Global Security (Cybersecurity), MA
Program Description
Degree Awarded: MA Global Security (Cybersecurity)
The cybersecurity concentration is a unique element within the MA program in global security, engaging cyber issues from an interdisciplinary perspective with a focus on global security.
This nontechnical program provides students with relevant and continually updated understanding of the complex risks, threats and modes of protection and response associated with cybersecurity. This program is more theoretical in nature and uses practical, relevant examples. Students may progress at a variety of paces and can pursue the degree while working full time or part time.
The Master of Arts program in global security with a concentration in cybersecurity prepares students for a rapidly expanding field, with a focus on the complex relationship between cybersecurity and global politics. Students learn from top faculty, including global thought leaders, seasoned scholars and skilled practitioners. Classes integrate case studies, policy exercises and critical thinking to prepare students for career advancement.
In this program, students can:
- Advance their careers in global security, international relations, intelligence, diplomacy, and other related fields. In an age where global security impacts nearly every aspect of our lives, the possibilities are endless. See what past graduates have done with their MA in Global Security degree.
- Learn from and network with leading professionals in the global security arena. Our highly engaged faculty include top advisors, military strategists, humanitarian leaders, award-winning journalists and renowned scholars. See who you’ll be learning from.
- Connect with fellow students all over the world, engage in weekly discussions, attend exclusive events with faculty and students, and gain access to our growing alumni networks in Phoenix and Washington, D.C. See what events you’ll have access to as a student or graduate of the program.
- Work closely with the Future Security Initiative (FSI), a collaborative research & policy hub linking ASU and New America, that includes experts and thought leaders in Washington, D.C. Learn more about FSI.
Curriculum
Expand your horizons with cutting-edge curriculum designed and taught by world-class faculty. Coursework is designed to develop a holistic perspective on complex global problems, to view contemporary issues through a practitioner’s lens, and to send students out with practical skills for careers in global security. Learn more about the curriculum.
Graduate Certificate
Those interested in the curriculum but who do not need a full master's degree should consider a Graduate Certificate in Global Security and Competitive Statecraft. The certificate program is specifically designed to expand knowledge in strategic statecraft, global security, or military strategy. It is a fully online, 15-credit hour, non-degree program taught by a cadre of senior experts in national security, diplomacy, cybersecurity, and statecraft. Learn more about the Certificate in Global Security and Competitive Statecraft.
Degree Requirements
30 credit hours including the required capstone course (GSC 550)
Required Core (3 credit hours)
GSC 501 War, Conflict and Security (3)
Concentration (12 credit hours)
GSC 560 Overview of Cybersecurity (3)
GSC 561 Cybersecurity Threats and Trends (3)
GSC 562 Cybersecurity, Global Politics and Resiliency (3)
GSC 563 Cybersecurity Planning and Strategy (3)
Electives or Research (12 credit hours)
Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
GSC 550 Capstone (3)
Additional Curriculum Information
For electives, students take coursework from a restricted list, for a total of 12 credit hours. Students should contact the academic unit for the approved course list. Other coursework may be used with approval of the academic unit.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants are required to submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal statement
- curriculum vitae or resume
- one letter of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Applicants must submit at least one letter of recommendation for admission. Applicants may submit additional letters.
The application requires a two- to three-page personal statement.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:
BS - Political Science
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BA - Global Studies
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BA - Political Science
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Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Opportunities
Graduates possess the grounded and relevant understanding of major global trends and critical analytic skills that improve their capacity to succeed in multiple career paths related to domestic and international security.
Example career areas include:
- conflict zone and postwar reconstruction
- consulting
- global security intelligence (public and private sector)
- humanitarian and human rights advocacy
- policy analysis
- regional affairs
- risk assessment (public and private sector)
- U.S. military advancement
Attend Online
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- spgs@asu.edu
- 480/965-8563