M.S. in Computer Science
The M.S. in Computer Science at SUNY Poly is a graduate-level program typically complet...
M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security
Utica, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security is a graduate-level program typically completed within 18 to 24 months. It provides a deep understanding of network security, system vulnerabilities, cyber threats, and defensive strategies. The program offers flexibility with options for full-time, part-time, and 100% online study, allowing students to tailor their academic journey to their professional and personal commitments. It is meticulously designed to prepare students for management and technical positions in cybersecurity research and IT security management, as well as for further doctoral studies.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security program at SUNY Polytechnic Institute is STEM-designated. This is a significant benefit for international students, as it enables them to apply for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, providing up to an additional 24 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security is rigorously crafted to cover critical areas of cybersecurity, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications. Core courses provide a firm background in information security principles, data communications networks, and computer system security. Typical courses include Network Security, Cybersecurity Policy, Ethical Hacking, Digital Forensics, and Incident Response. The program integrates hands-on labs and projects that mirror real-world challenges, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. A wide range of electives further allows students to customize their program, specializing in areas such as Cloud Security, Blockchain Technology, and Security Architecture, to align with their career aspirations. State-of-the-art facilities like the Newman Cybersecurity Lab, Cisco lab, and the Advanced Cybersecurity Research Lab (ACRL) provide immersive learning environments.
Research Focus: SUNY Polytechnic Institute's M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security program fosters a strong research and innovation focus. While a thesis is an option, the curriculum emphasizes the application of cutting-edge research and the understanding of security protocols, risk management, and forensic analysis. Students engage in hands-on projects and critical analysis of cyber threats, often supported by state-of-the-art lab facilities designed to simulate real-world cybersecurity environments. Faculty members actively pursue research in various cybersecurity domains, often collaborating with government and industry experts. The program prepares students for positions that demand advanced knowledge in cybersecurity research and IT security management, reflecting a strong research-informed approach to solving complex security challenges.
Industry Engagement: SUNY Polytechnic Institute places a strong emphasis on industry engagement to ensure its Cybersecurity graduates are "exceptionally employable." The program has been developed in conjunction with local experts in both industry and government, ensuring a curriculum that is highly relevant to current industry needs. Students have access to multiple lab facilities, including the Newman Cybersecurity Lab, which provides resources for both in-class lab sessions and individual projects that emulate enterprise environments. The university has established strong partnerships with leading organizations in the cybersecurity domain, providing students with ample opportunities for internships, cooperative education experiences, and networking. Alumni have secured positions at prominent entities such as the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Assured Information Security (AIS), BNY Mellon, and Booz Allen Hamilton, showcasing robust industry connections and excellent job placement rates.
Global Perspective: SUNY Polytechnic Institute cultivates a global perspective within its M.S. in Cybersecurity: Network and Computer Security program by addressing the inherently global nature of cyber threats and security. The principles and practices of cybersecurity are universal, applicable across international borders and diverse organizational structures. By attracting a diverse international student body, the university enriches the learning environment with varied cultural viewpoints, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of global cyber warfare and international data protection regulations. The program's focus on cutting-edge research and industry relevance prepares students to contribute to the global cybersecurity landscape, working with multinational companies or participating in international efforts to combat cybercrime and enhance digital resilience worldwide.
Location
Utica, New York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18963
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $60
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence and reduce financial barriers.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students admitted to SUNY Poly may be eligible for academic merit scholarships awarded based on high school or previous college performance. These scholarships reward strong academic records, leadership qualities, and potential for success in STEM, business, and health sciences fields.
Transfer and Continuing Student Scholarships: SUNY Poly offers scholarships for transfer students and those continuing their studies, recognizing sustained academic achievement and commitment to their programs.
Specialized Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within SUNY Poly may offer field-specific scholarships for international students excelling in areas such as engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, or nursing. These awards encourage students to advance innovation and research in their chosen disciplines.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Cybersecurity with a specialization in Network and Computer Security from SUNY Polytechnic Institute provides graduates with an advanced and highly specialized skillset essential for safeguarding digital assets in today's interconnected world.
Cybersecurity Engineer: Graduates design, build, and maintain secure computer systems and networks. They implement security measures, conduct tests, and perform maintenance checks to ensure top-level security for organizations.
Network Security Engineer: This role focuses specifically on securing an organization's network infrastructure. Graduates design, implement, and maintain secure networks, setting up firewalls, configuring security protocols, and monitoring networks for potential threats.
Information Security Analyst: These professionals identify and mitigate potential threats and vulnerabilities to an organization's computer systems and networks. They conduct risk assessments, develop security protocols, and monitor networks for suspicious activity and breaches.
Security Architect: A more senior role, security architects are responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive security systems and frameworks for organizations. They anticipate threats and faults, ensuring that systems and networks are built with security embedded from the ground up.
Ethical Hacker / Penetration Tester: Graduates act as "white hat" hackers, proactively attempting to find vulnerabilities in an organization's systems and networks before malicious actors can exploit them. They perform security assessments and provide recommendations for improvement.
Digital Forensics Specialist/Investigator: These experts investigate cyber incidents and crimes, gathering and analyzing digital evidence for legal proceedings or internal investigations. They reconstruct events, identify perpetrators, and assist in recovering compromised data.
Cybersecurity Consultant: Graduates can work independently or for consulting firms, providing expert advice and assistance to various organizations looking to improve their cybersecurity posture. They assess current security measures, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend solutions.
Incident Response Analyst: In this critical role, graduates respond to security breaches and cyberattacks. They identify the scope of the incident, contain the damage, eradicate the threat, and implement recovery procedures to restore systems and data.
Information Security Manager: This management position involves overseeing an organization's overall cybersecurity strategy. Graduates develop and implement security policies, manage security teams, allocate resources, and ensure regulatory compliance to protect sensitive data.
Cybersecurity Researcher: For those inclined towards academic or advanced industry roles, graduates can conduct research to identify new cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and develop innovative security technologies and countermeasures, contributing to the broader cybersecurity knowledge base.
