The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program at Athens State University prepares graduates for advanced careers in software development and information technology operations, with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity and information security. Students will gain practical skills in securing various computing platforms, making managerial decisions informed by cybersecurity considerations, and understanding the legal and ethical implications of information security. This program also serves as excellent preparation for further graduate studies in the field.
The program requires a total of 30-33 credit hours. Students can choose between a Capstone (non-thesis) option or a Thesis option. The curriculum includes 27 core required hours, with additional hours for the chosen option. You can further customize your degree with electives in specialized areas.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program are well-prepared to compete for advanced positions in cybersecurity and information security. The Alabama Department of Labor predicts high demand for computer science-related occupations, and many current job postings require strong cybersecurity technical skills.
Tuition is charged per credit hour. Additional fees may apply for specific courses (e.g., instructional course fee $75) or circumstances (e.g., late fee $35, graduation fee $100). The information provided is based on 2025-26 tuition rates. Please verify the latest figures with the Student Accounts office.
Athens State University has been designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE).
For the 2025-26 academic year, out-of-state graduate students pay $658 per credit hour for on-campus courses, with an estimated annual tuition of $19,740 for 30 credit hours. Online or blended courses have a non-traditional graduate tuition rate of $380 per credit hour, regardless of residency. These rates do not include additional fees.
The program requires a total of 30-33 credit hours. Students can choose between a Capstone (non-thesis) option of 3 additional credit hours or a Thesis option of 4 additional credit hours, in addition to the 27 core required hours.
Graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles such as Cybersecurity Manager, Analyst, Engineer, Architect, or Information Security Officer. The Alabama Department of Labor predicts high demand for computer science occupations requiring strong cybersecurity skills.
Please contact Graduate Admissions at gradadmissions@athens.edu or 256-233-8130 for specific entry requirements.
You need to complete the online application for graduate studies, which has a $30 application fee, and submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. You can contact Graduate Admissions for guidance.
Athens State University awards over $1 million in scholarships annually, and prospective students are encouraged to explore available financial aid and scholarship options with their enrollment advisor.