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2025-2026 Graduate Studies Bulletin
Cybersecurity, MS
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Mission Statement
The mission of the MS program in Cybersecurity, offered by the Department of Computer Science, is to develop independent thinkers capable of providing leadership in the cybersecurity computing industry or academia. The program fosters deep insights into the principles and practice of cybersecurity for networks and systems while giving a broad perspective on established and emerging fields in the discipline. Program Description
The program’s objectives are twofold: (i) to develop highly qualified professionals equipped to address the challenges of modern cybersecurity threats, and (ii) to prepare students interested in pursuing doctoral studies in cybersecurity or related fields. The program offers a strong foundation in the fundamental areas of cybersecurity, such as cryptography, secure systems, advanced operating systems, and network security, along with practical skills, such as ethical hacking and security analysis. This combination enables students to address security challenges through both defensive strategies and proactive problem-solving techniques. Students may specialize further by selecting elective courses in emerging areas such as AI/ML for cybersecurity, digital forensics, and mobile security. The program concludes with either a comprehensive project or a master’s thesis, providing an opportunity for hands-on experience with real-world cybersecurity challenges. Flexible course delivery options, including oncampus, hybrid, and online formats, accommodate the diverse needs of students. Online classes are equivalent to their on-campus counterparts. Flexible course delivery options, including on-campus, hybrid, and online formats, accommodate the diverse needs of students. Online classes are equivalent to their on-campus counterparts. Internship Opportunities through the Co-op Program
Students are encouraged to participate in the School of Engineering & Applied Science (SEAS) Co-op Program to gain valuable industry experience and enhance their professional development. Co-op positions are paid, six- to eight-month internships that provide hands-on experience with real-world cybersecurity challenges, allowing students to develop both technical and professional skills while gaining insight into industry expectations and work environments. A co-op experience offers a competitive edge for students seeking full-time employment after graduation. To be eligible, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 and complete SEAS 100, a zero-credit professional development course. International master’s students must complete at least nine graduate credits before beginning a co-op placement. For more information, students can contact the Co-op Program Director or the International Student Enrollment Office. Admission Requirements
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Non-native English speakers must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.
- Submission of GRE or GMAT scores is optional.
All applications are considered based on their own merits, with weight given to academic performance, professional experience, and other pertinent information Prerequisite Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate knowledge in the following areas: - Discrete Mathematics
- Programming Principles and Techniques
- Algorithms and Data Structures
- Computer Architecture
- Operating Systems
- Calculus
Students may satisfy any or all the listed prerequisites by completing equivalent courses at Hofstra or any accredited institution. With the permission of the graduate program director, eligible students may elect to sit for proficiency examinations. Applicants without undergraduate computer science degrees may be admitted as provisionally matriculated students if they meet all admission criteria except for the required prerequisites. They may enroll in graduate courses if they meet individual course prerequisites and satisfy the general admission requirements before completing 12 semester hours of graduate study. Program Requirements - Semester Hours: 30
The MS in Cybersecurity requires satisfactory completion of a 30-semester hour program, including either a 6-semester hour thesis or a 3-semester hour project. A minimum 3. 0 grade point average with a grade of C or better in all courses is required. The MS in Cybersecurity Program requires the satisfactory completion of - seven required courses (21 semester hours), two thesis courses (6 semester hours), and 3 semester hours of elective courses, or
- seven required courses (21 semester hours), one capstone project course (3 semester hours), and 6 semester hours of elective courses.
Required Courses: 21 Semester Hours
Elective Courses: 3 or 6 Semester Hours
Choose elective courses from the following list. Courses not listed below could be taken with prior approval from the graduate program director. Required Capstone Experience: 3 or 6 Semester Hours
The capstone experience (thesis or project) must focus on a specialized area of cybersecurity. The thesis is a 6-credit undertaking, comprising a sequence of two courses (CSC 301 and CSC 302 ), and involves research with a larger scope and depth than the project. The project is a 3- credit course (CSC 300 , CSC 301 , or CSC 303 ) that focuses on applying cybersecurity principles to practical problems. Both the thesis and the project include a written report and a formal presentation. Students must complete 18 semester hours of cybersecurity graduate coursework before beginning their thesis or master’s project. Students are encouraged to contact the graduate program director upon completing 18 semester hours to discuss potential topics and elective courses that align with their capstone experience. A student must have an approved advisor for the project before registering. A student must have an approved advisor and a committee for the thesis before registering. Proposals for the thesis or project must be approved by the advisor and graduate program director. Courses: Graduation Requirements
- Completion of all program requirements.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 in overall graduate coursework.
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