand at the USD Torero Store. The USD Torero online store does offer price comparisons for different online vendors for some books.
Although all textbooks for all courses are listed, students only need to purchase the items for the classes they are taking for the semester.
Digital Inclusive Access (IA) - Integrated VitalSource Textbooks
If your course is indicated to have a "Digital Inclusive Access" textbook, you do have the option to use the integrated Vitalsource e-textbook without needing to purchase a textbook through an outside vendor. For more information, view the "Digital Inclusive Access" FAQs document.
- Students are able to access the e-textbook directly in the course without worrying about purchasing the wrong version or textbook!
- If your course is indicated as using “Digital Inclusive Access” on the textbook list, please note that you must opt-out within the first 7 days of each course to avoid being charged for the guaranteed-lowest price textbook.
- If you do intend to use “Digital Inclusive Access”, no further action is required after you create a Vitalsource account.
- No refunds can be issued once the textbook charge has been assessed.
By using Vitalsource e-Textbooks, students are able to use study tools in Bookshelf such as highlighting, printing limited pages/chapters, sharing notes, and using the Bookshelf CoachMe tool to test their learning while they read.
PAYing for your program
Tuition at USD is billed per semester, not per course. Payment (or enrollment in an official USD payment plan) is always due by the first day of the semester. Students may not carry balances from one semester to the next.
Accounts with outstanding balances after the official payment due date may be subject to course cancellations/removal or a student account hold during the semester; related holds can prevent upcoming registration, graduation, or obtaining transcripts.
Remember: tuition is always due by the first day of each semester.
Tuition amounts shown on this website, or in other university publications or web pages, represent tuition and fees as currently approved. However, the University of San Diego reserves the right to increase or modify tuition and fees without prior notice and to make such modifications applicable to students enrolled at USD at that time as well as to incoming students. In addition, all tuition amounts and fees are subject to change at any time for correction of errors.
The University of San Diego has identified the following Cyber Security related external scholarship opportunities. Please note that the following scholarships are not offered directly through the University of San Diego.
- Center for Cyber Safety & Education Scholarships
- Google Scholarships
- Department of Defense Cyber Scholarship Program (CySP)
Program Tuition
Once you have been registered for your courses, your student account will reflect the appropriate tuition costs according to your program. Please view the student fees breakdown per semester. Payments not received by the deadlines are subject to late fees. Your program’s tuition is the following:
- Per Unit (classes are typically 3-units, except CYBR 505) = $2,000
- Per Semester (assuming 6-units per semester) = $12,000
- Total Program Cost (without CYBR 505, 5 semesters) = $60,000
- Total Program Cost (with CYBR 505, 6 semesters) = $72,000
Students who need to re-take or withdraw from a course may need to pay additional fees according to the Refund/Drop Deadline policies listed in your Student Handbook.
If you have any questions about your Student Account, please reach out to the Torero Hub by submitting their inquiry form or phone at 619-260-2700. All costs and fees are subject to change and are based on the academic year of enrollment.
COMPTIA lab simulation service
CompTIA is an online service for students working on certifications. It consists of courses taught through “lab sim (simulation)” with text, videos, labs, and assessments. Each course runs approx. $159-$179*. For more details, please see the Student Resources section.
Refund Policy
Students will be registered for their prescribed courses each semester. All courses must be dropped prior to the first day of the semester to receive a 100% tuition refund and within the first three days of the start date of the semester to receive a 95% tuition refund. No refund (reversal of tuition) will be provided after the third day of the semester for any class.
DEGREE PROGRESS and COMMENCEMENT
DegreeWorks
You can track your progress toward earning your degree using the Degree Works feature in your MySanDiego student portal. Degree Works shows you which courses you have completed, grades, cumulative GPA, any outstanding graduation requirements, and more!
To access Degree Works:
- Log in to your MySanDiego student portal.
- Under the “Torero Hub” tab, click on “My Academics.”
- On the right-hand side under “My Academic Resources”, click on “Degree Works.”
Petition to Graduate
Submitting your petition to graduate is a requirement for every student. About a semester before your final term, you will be reminded by your Program Coordinator to submit your petition to graduate. Once completed, your Academic Coordinator will review your academic record and contact you if there are any outstanding requirements or issues.
Commencement timing
If you are planning on participating in the commencement ceremony (which means walking in your cap and gown here on campus), you will be invited to come to the University of San Diego to participate in the ceremony. Commencement details and information will be sent from your Student Success Team around the month of February.
