BGSU’s computer labs are modern, quiet and well equipped, with network simulation, servers and air-gapped machines for testing.

Master of Science (M.S.)

Computer Science: Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics

The BGSU master’s computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity and digital forensics degree provides intensive studies in the fundamentals computer science with additional training in cybersecurity, digital forensics, networks and mobile computing.

This program provides you with unique and valuable experience in identifying, responding, investigating and preventing cybersecurity breaches and network hacks.

You will have the opportunity to gain meaningful internship experience at top companies with strong IT and software divisions through our strong relationships with companies like American Greetings, Eaton, EY, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Owens Corning, Progressive Corporation and Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

Responding to the threats of today and preventing the concerns of tomorrow

Constantly evolving threats to business and critical infrastructure require an adaptive workforce with enhanced critical thinking and deep technical skills.  

BGSU's Department of Computer Science is comprised of expert, teaching-focused faculty who are accessible and approachable. Plus, qualified professors – not graduate students – teach all courses in the curriculum.

This program confers all the advantages of the masters in computer science, including a deep understanding of the principles of computing as a science and the layers of technology used, from machine code to user interfaces.  

The specialization in cybersecurity and digital forensics gives you an  in-depth exploration of computer and mobile system security, network forensics, and the laws and ethics governing these fields.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 33 percent employment growth for the field by 2030.

Career - what can you do with a cybersecurity master's degree?

Jobs in cybersecurity and digital forensics are among the fastest-growing roles in an already in-demand sector.

As well as being an expanding field, work in cyber security and digital forensics offers challenging problems, evolving landscapes, varied workplaces and excellent pay levels.

For more than 50 years, we have prepared accomplished alumni to work in many capacities throughout the technology industry and our program continues to grow.

BGSU Master of Science in computer science graduates have a strong track record of employment across academic and research positions.

Career paths

  • Cybersecurity Consultant
  • Cyber Information Systems Security Manager
  • Digital Forensic Examiner
  • Multimedia Forensics Scientist
  • Chief Information Security Officer
  • Incident and Breach Response

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View Average Salaries

The BGSU master’s in computer science is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)-Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC)

Curriculum

Students entering this master's program should have a background in computer science equivalent to that provided by the core undergraduate computer science curriculum.  

At a minimum, students should have experience in object-oriented programming, operating systems, software engineering and data structures. Knowledge of mathematics is essential and should include comfort in differential and integral calculus and discrete mathematics. Additional courses in mathematics and statistics are also desirable.

The curriculum includes an introduction to network protocols, security and forensic components, vulnerability and defense, data formats, digital evidence provenance and image exchange.  

You will learn to use a constantly evolving set of forensic tools and techniques like live data forensics, database forensics, use of network logs and other datasets for incidence timelines and subject/object associations.

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Sample courses

  • Computer and Mobile Forensics
  • Network Security and Forensics
  • Computer System Security
  • Secure Software Engineering
  • Law, Evidence and Procedures

BGSU College of Arts and Sciences

The Master of Science in Computer Science is a program from the Department of Computer Science in the College of Arts and Sciences

Updated: 09/05/2024 01:51PM