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Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics

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Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2025

Application Deadline is June 13, 2025

Classes start August 25, 2025

APPLY Now! 

Overview

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics (MSCA) is designed for real-world applied experience that combines cybersecurity and data analytics skills. The MSCA Program is structured in 9 courses to be completed in 18 months. This program is designed for graduate students seeking to manage risk through identification, assessment, and mitigation strategically; identify security issues on all levels of organizations and the globe, along with law and compliance; use data analytics to understand threats, situational awareness, and strategic cybersecurity environments; employ data analytics techniques to detect anomalies, to predict and screen cyber threats, and to take corrective actions; and learn penetration testing, incident handling, and data and network protection.

Why Apply?

We work in a digital society where most data is stored electronically. This reality leads to an increase in accessible data and an increase in cyber threats. With this shift, cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing industries within the information technology space for government agencies. The Office of the Chief Information Officer is at the forefront of cybersecurity solutions for the U.S. Department of Labor. It is constantly seeking the brightest talent to protect the data of America’s workers.

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics program is innovative in that it recognizes the real-world reality of the need for experts in both cybersecurity and analytics. Across the nation, employers are struggling to find qualified workers to fill the significant gaps in the cybersecurity workforce. In California alone, there are more than 72,000 job openings. The national figures are even bleaker, with over 500,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions. The number is significantly increasing.

Upon completing this program, graduates will be job-ready and prepared to create value for their organization after taking analytical and cybersecurity courses and a practicum/capstone course designed to reinforce learning and practice skills.

A rapidly growing industry

The cybersecurity field is booming. As of August 2022, there were over 700,000 open cybersecurity roles in the United States, and according to projections by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for information security analysts are expected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032. Cyber talent is in demand.

Setting yourself apart

If you intend to join the cybersecurity industry of the future, there are a few ways you can set yourself apart.

Any candidate looking to stand out can invest in new skill sets. Penetration testing, also known as pen testing or ethical hacking, and application development security are both in high demand. Additionally, candidates searching for a career in cybersecurity should prioritize training and certification programs. Training and certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) can help candidates validate and develop cybersecurity skills to align their skills with positions.

Cybersecurity is undoubtedly one of the fastest-growing industries. Suppose you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career path where you are protecting your community, people you care about, and the American public. In that case, this is the industry for you. Now is a great time to see yourself in cyber and find an opportunity to make an impact.

Need help with your Cal State Apply application? Have questions about the program?

Come to a virtual application workshop, where we'll walk through CSU Apply and answer program questions. Join the workshop to get tips on the application process and to ask your specific questions in an informative group format. 

Sign-up Here: Application Workshop