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Master of Science in Cybersecurity

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity builds knowledge and skills of security specialists to effectively protect the safety and prosperity of companies, communities and the nation. The mission of the program is to engage students in an interdisciplinary approach on the security aspects of software, modern cryptographic systems, and security program management.

 

Endorsed by Cybersecurity Leaders

“As a public servant with over 25 years of information technology and cybersecurity operational experience, I feel this program can and will dramatically increase the available number of trained cybersecurity professionals within Idaho and nationwide.”

– Keith Tresh, Chief Information Security Officer, Office of Information Technology Services,  State of Idaho

“In recognition of the crucial role that cybersecurity plays in everyday life and with regards to the documented shortage of cybersecurity professionals, this program will help meet the educational needs and workforce demands of organizations within the state and beyond.”

– Scott Cramer, Director Cybercore Integration Center, National & Homeland Security

Making Connections

As of February 2022, Boise State University is a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. This five-year designation is awarded by the National Security Agency, based upon the university’s proven efforts to reduce threats to national infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense as well as provide the nation with a pipeline of qualified cybersecurity professionals.

Masters of Science in Cybersecurity - At a Glance

About The Emphases

Computer Science Emphasis

The Computer Science emphasis will focus on the protection of computer systems, networks, programs, critical infrastructures, and data from unintended or unauthorized access, change, or destruction.

Cryptanalysis and Signals Analysis Emphasis

The Cryptanalysis and Signals Analysis emphasis will focus on modern and emerging cryptographic systems, weaknesses of the underlying mathematics of a cryptographic system, weaknesses in implementation including side-channel attacks, and weak entropy inputs.

Management Emphasis

The Management emphasis will focus on managing the many complex systems required to run a successful information security program. These systems include governance systems, change management systems, identity, and access management systems, and managing the people running them.

How Much Does It Cost?

The table below provides estimates for the cost of attendance:

Fee TypeDomestic - ResidentDomestic - Non-ResidentInternational
Boise State Graduate Admissions Application Fee (non-refundable)$65$65$95
Tuition - Full-time Students (per academic year)$9,638$26,558$26,558
Tuition - Part-time Students (per credit)$469.64$826.64$826.64
Graduation Application Fee$25$25$25

*The per-credit fees listed above are for the 2020- 2021 academic year. Future academic credit fees may vary slightly and are finalized each May.  Current Graduate Tuition and Fees

**Other fees may apply, visit the Student Financial Services website for all graduate tuition and fees.

*** A small number of elective Online MBA courses (designated as BUSMBA in the curriculum plan) may be subject to a higher tuition rate of $637.50 per credit.

How Long Will It Take?

Full-time students taking approximately 3 courses per semester can complete the MS in Cybersecurity in two years.

How Do I Apply?

To be considered for the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • At least a baccalaureate degree (in any academic discipline) from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university or a degree from a non-U. S. institution of higher education that is judged equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree by the International Admissions office. Applicants who are a senior in good academic standing can request an exception to this requirement.
  • An undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (based on a 4-point scale) computed for all undergraduate credits from the applicant’s most recent baccalaureate degree.

*Students with a GPA lower than 3.0 may require special provisions for admission to the  program.

The application deadline Fall 2023 admission is July 15, 2023. For information about the application process please visit the  application page. If you would like to receive more information about the program, please submit an information request. 

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