MS in Cyber Security Engineering Combined Program Overview
The combined program is a connection between undergraduate and graduate studies. USD has created an opportunity for undergraduate students to earn their Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Integrated Engineering while taking Master’s in Cyber Security Engineering courses as well. In doing this, it is possible for a student to earn their undergraduate and graduate degree in less than the typical 6 years.
Offered through USD’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, the Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering (MS-CSE) program has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the federal government. This program emphasizes a mission-centric focus while engaging students in academically rigorous training on the engineering aspects of software and hardware security. It is designed for those that want to effect positive change by developing and deploying engineering solutions to mitigate cybersecurity threats.
This Cyber Security Engineering master’s degree program is distinguished by:
- An integrated approach to cybersecurity education developed in collaboration with industry, military, intelligence community and government stakeholders to deliver specific, in-demand knowledge and skill sets.
- Dynamic, highly relevant curriculum designed by instructors with years of applied experience protecting national assets from the worst types of cyber threats.
- Intensive, in-depth focus on the most critical issues and threats being confronted by cybersecurity professionals today.
Please reach out to your undergraduate academic advisor to learn more about the program and how to take the first steps.
Who is the Combined Cyber Security Engineering Degree for?

Our Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering Combined Program is ideal for computer science and integrated engineering students like yourself that are aspiring to work as a security engineer.
The program is for those that wish to effect positive change by developing and deploying engineering solutions to safeguard systems and networks, and mitigate cybersecurity threats.
Anyone interested in gaining a deep understanding of cybersecurity engineering concepts, theories and threat mitigation strategies will benefit from this program, which is designed to be an invaluable asset for those starting in their cybersecurity careers or looking to advance within the field.
Requirements of Eligibility
- Minimum overall GPA: 3.0
- Must be a University of San Diego BS or BA Computer Science undergraduate student or BS/BA in Engineering undergraduate student
- Academic advisor approval is required to be considered for the program
- Student must complete a total of 12 units of the Cyber Security Engineering program during their undergraduate studies and must complete or be actively enrolled in a total of 6 units (CYBR 501 and CYBR 502) prior to applying for the combined degree program
- Student must have completed either COMP 365 or COMP 375
Combined Degree Application Flow
To be considered for the Combined Cyber Security Engineering program at USD, first make sure that you meet all eligibility requirements and work on completing the steps below.
- STEP 1
- STEP 2
- STEP 3
- STEP 4
- STEP 5
- STEP 6
Connect with your Undergraduate Academic Advisor
Sometime during your junior year, approach your undergraduate Academic Advisor to show interest and verify program prerequisites. You can reach out by sending an email to: smseadvising@sandiego.edu
Combined Degree Application Flow Steps
Benefits of a Combined Degree
Start Graduate Studies Early
Begin working towards your advanced degree while earning your bachelors
Incur Less Cost
Earn your degree in a shorter time with less tuition
Waive your graduate application fee
Apply for your graduate program for free
No GRE Required
Apply for the program without having to take additional testing
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
Please reach out to your undergraduate academic advisor to learn more about the program and how to take the first steps.

