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2024-2025 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Cybersecurity (Graduate)

Website: gvsu.edu/grad/cybersecurity

The master's degree in cybersecurity is a blend of theory and applications to deliver a cutting-edge program. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully evaluate information security needs, identify appropriate countermeasures, and implement security solutions. Moreover, the program introduces students to various cybersecurity areas such as secure coding, network security, and digital forensics, as well as having students practice with different tools and techniques to identify potential threats to the network infrastructure and computer systems.

Admission to the Master of Science in Cybersecurity Program

In addition to the university requirements of admission, all students seeking a degree for the M.S. in cybersecurity must also meet the following requirements:

  • Earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or the equivalent of this degree from another country.
  • Preference is given to students with a background in computer science, information technology, information systems, or cyber security. Applicants who lack an appropriate computing background must complete the Laker Ready courses (below).
  • Grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale from all undergraduate coursework.
  • International applicants should submit an acceptable score in either TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. An acceptable TOEFL score is >= 90. An acceptable IELTS score is >= 6.5. An acceptable Duolingo score is >= 115.
  • Resume detailing work experiences and accomplishments.
  • Personal statement of career goals and background experiences, including an explanation of how this program will help achieve educational and professional objectives.
  • Recommendations from two professional or academic references received online, addressing the candidate's potential for graduate study completion. You will provide the emails of two references in your account at gvsu.edu/gradapply and they will be sent a link to fill out for their online recommendation.

Selection process

  • Selection to the program focuses on the "whole person concept," which emphasizes academic achievement, work experience, and courses and training while employed in industry or government.
  • Students with undergraduate degrees in non-computing fields may need to demonstrate proficiency in programming and computer networks to qualify for admission to the program. They must complete the Laker Ready courses before taking any other courses in the program.
  • Unconditionally accepted students are not required to take the Laker Ready courses. However, the Laker Ready courses provide a foundation for the master's program, and all students are encouraged to take the courses as refreshers. Students can further discuss the Laker Ready courses with the graduate program director.

Laker Ready Courses

Students whose undergraduate preparation or employment experience does not satisfy the prerequisites for the program may make up for deficiencies through additional study. Laker Ready coursework, designed to close gaps in a student's preparation, must be completed before enrolling in the program as advised by the graduate program director. Generally, formal acceptance into the program is deferred until the applicant has completed this additional preparation.

If completed through academic study, Laker Ready courses must be completed with a grade of B (3.0) or better. Courses with lower grades must be repeated. Laker Ready courses are not counted toward the 33 credit hours required for the master's degree.

As an alternative, the following Laker Ready courses can be taken on UCertify:

    1. Introduction to Data Networks and the Internet
    2. Introduction to Python Programming

Students must submit the certificates of completion of the Laker Ready courses to be admitted to the program.

Study Plan

Before starting the program, students must have a study plan approved by the graduate program director. Students are responsible for keeping the plan of study current before the beginning of each semester and getting the advisor's approval for any changes to the plan.

Minimum Number of Hours for Graduation

The Master of Science degree in cybersecurity requires a minimum of 33 graduate-level credits.

Program Location

Classes are offered in-person in the late afternoon or evening in downtown Grand Rapids.

Program Requirements

The following programs are available:


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