Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity

Program Details

• ADMISSION

  How to Apply

  Admission Requirements

  • Minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average in all transferable units attempted
    • 2.5 GPA for students who have already completed a bachelors
  • Successful completion of the following courses with a grade of C (2.0) or higher
    • The following courses are required for admission (i.e. students cannot be admitted without successfully completing the courses):
      • Oral Communication (A1)
      • Written Communication (A2)
      • Critical Thinking (A3)
      • MATH 160 (also satisfies B4)
    • The following courses are encouraged to be completed prior to admission but are not required*: 
      • CYBER 110
      • CYBER 112
      • CYBER 210
      • CYBER 232
      • CYBER 242
      • CYBER 262
      • CYBER 272
      • CYBER 282
      • MATH 242
      • MATH 270
      • Physical Science (B1)
      • Physical Science Lab (B3)
      • Life Science (B2)

  *Applicants are encouraged to have the courses above completed prior to admission. Please note, the courses above will not be offered as part of the BS in Cybersecurity program at CSUSM. Applicants admitted to the program missing any of the courses above will need to complete the courses to earn their degree at CSUSM. Admitted students should contact one of the BS in Cybersecurity advisors to help develop a plan to complete the courses above. 

  Please note: To be considered for admission you must reside in an approved state.

• COSTS

  Semester	Units*	Subtotal**
  Fall Semester 1	12	$6,360
  Spring Semester 1	12	$6,360
  Fall Semester 2	15	$7,950
  Spring Semester 2	12	$6,360
  Total	51	$27,030

  *Unit rate for this program is $530 (discounts available for active duty military, view details)

  **University semester fees not included. View complete breakdown of Extended Learning fees. Semester tuition subtotals based on sample program sequence. All quoted tuition rates are based on previous academic years and are subject to change without notice.

  Funding and Financial Aid

  • This program is eligible for financial aid
  • Visit the Extended Learning funding page or call 760-750-4850 to learn more about your funding options
  • Federal VA educational benefits can be used for this program (not eligible for Cal Vet fee waiver)
  • Active duty military, veterans and dependents should visit the military services page or call 760-750-8705
• COURSE SEQUENCE

  Please note: This program has a set schedule of courses that you are expected to follow as part of your cohort.

  Sample Schedule for Fall Start

  Semester	Course (units)
  Fall Semester 1	CYBR 310 - Prog for Sercurity Inter (3) CYBR 432 - Computer Security (3) PHIL 348 - Ethics in Engineering (3) Upper Division Elective (3)
  Spring Semester 1	CYBR 456 - Network Security (3) CYBR 312 - Algo and Data Structure (3) CYBR 442 - Secure Software Dev (3) Upper Division Elective (3)
  Fall Semester 2	CYBR 466 - Applied Cryptography (3) CYBR 472 - AI for Cybersecurity (3) CYBR 482 - Human in CyberSec (3) Upper Division Elective (3) GE Upper 1 - GE Upper Division (3)
  Spring Semester 2	CYBR 486 - Enterp Sys Security (3) CYBR 490 - CyberSec Capstone (3) Upper Division Elective (3)

  Schedule is subject to change.

• FAQ

  Why should I pursue a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity instead of just certifications?

  Certifications can demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise, but a degree provides a more comprehensive education that covers a wider range of topics and skills. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the field and the ability to think critically and creatively about cybersecurity challenges. Also, a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity can provide a foundation in computer science, mathematics and business, which can be valuable in a cybersecurity career.

  Furthermore, our program provides you with access to the latest research in the field and the opportunity to actively participate in it. Additionally, you receive immediate guidance and support during hands-on practice through real-time tutoring.

  Finally, a degree can open up more career opportunities and can lead to higher salaries. Employers often prefer candidates with a degree, and some positions require a bachelor's degree as a minimum qualification. Overall, while certifications can be valuable, pursuing a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity can provide a more well-rounded education and lead to more opportunities in the field.

  What kinds of careers will I be prepared for after completing this program?

  Students who complete this program can pursue a career as Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Engineer, Network Engineer, Systems Engineer, DevSecOps Engineer, Software Developer, Cybersecurity Manager, Penetration & Vulnerability Tester, Systems Administrator, Cybersecurity Consultant, Cybersecurity Specialist, and Information Security Officer. 

  What is a cohort?

  A cohort is a group of students who work through a curriculum together to achieve the same academic degree. Because they are accepted into the same program, take their classes together and graduate together, students in cohorts tend to form a strong support system and professional network that benefit them during their degree program and beyond.

  How does this major prepare me for the master's program? Do any units transfer to the MS?

  This major has 12-unit electives that provide students the flexibility and chance to take cybersecurity master courses while in the bachelor program. And all the successfully finished master's courses will count towards the master's degree. 

  What should I expect in the capstone course (CYBR 490)?

  The capstone course is an industry/academic sponsored project. You will work in teams with dedicated industry/academic mentors. You'll apply your understanding of security principles, methodologies, technical skills, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills to semester-long real-world projects. 

  What services do you offer to active military, veterans and dependents?

  Please visit our military and veteran services page to learn how we can help.