Why ODU for Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is evolving fast, and today’s leaders need more than just technical skills. They need vision, strategy, and the ability to lead with confidence. At ODU, our online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is designed to help you build that edge.

You'll engage with advanced concepts in cyber operations, law and policy, and leadership. You will also apply them directly through real-world scenarios, virtual labs and interactive team projects led by faculty with industry and research expertise. Your coursework will teach you how to:

  • Apply advanced cybersecurity principles to real-world threats and environments
  • Navigate legal frameworks, digital forensics and ethical standards
  • Lead technical teams and manage projects with strategic clarity
  • Research and analyze emerging technologies to stay ahead of cyber threats
  • Design practical solutions in a hands-on capstone project (no thesis required)

You’ll also work in a virtual lab environment where you can test theories and simulate defenses, building confidence as you apply classroom learning to real-world challenges.

Electives allow you to tailor your studies to your goals, whether you aim to advance professionally, teach at the college level or pursue doctoral research.

When you graduate, you will earn a Master of Science in Cybersecurity.

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If you are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree, we can provide a free unofficial evaluation of your domestic transcript(s).





NSA National Center of Academic Excellence

Old Dominion University has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) by the National Security Agency (NSA) in all three focus areas:

  • National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)
  • National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO)
  • National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research (CAE-R)
A female professional in the cybersecurity field works at a computer on a desk with dual monitors.

Program Information

Minimum
30 Credit Hours

This online master's degree program can be completed in as little as one year with full-time enrollment. 

You will take four core courses and choose five elective courses to focus your studies. This program does not require a thesis. Instead, you will complete a capstone course that applies your education to a real-world cybersecurity problem.

Explore Cybersecurity Courses in the Graduate Catalog

Access your course materials from anywhere, on your schedule. Some courses include live online sessions to foster connection and collaboration, while others offer flexible pacing. Instructors may set specific deadlines for assignments or exams to keep you on track and supported. 

All courses follow ODU’s academic calendar, giving you a clear path forward and the structure you need to plan ahead with confidence.

Minimum
30 Credit Hours

This online master's degree program can be completed in as little as one year with full-time enrollment. 

You will take four core courses and choose five elective courses to focus your studies. This program does not require a thesis. Instead, you will complete a capstone course that applies your education to a real-world cybersecurity problem.

Explore Cybersecurity Courses in the Graduate Catalog

Access your course materials from anywhere, on your schedule. Some courses include live online sessions to foster connection and collaboration, while others offer flexible pacing. Instructors may set specific deadlines for assignments or exams to keep you on track and supported. 

All courses follow ODU’s academic calendar, giving you a clear path forward and the structure you need to plan ahead with confidence.

Bright Outlook

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 32 percent from 2022 to 2032.
— Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, April 2024

Cost & Aid

Smiling woman in professional attire smiles in a casual office setting
Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$649 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarship & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

Future Shapers Scholarship: This scholarship supports online undergraduate transfer students pursuing degrees in technology-based industries, fostering innovation and growth. Recipients are awarded $3,000 for the first semester of enrollment.

Careers in Cybersecurity

Our graduates will be prepared for high-level positions to secure the nation's cyber infrastructure and coordinate cyber operations teams with roles such as:

  • Cybersecurity project manager
  • Lead software security engineer
  • Principal cybersecurity engineer
  • Senior security analyst
  • Cybersecurity data scientist
  • Computer network defense lead
  • Senior cybersecurity systems architect
  • Chief information security officer
Information Security Analysts
Growth
32.7%
Median Salary
$120,360
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Growth
25.6%
Median Salary
$145,080
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Growth
17.4%
Median Salary
$169,510
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Growth
11.8%
Median Salary
$101,800
Penetration Testers
Growth
10.8%
Median Salary
$104,920
Computer Systems Analysts
Growth
10.7%
Median Salary
$103,800

Cybersecurity News

ODUGlobal Graduate Admissions Team

Elaine Ross, Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions

Contact us at globalgradadmit@odu.edu about admission requirements, deadlines, or anything else you need to know about the application process!

Angel Baker
Angel Baker
Applications Coordinator
Angela Schlender
Angela Schlender
Applications Coordinator

Ready to Apply?

In addition to general ODU admission requirements, for this program you should have:

  • A Bachelor of Science from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent
  • Undergraduate coursework or experience in cybersecurity or related field
  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended
  • GRE test scores

Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.