As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology, the threat of cyberattacks grows larger. Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, with companies and governments seeking individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to protect against these threats.
Pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity is an excellent way to gain the necessary expertise and knowledge to become a cybersecurity professional. However, choosing the right university for your cybersecurity program can be challenging.
Here’s a list of the best universities for master’s in cybersecurity around the world in 2023:
| University | Ranking (QS World University Rankings 2023) |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States | 1 |
| Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), United States | 2 |
| University of Oxford, United Kingdom | 5 |
| National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore | 6 |
| ETH Zurich, Switzerland | 9 |
| Tsinghua University, China | 15 |
| University of Waterloo, Canada | 22 |
| Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany | 29 |
| University of Sydney, Australia | 57 |
| KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden | 62 |
(BONUS: Scroll to the end for a list of factors to consider when choosing a cybersecurity program).
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT is widely regarded as one of the best universities in the world for cybersecurity education, and its programs are highly sought after by students and employers alike. In fact, according to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, MIT is ranked #1 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems, which includes cybersecurity as a subfield.
MIT has a wide range of certifications in the field of cybersecurity, including:
- Post Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
- Professional Certificate in Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity Certificate Program For Managers
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), United States
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is another top university in the United States with a strong reputation for cybersecurity education and research. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, CMU is ranked #2 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Science in Information Security Policy & Management (MSISPM) program aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in implementing and driving change in cyber solutions, managing projects and technologies, comprehending the intricate risk landscape of today, and reinforcing the cyber posture of organizations and governments against threats of the 21st century.
In addition, the Master of Science in Information Security (MSIS) gives students advanced knowledge of information security principles and challenges.
University of Oxford, United Kingdom
The University of Oxford is widely regarded as one of the best universities in the world, and its cybersecurity programs are no exception. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the University of Oxford is ranked #5 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The MSc in Software and Systems Security at this university provides a comprehensive understanding of system security principles, tools, methods, and techniques for their practical application, covering technical and organizational aspects in a modern context.
In addition to its academic programs, the University of Oxford is home to The Global Cyber Security Capacity Centre (GCSCC), a research center that focuses on cybersecurity research and education.
National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is among the top universities in Asia and has a strong reputation for its cybersecurity program. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, NUS is ranked #1 in Asia and #6 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Computing – Infocomm Security Specialisation is a rigorous and comprehensive graduate program that focuses on specialized areas of study, incorporating the latest applied and fundamental research findings. It provides advanced and in-depth knowledge of IT to prepare students for a successful IT career. The program offers both full-time and part-time study options.
NUS is also home to several cybersecurity research centers, including the NUS-Singtel Cyber Security R&D Lab, which conducts research in the areas of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The lab offers opportunities for students to participate in research projects and gain practical experience through internships and co-op programs.
ETH Zurich, Switzerland
ETH Zurich is one of the top universities in Switzerland and has a strong reputation for its cybersecurity program. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, ETH Zurich is ranked #9 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Science in Cyber Security program offers top-notch education from renowned instructors who are experts in the field of cybersecurity. The two-year Master’s program offers a comprehensive education that includes a wide range of courses covering all aspects of cybersecurity. Students can apply their knowledge and skills through a semester project and a Master’s thesis.
ETH Zurich is also home to the Zurich Information Security and Privacy Center (ZISC). ZISC aims to unite academia and industry to solve future information security challenges. Ph.D. students and senior researchers perform academic research under the supervision of ETH Zurich faculty members.
Tsinghua University, China
Tsinghua University is one of the top universities in China and has been recognized as a leading institution for cybersecurity education and research. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, Tsinghua University is ranked #15 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
Tsinghua University has a strong reputation for cybersecurity research and innovation. The university hosts several research centers and institutes focused on cybersecurity, such as the Institute for Network Science and Cyberspace and the National Engineering Laboratory for Cyberlearning and Intelligent Technology.
University of Waterloo, Canada
The University of Waterloo is one of the top universities in Canada and has a strong reputation in the field of computer science. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the University of Waterloo is ranked #22 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Mathematics (MMath) in Computer Science at this university includes graduate research fields such as Algorithms and Complexity, Artificial Intelligence, Systems and Networking, as well as Cryptography, Security and Privacy, to name a few.
The University of Waterloo is also home to several cybersecurity research centers, including the Waterloo Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute (CPI), which conducts research in the areas of cybersecurity, privacy, and cryptography.
Additionally, the University of Waterloo hosts several cybersecurity events, including the annual Cybersecurity and Privacy Conference, which brings together academics, industry professionals, and policymakers to discuss emerging cybersecurity trends and challenges.
Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is widely regarded as one of the top technical universities in Germany. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, TUM is ranked #29 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Communications and Electronics Engineering at this university is a two-year international graduate program. It offers courses such as Channel Coding, Mobile Communications, Optical Communications, Cryptography and System Security, Realtime Systems, etc.
As part of the Executive & Professional Education, TUM offers the Certified Cyber Security Specialist program, an English-taught blended learning program with a duration of 16 weeks.
University of Sydney, Australia
The University of Sydney is among the top universities in Australia. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the University of Sydney is ranked #4 in Australia for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Cybersecurity at this university offers insights into technical topics and management and political/social cybersecurity aspects. Specialization fields are Cryptography and Blockchains, Cloud Security, or Data and Information Security.
The Master of Cybersecurity (Online) program is a 72-credit point course covering major cybersecurity areas. Students can complete the course in 18 months full-time or 36 months part-time.
KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden
KTH Royal Institute of Technology is one of the top technical universities in Sweden. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, KTH ranks #62 in the world for Computer Science and Information Systems.
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an English-taught two-year program that starts with courses to provide an overview of the field, a course in ethical hacking, and cryptography.
Mandatory courses also include those that “put cybersecurity in the context of ethics, law, threat actor behavior, end-user behavior, sustainability, and business and societal consequences of cyberattacks,” according to the program details.
The MSc Security and Cloud Computing (SECCLO) program is a joint master’s program in Security and Cloud Computing. Students get to learn about both cloud computing and information security. The program emphasizes a combination of strong security knowledge with hands-on R&D skills.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cybersecurity Program
When choosing a university for a cybersecurity program, you should consider factors like program reputation, faculty expertise, industry partnerships, and research opportunities.
Here are four main factors to consider when choosing a cybersecurity program:
Program Reputation
The reputation of the program is an essential factor to consider when choosing a university for a cybersecurity program. It is essential to choose a program that is recognized and respected in the industry. Universities with strong cybersecurity programs will have a reputation for producing successful graduates who have gone on to work for reputable companies and government organizations.
Faculty Expertise
Faculty expertise is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a cybersecurity program. It is important to choose a university with faculty members who have expertise in the field of cybersecurity. The faculty members should be knowledgeable about the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and technologies. Universities with faculty members who have published research papers and received grants for their cybersecurity research are good choices.
Industry Partnerships
Industry partnerships are crucial when it comes to choosing a cybersecurity program. Universities that collaborate with reputable companies and government organizations provide students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience. These partnerships also offer students the opportunity to network with professionals in the industry and potentially secure employment opportunities upon graduation.
Research Opportunities
Research opportunities are an essential factor to consider when choosing a cybersecurity program. Universities that have research opportunities allow students to gain practical experience and contribute to the field of cybersecurity. Students who have research experience have a competitive edge when it comes to securing employment opportunities after graduation.