Computer Science vs. Cyber Security Master's Degrees [What's the Difference?]

All cyber security professionals are computer scientists, but not all computer scientists work in cyber security.

Students in both degree tracks need excellent problem-solving skills and fluency in multiple programming languages. Both programs lead to high-paying jobs in a market where talent is scarce. Organizations struggle to fill computer science roles, and those who find work are frequently unprepared to tackle even basic security risks, according to the Harvard Business Review.

There are distinctions as well. For example, cyber security is just one computer science specialization—meaning it can be offered as a concentration in Master of Science in Computer Science programs, as well as an individual degree.

Both tracks are excellent, but which should you pick? Those who like investigating data breaches, identifying malware, and improving network security usually choose cyber security. In contrast, those who want to develop software or maintain databases pursue a general computer science degree or a different specialization. But, because these two paths are so interconnected, you don't necessarily need to pick one.

For a more in-depth analysis about computer science vs. cyber security master's degrees, and the way these degrees complement each other, read on. This article covers:

• Computer science vs. cyber security: curriculum
• Computer science vs. cyber security: specializations
• Computer science vs. cyber security: how long does it take?
• Computer science vs. cyber security: top programs
• Computer science vs. cyber security: cost
• Computer science vs. cyber security: job outlook
• Computer science vs. cyber security: career paths and earning potential
• Master's in computer science vs. master's in cyber security: which is for you?

Computer science vs. cyber security: curriculum

Similar degrees can have different focuses, and looking at degree titles can be revealing. For instance, within the cyber security designation you can earn a Master of Science in:

• Applied Information Technology with a cyber security concentration
• Computer Information Systems & Cyber Security
• Computer Science with a cyber security concentration
• Cyber Security Engineering

Conversely, Case Western Reserve University calls its computer science degree an MS in Computing and Information Science. When in doubt about what a program is, it's best to compare curricula.

Overview of a typical master's in computer science curriculum

Computer science curricula can vary widely between schools, but there is lots of common ground—including among online programs. A typical master's in computer science curriculum, like the one at Stevens Institute of Technology, covers:

• Cloud computing
• Enterprise software design
• Human-computer interaction
• Mobile systems and applications
• Software development
• Web programming

Programs that accept non-computer scientists also cover such bachelor's-degree-level subjects as basic computer programming and data analysis. Alternatively, students may self-study equivalent undergraduate coursework, or complete a bridge program.

Overview of a typical master's in cyber security curriculum

Computer science programs offer cyber security classes, but obviously, a master's in cyber security goes deeper. Students in the University of Tulsa program "master the theory, concepts and techniques of information assurance and network defense in real-world environments."

Typical master's in cyber security degree coursework includes:

• Algorithm analysis
• Biometrics
• Cryptography
• Cyber security architecture
• Digital forensics/computer forensics
• Information security strategy and policy

Additionally, while there are bachelor's degrees in cyber security, applicants commonly have a general computer science background.

Computer science vs. cyber security: specializations

Cyber security is far from the only computer science specialization. Top specializations and schools that offer them include:

Artificial intelligence

This specialization prioritizes machine learning and other AI strategies. Southern Methodist University offers an AI specialization as part of its online computer science master's.

Computer engineering

Computer engineering is a distinct discipline from computer science, though it shares common traits. Computer engineers focus more (though not entirely) on hardware than software. Columbia University offers a Master of Science in Computer Engineering.

Cyber security

Like most specializations, cyber security can be offered as a separate degree, or as part of a computer science program, such as the one at Boston University.

Data communications

This specialization orients students to the relationship between people and technology; you'll learn data science as well as communication skills. Graduates from the University of Southern California MS in Communication Data Science "will have not only data science skills but will be uniquely qualified to lead data science teams that require communication expertise," according to the program website.

Databases and information retrieval

According to Stanford University, "information retrieval is the process through which a computer system can respond to a user's query for text-based information on a specific topic." Working in this field requires machine learning and AI skills. Retrieval is usually offered as one aspect of other specializations, though University at Buffalo includes it as a research area.

