Online Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Critical Infrastructure

Pending MHEC Approval

Earn an Online Master of Philosophy in Critical Infrastructure and innovate the future of cybersecurity system industries.

Most modern infrastructure systems are complex networks controlled by computers and hosted online, making them vulnerable to hackers. These include facilities necessary for communication, transportation, financial transactions, and emergency services, as well as the production and delivery of energy and clean water. Our national security and public safety depend on protecting our 16 sectors of critical infrastructure from cyberattacks, which can disrupt and damage anything from banking to electricity.

The Online MPhil in Critical Infrastructure is a research-intensive program designed for professionals with experience in relevant fields to enhance their skills and expertise in infrastructure and cybersecurity. Graduates will be poised to become the leaders in critical infrastructure responsible for supporting, expanding, and advancing innovation that is crucial to our society’s safety and success. 

Under the guidance of a designated thesis chair, you’ll conduct original research in an area of critical infrastructure and cybersecurity that interests you and graduate having successfully produced and defended your dissertation and contributed new knowledge to the field. 

What you’ll gain with an MPhil in Critical Infrastructure: 

• In-depth knowledge of key critical infrastructure areas, including relevant policies and guidance, risk management frameworks, and the responsibilities of the federal government, state and local authorities, and private companies
• Comprehensive understanding of the principles of cybersecurity and the quantitative and qualitative methodologies within critical infrastructure 
• Exposure to the academic publishing process and practical research experience
• Specialized expertise in your area of interest that enables you to serve as a top leader in your field 
• Hands-on experience applying the theoretical principles of critical infrastructure to practical solutions
• In-demand workplace skills, such as critical thinking, attention to detail, resilience, and the ability to work under pressure
• Insight into global perspectives, environmental considerations, and economic solutions to critical infrastructure issues
• The opportunity to contribute new knowledge and ideas to an evolving area
• Enhanced career prospects as a subject matter expert 
• The mindset for continuous learning in growing areas of infrastructure and cybersecurity

With an MPhil in Critical Infrastructure, you’ll develop a unique combination of skills that positions you at the forefront of the field and opens the doors to roles within the cybersecurity industry and beyond. The MPhil in Critical Infrastructure offers a platform to make a meaningful impact through fulfilling and dynamic careers.

An MPhil in Critical Infrastructure prepares you to lead in these roles:

• Critical Infrastructure Design Engineer
• Critical Infrastructure Owner
• Critical Infrastructure Operator
• Critical Infrastructure Stakeholder
• Critical Infrastructure Practitioner
• Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Planner
• Director, Corporate Planning and Analysis
• Principal Advisor for Critical Infrastructure Protection
• Intelligence Analyst – Critical Infrastructure Protection Security Researcher
• Research Scientist
• Resilient Systems Director
• Systems Architect

Graduates apply their expertise as subject matter experts for private companies, as well as local, state, and federal government agencies to support our nation’s defense and position as a world leader in cybersecurity. The demand for this skillset will continue to grow as technology integrates into more areas of our daily lives. Our graduates also expand upon their research in competitive PhD programs at top institutions, including Capitol Tech’s PhD in Critical Infrastructure.

Characteristics of an MPhil

The MPhil is a research-intensive degree designed for experienced professionals who want to explore research studies to acquire highly specialized knowledge and skills  before starting a PhD program, or to conduct original research in a field specific to their work to advance their careers.

 Students pursue an MPhil degree to:

• Gain practical research skills and experience
• Develop advanced expertise in a specific area 
• Become familiar with the academic publishing process 
• Quickly engage in research, without the length of a PhD program 
• Build their credibility by conducting and publishing original research 
• Advance their careers with specific expertise and in-demand skills 
• Prepare for a PhD program and other advanced research opportunities
• Contribute new knowledge to emerging fields

The Online Master of Philosophy in Critical Infrastructure program offers a deeper look at the crossroads of infrastructure and cybersecurity through interdisciplinary methodology, and cutting-edge courses. The research degree enables you to quickly engage in research, publishing, and leadership with an opportunity to conduct extensive and sustained, original research in a specific area of critical infrastructure that interests you. The program's flexibility allows you to balance your studies with your career and design your thesis in a way that meets your specific goals, as well as contribute significantly to the field of critical infrastructure.

Career Opportunities

Market Demand for Critical Infrastructure Expertise

Electric grids, public utilities, and communication systems are all examples of critical infrastructure, or the systems, networks, and public works the government deems essential to functioning and protecting its citizens.. 

61% of all reported cyberattacks in Q2 of 2023 targeted critical infrastructure areas, including utilities, energy, water, and telecommunications. 

Malicious actors are increasingly targeting areas of critical infrastructure with cyberattacks, from ransomware gangs trying to extort money to advanced persistent threat groups attempting to disrupt another country's operations.

These attacks on critical infrastructure pose one of the most significant strategic risks facing the United States and threaten national security, economic prosperity, public health and safety, as well as the individual health and well-being of all Americans.

An MPhil in Critical Infrastructure can position you for high-demand roles as subject matter experts, technicians, and leaders who support our national and individual security and protect these essential systems from harm.