The best courses and master’s programs to learn cybersecurity

Today, data is one of the most valuable assets, and almost everyone is concerned about data breaches and cyber attacks. This has increased the demand for cybersecurity experts to protect devices, data, and networks from cyber attacks. If you’re looking to tighten up cybersecurity measures at your organization or want to pursue a career in cybersecurity, a course or a master’s degree can be very beneficial. Below, we’ve listed some of the best courses and schools for a master’s degree.

Popular cybersecurity courses
These courses can help you get started with cybersecurity. They are short-term and usually reward you with a certificate on successful completion:

• Coursera – Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization (offered by NYU)
  Offered by the New York University Tandon School Of Engineering, this is an ideal course for beginners. The course consists of four specializations, each of which includes a hands-on project you need to complete to earn a certificate. The course will help you acquire skills related to risk assessment, cyber attacks, cyber defense, and Information Security (INFOSEC).
• Harvard – Cybersecurity: Managing Risk in the Information Age

This Harvard course is a viable option for people looking to get certified from one of the most prestigious universities. It’s an eight-week-long course that will give you a profound understanding of the various types of cyber attacks. The course will also equip you with the skills required to develop an effective cyber risk mitigation strategy.

• Udemy – The Complete Cyber Security Course for Beginners: Hackers Exposed

This is one of the most popular and highly-rated cybersecurity courses designed for beginners. The course teaches you the latest information and cybersecurity methods to equip you with the skills required to protect against different online threats. It’s easy to follow and familiarizes you with darknets, darkwebs, phishing, malware, and more.

• MIT Management Executive Education – Cybersecurity for Managers

This course is designed specifically for managers, business leaders, and executives in various industries. It demands no technical prerequisites and covers popular cybersecurity approaches, such as define-in-depth and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework.

Top schools for master’s in cybersecurity
A master’s degree in cybersecurity can boost your career by equipping you with advanced skills and knowledge. If you’re planning to get a master’s in cybersecurity, here are some of the choices to consider:

• New York University – Cybersecurity Risk and Strategy, Master’s of Science
  This is a one-year master’s program offered jointly by the NYU School of Law and NYU Tandon School of Engineering that gives you a deep understanding of cybersecurity risk and strategy. The course promises to create managers who are well-equipped to play a leadership role in the field.
• University of Southern California – Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
  Available both on-campus and online, this program gives you an in-depth understanding of developing, engineering, and operating secure information systems. The course provides hands-on experience with real-world scenarios and laboratory work that is extensively beneficial.
• University of San Diego – Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership
  This 20-month online program is ideal for professionals who want to become a cybersecurity leader in their organization. The course offers an innovative curriculum that deals with the most critical aspects of cybersecurity.