Welcome to the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program!

Female-presenting woman with program code projected on her
Woman next to servers holding and looking at laptop

young male programmer sifting through data streams while coding

OVERVIEW

The United States is facing an increasing vulnerability of a wide range of risks stemming from cyber-attacks, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Such attacks have caused the loss and corruption of valuable digital information in cyberspace, may it be in transit or stored. DHS further points out that “of growing concern is the cyber threat to critical infrastructure, which is increasingly subject to sophisticated cyber intrusions that pose new risks.

CyberSeek, a non-profit information security advocacy group, states that there is a dangerous shortage of cybersecurity professionals in the United States. Employers are struggling to fill thousands of cyber-security related roles. On average, cybersecurity roles take 21% longer to fill than other IT jobs.

Cyber operations involve a complex interplay between technology and human behavior. To meet the sociotechnical needs from industry, MSU Denver has taken a unique approach by combining the Departments of Criminal Justice & Criminology (CJC), Computer Information Systems & Business Analytics (CIS & BA), and Computer Sciences (CS) to jointly create a multidisciplinary Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program.

The graduate program combines advanced computer/information system knowledge of combating cybercrime, analytical skills to analyze and manage cyber threats and security, the understanding of human factors in cyber operations, as well as the adaptation of laws to create policies to investigate, prosecute, and to punish cybercriminals.

Mission Statement and Goals

The mission of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity (CYBM) program is to provide students with in-depth knowledge as well as practical skills in both policy and analysis of computer and network security, privacy, computer forensics, and the investigation, prosecution, and punishment of cybercrime. The CYBM program:

  1. Offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines the areas of computer science, computer information systems, cyber laws and policies, with an understanding of cyber-crimes and criminals;
  2. Enables students with either a technical or non-technical undergraduate field of study to obtain a graduate degree in cybersecurity;
  3. Prepares students to enter management or technical positions at all levels in the field of cybersecurity, and
  4. Provides students with leadership skills and an ability to work well in a team-based work environment.

 

Program Accreditation

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Metropolitan State University of Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

 

Accolades

Senate Bill 86 brings $300,000 annually into educating the cybersecurity professionals of tomorrow at MSU Denver.

CAREER OUTLOOK

Benefits of Earning an M.S. Degree

The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) developed the National Cybersecurity Workplace Framework, and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) developed Industry Competency Model. The M.S. in Cybersecurity competencies use the above framework and model as guides.

The M.S. in Cybersecurity graduates will be able to:

  • Identify, analyze, and mitigate threats to computer and information systems
    Conceptualize, design, and build secure information systems
  • Provide support to ensure effective and efficient computer and information system performance and security
  • Provide leadership, management, strategy, development, and advocacy so that organizations may effectively conduct cybersecurity work
  • Investigate cyber events or crimes of computer and information systems and networks
  • Apply cyber laws and regulations in prosecuting and punishing cyber criminals
  • Be responsible for specialized denial and deception operations and collection of cybersecurity information that may be used to develop intelligence

Career Opportunities for Our Graduates

Nationwide, the demand for positions in cybersecurity continues to grow. More than 200,000 cybersecurity jobs are unfilled in public and private sectors, and postings are up 74 percent over the last five years. The demand is expected to remain high as the need for cybersecurity professionals has grown three times as fast as traditional IT jobs. If you’re a veteran or work in law enforcement even better. These employment backgrounds and the security clearances that accompany them are particularly attractive for jobs relative to cybersecurity.

Depending on work experience graduates can land the following positions:

  • Chief Information Security Officer
  • Computer Security Incident Responder
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Penetration Tester
  • Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Forensic Computer Analyst
  • Forensics Expert
  • Information Security Analyst
  • Information Security Crime Investigator
  • IT Security Consultant
  • Risk Manager/Analyst
  • Security Analyst

CURRICULUM

Download Curriculum & Review Catalog

You may download the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program Details and Curriculum, which demonstrates the program overview, sequence of coursework, and course offering by department. You may also visit the 2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

The CYBM program must approve any deviation from the academic plan of study*. Most of our courses have prerequisites; students who do not enroll in all classes every semester will take longer to complete the program as courses are only offered once per year and are sequential.

*Please contact the Cybersecurity Program Manager.

