CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
M.S. in Information Security (MSIS)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€45k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 72 unitsCore Curriculum
- 48 unitsProgram Electives
- Up to 165 unitsTotal Units (depending on study option)
- 3 or 4 SemestersProgram Length
- Optional InternshipApplied Study Options Available
The Master of Science in Information Security (MSIS) program at Carnegie Mellon University provides advanced education in the critical field of cybersecurity. This program is designed for students seeking to develop deep technical expertise and a strong understanding of the business and management aspects of information security. Students can choose from various study options, including standard, applied, advanced studies, and applied advanced studies, allowing for tailored program lengths and internship opportunities. The curriculum is structured around core courses in systems, networking, and security, supplemented by business and management principles. Students also have the flexibility to select electives from a wide range of departments, including Electrical and Computer Engineering, the School of Computer Science, and Heinz College, enabling them to specialize in areas of interest. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates for leadership roles in information security.
Curriculum
The MSIS curriculum requires a total of 123-165 units, depending on the chosen study option. Core courses cover systems, networking, security, and business/management. Students also complete program electives and academic/professional development units. The curriculum listed applies to students starting in the 2022-23 academic year (MS34 cohort).
- Core Courses (72 units)
- Systems Core (Choose One)14-642 / 14-736 / 15-605 / 15-746
- Networking Core (Choose One)14-740 / 14-760 / 18-756
- Security Core (12 units required + 12 units elective)14-741
- Security Core Elective (Choose One)14-742 / 18-731 / 18-732 / 18-733 / 18-734
- Business & Management Core (Choose One Course OR Both)14-817 / 14-782 & 14-788
- MSIS Degree-Specific Core (One additional graduate-level security course)Various
- Program Electives (48 units)
- Elective Courses from INI, ECE, SCS, EPP, ETC, III, Heinz College, or Tepper School (some exceptions apply)Various
- Academic & Professional Development 1 (3 units)
- INI Academic and Professional Development 114-601
- Additional Requirements (Study Option Dependent)
- Internship (Applied options)
- Advanced Studies (Advanced Studies options)
- APD 2 (Applied options)
Careers
Graduates of the MSIS program are prepared for a variety of roles in the rapidly growing field of information security. The program's rigorous curriculum and practical focus equip students with the skills needed to address complex cybersecurity challenges in diverse industries.
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Security Consultant
- Network Security Specialist
- Risk Management Professional
- Security Policy Advisor
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general academic requirements for the MSIS program?
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required for admission. Specific GPA or prerequisite coursework details are not provided on the program page.
- What are the tuition fees and estimated living costs for the MSIS program?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the total cost of attendance is $85,518 plus health insurance. Estimated living expenses for the same year include housing, food, books, personal expenses, and transportation.
- How long does the MSIS program typically take to complete?
- The MSIS program can be completed in either 3 or 4 semesters, depending on the chosen study option. The total number of units required ranges from 123 to 165.
- What are the application deadlines for the MSIS program?
- The Early Decision deadline for Fall admission is November 3, and the Regular Decision deadline is January 5.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from the MSIS program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Information Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Engineer, Security Consultant, Network Security Specialist, Risk Management Professional, and Security Policy Advisor.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Specific GPA or prerequisite coursework details are not provided on the program page.
The program's disclaimer notes that course availability is not guaranteed and students must refer to the 'Schedule of Classes'. Seat availability in specific courses is also not guaranteed. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the INI Academic Affairs Office (AAO) at ini-academic@andrew.cmu.edu for any questions.
Fees
Tuition (international)The provided tuition is for the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences for the 2026-2027 academic year. It is assumed this rate applies to the MSIS program.
Tuition (home)The provided tuition is for the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences for the 2026-2027 academic year. It is assumed this rate applies to the MSIS program.
LivingEstimated living expenses include Housing ($14,752), Food ($8,664), Books and Supplies ($2,212), Personal and Misc. ($4,098), Travel Allowance ($1,756), and Transportation Fee ($302) for the 2026-2027 academic year. Health Insurance is listed as TBD.
All figures are for the 2026-2027 Academic Year, based on the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences Cost of Attendance. Total cost of attendance is $85,518 plus health insurance.
How to apply
1. Review Admission Dates and PlansUnderstand the different application plans (Early Decision, Regular Decision) and their respective deadlines. For Fall admission, deadlines include November 3 (Early Decision) and January 5 (Regular Decision).
2. Gather Required DocumentsPrepare all necessary documents for the application. While specific documents for MSIS are not detailed on the program page, general university requirements typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially standardized test scores.
3. Complete the Application FormSubmit your application through the university's admissions portal. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
4. International Applicant ConsiderationsInternational applicants may have additional requirements, such as English language proficiency tests and visa documentation. Visit the 'International Applicants' section on the CMU Admission website for more details.
5. Submit Application and Pay FeeSubmit your completed application and pay the required application fee.
6. Monitor Application StatusAfter submission, you can typically track your application status through the applicant portal.
Scholarships
Global Engagement ScholarshipUp to $4,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the general academic requirements for the MSIS program?
+
A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required for admission. Specific GPA or prerequisite coursework details are not provided on the program page.
What are the tuition fees and estimated living costs for the MSIS program?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the total cost of attendance is $85,518 plus health insurance. Estimated living expenses for the same year include housing, food, books, personal expenses, and transportation.
How long does the MSIS program typically take to complete?
+
The MSIS program can be completed in either 3 or 4 semesters, depending on the chosen study option. The total number of units required ranges from 123 to 165.
What are the application deadlines for the MSIS program?
+
The Early Decision deadline for Fall admission is November 3, and the Regular Decision deadline is January 5.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from the MSIS program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Information Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Engineer, Security Consultant, Network Security Specialist, Risk Management Professional, and Security Policy Advisor.