Does CSU Offer Cybersecurity Degrees?

If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, Colorado State University (CSU) offers several pathways to help you build the technical and analytical skills employers look for. Whether you’re starting your first degree or looking to advance into a leadership role, CSU provides options at multiple academic levels.

Below, we’ll go over Colorado State University cybersecurity degrees, admissions requirements, career paths, and what to expect from the program experience.

Does CSU Offer Cybersecurity Degrees?

Colorado State University offers a dedicated cybersecurity certificate, along with degree programs in related technology fields that include concentrations in cybersecurity. Instead of standalone bachelor’s or master’s degrees titled strictly “cybersecurity,” CSU integrates cybersecurity coursework into broader programs such as computer science and computer information systems.

This structure can be a strong option if you want both a wide foundation in computing and specialized knowledge in areas like network security, cyber defense, and risk management. The certificate program, on the other hand, focuses specifically on cybersecurity topics and may be a good fit if you’re looking to build targeted skills without completing a full degree.

List of Cybersecurity Degrees at CSU by Degree Level

Colorado State University offers cybersecurity-focused study at multiple academic levels. While full degrees are housed within broader technology disciplines, students can pursue a standalone graduate certificate specifically in cybersecurity or choose a concentration within a related degree program. We’ll explore these programs below.

Cybersecurity Certificate Programs

Colorado State University offers a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity through its College of Business. This graduate-level credential focuses specifically on cybersecurity topics and is designed for professionals who want targeted training without committing to a full master’s degree.

Coursework typically covers areas such as information systems security, risk management, cyber policy, and security governance. The certificate may also serve as a stepping stone toward a related graduate degree for students who decide to continue their studies.

Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity

Colorado State University does not offer a standalone bachelor’s degree titled “cybersecurity,” but students can pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer science with a concentration in networks and security. This option allows you to build a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, systems, and software development while focusing upper-level coursework on cybersecurity topics.

Within the networks and security concentration, students study areas such as computer networks, network security, cryptography, and systems protection. This structure can be a good fit if you want broad technical training in computer science along with specialized preparation for roles in cybersecurity, network defense, or secure systems development.

Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity

At the graduate level, Colorado State University offers a Master of Computer Information Systems (MCIS) with the option to incorporate a cybersecurity certificate into the curriculum. Rather than a standalone Master of Science in cybersecurity, this structure allows you to earn a broad graduate degree in information systems while developing focused expertise in cybersecurity.

The MCIS program covers core topics such as information systems strategy, data management, and enterprise technology, while the cybersecurity coursework explores areas like information security, risk management, and governance. This pathway may appeal to professionals who want both technical security knowledge and a business-oriented understanding of how cybersecurity fits into organizational leadership and operations.

Other Technology Degrees at CSU

In addition to its cybersecurity-focused certificate and concentrations, Colorado State University offers several other technology degrees that may appeal to students interested in computing, data, and information systems. These programs can provide broader technical foundations or specialized training in areas that intersect with cybersecurity, such as software development, data analytics, and information technology management. Below, you’ll find related technology degree options at CSU that may align with your interests and long-term career goals.

Technology bachelor’s degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering with three concentrations
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with seven additional concentrations
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science with five concentrations

Technology master’s degrees:

• Master of Computer Science
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Information Systems with four additional certificate options

Technology certificates:

• Communication and Technology graduate certificate
• Computer Systems Engineering graduate certificate
• Data Analysis graduate certificate
• Data Engineering graduate certificate
• Embedded Systems graduate certificate
• Information Technology Project Management

Accelerated technology programs:

• Accelerated Master of Science in Computer Engineering
• Accelerated Master of Science in Computer Science
• Accelerated Master of Science in Information Systems

Admissions Requirements for Cybersecurity Programs at CSU

Admission requirements at Colorado State University vary depending on whether you’re applying to an undergraduate degree, a graduate certificate, or a master’s program. Below, we’ve highlighted the basic admissions requirements for these degrees.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Students applying to the Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer science with a concentration in networks and security must meet CSU’s general undergraduate admission standards. These typically include:

• A completed online application
• Official high school transcripts (or equivalent)
• Competitive GPA and completion of required high school coursework, including mathematics
• Standardized test scores, if required under current university policy

Because computer science is a technical major, a strong background in algebra, precalculus, or calculus may strengthen your application. Transfer students must submit college transcripts and may need to meet additional GPA or prerequisite requirements.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Admission to the Master of Computer Information Systems (MCIS) program and the Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity requires applicants to meet CSU’s graduate school standards along with program-specific criteria. Requirements typically include:

• A completed graduate application
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Official college transcripts
• A competitive undergraduate GPA
• Resume and statement of purpose

Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate foundational knowledge in information systems or related coursework. Work experience in technology or business can strengthen an application, though specific requirements may vary by program year.

Careers You Can Pursue With a CSU Cybersecurity Degree

A cybersecurity concentration or certificate from Colorado State University can prepare you for a range of roles focused on protecting data, networks, and digital systems. Because CSU’s programs combine technical training with business and systems knowledge, graduates may pursue both technical and management-oriented positions.

Potential career paths include:

• Information security analyst
• Network security engineer
• Cybersecurity consultant
• Systems administrator
• IT risk or compliance analyst
• Security operations center analyst

Career outcomes will depend on your degree level, prior experience, and certifications. Students who pair their coursework with internships, industry certifications, or hands-on lab experience may be especially competitive in the cybersecurity job market.

Accreditation and Program Quality at CSU

Colorado State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which means its degree programs meet established academic standards for quality and institutional integrity. In addition to university-wide accreditation, CSU has earned national recognition for its work in cybersecurity education and research.

CSU is designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA). This recognition is awarded to institutions that meet rigorous criteria related to curriculum, faculty expertise, and student outcomes in cybersecurity education. The university is also home to a dedicated Cybersecurity Center that supports research, interdisciplinary collaboration, industry partnerships, and student engagement in real-world security challenges. Together, these resources reflect CSU’s commitment to preparing students for evolving cybersecurity threats and workforce needs.

FAQs About CSU Cybersecurity Degrees

If you’re considering Colorado State University for cybersecurity studies, you likely have questions about degree structure, flexibility, and career preparation. Below are answers to common questions students ask when exploring CSU’s cybersecurity certificate and concentration options.

Does CSU Offer a Standalone Cybersecurity Degree?

Colorado State University does not currently offer a bachelor’s or master’s degree titled strictly “cybersecurity.” Instead, students can pursue cybersecurity concentrations within broader programs such as computer science or earn a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity. This structure allows you to build a comprehensive foundation in computing or information systems while gaining focused coursework in areas like network security, risk management, and governance.

Can I Complete a CSU Cybersecurity Program Online?

Some cybersecurity-related graduate programs at CSU, including the Master of Computer Information Systems (MCIS) and the Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, may offer online or flexible learning options. Availability can vary by program and term, so it’s important to confirm the current delivery format when applying. Undergraduate computer science programs are typically campus-based, though certain courses may be offered online.

Is CSU Recognized for Cybersecurity Education?

Yes, Colorado State University has earned designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA). This recognition indicates that the university meets national standards for cybersecurity curriculum and academic quality. CSU’s dedicated Cybersecurity Center also supports research, student engagement, and collaboration with industry and government partners.

What Background Do I Need to Study Cybersecurity at CSU?

For undergraduate study, a strong foundation in mathematics and problem-solving can be helpful, especially for students entering the Bachelor of Science in computer science program. Graduate applicants typically need a completed bachelor’s degree and may be expected to demonstrate familiarity with information systems or related coursework. Professional experience in technology or business can also strengthen a graduate application.

What Jobs Can I Pursue With a CSU Cybersecurity Credential?

Graduates with cybersecurity coursework or credentials from CSU may pursue roles such as information security analyst, network security specialist, cybersecurity consultant, or IT risk analyst. Career paths can vary depending on your degree level, prior experience, and any certifications you earn alongside your studies. CSU’s combination of technical and business-focused coursework may also prepare you for leadership roles in information systems management.

Discover Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Find the perfect cybersecurity or technology degree by exploring the accredited schools featured on Learn.org. Reach out to CSU or other highlighted institutions to learn more about program offerings.