Claflin University students and campus life
Department of Mathematics & Computer Science

M.S. in Cyber Security

Advance into leadership roles defending the systems the world runs on.

Degree Type
Master of Science
Program Length
2 years (full-time)
Credit Hours
36 credit hours
Delivery Format
On-campus / hybrid
Department
Department of Mathematics & Computer Science
School
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career Outlook
Strong, growing demand
Location
Orangeburg, SC
Overview

Inside M.S. in Cyber Security.

The Master of Science in Cyber Security develops advanced expertise in network defense, cryptography, and security operations.

Graduates move into high-demand security leadership and analyst roles across industry and government.

Student experience

Students in M.S. in Cyber Security learn in small, mentorship-driven classes, work closely with faculty on research and creative projects, and build a portfolio of real-world experience before they graduate.

What You'll Learn

  • 01Design and defend secure systems
  • 02Apply cryptography and threat analysis
  • 03Lead security operations and response
  • 04Navigate security policy and compliance

Why This Program

  • High-demand, high-salary field
  • Hands-on security labs
  • Flexible scheduling for professionals
Program details

From the Program

Intro

The Master of Science degree in Cyber Security is designed to equip scholars with the advanced knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to navigate the complex and rapidly evolving field of cyber security.

With a curriculum built on industry best practices and informed by the latest research, graduates of the Master of Science in Cyber Security program will be prepared to take on key roles in cybersecurity management, threat analysis, information assurance, and other critical areas. Graduates will leave the program with the confidence and competence to tackle the most pressing cyber security challenges of our digital age.

Curriculum

The Master of Science in Cyber Security requires completion of 35 credit hours and is delivered fully online in an asynchronous format. Online courses are offered in 8-week sessions.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite Courses (11 Credit Hours)

Required for students without a B.S. in Computer Science or a closely related field.

  • CSCI 206 Fundamentals of Programming
  • CSCI 207 Intro to Object Oriented Programming
  • CSCI 208 Introduction to Information Assurance

Core

Core Courses (12 Credit Hours)

  • CSCI 501 Building Secure Software
  • CSCI 503 Computer Crime and Forensics
  • CSCI 502 Ethical Hacking
  • CSCI 504 Information Security Principles

Electives

Elective Courses (15 Credit Hours)

Students choose from the following options:

  • CSCI 505 Web Security
  • CSCI 506 Introduction to Cryptography
  • CSCI 507 Network Systems Security
  • CSCI 596 Directed Study and Research I
  • CSCI 597 Directed Study and Research II
  • CSCI 508 Secure Database Systems
  • CSCI 509 Software Security

Capstone + Seminar

Capstone Research & Seminars

The program culminates in research and seminar experiences that integrate advanced cybersecurity concepts with practical application.

  • CSCI 591 Seminar I
  • CSCI 592 Seminar II
  • CSCI 598 Research I
  • CSCI 599 Research II

Capstone Research: 6 credit hours | Seminar Courses: 2 credit hours

Admission Requirements

Students seeking admission into the Master of Science in Cyber Security program must meet the following requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cyber Security, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Applicants not meeting this requirement must take prerequisite courses.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Three letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success.
  • Statement of purpose.
  • Résumé / Curriculum Vitae.
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended.
  • A TOEFL score of 80 or higher, or an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher (for international students).
Curriculum

What You'll Study.

Major Requirements

  • 01Foundational core sequence for the M.S. in Cyber Security major
  • 02Methods, theory, and applied coursework
  • 03Upper-division concentration courses
  • 04Capstone, portfolio, or senior research experience

General Education

  • 01First-Year Experience & University Seminar
  • 02Written and Oral Communication
  • 03Quantitative Reasoning & Natural Sciences
  • 04Humanities, Social Sciences & the Arts

Electives

  • 01Free electives toward the 120-credit degree
  • 02Optional minor or second concentration
  • 03Study away / experiential credit options
Sample four-year plan
Year One
  • University core & seminar
  • Introductory major foundations
Year Two
  • Major methods & theory
  • General education breadth
Year Three
  • Upper-division major courses
  • Internship or research
Year Four
  • Concentration electives
  • Capstone / senior experience

Downloadable curriculum sheet — coming soon

Career pathways

Where This Degree Takes You.

Common Job Titles

  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Security Engineer
  • Penetration Tester
  • Security Architect
  • SOC Manager

Graduate School Options

  • Ph.D. in Computing / Security
  • Doctoral research programs

Industry Sectors

  • Technology
  • Finance
  • Government & Defense
  • Healthcare
Salary outlook

Salary outcomes vary by role and region — connect with Claflin Career Services for current, verified data for this field.

Employment statistics

Add program placement rate and outcomes data

Experiential learning

Learn by Doing.

Real experience is built into the program — from internships and research to service learning and study abroad.

Internships

Placements with regional employers and partners connected to the Department of Mathematics & Computer Science.

Undergraduate Research

Mentored, faculty-led research beginning as early as the first year.

Field Experiences

Site visits, practica, and community-based learning that apply classroom theory.

Service Learning

Projects that connect coursework to Orangeburg and the surrounding community.

Study Abroad

Global programs coordinated through the Office of Global Programs.

Faculty

Learn from Dedicated Scholars.

Portrait of Dr. Abdelrahman Desoky

Dr. Abdelrahman Desoky

Associate Professor of Computer Engineering

Portrait of Mr. Daryoush Mani

Mr. Daryoush Mani

Assistant Professor of Mathematics

Portrait of Dr. Yuanyuan Peng

Dr. Yuanyuan Peng

Associate Professor of Mathematics

Portrait of Ms. Erika L. Rhett

Ms. Erika L. Rhett

Lecturer Dept. of Math & Computer Sciences

Portrait of Dr. Nesan S. Sriskanda

Dr. Nesan S. Sriskanda

Associate Professor of Engineering & Mathematics

Dr. Somasundaram Velummylum

Professor of Mathematics

Portrait of Dr. Wei Wan

Dr. Wei Wan

Associate Professor of Mathematics

Student success

Outcomes That Speak for Themselves.

Sample spotlights — replace with real student & alumni stories.

“The M.S. in Cyber Security program gave me the mentorship and hands-on experience to step confidently into my career.”
Claflin Graduate
Add alumni name, class year & current role
“My professors knew me by name and pushed me to do work I didn't know I was capable of.”
Current Student
Add student name, classification & spotlight
Admissions

How to Apply.

Requirements

  • Completed Claflin University application
  • Official high school transcript (or college transcripts for transfers)
  • Self-reported test scores (test-optional pathways available)
  • Personal statement and any program-specific materials

Deadlines

  • Fall priority: November 1 — Spring priority: November 15
  • Rolling admission after priority dates while space remains
  • Financial aid: complete the FAFSA by the published priority date

Application Process

  1. 01Submit your free application online
  2. 02Send official transcripts and supporting documents
  3. 03Connect with your admissions counselor
  4. 04Receive your decision and financial aid package

Answer the call

Your M.S. in Cyber Security Journey Starts Here.

Take the next step toward a Claflin education — apply, request information, or schedule a visit today.