Master of Science (MS) in Critical Infrastructure and Cyber Protection
Earn a Master's of Science in Critical Infrastructure and Cyber Protection, meet the industry demand for expertise
From hospitals to nuclear plants, critical infrastructure is built to be strong and secure. In today’s internet-connected world, however, threats can be digital as well as physical. Organizations need to know how to protect their facilities against a host of potentially crippling cybersecurity threats – from denial of service attacks to worms that can shut down generators or cause equipment to malfunction.
The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Critical Infrastructure and Cyber Protection is a unique interdisciplinary program designed to meet the demand for highly skilled professionals to upgrade, secure and manage the nation’s critical infrastructure. The program addresses one of the greatest technical challenges of the 21st century – how to create a robust and sustainable infrastructure that is resilient against multiple threats and hazards as well as build operational, systems, and programmatic capabilities for detection, protection, prevention, mitigation and response. The program provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and training to become a professional and leader in this diverse field. The degree provides a firm foundation in Critical Infrastructure policy, risk management, operations, and mission planning, as well as cyber security and protection of digital assets. Students will understand each Critical Infrastructure sector and will apply the latest techniques, including cybersecurity technology, to devise plans and policy for protection and rapid response.
This program prepares students for real-world situations in a multitude of industries including:
- facilitating a national effort to strengthen and maintain critical infrastructure from cyber threats;
- ensuring that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies and procedures enable critical infrastructure owners and operators to receive appropriate and timely cyber threat information;
- seeking industry sector-specific expertise to develop voluntary security and resiliency strategies and to ensure that the allocation of federal resources is cost effective and reduces burdens on critical infrastructure owners and operators;
- providing risk management assistance to entities and education to critical infrastructure owners and operators; and
- coordinating research and development strategies for cybersecurity and construction technologies
This degree opens doors to high-level leadership positions, including, but not limited to:
- Principal Advisor for Critical Infrastructure Protection - average base salary, $113,1571
- Director, Corporate Planning and Analysis - average base pay, $113,8851
- Intelligence Analyst – Critical Infrastructure Protection Security Researcher - average salary, $100,8252
- Security Consultant Trusted - average base pay, $81,2791
- Resilient Systems Director - $121,998 national average/$147,112 Washington, DC area average1
1. Salary based upon 2020 Glassdoor salary data
2. Salary based upon 2020 Indeed data
For continued study, see our Ph.D. in Critical Infrastructure.
Why Capitol?
Proven academic excellence
When it comes to preparing students to meet internet-era security challenges, few schools are as well-equipped as Capitol. Since 2003, our cybersecurity programs have been recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
Our location is a magnet for top faculty
The Baltimore/Washington area has one of the largest concentrations of high-tech companies, defense contractors, and government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense. Since many of our faculty are currently working in cybersecurity, you’re taught up-to-date strategies and best practices from the world’s top practitioners.
Program is 100% Online
Our master’s programs are offered 100% online. Once accepted, all you need is an Internet connection and you can attend class. We keep the classes small so you receive personalized attention from faculty who are interested in sharing their knowledge and helping you succeed.
Capitol Tech Opportunities
Key Faculty
Career Opportunities
Market Demand for Critical Infrastructure
Those who earn a Master of Science in Critical Infrastructure and Cyber Protection pursue careers at:
- Principal Advisor for Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Director, Corporate Planning and Analysis
- Intelligence Analyst – Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Security Researcher
- Security Consultant Trusted & Resilient Systems Director
The Critical Need to Protect Our Way of Life
This infographic provides three new career opportunities available to those interested in helping to keep America safe.
Read MoreDegree Details
Curriculum
Generally, to apply to a graduate degree program, you should have completed a bachelor's degree or be completing a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment and should have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher.
Some Master of Science programs have additional technical competency requirements.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates are subject to change.
The following rates are in effect for the 2024-2025 academic year, beginning in Fall 2024 and continuing through Summer 2025:
- The per credit charge for all other masters courses is $630 per credit hour.
- The active duty military tuition rate is $350 per credit.
- The retired military tuition rate is $530 per credit.
- The information technology fee is $40 per credit hour.
- High School and Community College full-time faculty and full-time staff receive a 20% discount on tuition for master programs.
Find additional information for 2024-2025 masters tuition and fees.