recommendations for masters of science in computer/info security, cybersecurity degree

Question

I am applying to graduate schools for a M.S. in computer security, information assurance, cybersecurity, etc. (they all have different titles).

I figure a good place to find schools for this is on the NSA's Centers for Academic Excellence list.

I was wondering if anyone out there has any experience at these or any other programs, and what you could recommend for someone filling out applications this winter.

Answer 1

NSA's CAE list is probably something to consider, but I think the big question is why you are wanting an MS and why in this particular field. Is this for career advantages, or are you looking to do research? If research, the answer is pretty easy - figure out what areas you are interested in, figure out who is doing great new work in that field, and apply to the places they work and teach at. If this is for career advancement, then the answer is (IMO) similarly easy - apply to the best 'name brand' schools you think you have a semi-reasonable chance of getting into. I have definitely found that, for better or worse, people think more of someone who went to a top-N school than someone who didn't; like it or not, a MS from Dartmouth will help your career out a lot more than one from Arizona State.

Consider also that the CAE list (at least to some extent) reflects who wanted to get some grants and set up a program for that purpose, rather than where the truly best places for doing security work are - you'll notice that the CAE list doesn't include (for instance) Stanford, UC-Berkeley, or MIT, all of which have many security people doing tons of great research. In contrast, you will see Champlain College in Vermont, which offers a few courses in computer forensics and systems administration. (This is not to suggest all the CAE programs are jokes; most of the ones marked as research groups have at least decent programs as far as I know). But take the list with a grain of salt.

Answer 2

You can try the following online colleges:
South University Lewis University Virginia College Stevens Institute of Technology (on campus-Hoboken, NJ), but they also have online.

Lewis University is having a Conference online on 2\25. You can request a registration and they will send you a URL link before the meeting.

Good Luck. I am also looking into Cybersecurity.