Pennsylvania State University

How this program compares

Pennsylvania State University's Online MS in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations lists about $19.1K total tuition — roughly 55% below the $42.9K AI master's average (23rd percentile in our data). It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in a STEM-related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required, along with competency in statistics, networking, IT, and preferably 2 years of relevant work experience or professional certifications. GRE scores are not required.

About This Program

This online program blends technology, incident response, and strategic planning to prepare students for leadership in cybersecurity analytics and crisis management. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

It is one of 60 AI-related programs we track in Pennsylvania, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 81% of the Pennsylvania programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $81.1K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, with reported salaries around $105,000.

Analyze cybersecurity threats using data analytics and intelligence tools.

Budget planners should note $19.1K estimated total tuition (23rd percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

Career Outcomes

The Online MS in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations at Pennsylvania State University (University Park, Pennsylvania) is oriented toward Cybersecurity Analyst hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $105,000. Its focus on Cybersecurity (General) and Cybersecurity Law, Privacy & Policy maps directly to how employers in cybersecurity ai screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 32% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Cybersecurity Analyst
• 2. Threat Intelligence Analyst
• 3. Security Operations Specialist
• 4. Cybersecurity Project Manager

What You'll Learn

• Analyze cybersecurity threats using data analytics and intelligence tools.
• Implement network security measures and risk management strategies.
• Apply scripting, automation, and machine learning to security operations.
• Conduct cyber risk assessments and compliance evaluations.

Curriculum Highlights

The 30-credit curriculum covers software security, network management, information security foundations, cybersecurity analytics, and culminates in a capstone project or scholarly paper.

Top Employers

Top employers include Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, and government agencies like NSA and FBI.

Admissions

Admission to Pennsylvania State University's Online MS in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is not required here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions