Western Kentucky University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $21.2K puts this master's program at the 28th percentile on cost — roughly 51% below the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, IT, engineering, or data science; some programs accept degrees in business, math, or criminal justice if technical prerequisites are met.[1] A minimum GPA of 2.75–3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required, with prerequisite coursework in programming, networking fundamentals, databases, and statistics.[1

About This Program

This fully online program focuses on the intersection of cybersecurity and data analytics, preparing graduates to manage and protect complex information systems in diverse industries. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Design and implement threat detection dashboards and SIEM tools to identify and respond to cybersecurity threats in real time.

Estimated total tuition is $21.2K, below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 28th percentile on cost at this level. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 13 AI-related programs we track in Kentucky, of which about 69% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 62% of the Kentucky programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $25.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, with reported salaries around $104,992[1.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Cybersecurity Data Analytics at Western Kentucky University (Bowling Green, Kentucky) is oriented toward Cybersecurity Analyst hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $104,992[1. 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 13% 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. Risk Management Analyst

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement threat detection dashboards and SIEM tools to identify and respond to cybersecurity threats in real time
• Transform security data into strategic insights using artificial intelligence, data mining, and predictive analytics for executive decision-making
• Analyze breach data and develop risk management strategies aligned with compliance requirements and organizational security posture
• Apply advanced data visualization and communication techniques to convey complex security findings to technical and non-technical audiences

Curriculum Highlights

The program consists of seven core classes and three electives, allowing students to specialize in areas like healthcare administration, supply chain management, or organizational communication.

Top Employers

Top employers for cybersecurity data analytics professionals include Fortune 500 financial institutions, technology companies like Microsoft and Cisco, government agencies including the NSA and FBI, and major consulting firms specializing in cybersecurity and risk management.[1

Admissions

Admission to Western Kentucky University's MS in Cybersecurity Data Analytics 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