List of Cybersecurity Degrees at UMGC 2026

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is widely recognized for its comprehensive, career-focused cybersecurity education. Designed with working professionals and online learners in mind, UMGC offers cybersecurity programs that span from associate-level pathways to advanced graduate study.

For students researching a UMGC cybersecurity degree, the university provides multiple technical and leadership-focused options that address modern security challenges. This article outlines the cybersecurity-related degrees and credentials available at UMGC, including undergraduate, graduate, and fully online programs.

Does UMGC Offer Cybersecurity Degrees?

Yes, UMGC offers a broad range of cybersecurity degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Unlike many institutions, UMGC provides multiple cybersecurity-specific bachelor’s and master’s degrees rather than limiting cybersecurity to a single concentration.

In addition to degree programs, UMGC offers certificates and structured academic pathways that allow students to build cybersecurity skills progressively. All cybersecurity programs are available online, making them accessible to students regardless of location.

List of Cybersecurity Degrees at UMGC by Degree Level

UMGC offers cybersecurity education across multiple academic levels, allowing students to progress from foundational IT coursework into specialized technical or leadership-focused cybersecurity programs. The options below are organized by credential type to help students compare pathways and plan long-term academic goals.

Cybersecurity Certificates at UMGC

UMGC offers undergraduate cybersecurity-related certificates designed to help students build core IT and networking skills that support later cybersecurity study. These certificates may be completed on their own or stacked toward a bachelor’s degree.

• Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Networking

This certificate focuses on networking fundamentals and infrastructure concepts that are essential for cybersecurity roles. It is commonly used as a starting point for students planning to transfer into UMGC’s bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity.

Associate Degrees in Cybersecurity

UMGC does not offer a standalone associate degree titled “Cybersecurity,” but it provides an associate-level pathway that supports entry into its bachelor’s cybersecurity programs. The Associate of Arts in General Studies with a Computer Studies specialization allows students to complete foundational IT coursework before advancing to a four-year degree.

This pathway is often used by online students who want to build technical credits in networking, programming, and systems fundamentals. Credits earned in this associate program may transfer directly into UMGC’s bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity or related IT fields.

• Associate of Arts in General Studies (Computer Studies Specialization)

Bachelor’s Degrees in Cybersecurity

UMGC offers multiple dedicated bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity, allowing students to choose between technical, operational, or management-focused tracks. These programs are designed to prepare graduates for roles in cyber defense, governance, and advanced technical security operations.

Students may pursue the following bachelor’s degree options:

• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy
• Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations

The Cybersecurity Technology degree emphasizes protecting networks, securing cloud systems, and implementing operational defenses. The Management and Policy track focuses on risk management, ethics, and governance, while the Cyber Operations degree provides highly technical, hands-on training in areas such as malware analysis and defensive operations.

Master’s Degrees in Cybersecurity

UMGC offers several master’s degrees that allow students to specialize in technical cybersecurity engineering, operational defense, leadership, or digital investigation. These programs are designed for professionals seeking advancement into senior technical or management roles.

Graduate cybersecurity degree options at UMGC include:

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy
• Master of Science in Cyber Operations
• Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation
• Master of Science in Cloud Computing Systems

The Cybersecurity Technology program focuses on engineering secure systems and infrastructure, while the Management and Policy track emphasizes governance and executive-level strategy. The Cyber Operations degree centers on tactical defense and offensive methodologies, Digital Forensics prepares students for investigative roles, and Cloud Computing Systems integrates cloud architecture with security design principles.

Graduate Certificates (Stackable) at UMGC

UMGC uses a stackable credential model that allows students to earn graduate certificates as standalone qualifications or apply them toward a master’s degree. These certificates typically require between 12 and 18 credits and align directly with UMGC’s graduate cybersecurity programs.

Available graduate certificates include:

• Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Technology
• Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management and Policy
• Graduate Certificate in Cyber Operations
• Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation
• Graduate Certificate in Cloud Computing and Networking

These stackable options provide flexibility for working professionals who want to build specialized knowledge before committing to a full master’s program.

