Cybersecurity (MS)

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Program Description

With the vast amount of sensitive data now stored in the digital universe — everything from social security numbers to financial records and matters of national security — it’s critical that we secure and protect it from malicious interests. For vital computer networks and electronic infrastructures, cybersecurity experts stand as the last and most effective line of defense against such attacks.

At the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, our master's in Cybersecurity program curriculum is rooted in the belief that theory and research must translate into real-world solutions. To this end, we have created the NYU Center for Cybersecurity, and the Offensive Security, Incident Response, and Internet Security Lab (OSIRIS) dedicated to training the current and future generations of cybersecurity professionals. 

NYU Tandon has a distinguished history of research and education in the field of cybersecurity, and our classes are taught by internationally known experts. We’ve been designated an NSA Center of Excellence in Information Assurance, a Center of Excellence in Research, and a Center of Excellence in Cyber Operations. 

The cybersecurity field is expected to generate many new jobs over the next decade as industry and government continue to emphasize safe data and information systems. As a graduate of the program, you’ll be ready for a career as a developer of security products, security application programmer, security analyst, and penetration tester. You can also pursue work as a security researcher, vulnerability analyst, or security architect, or continue your studies toward a doctorate.

Admissions

You need a superior undergraduate record from an accredited institution in order to be considered for entrance into the program. Preferably, you should have an undergraduate degree in computer science, mathematics, science, or engineering. However, applicants with degrees in other fields are considered individually for admission. You must also satisfy the following:

  • Knowledge of mathematics through calculus
  • At least 1 year of university-level science
  • A working knowledge of a high-level, general-purpose programming language (preferably C++) and of data structures
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate in written and spoken English. Foreign students and others for whom English is a second language may be required to undertake preparatory work to improve their language skills before admission into the graduate program.
  • Statement of Purpose: You should submit a special purpose statement with your application that states your experience in cybersecurity and your motivation for applying to the program.
  • A basic understanding of computer fundamentals such as computer organization and operation, data structures, and computer architecture.
  • GRE scores

Admission with advanced standing is accepted in accordance with the School of Engineering regulations published in the bulletin. A maximum of 9 credits may be applied to the MS degree from previous graduate work at an acceptable institution.

GRE Requirements

Applicants who satisfy one of the following conditions are not required but encouraged to submit a GRE score:

  1. MS Applicants without a Cybersecurity degree or similar background who successfully complete the NYU Tandon Bridge program.
  2. Applicant completes 9 credits under Visiting Student Registration from an approved list of CSE courses and maintains an average grade of B+ or better.
  3. Applicant has a BA or BS degree in computer science or computer engineering from NYU, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.