Distributed systems

Distributed systems (aka distributed computing) is essentially an attempt to connect the disparate areas of a system. It has numerous practical and theoretical applications, and is usually offered as a research field, as it is at Yale University.

Graphics and visualization

University of Utah offers a graphics and visualization track, which covers subjects like:

• Biomedical visualization
• Computer animation
• Geometric modeling
• GPU programming
• Isogeometric analysis
• Scientific visualization
• Terrain modeling and rendering
• Visual perception and spatial cognition

Health informatics

The Temple University health informatics degree trains students "to create health data systems and processes to improve healthcare delivery, patient care and population health outcomes."

Human-computer interaction

The Georgia Institute of Technology - Main Campus Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction "focuses on activities ranging from design to development to evaluation of computer systems, with a goal of understanding how computers and technology affect people and society."

Information systems analysis

The MS in Management Information Systems degree at Drexel University helps students "understand, adapt and develop new software and Web systems."

Mobile application development

Most mobile app developers are specialists because they focus on making software work across different platforms. You may not need a degree to pursue mobile app development, though schools like The University of Texas at Austin offer a mobile computing concentration as part of its undergraduate computer science program.

Network architecture

Computer network architects are responsible for creating and maintaining entire networks—other positions in the field take on specialized roles. It's possible to pursue network architecture with a traditional computer science degree.

Operating systems

Operating systems education is a common part of cyber security coursework. There are jobs available for protecting, managing, and designing operating systems.

Software engineering

Traditional CS programs can prepare students for software engineering careers, but schools like California State University - Fullerton, have dedicated master's programs. Students take software engineering, data analysis, and artificial intelligence courses.

Computer science vs. cyber security: how long does it take?

Most master's programs take two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time programs take longer, up to five years. Students can also complete accelerated CS master's programs, which can last about a year. Most of the accelerated CS and cyber security programs are what's known as 4+1 degrees, meaning staying for an additional year after your undergraduate education.

Overview of how long it takes to earn a master's in computer science

Accelerated programs can be found at:

• Georgetown University
• Tulane University of Louisiana
• Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Part-time programs can be found at:

• University of Chicago
• New York University
• Villanova University

Overview of how long it takes to earn a master's in cyber security

Accelerated programs can be found at:

• CUNY New York City College of Technology
• Saint Louis University
• University of San Diego

Part-time programs can be found at:

• Fairfield University
• Northeastern University
• Yeshiva University

Computer science vs. cyber security: top programs

Earning a master's degree from a top school can help improve your job prospects. Top institutions have strong alumni networks, and name recognition can be beneficial in the job search. These schools also attract big-name professors and can dedicate more resources to unique learning opportunities and experiences. Still, where you complete your degree isn't the only factor in earning potential.

Top programs look for students with relevant work experience. Experience with digital forensics or penetration testing may bolster a cyber security master's application the way a software engineering or data analytics background can help for computer science.

Overview of the top master's in computer science programs

Schools with top master's in computer science programs include:

• Carnegie Mellon University
• Case Western Reserve University
• Cornell University
• Princeton University
• University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign
• University of Washington - Seattle Campus

Overview of the top cyber security master's programs

Schools with top master's in cyber security programs include:

• George Mason University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Rochester Institute of Technology
• Texas A & M University - College Station
• University of California - Berkeley

Computer science vs. cyber security: cost

Master's degrees require an investment, especially considering you may not be able to work during school. Fortunately, it's possible to cut costs. Certain employers are willing to cover part or all of a graduate degree, usually in exchange for a postgraduate commitment with the company. Additionally, scholarships and fellowships can help reduce or eliminate costs. Public universities often give residents a tuition break, and attending one can also help alleviate the burden.

Overview of how much a master's in computer science will cost

Tuition (not including additional fees) for the most costly computer science master's degrees can exceed $100,000, though most charge between $15,000 and $75,000, according to US News and World Report. Online and in-person programs typically charge similar rates.

Overview of how much a master's in cyber security will cost

Most cyber security degrees are offered through the computer science department, meaning they cost the same.

