Cybersecurity

Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity

 

Fast track your career by earning a graduate certificate in cybersecurity. Choose from two specializations: information security management or secure software and engineering. Our online or in-person 15-credit-hour graduate certificate offers you a combination of business and applied sciences, giving you a robust set of skills that help you stand out from other professionals. If you want to gain more background in cybersecurity for a current role or test whether the full master’s degree program is right for you, this certificate program is a great option. 

Cybersecurity Program
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5412 USA
(269) 387-5410

Why complete a graduate certificate in cybersecurity?

If you want to gain more cybersecurity background for a current role or test whether the full master’s degree program is right for you, the graduate certificate in cybersecurity is a great option! The 15-credit-hour program offers two tracks: information security management or secure software and engineering, allowing you to customize your program so you can accelerate your professional goals.

Here are some examples of the kind of positions that we can help prepare you for through our cybersecurity programs:

  • Security analyst
  • Cybersecurity manager
  • Secure software developer
  • Cybersecurity specialist
  • Threat hunter
  • Penetration tester
  • Cloud security analyst
  • Network administrator
  • Cybersecurity consultant
Review program requirements for a graduate certificate in the following areas:

How does 51¸£ÀûÉç support students pursuing a cybersecurity graduate certificate?

51¸£ÀûÉç arms you with competitive resources to build your professional brand. You will have access to professional development events in both the Haworth College of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, helping you build your professional network so that you can land your dream job. The graduate programs also provide a great start on relevant certifications to help differentiate you in the job search.

 

Student in professional dress at career fair.

Graduate support at 51¸£ÀûÉç

How do I prepare to apply for a graduate certificate in cybersecurity?

In just one year, you can earn a graduate certificate in cybersecurity from Western Michigan. You can start the program during either a fall or spring semester; it requires completion of 15 credit hours.

Note: GRE is not required for admission.

All admissions materials are submitted through the online application system.

Students should have some technical background from either academic or professional experience. The co-directors may recommend that you take courses to prepare for this program.

Please prepare a statement which covers the following information, and attach it within the online application system:

  • Resume or curriculum vitae (CV): Submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) summarizing your work experience, academic background, certificates and publications.
  • Letters of recommendation: Submit three letters of recommendation. Please send all email requests for the recommendations from within the online application system.
  • Personal statement
    • Summarize your academic or professional experiences in information technology or cybersecurity and indicate how these experiences make you an ideal candidate for the program.
    • You are encouraged to note any exceptional accomplishments or projects, as well as any professional certifications in this statement. Address how you see this degree aligning with your academic or professional goals; include your thoughts on how it may aid you in potential professional positions or future educational pursuits.
    • This statement should be double-spaced, 500 to 1,000 words, and demonstrate your communication skills and writing competence.
  • Transcripts: An official transcript from the institution from which you received your bachelor's degree is required as well as a transcript from the institution(s) where any additional graduate-level courses or degrees have been taken or completed.

International applicants will be required to submit additional documentation for immigration purposes. For international admission, please consult timelines and requirements.

Students should have some technical background from either academic or professional experience. The co-directors may recommend that you take courses to prepare for this program. 

Courses for the cybersecurity certificate program are offered virtually or in person, and you can pick the format that works best for you. Choose fully online without scheduled class meetings (asynchronous) or a flexible option to attend either virtually or in person at a set time each week (synchronous). 

Contact a cybersecurity advisor
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The work-life balance of the online program allows you to accelerate your career without sacrificing other aspects of your life.
—Katie Marshall, M.S.'19