Required Hardware, Software, & Connectivity

To successfully complete this program, you will need a properly configured computer with the required components. Although mobile devices can be used, our experience shows that they don’t always give a student the optimum learning experience. Also, for online exam proctoring purposes, computers will need a camera (built-in or added). Online courses at MSU Denver are accessed through the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS). The minimum technical requirements to access and participate in online courses include the following:
  1. A computer with a reliable internet connection—high-speed internet, such as DSL or cable, is strongly recommended.
  2. At least one compatible internet browser with updated plug-ins. Requirements for computer operating systems, browsers, and plug-ins can be found on the Canvas support page regarding Browser and Computer Requirements for Canvas

 

The following software on your computer or mobile device:
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader, version X or higher. To ensure you can access all PDF files, download the latest version of Adobe Reader
  • Word Processing Software: Microsoft Word (version 2013 or higher), WordPad, or OpenOffice software is recommended.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID

Financial Aid for Graduate Students

Graduate School Preparation Checklist

GENERAL & ACADEMIC POLICIES

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

2025 CYBM APPLICATION INFORMATION

Important Application Dates

Our Fall 2025 application will open on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Priority deadline is April 1, 2025.

After the April 1st deadline, applicants who do not have a degree and/or background in Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology or related field will be accepted until May 1.

For applicants who do have a degree and/or background in these areas, we will review the applications case-by-case from May 1 until July 15, 2025 as space is available.

  • Be advised, the application processing time may take up to 6 – 8 weeks from the date of submitting a complete application.
  • International applications are not accepted for the Fall 2025 admission cycle.
  • The CYBM program at MSU Denver is Fall-start only.

Admission to the CYBM Program

To be eligible for admission to the CYBM program, candidates must:

  • Submit graduate application and application fee
  • Submit a curriculum vitae or resume
  • Hold a baccalaureate from an accredited college or university.
  • Submit official transcripts from all institutions of higher education previously attended. A minimum undergraduate GPA 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 is required

All submitted documentation will be reviewed by the CYBM Admission Committee for a final decision.

CYBERSECURITY FACULTY & STAFF

DIRECTORY

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The Cybersecurity Center

The Cybersecurity Center at MSU Denver is a workforce development resource for higher education cybersecurity efforts in the region and beyond and a resource for all academic programs at MSU Denver. The Center provides program guidance and oversight, general cyber defense information, collaboration and outreach opportunities among students, faculty, other academic units/departments within the University.

To view information about the Cyber Range, Cybersecurity Certification Club (C3), Project PISCES, and Eviden SOC Download One-Pager.

For any inquiries, please contact The Cybersecurity Center by completing the Contact Form.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

MSU Denver Three Minute Talk Competition (3MT)

The 2nd prize winner, Dagiadi Rebolledo (CYBM alum, Class of 2022) studied under the mentorship of Dr. Meg Bertoni. The Office of Graduate Studies hosted the competition on January 25, 2023.

MSU Denver Graduate Studies 2023 3MT Competition
Malcolm Young, a navy veteran

Cyber Success

A Navy veteran finds his passion – and a job at Lockheed Martin – in the high-demand field of cybersecurity.

2023 College of Health & Applied Sciences Outstanding Student Awards

Congratulations!

Dagiadi Rebolledo, Cybersecurity, M.S. (Class of 2022)

 

 

 

CYBER NEWS

MSU Denver student Monica Ball. Photo by Alyson McClaran.

Through the PISCES program, MSU Denver student Monica Ball helps protect civic institutions across Colorado from cyberattacks. Photo by Alyson McClaran

Cyber students help protect civic institutions vulnerable to hackers

MSU Denver’s PISCES program provides cybersecurity monitoring for organizations throughout Colorado and gives students real-world experience in the process.

Niquete Dominique at The Cybersecurity Center, Cyber Range.

Niquete Dominique will graduate with her master’s in Cybersecurity from Metropolitan State University of Denver in December. Photo by Alyson McClaran

Cybersecurity student aims to help diversify the workforce

A lack of representation in the field led Niquete Dominique to establish the Women in Cybersecurity organization for MSU Denver students.

An illustration of an MSU Denver woman (similar to wonder woman) holding a keyboard, ear plugs, and a backpack.

Cyber Heroes Prepare for Battle

With cybercrime soaring, the race is on to train a new generation of digital defenders.

MSU Denver student Soren Singpiel, left, works with alumna Ashley Danielle Aguilar at Lockheed Martin. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin.

MSU Denver student Soren Singpiel, left, works with alumna Ashley Danielle Aguilar at Lockheed Martin. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin

Partnership Opens Pipeline from MSU Denver to Lockheed Martin

The aerospace, technology and defense corporation is hiring students to support projects in AI, cybersecurity and more.

An Ukrainian flag (yellow and blue) with digital ones and zeros over the flag.

The Future of Cyberwar

The U.S. rallies its cyber defenses as the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalates on and off the battlefield.

