Dual-Degree
On Campus
Visit the School of Computing & EngineeringOn Campus
Visit the School of Computing & EngineeringCybersecurity has become a major concern across the globe, and there is a growing need for specialists who can combat cybercrime in a range of fields. The dual-degree BS/MS or BA/MS in Cybersecurity (4+1) programs enable Quinnipiac students of all majors to continue their education and learn the specialized skills they’ll need to counter modern cyber threats in any career setting.
With cybercrime on the rise, sensitive personal and financial information in corporations, health care organizations, law firms, banks, educational institutions and elsewhere is perpetually at risk. Thanks to these unique dual-degree programs, students of all undergraduate backgrounds have the chance to seamlessly earn an MS in Cybersecurity and learn the tools and tactics needed to mitigate that risk.
This flexible program can be completed in under 5 years and complements many diverse majors, from computer science, mechanical engineering and software engineering to criminal justice, business administration and a variety of health science programs. By combining their undergraduate backgrounds with knowledge of such subjects as IT infrastructure, cryptography and cloud security, graduates make themselves invaluable to employers in many professional settings.
Hands-on courses are taught by world-class security experts, and the MS program culminates in a capstone project utilizing commercial or open source security tools. Students have access to a dedicated adviser throughout, who is also the MS in Cybersecurity program director, and special programming and networking opportunities are available through a career development specialist.
You may combine any of our undergraduate majors with the MS in Cybersecurity program, however certain programs can be particularly complementary depending on your future career goals.
BA or BS in Computer Science
BS in Software Engineering
BS in Mechanical Engineering
BA in Criminal Justice
BA in Political Science
Health Sciences Majors
In today’s competitive market, a graduate degree is often expected and can be the key to your success. Our innovative dual-degree programs give you a clear path to achieving your goals.
As a dual-degree student, you’ll enjoy:
Seamless plan of study: Our dual-degree programs enable you to streamline the completion of both your undergraduate and graduate studies — building relationships with classmates and professors in the supportive and enriching environment that you have come to know.
Save time and money: Certain courses count toward both undergraduate and graduate requirements — allowing you to graduate earlier and spend less money.
Simplified application process: When you maintain good academic standing in the program, you are seamlessly enrolled into the graduate program of study — eliminating the need to find another graduate program, take additional tests for admission or complete a separate admission process.
Career development: Dual-degree students gain access to special career-focused programming — including global networking and internship opportunities, recruitment events, career fairs and other experiential opportunities.
Personalized advising: Students are assigned a dedicated adviser who will help with course selection, assist with internship placements and prepare you for interviews — strengthening your resume before graduation.
Career readiness: Dual-degree students enter the workforce with an advance degree in hand — increasing your potential starting salary and setting you apart from other recent graduates who did not earn a master’s.
The dual-degree program emphasizes the skills employers value — leadership, critical thinking and creative problem-solving. They also reflect our commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning and career development.
The Graduate Admissions Office partners with Graduate Program Directors to host program-specific virtual information sessions designed for current Quinnipiac juniors.
With dual-degree options in the College of Arts & Sciences as well as the Schools of Business, Communications, Computing & Engineering and Health Sciences, there are plentiful opportunities for current students to add a graduate degree to their current program of study, strengthen their resumes and gain advanced skills and knowledge before entering the workforce.
The projected growth in employment within the cybersecurity industry from 2016 to 2026. The average growth rate for all occupations is 7%. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
The global shortage of cybersecurity professionals as of 2019 is 2 million. Companies around the world are looking to fill these highly sought-after positions. (ISACA)
The projected growth rate for information security analysts is 32% with the addition of 35,500 jobs from 2018 to 2028. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020)
Quinnipiac University has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity. This designation recognizes that our program serves the nation well, contributes to the protection of the national information infrastructure and addresses the critical shortage of professionals with cybersecurity skills.
Additionally, the National Security Agency and a committee of academic peers have validated Quinnipiac University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity programs through the 2027 academic year. Per the 2018 National Cyber Strategy, "A highly skilled cybersecurity workforce is a strategic national security advantage."
Our undergraduate admissions counselors are here to answer any questions you may have and help you navigate the application process.