- There is only one commencement ceremony each academic year in May.
- Fall and Spring graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May after they graduate.
- Summer graduates will be invited to the commencement ceremony the May before they graduate.
Diploma Details
The Registrar will process their final audit of the degrees 6-8 weeks after grades are posted for your final semester. Once the degree is conferred in the system, the Registrar will order your diploma from the vendor and the vendor will send it to you directly to the address that was listed on your petition to graduate.
If your mailing address changes after you submit your Petition to Graduate, please notify the Graduate Records office at (619) 260-2217 or [email protected].
You will receive a digital diploma to your @sandiego.edu email address once your degree has been officially conferred.
You will also receive a physical diploma. Mailing time is an additional 6-8 weeks from the date of order, and you will likely receive your diploma in the mail in 3-4 months after you have completed your degree requirements.
Course Details
program requirements
The 30-unit program will consist of ten courses. Courses will be offered year-round with three semesters every year; Spring, Summer, and Fall. Each semester will last 14 weeks. Students will take two courses per semester. Courses will run for seven weeks each with a one or two week break in between semesters. This intensive format will allow students to focus on one course at a time and to still complete the degree program in 20 months.
Please notice that attendance to the resident learning classes are mandatory and important to learning effectiveness. Missing these classes may have negative implications on your final grade; your instructor reserves the right to modify your final grade based on lack of in-person attendance. If you anticipate that you may not be able to attend a future class session, please notify your instructor at least 24 hours in advance to explore potential alternative assignments and makeup work. The instructor reserves the right to deduct points based on multiple absences.
Course Titles and Descriptions
Computational Roots of Cyber Security (CYBR 505) *May Not Be Required
*Students without specific training in cyber engineering and/or an undergraduate degree in computer science, engineering or computer engineering may be required to take CYBR 505.
Introduction to Cybersecurity Concepts and Tools (CYBR 501)
An introduction to the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including the notion of policy as the definition of “security” for a system and the concepts of threats, vulnerabilities, and risk. We will survey common attacks and mitigations, and the shortcomings of common, contemporary cybersecurity models. Students will practice aspects of networking, operating systems, and security test tools through computer virtualization and hands-on labs and will assemble a penetration testing Cybersecurity Sandbox with multiple virtual machines that they will use in subsequent courses and will demonstrate the use of a set of security test tools. Prerequisites: CYBR 505 (can be waived by MS-CSE Program Director based on student's academic and professional background)
Cybersecurity Network Defense (CYBR 502)
This course is an introduction to fundamental concepts of computer network security and defense, including planning, architecture, system design and deployment, risk assessments, and identifying network security threats from a cybersecurity perspective. Cybersecurity network testing will be conducted in the virtualized Cybersecurity Sandbox that students implemented in CYBR 501. Prerequisites: CYBR 501
Cloud Security Ops (CYBR 503)
This course focuses on securing modern cloud and virtualized environments using industry-standard architectures and frameworks. Topics include cloud service models and shared responsibility, identity and access management, Zero Trust principles, secure cloud networking, data protection, infrastructure-as-code security, container and Kubernetes security, and cloud threat detection and incident response. Students apply risk frameworks and security controls through hands-on labs conducted in the Cybersecurity Sandbox. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
Applied Cryptography (CYBR 504)
This course is an introduction to core principles of modern cryptography and applied cryptographic methods and systems. It includes description of common cryptographic algorithms, pseudorandom generators and encryption. Students will explore the application and assessment of cryptographic techniques for enforcing security policies. Class labs and project will be conducted in the Cybersecurity SandBox. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
AI/ML Security (CYBR 506)
This course introduces the security risks and defenses associated with artificial intelligence and machine learning systems. Students examine AI/ML threat models, data integrity and provenance, secure model pipelines, adversarial attacks, privacy risks, and governance frameworks such as the NIST AI Risk Management Framework. Through hands-on labs, students design, test, and defend ML systems against adversarial manipulation while assessing residual risk and compliance considerations. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
Penetration Testing & Adversarial Operations (CYBR 508)