Three female students from D’Evelyn Junior High School code and collaborate their way to the national CyberPatriot competition.

Shattering the Cybersecurity Glass Ceiling

An all-girls squad from D’Evelyn Junior High School code and collaborate their way to the national CyberPatriot competition.

MSU Denver Aims to Improve Diversity in Cybersecurity Field

Diverse Issues in Higher Education Article

UPCOMING EVENTS

GRAD Social with GRAD Flash

Every 2nd Wednesday of the Month

Dates: October 9, November 13, and December 11

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Brewing Co. Tap House

900 Auraria Parkway #240, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Join MSU Denver Graduate Studies from 4 – 6 p.m. at Tivoli Brewing and get to know students, faculty and staff from MSU Denver, enjoy an appetizer and be the judge for the 2-minute GRAD Flash at 4:30 p.m. Free for the first MSU Denver students with ID. Two Graduate Program Directors will each have just two minutes and one prompt to present the essence and value of their graduate programs, and all attendees of the GRAD Social will select the winner.

Questions, Contact: [email protected]

Visit Auraria Higher Education Center Maps to access campus and parking maps.

Three-Minute Talk (3MT) Competition- Preliminary Round

Date: Friday, November 15, 2024

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: CAVEA Theater, Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB), Room 420

890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Each master’s program will nominate one presenter. Students have each just three minutes and one slide to present on a research/scholarship topic that is of interest to a general audience.

Visit Auraria Higher Education Center Maps to access campus and parking maps.

PAST EVENTS

Colorado Graduate School Fair at MSU Denver

Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Time: 10:00 a.m. –  2:00 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Student Union, Turnhalle (Room 250)

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Whether you are an interested undergraduate, alum or returning graduate student, discover the diverse graduate programs offered around Colorado and here at MSU Denver.

Is Graduate School the Next Best Step for You?

Date: Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Time: 12:00 p.m. (Noon)

Location: Virtual Webinar

Event Details: The webinar explains what graduate school is all about and different kinds of graduate programs that are offered at MSU Denver and beyond. Meet with Associate Vice President of Graduate Studies, Dr. Inge Wefes, and learn about the challenges and rewards of earning a master’s degree.

Audience: Prospective Graduate Students

Get on Track for Graduation

Date: Monday, September 30, 2024

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: Virtual Webinar

Event Details: Graduate Studies is hosting a short webinar for current students preparing for graduation. Get the lowdown on deadlines, degree conferral, and all the steps needed to graduate Spring 2025.

Women in Cybersecurity and Lockheed Martin

Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Time: 2:30 p.m. –  5:00 p.m.

Location: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB), Room 204

890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Unlock the doors to your future with Empowering Futures: Career Development in Cybersecurity, a dynamic event presented by Women In Cybersecurity in collaboration with Lockheed Martin. This event is designed to provide students with invaluable insights and practical advice for advancing their careers in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. There will be snacks and drinks provided as well as a chance to meet Lockheed Martin professionals. All are welcome to attend!

Cybersecurity Graduate Programs Fall Welcome

Date: Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Time: 6:00 p.m. –  8:30 p.m.

Location: Administration Building, Room 300

1201 5th Street, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Join us to welcome the new students of the Fall 2024 cohort. Q&A panel of current students and alumni. Network with new graduate students, current students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

Cyber Bridge: Capture the Flag

Date: February 16, 2024

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150

1449 7th St, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Capture the Flag coding challenge with Cyber Bridge, come test your skills and have some snacks!

The Cybersecurity Center PISCES Potluck

Date: Friday, December 1, 2023

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Location: The Cybersecurity Center

1250 7th Street Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Come and enjoy various dishes prepared by Tier 2 Team Leaders and Tier 3 Analysts. Bring something to share if you’d like. Backdoors and Breaches will also be played at this time.

National Security Agency visits The Cybersecurity Center at MSU Denver

Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Location: The Cybersecurity Center

1205 7th Street Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Join us for an exciting event as the National Security Agency (NSA) pays a visit to MSU Denver. This in-person event will provide a unique opportunity to learn about the NSA’s role in national security, cybersecurity, and intelligence gathering. Whether you’re interested in a career in these fields or simply curious about the work of the NSA, this event is for you.

During the visit, you’ll have the chance to interact with NSA representatives, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the agency’s operations. Discover how the NSA contributes to protecting our nation’s interests and learn about the cutting-edge technologies they employ.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to engage with professionals from the NSA and expand your knowledge in the field of national security. Mark your calendars and be sure to join us at MSU Denver for this enlightening event. RSVP required to attend.

