Utica University Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs (Three Specializations)

The Utica University Economic Crime & Cybersecurity Institute offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree with three specializations: Cybercrime and Fraud, Cybersecurity Operations, and Digital Forensics. Utica University is a leader in cybersecurity education and partners with several organizations including the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS).

The MS in Cybersecurity prepares students to address cybersecurity threats in several industries such as power and utilities, healthcare, financial services, defense, technology, and energy. In addition, graduates may be prepared for various certification exams including CompTIA A+, Security+ or Network+; ISACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate; CISSP, CCSP, CCFP; Cisco Cybersecurity Specialist, CCNP, CCNA, CCIE, and EC Council.

Students in the Digital Forensics specialization learn to investigate network-based crimes through forensic tools and analysis. Topics covered include cybersecurity on handheld devices, how to approach and respond to cybersecurity incidents, and forensic analysis and investigations.

The Cybersecurity Operations specialization is designed for students who want to focus on defensive and offensive cybersecurity operations. Topics covered include penetration testing, using data hiding, cryptographic, and steganographic tools, and ethical concerns in cyber operations. Students learn in an online, virtual hands-on lab to gain the hands-on experience they need with servers, machines and cybersecurity environments.

The Cybercrime and Fraud specialization focuses on fraud and risk compliance for managers. This specialization is useful for professionals serving in financial institutions and positions. Topics covered include fraud detection, analysis, and management, fraud prevention, and risk compliance.

The MS in Cybersecurity comprises 30 credits and can be completed in two years. It is designed for full-time working professionals to complete on a part-time basis. A full-time option is available if desired. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. No work experience is required but experience in computer science, information technology, or a related field is recommended. Courses begin in Fall, Spring, or Summer. Students completing this degree participate in an online two-day immersive residency with faculty and peers.

There are 18 credits of major requirements for the MS in Cybersecurity and 12 credits for each specialization. Major requirements include Principles of Cybersecurity; Principles of Cybercrime Investigations; Cyber Intelligence; and Critical National Infrastructures and National Security. In addition, students complete a two-course capstone project.

Cybercrime and Fraud specialization courses include Legal and Regulatory Issues for Fraud Management; Fraud Management and Technology; Fraud Management: Risk and Compliance; and Advanced Fraud Analysis.

Cybersecurity Operations specialization courses include Tactics, Techniques and Procedures; Access Methods and Data Hiding; Computer and Network Operations; and either Autonomous Cyber Operations or Advanced Topics in Cyber Operations.

Digital Forensics specialization courses include Essential Topics and Emerging Trends in Cybercrime Investigations; Computer Forensics and Investigation Methods; Intrusion Forensics and Network Analysis; and either Network Forensics or Advanced Topics in Computer Forensics.

Note that the Foundations of Computing for Cybersecurity course is required for those without networking or computer software experience.

Utica University delivers cybersecurity courses asynchronously through the Engage Learning Management System (LMS). Students interact online through videos, discussion boards, online chat, assignments, assessments, and email. Students in the MS in Cybersecurity complete a two-course capstone in which they conduct a chosen field research project. In addition, students in the Cyber Operations and Malware Analysis specializations utilize online virtual labs to increase hands-on experience with virtual cybersecurity threats.

Utica University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Cybersecurity department at Utica University is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Security Agency (NSA).