Program Overview

Through the UMBC Cybersecurity Master’s Program, students learn the origins, nature and current issues in cybersecurity. The program equips students with a strong understanding of the technical components of the cybersecurity field and in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity strategy, policy and management. With exposure to both research faculty and industry practitioners, students will acquire the latest knowledge and skills that will prepare them to make meaningful contributions to the field.

With reputation, industry relevance and convenient locations, including at The Universities at Shady Grove, UMBC is uniquely positioned to provide education and training that respond to the region’s need for qualified technical professionals in the cybersecurity field.

Reputation:  For four years running (2009-2012), UMBC was ranked #1 in the U.S. News and World Report's list of "national up-and-coming" universities. 

UMBC is certified as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAE) as well as a Center of Academic Excellence in Research (CAE-R) sponsored by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Students attending UMBC are eligible to apply for scholarships and grants through the Department of Defense Information Assurance Scholarship Program.

Industry Relevance: To ensure that UMBC’s cybersecurity programs are current, relevant, and responsive to the needs of industry, UMBC formed a Cybersecurity Advisory Board in 2009. Consisting of representatives from organizations such as MITRE, Northrop Grumman, Battelle, and others, the board continues to provide guidance on the development of UMBC’s cybersecurity programs. 

Convenient Location:  UMBC at The Universities at Shady Grove is conveniently located in Rockville, MD, near I-270. The location is convenient to a host of federal agencies and government contractors in Montgomery County and the Washington D.C.-area that need cyber-related research, education, and training.