This course provides hands-on experience in offensive security and adversarial operations. Topics include reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, exploitation, privilege escalation, lateral movement, and adversary emulation aligned with the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Students conduct penetration testing engagements within a controlled lab environment, validate defensive detections, and produce professional technical and executive-level reports using the Cybersecurity Sandbox. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
Security Test Engineering (CYBR 510)
This course presents various methodologies for performing security testing to ensure a system correctly enforces the security policy. Topics include creating and configuring test environments based on security requirements; differentiating between functional testing and security testing; and types of testing such as static, dynamic, vulnerability, and penetration testing; Labs and projects for the course will utilize the Cybersecurity Sandbox. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
Incident Detection and Handling (CYBR 512)
In this course techniques for assuring the continued operation of secure systems in contested environments will be explored. The course through lecture, labs and projects continue to students to use these techniques for the detection of, response to, and recovery from security incidents. Labs and projects for the course will utilize the Cybersecurity Sandbox. Prerequisites: CYBR 501 and CYBR 502
Cyber Engineering Research I (CYBR 514)
In Research 1, students will be introduced to a multi domain international company that requires cybersecurity support to update and formalize the security of the enterprise. Student will be required to apply knowledge and skills learned throughout the Cybersecurity Engineering curriculum. The class will form a project team and break into work groups and in a virtual environment develop and implement an Information Systems Security Plan to secure a three-city international structure design private company (Design World Case Study). The groups will be provided a virtual environment with the enterprise systems design in place as per the Case study. Prerequisites: CYBR 501, CYBR 502, CYBR 503, CYBR 504, CYBR 506, CYBR 508, CYBR 510, and CYBR 512
Cyber Engineering Research II (CYBR 516)
In Research II, students will continue the implementation of the capstone case study introduced in Research I a multi domain international company that requires cybersecurity support to update and formalize the security of the enterprise. Students will be required to apply knowledge and skills learned throughout the Cybersecurity Engineering curriculum. The class will be provided a virtual environment with the enterprise systems design in place as per the Case study. Prerequisites: CYBR 501, CYBR 502, CYBR 503, CYBR 504, CYBR 506, CYBR 508, CYBR 510, CYBR 512, and CYBR 514
Student Resources
This list is helpful resources that will set you up for success. Haven’t written in APA formatting since your undergraduate program? We’ve got you covered! Want to know what type of computer you will need? No problem. We have listed helpful resources below.
Academic Requirements and Resources
Technical Requirements
USD MS Cyber Security Engineering (MS-CSE) courses require students to have access to a Windows Operating System (OS) laptop with administrative rights for classroom labs and projects. Processor speed must be a minimum of 1.5 GHz to adequately support several concurrent virtual machines (VM). RAM needs to be 16GB minimum and ample secondary storage of 500 GB (preferably SSD) hard disk drive. A USB port is highly recommended to support thumb drives and external HDDs and CD/DVD drive as recommended to facilitate ISO archival for virtual machine OS.
Leading security professional virtualization platforms are predominantly Windows-based. All three of the top virtualizations systems (VirtualBox, VMware, and Hyper-V) are optimally designed for Windows. While we recognize the prevalence of Apple computers across development and design areas, it is necessary to choose a standardized platform that accommodates the greatest degree of software utility and class time efficiency. OSX and Apple/Mac computers are not acceptable computers for the MSCSE Program.
CompTIA Lab Simulation Service
CompTIA is an online lab simulation service we have embedded in some of our courses on Canvas. We use CompTIA texts, videos, labs, and assessments as required assignments for specific courses. Each course runs approx. $159-$179*.
USD students in the CSE program will be required to utilize CompTIA as part of the curriculum. Instead of purchasing CompTIA for the proper courses outside of Canvas, the CompTIA online service will be embedded in the Canvas classroom. As soon as you log into your course, you will have access. The “lab fee” will go towards your program’s tuition. You will only be required to purchase each course once. So, if Security Pro for CompTIA is used in 3 classes, students only have to pay that lab fee once.
While a student will use portions of the CompTIA courses, they will not be required to complete the full course, just the professor-prescribed exercises. If they do choose to complete the CompTIA course in its entirety on their own time, they will be qualified to sit for different certifications (highlighted below). Once a student accesses a CompTIA course, they will have access to it for 12 months.
CYBR 501
- Security Pro CompTIA Course = $159
- Prepares students for:
- CompTIA Security Pro CompTIA Security+ (SY0-501).
CYBR 502
- Ethical Hacker Pro CompTIA Course = $179
- Prepares students for:
- CompTIA Ethical Hacker Pro EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker
*All listed fees are subject to change without notice. Additional CompTIA fees may apply.
