Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems
Today’s digital world is under siege and our critical data, infrastructure and connected systems are potential targets. Purdue University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems is built for professionals who refuse to be outpaced. By building specialized skills in ethical hacking, AI security and cyber forensics, you’ll be on a path to lead in the challenging world of online security.
Online Programs
Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems
Today’s digital world is under siege and our critical data, infrastructure and connected systems are potential targets. Purdue University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems is built for professionals who refuse to be outpaced. By building specialized skills in ethical hacking, AI security and cyber forensics, you’ll be on a path to lead in the challenging world of online security.
Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems Overview
Offered fully online through the Purdue Polytechnic Institute’s School of Applied and Creative Computing, this master’s program is engineered for mid-career IT specialists, government and defense personnel, engineers pivoting into security and ambitious graduates ready to sharpen their technical edge. The 30-credit, non-thesis curriculum delivers rigorous applied learning across secure system design, network and cloud security, risk assessment, cryptography and IT policy and ethics, grounded in the same real-world frameworks that define today’s most demanding cybersecurity roles.
Fast Track Your Way to IT and Security Expertise
Professional skill development is integrated throughout the degree with core coursework in IT policy, law, ethics, project management and applied research and communication. Specialization pathways then provide focused, practice-based technical experience in high-demand areas:
- The AI Security pathway allows students to explore adversarial techniques, secure AI systems and emerging risks associated with machine learning and large language models.
- The Ethical Hacking pathway emphasizes offensive security skills, including penetration testing methodologies and advanced attack simulations.
- The Cyber Forensics pathway develops investigative competencies in digital evidence collection, mobile and IoT forensics, and incident response.
Flexible Online Learning with Purdue’s Expertise
Flexible entry points each semester and 8-week online course modules make it possible to advance your career without stepping away from it. Study at your own pace through flexible, asynchronous courses taught by Purdue University’s renowned faculty, and feel confident your learning is grounded in quality, safety, policy and leadership. With each course, you’ll take away new technical skills to build organizational security while balancing your career.
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Plan Your Path
The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
This 30-credit online master’s program provides a rigorous foundation in cybersecurity principles, risk management, secure systems and trusted technologies, while offering opportunities to specialize through embedded graduate certificates or elective pathways in four areas.
Core Curriculum (19 credits)
- IT Policy, Lay and Ethics (3 credits)
- Professional Research and Communication (1 credit)
- Network Security or Networking Fundamentals (3 credits)
- IT Cyber Security Fundamentals (3 credits)
- Cloud Security and Privacy (3 credits)
- Communication Security or Advanced Network Security (3 credits)
- Information Security Risk Assessment or Systems and Organizational Security (3 credits)
Elective Pathways
Students may select from any of the following elective courses or select a specialization path.
The admissions process selects highly qualified applicants into the MS program by considering each of the following criteria in judging the overall strength of the applicant. Typically, no single criterion is used as a sole determinant for admission.
- A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information technology, computer science, or a related field from an accredited university
- An undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale) is required for unconditional admission.
- Minimum of 1-year of industry experience in an IT-related position.
- Current resume
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended (with certified English translations if applicable)
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
- Academic Statement of Purpose
- Personal History Statement
English Proficiency is required for International applicants only. TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or Duolingo scores are required unless waived under Graduate School policy.
Source: Lightcast™ (2026). Unique job postings for January 2025 to 2026. Projected growth for years 2025 to 2030.
Top Job Titles
Graduates of the Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems program are prepared for in-demand careers as cybersecurity specialists, systems engineers, information security analysts, project managers, computer and information systems managers and network systems administrators. The program builds advanced knowledge in cybersecurity, risk management and trusted systems design, preparing graduates to protect critical infrastructure, secure digital environments and lead complex technology initiatives. With a strong foundation in both technical and strategic practices, graduates are equipped to address evolving security challenges across a wide range of industries.
Top Industries
Graduates of the Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems program are prepared to work across a range of high-demand industries, including computer systems design services, commercial banking, engineering services, government, aerospace and defense and consulting services. These sectors depend on cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive data, strengthen digital infrastructure and manage evolving security risks. Whether supporting financial systems, securing government networks or advancing defense technologies, graduates are equipped to deliver trusted solutions in complex and rapidly changing environments.
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