The Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences (MCIS) with a focus on Cybersecurity at Southern Arkansas University is an intensive STEM-certified program designed to create elite defenders of the digital landscape. This track provides a deep dive into the technical, legal, and ethical dimensions of information security, equipping students to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data against increasingly sophisticated global threats.
Program Format & Flexibility
The MCIS program offers a flexible and student-centered learning environment tailored to both full-time students and working professionals.
- Online: Complete your degree from anywhere in the United States with 100% virtual coursework.
- On-Campus: Engage in hands-on labs and face-to-face collaboration in Magnolia.
- Hybrid: Utilize a blend of both formats to balance your career and education.
Program Duration & Start Dates
- Duration: Typically completed in 18–24 months.
- Start Dates: Rolling admissions with intakes in Fall, Spring, and Summer.
- Deadlines: * Fall: July 20 | Spring: December 1 | Summer I: April 1 | Summer II: June 1
- Accelerated Track: SAU undergraduates can begin Cybersecurity graduate coursework during their senior year to expedite their path to professional roles.
Why Choose the Cybersecurity Track at SAU?
- STEM Designation: As a STEM-certified program, international students are eligible for a 24-month OPT extension (36 months total).
- Specialized Faculty and Security Labs: Experienced cyber security faculty, cyber range.
- Cost-Effectiveness: SAU offers one of the most affordable high-quality graduate computer science programs in the region.
Skills You Will Gain
- Network Defense: Architect secure network topologies and implement robust firewall/IDS systems.
- Digital Forensics: Master the tools and techniques needed to investigate cybercrimes and recover compromised data.
- Information Privacy: Navigate the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding data protection and privacy laws.
Faculty & Digital Learning Environment
- Research-Active Faculty: Learn from professors who are experts in AI, machine learning, cyber security and cloud computing.
- State-of-the-Art Labs: Access virtualized environments and physical labs equipped with the latest hardware.
- Class Projects and Internship: Most courses include hands-on implementation or research projects, providing practical experience with real-world challenges. Internship opportunities further enhance learning by offering valuable industry exposure and professional experience.
Curriculum
Core Courses (12 hours)
MCIS 5103 – Advanced Programming Concepts
or MCIS 5163 – Python Programming
MCIS 5133 – Data Base Management Systems
MCIS 6163 – Computer Networking
MCIS 6173 – Information and Networking Security
Cyber Security Courses (12 hours)
MCIS 6213 – Applied Cryptography
or MCIS 6243 – Wireless and Mobile Security
MCIS 6223 – Vulnerability Analysis and Risk Assessment
MCIS 6233 – Traceable Systems and Computer Forensics
MCIS 6253 – Privacy Compliant Systems Design
Elective Courses (6 hours)
Select 6 hours from the following:
MCIS 5013 – The UNIX Operating System
MCIS 5103 – Advanced Programming Concepts
MCIS 5113 – Web Programming: Client Side
MCIS 5163 – Python Programming
MCIS 5313 – Data Structures and Algorithms
MCIS 5333 – AI Principles and Applications
MCIS 5353 – Deep Learning
MCIS 5363 – Generative AI and Language Models
MCIS 5383 – Privacy, Security, and Ethics
MCIS 5413 – Web Programming: Server Side
MCIS 6123 – Decision Science
MCIS 6133 – User Interface Design
MCIS 6153 – Software Engineering
MCIS 6183 – Special Topics
MCIS 6193 – Special Topics
MCIS 6213 – Applied Cryptography
MCIS 6243 – Wireless and Mobile Security
MCIS 6263 – Big Data
MCIS 6273 – Data Mining
MCIS 6283 – Machine Learning
MCIS 6293 – Special Topics
MCIS 6313 – Internet of Things
MCIS 6323 – Cloud Computing
MCIS 6333 – Data Visualization Programming
MCIS 6913 – Thesis
MCIS 6983 – Internship in Computer and Information Science
Admissions
- Online Application: Submit your Graduate Studies Application.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions.
- GPA Requirement: Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 (Conditional admission may be available for 2.2+).
Prerequisites:
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field is preferred. Students with degrees in other fields may be required to complete two foundational “bridge” courses in programming and concepts.
Career Outcomes
Cybersecurity professionals are in extreme demand across all sectors. Graduates are prepared for roles such as:
- Information Security Analyst
- Penetration Tester
- Cybersecurity Architect
- Digital Forensics Investigator
- Chief Information Security Officer
Market Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 32% growth rate for Information Security Analysts through 2034, making it one of the fastest-growing career fields in the nation.
