MS in Cybersecurity Admission & Application Requirements

Apply and complete your graduate application in October for Spring 2025 enrollment and have your $35 application fee reimbursed!

Cybersecurity Application Deadlines

Applications are often accepted after the deadlines posted below when space is available. Please contact the Graduate Studies Office if you have questions.

• Spring: November 15 (priority)

*International students please see additional admission requirements.

Cybersecurity MS Application Deadlines

• Summer: April 1 (priority)
• Fall: July 1 (priority)
• Spring: November 15 (priority)

Steps to Apply

You may begin your application before all documents are ready. GradCAS saves your progress, and you may return any time to continue updating your application.

1. Create your account in GradCAS
2. Select your program from the list and click “+” to add to your cart.
3. Complete the three general application sections.
4. Complete the fourth, MSUM section (See Application Requirements below).
5. Make sure to request all documents before submitting your application. Once you submit, you can no longer amend or upload additional documents.
6. Pay the $50 application fee.

MSUM 4 + 1 Students Only:
MSUM undergraduates may apply formally for admission to the accelerated version of the MS in Cybersecurity after completing or registering for the following core courses: CSIS 155, CSIS 255, CSIS 304, CSIS 349, CSIS 362, and CSIS 364.

The Admission and Graduate Studies Offices will verify your documents and requirements.

Cybersecurity MS Admission Requirements

• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• While no specific undergraduate major is required, a prospective student is expected to have some background knowledge in computer programming, computer networking, and systems administration. This knowledge can be acquired through short courses and/or undergraduate coursework in these emphasis areas before starting the program.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.00 should complete the Appeal for Minimum Requirement question.

Cybersecurity MS Application Requirements

• GradCAS application
• A current resume.
• Contact information from one reference.
• Unofficial transcripts are required from all institutions you list on your application.
  • If you attended MSUM or other Minnesota State system institutions, you can retrieve your unofficial transcripts from eServices, contact graduate@mnstate.edu and we can assist.
  • Upon admission, you must request official transcripts from your degree-conferring institutions and any other transcripts listing possible graduate transfer coursework. Official transcripts can be requested through Parchment or the National Student Clearinghouse and sent directly to processing@mnstate.edu.
  • MSUM or MN system institution students do not need to request official transcripts. The admission team will do this on your behalf.
• An essay outlining your educational and career goals, knowledge and interest in the cybersecurity discipline, your ability to identify and analyze problems to present appropriate solutions, and your ability to communicate and create a collaborative environment that supports exchange of ideas (2 pages maximum).

International Student Requirements

• An official comprehensive course-by-course transcript evaluation by Educational Credential Evaluator (ECE), World Education Services (WES) or any other NACES accredited evaluation firm, from post-secondary institutions outside the U.S.
• The ECE, WES, or NACES evaluation must certify your international degree is equivalent to a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
• For students whose native language is not English, or who were not taught in English, an official score from either TOEFL (6678 MSUM code) or IELTS (Minnesota State University Moorhead) is required.
  • TOEFL scores-550 (paper-based) or 78-80 (online)
  • IELTS score of 6.5

On Campus International Students-Visa Sponsorship Requirements

Upload the following documents under the Optional Documents section.

• Completed International Graduate Student Agreement form.
• Completed International Graduate Student Sponsor form listing the availability of adequate monetary support for the duration of the graduate program.
• Verification of additional funds is necessary if you are bringing a spouse or other family members.
• An official bank statement. The current requirement is approximately $29,600.
• Completed International Graduate Student Transfer form. (if applicable)
• University Health Insurance must be purchased. (no exceptions)
• Passport copy.

NOTE: International students will not be granted a visa for the summer term. They may apply and begin the program online in the summer, then request visa sponsorship for the following fall or spring term.

For questions about the program or the application process please call Graduate Studies 218.477.2134 or email graduate@mnstate.edu.

Visit the GradCAS Applicant Help Center for detailed application instructions.

Questions about completing the application:
Call | GradCAS Customer Service at 857.304.2086
Email | support@gradcas.myliaison.com
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