Pennsylvania State University, University Park

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $38.2K puts this master's program at the 58th percentile on cost — roughly 11% below the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

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 resident program develops deep expertise in cybersecurity analytics and operations by integrating technology, incident response, and crisis management training. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Cybersecurity Law, Privacy & Policy. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

At roughly $38.2K total, Pennsylvania State University, University Park's MS in Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations sits below the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 58th percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

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 61% 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.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Pennsylvania State University, University Park's MS in Cybersecurity Analytics & Operations most often target Cybersecurity Analyst roles, where reported compensation runs around $105,000. Its focus on Machine Learning 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. Cyber Risk Manager

What You'll Learn

• Analyze cybersecurity threats using data analytics and intelligence tools.
• Implement risk management and compliance strategies in operational environments.
• Apply machine learning and scripting for automated security operations.
• Develop visualization and communication skills for threat reporting.

Curriculum Highlights

The 30-credit curriculum features core courses in software security, network security, and cybersecurity analytics, alongside elective options and a research-based culminating experience.

Top Employers

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

Admissions

Admission to Pennsylvania State University, University Park's MS in Cybersecurity Analytics & 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