Cybersecurity isn’t just a tech issue anymore. It’s a national priority, a business necessity, and a rapidly growing career path. From hospitals and banks to schools and defense systems, digital threats are everywhere—and the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is more urgent than ever.
If you’re thinking about your next move—whether that’s leveling up in your current job, changing careers entirely, or re-entering school after time away—it’s worth asking:
Is now the right time to get a cybersecurity master’s online?
Here are seven signs that answer “yes.” And by the end, you’ll see why earning your master’s in cybersecurity online might be your smartest step forward.
1. You’re Concerned About the Rising Threat of Cyber Attacks
From data breaches and ransomware to international cybercrime and nation-state attacks, cyber threats are escalating in scale and sophistication. Organizations across every sector need skilled professionals who can defend systems, respond to incidents, and stay ahead of evolving risks.
If you care about protecting digital assets—and making a real impact—a cybersecurity master’s online gives you the knowledge and tools to step into that mission with confidence.
2. You’re in IT, But You’re Ready to Lead
You’ve spent years troubleshooting, managing networks, or supporting systems—but now you want more: more responsibility, more strategy, and more career growth.
A master’s in cybersecurity online helps you level up, preparing you to lead teams, shape security policy, and drive enterprise-wide strategies. It’s the next step for IT professionals ready to lead—not just support—cybersecurity operations.
3. You Want to Specialize in a High-Growth Field
Cybersecurity is one of today’s fastest-growing tech fields—with no signs of slowing down. In fact, jobs for information security analysts, a key role within cybersecurity, are projected to grow 33% through 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s much faster than the average for all occupations.
Whether you’re drawn to cloud security, ethical hacking, IoT protection, or cyber threat intelligence, there’s a specialization that fits your interests and strengths.
A flexible online cybersecurity master’s program lets you customize your path, gain hands-on expertise, and stand out in a competitive, ever-evolving job market.
4. You Need Flexibility Without Compromising on Quality
Life doesn’t pause for grad school. That’s why online programs—especially those designed for working professionals, parents, and career changers—have become the go-to choice.
A master’s in cybersecurity online gives you the flexibility to learn on your schedule, without sacrificing the academic rigor, expert instruction, or real-world outcomes you’d expect from a top-tier program. Whether you’re working full time, raising a family, or juggling both, you don’t have to choose between your responsibilities and your goals—you can do both.
5. You’re Thinking About a Career Change
Cybersecurity isn’t just for computer science majors. Many professionals transition into this field from backgrounds like IT, criminal justice, healthcare, or even the trades.
If you’re analytical, curious, and driven by purpose, this could be the career shift you’ve been looking for. A cybersecurity master’s online helps you build confidence with foundational courses—like Essentials of Computer Science and Foundations of Cybersecurity—before advancing into areas such as Cloud Security, Cryptographic Algorithms, and Cyber Threat Intelligence.
Whether you’re bridging a knowledge gap or building on existing experience, the right program meets you where you are—and helps you grow from there.
6. You Want an Affordable Path to a High-Paying Career
Cybersecurity professionals are among the most in-demand—and best-paid—experts in today’s workforce. Many mid- and senior-level roles now prefer or require a master’s degree to advance.
A cybersecurity master’s online program offers an affordable, accessible way to position yourself for growth—without stepping away from your career or overextending your budget.
Common career paths include:
- Information Security Analyst – $125,000/year (29% projected growth)
- IT Project Manager – $107,000/year (13% projected growth)
- Computer Network Architect – $130,000/year (6% projected growth)
- Clinical Data Manager – $112,000/year (34% projected growth)
These roles and others highlight the return on investment a cybersecurity master’s degree can provide, especially when combined with real-world experience.
7. You Want a Degree That’s Built for Results
You’re not going back to school just to collect a diploma. You want to grow—into a promotion, a better title, or a new industry entirely.
The right online master’s in cybersecurity program should deliver real-world skills, leadership development, and clear pathways into in-demand roles across industries. It’s about more than a credential—it’s about preparing to lead, contribute, and make an immediate impact.
Why Choose Rowan’s Online Master’s in Cybersecurity?
Now that you’ve seen the signs, here’s why Rowan’s online master’s in cybersecurity program stands out.
Rowan University is a nationally recognized, regionally accredited public research university with a growing online footprint. More than 11,000 students take at least one online course, and nearly 2,000 are enrolled in fully online programs. That’s because flexibility isn’t optional—it’s essential for today’s working professionals.
Key Benefits of Rowan’s Online Cybersecurity Master’s Program
Our online Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity is designed specifically for working professionals and career changers. You’ll benefit from:
- 100% online, asynchronous courses you can complete on your schedule
- A curriculum that can be completed in as little as 24 months
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options
- Electives aligned to your career goals and industry needs
- Support services built for online learners, including 24/7 tutoring and virtual workshops on time management, study strategies, and motivation
- Expert faculty with real-world cybersecurity experience
“Rowan Online is listening to students and industry experts, giving them the courses and programs they want, delivered how they want.” —Michael Roark, CEO of Rowan Online
Courses in Rowan’s Online Cybersecurity Master’s Program
You’ll gain both technical depth and strategic insight through a curriculum designed for real-world application. Our online cybersecurity master’s program blends foundational knowledge with advanced coursework to prepare you for high-impact roles in the field.
Core courses include:
- Foundations of Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity Management, Policy, and Risk
- Cyber Defense of Operating Systems and Networks
Cybersecurity electives may include:
- Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things
- Cryptographic Algorithms
- Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
- Wireless Networks and Systems
- Cyber Security Risk Analysis in Homeland Security
- Information Security for Managers
- Foundations of Global Threats, Risks and Response
- Threat Assessment in Homeland Security
To view the full list of courses and official program requirements, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
FAQ: What Future Cybersecurity Leaders Want to Know
What can you do with a master’s in cybersecurity?
A master’s in cybersecurity online can lead to careers as a cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, threat intelligence specialist, security architect, or director of information security. These roles are in high demand across industries like healthcare, finance, government, and tech.
Is a cybersecurity master’s degree worth it?
Yes. A master’s in cybersecurity online is worth it if you want to move into leadership roles, increase your salary, or pivot into a high-growth tech field. It provides advanced knowledge, practical skills, and credentials that many employers require for senior-level positions.
How long does it take to complete a cybersecurity master’s degree online?
Most online cybersecurity master’s programs take 18 to 24 months to complete. Rowan’s program is flexible, allowing you to finish at your own pace—whether you accelerate or take courses part-time.
Is Rowan’s cybersecurity program fully online?
Yes. Rowan’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program is 100% online and asynchronous. There are no required live classes, so you can study when it works best for your schedule.
Prefer an on-campus experience? Rowan also offers campus-based and hybrid options for the Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Learn more about our alternative delivery formats.
Can I work while earning my cybersecurity master’s?
Absolutely. Rowan’s program is designed for working adults, parents, and professionals managing real life. The online format makes it easy to balance school with your job and personal responsibilities.
Do employers respect online cybersecurity master’s degrees?
Yes. Reputable programs from regionally accredited universities—like Rowan—are widely accepted and respected by employers. What matters most is the skills you gain and how you apply them in the workplace.
Apply to Rowan’s Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
If these signs feel familiar, now might be the perfect time to act. Rowan University’s online Master of Science in Cybersecurity offers the skills, flexibility, and confidence to lead in one of the fastest-growing, most impactful fields today.
Ready to take the next step? Apply to Rowan’s online master’s in cybersecurity or request more information to learn how you can get started.