Least expensive programs

Affordable online cyber security programs can be found at:

• Arizona State University - Tempe
• Auburn University
• George Washington University

Computer science vs. cyber security: job outlook

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the computer and information technology field is expected to grow by 11 percent from 2019 to 2029—more than triple the rate for the job market as a whole. This figure encompasses all computer science careers, including cyber security. Like the others in this section, this number is a good starting point, but individual jobs still grow at different rates.

Computer science job outlook

The BLS expects computer and information research scientist employment to grow by 15 percent from 2019 to 2029.

Cyber security job outlook

The BLS projects information security analyst employment to grow by a staggering 31 percent from 2019 to 2029.

Computer science vs. cyber security: career paths and earning potential

Examining job outlook numbers is an excellent way to identify trends, but looking at career paths provides a more detailed picture. These are some top jobs you can get with a master's degree.

Overview of jobs with a master's in computer science and salary with a master's in computer science

PayScale says the average salary for someone with a master's in computer science is $102,637. The best jobs pay considerably more.

Overview of jobs with a master's in cyber security and salary with a master's in cyber security

According to PayScale, the average salary for someone with a master's in cyber security is nearly $87,000. Again, top positions pay more.

Career paths

Career paths aren't rigid in computer science. Just because a degree is popular, it's not the only relevant one. A strong business background may be enough for specific computer science jobs—others may not require a graduate degree at all.

The best jobs you can earn with a master's in cyber security or computer science, and their average annual income, include:

• Chief information security officer ($165,000): You can perform this job with either degree or even a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
• Cloud engineer ($91,000): Cloud engineers usually have a master's in computer science if they have a graduate degree.
• Computer information systems manager ($146,000): Cyber security and computer information systems degrees prepare you for this career.
• Computer network architect ($113,000): Cyber security and computer science degree-holders both make good network architects.
• Cybercrime analyst/investigator ($74,000 ): Both degrees can prepare you for this career, though a master's in cyber security is likely preferred. Salaries can go much higher for this career, depending on where you work.
• Cyber security analyst ($77,000): This career may not require a master's degree.
• Cyber security architect ($122,000): This career may not require a master's degree.
• Cyber security director ($122,000): Unsurprisingly, a master's of cyber security works best here.
• Cyber security engineer ($97,000): This career may not require a master's degree, though certifications are helpful.
• Chief technology officer ($162,000): Several degrees can prepare you for this career, including a PhD or MBA.
• _Information security analyst ($100,000)_
• __Information technology director ($121,000)__: A computer science degree, or master's in information technology, should serve well.

• Principal software engineer ($139,000): A master's in computer science works best here.

• Senior engineering manager ($148,000): A master's in computer science, or master's in software engineering, prepares you for this career.

• _Senior solutions architect ($136,000)_
• Software developer ($72,000): While a computer science master's degree can help you earn more, you may not need one.
• __Software engineering director ($150,000)__: A computer science degree is a top option for software engineering directors.
• Software engineering manager ($140,000): A master's in computer science works best here.
• __<a href="https://www.noodle.com/articles/how-to-become-a-vice-president-of-engineering-career-guide" target="_blank">Vice president of engineering</a> ($175,000)__: You might need an MBA or master's of engineering management degree for this position.

Master's in computer science vs. master's in cyber security: which is for you?

Ultimately, you can't go wrong with either degree, assuming you have technical skills and enjoy working with computers.

Is a master's in computer science worth it?

A master's in computer science is worth it on the condition that you have the time and resources to dedicate to a program—this rule applies to graduate programs in any discipline. While master's in computer science programs exist for professionals at every level, those who use their degrees to advance or develop specific expertise often benefit the most.

Is a master's in cyber security worth it?

You can definitely make a case that a master's in cyber security is more valuable than a master's in computer science. Even though professionals with a master's in cyber security earn less, on average, than their computer science counterparts, they usually have a more focused skill set and get to work in a field that is growing even faster than the rest of computer science. As attacks like the Sunburst hack and Russian interference with the US government become more common, a master's in cyber security may have even more long-term value than a traditional computer science degree.

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