With the UW Master of Science in Cybersecurity, you can choose from two tracks of study to personalize your learning. Pursue what interests you by choosing one or both tracks as you advance through the degree.
Digital Forensics and Security Management Track
Digital forensics and security management unite digital evidence investigation with the governance and leadership needed to manage enterprise risk. In this track, you will:
- learn how to collect and analyze digital evidence.
- plan and implement cybersecurity programs.
- align security operations with business objectives, regulations, and incident response, and build capabilities to prevent, detect, and respond to threats.
Upon completing this track of study, you’ll be prepared for roles including:
- Digital Forensics Analyst
- Incident Response Manager
- Risk Manager
- Cyber Crime Investigator
- Intelligence Manager
Who is this track best suited for? If you have one or more of the following attributes, this may be a good fit:
- an investigative, detail-oriented mindset
- experience in IT support, systems/network administration, law enforcement, audit or compliance
- an interest in the who, what, and why behind cybersecurity incidents.
“By doing the planning, you can respond quickly. You have to have the right teams in place, and they have to be ready to respond. And then at the end of all of the responses, make sure that you figure out the lessons learned. The lessons learned part is what will help prevent future attacks.” – Tony Varghese, Instructor
Secure Systems Design Track
Secure systems design ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of modern digital environments. In this track, you will:
- explore the foundations of cryptography, secure software engineering, and system architecture.
- learn how security principles shape resilient applications and enterprise‑scale infrastructures.
- gain insight into how cryptographic tools, secure programming practices, and architectural safeguards work together to protect data.
Upon completing this track of study, you’ll be prepared for roles including:
- Chief Information Security Officer
- Software Security Engineer
- Network Security Architect
- Cloud Security Engineer
- Penetration and Vulnerability Tester
Who is this track best suited for? If you have one or more of the following attributes, this may be a good fit:
- a background in computer science, software development, or network engineering
- programming skills
- an interest in building and designing systems.
“Much of what I’ve learned in class translated to my work because we’re doing many of the same things, whether it be cryptography or security planning.” -Tyler Wester, Cybersecurity MS student
Develop the Skills You Need to Become a Well-Rounded Cybersecurity Professional
If you’re enrolled in the cybersecurity program, keep in mind that you’ll also be required to complete a capstone project to earn your degree. A successful capstone project will not only help you learn something new, it’ll also give you a chance to practice the skills you’ve learned in the program on an actual work project. Whether you choose to focus on Digital Forensics and Security Management or Secure Systems Design, you can plan and execute an actual work project that aligns with your interests. This experience can help you land your first cybersecurity role or advance in your career.
“Cybersecurity professionals who build complementary skills across offensive and defensive domains are likely to be better positioned as roles continue to evolve,” according to a recent Hrtech article. “In a rapidly changing environment, versatility is becoming a valuable career asset.”
Ready to learn more about how a master’s degree in cybersecurity can help you achieve your career goals? Start your journey today and find out more about the program by contacting an enrollment adviser at 608-800-6762 or learn@uwex.wisconsin.edu.