Graduate Writing Expectations and Tips
All writing assignments must be formatted according to APA standards. Discussion posts must contain the appropriate APA citations. If you want additional writing support, we recommend Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL@Purdue). In addition to general writing support, the website includes a special section dedicated to APA formatting guidelines.
Another helpful writing resource is the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) Graduate Student Writing Center. Enrolled students can submit assignments for review by a writing professional.
Copley Library Navigation
View our virtual workshop, "Copley Library Navigation, Citations and AI-Driven Research Skills," which introduces tools that make academic work smoother, smarter, and more efficient. In this session, you’ll learn how to navigate Copley Library like a pro, use citation resources with ease, and integrate AI tools such as SCITE to strengthen your research workflow. You’ll leave with practical strategies, time‑saving tips, and a personalized roadmap for thriving as a USD scholar.
Learning Strategies
View our virtual workshop, "Learning Unlocked: Strategies, Resources & Collaboration," which will equip you with practical knowledge and skills to apply tangible strategies to learn throughout your Master's Degree!
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
With the rise of AI writing assistants, students must ensure that they use this new technology ethically and honestly. Consult this document for guidance.
View the Navigating Generative AI Workshop recording.
Review the Mastering Research in the AI and Digital Age recording.
NotebookLM is an AI-powered research assistant that can help you get to critical insights faster and easier, all grounded in the information you provide. Upload your sources and NotebookLM will summarize your information and make interesting connections between topics. Listen and learn on the go by turning your sources into engaging audio and video discussions. Access it through any web browser or via its mobile app (iOS and Android). Leveraging NotebookLM for Your Graduate Studies at USD guide.
Download Microsoft Office 365 (Free for USD Students)
Students at the University of San Diego are able to download Microsoft Office 365 for free! If you don’t have it already, you can download the Microsoft Office 365 suite using your USD student email.
Skimming 101: Managing the Reading Load of Graduate Work
Students at the University of San Diego were invited to attend this session focused on applying strategies to accelerate their reading and information processing.
View the 3-minute summary video on academic skimming.
External Tutoring Resource
USD does not offer subject-specific tutoring resources, so students who are looking for tutoring support are encouraged to identify a tutor using Wyzant.com. Please note that Wyzant is not a USD-managed resource, so use them at your own discretion.
Career Readiness
If you're looking for assistance with career counseling, resume and interview preparation, salary negotiation guides, and student employment opportunities, view the Career Resources page to learn more. Additionally, students can leverage key networking and recruitment tools like Handshake, LinkedIn, and USD’s T.E.A.M. network, as well as explore specialized professional certifications.
Student Wellness Resources
Our community is dedicated to supporting students holistically. Our goal is to increase mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and equip students with essential skills to succeed during their program and beyond. As a student, you have access to resources to support your academic success and personal development. Wellness resources include the TimelyCare, Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center, Annual Wellness Trainings, Health Insurance, Economic Resources, On Campus Resources, Time Management, CARE Advocates and Identity Resources such as Military Students, First Generation, Student Parents, Caregivers to Adults and DACA/Undocumented Student Resources.
Student Handbook
Graduate Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities
Canvas @ USD
In your program, you can think of Canvas as your virtual tool to share information with professors and peers. You will use Canvas to access your course content, find course syllabi, review your assignments, and more. Be sure to use your USD credentials to log in. If you have any difficulty logging into your course, be sure to contact ITS at (619) 260-7900 or [email protected].
Netiquette Guidelines
The concept of netiquette covers proper communication online. Read our guidelines to help cultivate a supportive and productive online environment.
your partners toward success
At USD, you join a community of individuals who are all committed to one common goal: your success. As you familiarize yourself with your team, take the opportunity to virtually meet and connect with the resources available to you as a student. Click on the profiles below to learn more about each office or staff member and watch a brief video about their role in supporting you through graduation.
USD Quick Links
- USD Directory (For Faculty or Staff Contact Information)
- Torero Hub
- Health and Wellness
- SOLES Graduate Writing Center
- Epstein Family Military Center
- Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center
- Copley Library
- Career Development Center
- Campus Recreation (Remote and On-Campus Classes Offered)
Career and professional resources
Whether you're hoping to find a new job or earn a promotion, USD has a wealth of resources available to prepare you for your dream role.