Coffee and Cocoa Social: A Talk with Scott Shadler hosted by CyberBridge

Date: Thursday, November 16, 2023

Time: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150

1449 7th Street, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Dive into the dynamic world of technology and cybersecurity with an interactive session led by a seasoned IT Director who has been at the forefront of the industry for over two decades. With a track record of steering global tech solutions and spearheading award-winning innovations, he brings knowledge and first-hand experience in problem-solving and talent acquisition. He has been in charge of the hiring process for top firms nationwide.

This event is a golden opportunity for anyone aspiring to excel in the competitive field of IT. Learn the subtleties that can make your resume stand out. The skill sets that top companies desperately seek and the mindset needed to thrive in fast-paced tech environments. Whether seeking your first role or aiming to advance your career, the insights offered here could be the catalyst you need for your next big opportunity.

A Talk with Alex Weinert, Microsoft VP of Identity & Security

Date: Monday, October 30, 2023

Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Reception to Follow

Location: CAVEA Theater

Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB), Room 420

890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Join us to hear Alex discuss the need for diverse opportunities in the field of cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Speakers Bureau

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Student Union, Room 444

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: In celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) presents the Cybersecurity Speakers Bureau. Come and gain insider information about the cybersecurity field from industry professionals. All are welcome to attend.

Colorado Graduate School Fair at MSU Denver

Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Student Union, Turnhalle, Room 250

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Explore Graduate Programs: Whether you are an interested undergraduate, alum or returning graduate student, discover the diverse graduate programs offered around Colorado and here at MSU Denver.

Campus Catalyst: MSU Denver-DU Hack 23

Dates: Saturday October 21 – Sunday October 22, 2023

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location: Computer Science (ECS) Building, Room 510

University of Denver

2155 East Wesley Avenue Denver, CO 80208

Event Details: Join us for MSU Denver and DU’s first join Hack-a-Thon!

Women in Cybersecurity Candle Making Event

Date: Thursday, September 21, 2023

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB) 2nd Floor at Mezzanine

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Come join us for an evening of fun with a chance to connect and learn more about women in cyber!

Cybersecurity Graduate Programs Fall Welcome

Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150

1449 7th Street, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: The Departments of Criminal Justice & Criminology, Computer Information Systems & Business Analytics, and Computer Science formally welcomed the Fall 2023 Cohort. Newly admitted students networked with cohort members, faculty, current students, and alumni.

Cybersecurity Panel: Criminal Justice Matters! Smart on Cybersecurity

Date: Monday, May 1, 2023

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Student Union, Room 444

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Cybersecurity professionals spoke about the reality of working in cybersecurity, topics include: cybersecurity isn’t only about computers but behavior and criminal justice perspective of cybersecurity.

Raíces Cyber Denver Chapter Presents: Malware Reverse Engineering with James Leo

Date: Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Aerospace & Engineering Science Building (AES), Forum 150

1449 7th St, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Raíces Cyber Org (national organization) is the Hispanic, Latino, Latina, LatinX and Our Allies International Association in Cybersecurity.  Raíces Cyber Org’s Mission is to Encourage and Support the Hispanic, Latino, Latina and LatinX Cyber Community to achieve Greater representation in the Cyber Workforce.

“Raíces Cyber, Changing the World by Creating DIVERSITY of Thought in Cyber”

MSU Denver Graduate Studies Fair

Dates: Wednesday, March 1, 2023 and Thursday, March 2, 2023

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB)

890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: The Office of Graduate Studies hosted a two day Graduate Fair with information tables and representatives from each of the graduate programs.

Cybersecurity Networking Panel Discussion

Date: Friday, November 4, 2022

Time: 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Student Union, Room 444

900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204

Event Details: Career Planning Advice & Strategies On Post-Pandemic Hiring Trends & Opportunities

Sponsors: Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) and Raíces Cyber Org

Master of Science in Cybersecurity Hooding & Pinning Ceremony

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 Springhill Suites 1190 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Specialty Celebrations

CONGRATS GRADUATES!

ALUMNI RESOURCES

To find a host of exciting events, career support resources, and opportunities to engage with fellow Roadrunners, visit the Classroom to Career Hub (C2Hub) Alumni Relations page.

Cybersecurity Graduate Programs

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact our office by emailing Destiny Watkins, Cybersecurity Program Manager.

EMAIL Cybersecurity Program Manager

Office Location & Hours

We are located in the Administration Building, Suite 310.

In-Person Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Virtual Hours: Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Auraria Campus Map & Parking Information

 

 

Mailing Address

Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Campus Box 10
P.O. Box 173362
Denver, CO 80217-3362