Doctoral Degrees in Cybersecurity

UMGC does not offer a standalone doctoral degree titled “Cybersecurity,” but students can pursue cybersecurity-focused research within its Doctor of Management (DM) in Information Systems and Technology program. This doctoral pathway is designed for experienced professionals seeking executive leadership roles in technology and organizational strategy.

Students may tailor elective coursework and dissertation research toward topics such as cybersecurity governance, enterprise risk management, and strategic information security leadership. The program emphasizes applied research and management-level decision-making rather than purely technical engineering.

• Doctor of Management in Information Systems and Technology

Online Cybersecurity Degrees at UMGC

UMGC is known for its fully online learning model, and all cybersecurity-related programs are available in an online format. This includes associate pathways, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and graduate certificates.

Online students complete the same curriculum as any other UMGC students and may access virtual labs and simulation environments as part of their coursework. Graduate programs often incorporate the Multi-Dimensional Applied Relevant System (MARS), a virtual environment that allows students to practice cybersecurity scenarios in real time.

Admissions Requirements for Cybersecurity Programs at UMGC

Admission requirements for cybersecurity programs at UMGC vary by degree level and academic background. Prospective students should review specific program criteria before applying.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Applicants to undergraduate cybersecurity programs typically must meet UMGC’s general admission standards. Requirements may include:

• high school diploma or equivalent
• official transcripts
• minimum GPA requirements (if applicable)
• completion of prerequisite coursework for technical programs

Graduate Admission Requirements

Graduate cybersecurity programs require prior academic preparation. Common requirements include:

• bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• official transcripts
• minimum undergraduate GPA (program dependent)
• statement of purpose (if required)
• relevant technical or professional experience (program dependent)

Careers You Can Pursue With a UMGC Cybersecurity Degree

Graduates of UMGC cybersecurity programs may pursue careers across technical, operational, investigative, and leadership roles. Because UMGC offers both engineering-focused and management-focused degree tracks, career outcomes vary depending on specialization and prior experience.

Common career paths include cybersecurity analyst, cyber operations specialist, digital forensics investigator, cloud security engineer, network security administrator, and information security manager. Graduates of the management and doctoral programs may pursue executive roles such as cybersecurity director, chief information security officer (CISO), or enterprise risk consultant.

Accreditation and Program Quality at UMGC

The University of Maryland Global Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Its cybersecurity programs are designed to align with workforce needs and evolving security standards.

UMGC has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The university is also known for its hands-on training environment, including the MARS virtual lab system and its award-winning Cyber Padawans competition team, which provide students with experiential learning opportunities.

FAQs About UMGC Cybersecurity Degrees

Prospective students often have questions about program structure, specialization options, and online delivery. The FAQs below address common considerations when evaluating a UMGC cybersecurity degree.

Does UMGC Offer a Standalone Cybersecurity Degree?

Yes, UMGC offers multiple standalone bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cybersecurity. Students can choose between technical, operational, and management-focused tracks. This structure provides flexibility depending on career goals.

Are UMGC Cybersecurity Degrees Fully Online?

Yes, UMGC delivers all cybersecurity programs in an online format. Students complete coursework, labs, and simulations through a virtual learning environment. This model is designed to support working professionals and military-affiliated students.

What Is the Difference Between Cybersecurity Technology and Cybersecurity Management and Policy?

Cybersecurity Technology focuses on the technical engineering and defense of systems and networks. Cybersecurity Management and Policy emphasizes governance, legal frameworks, and strategic leadership. Students should choose based on whether they prefer hands-on technical work or organizational decision-making roles.

Can I Stack Graduate Certificates Into a Master’s Degree at UMGC?

Yes, UMGC uses a stackable model that allows certain graduate certificates to count toward related master’s programs. This approach enables students to earn credentials incrementally. It can be beneficial for professionals who want flexibility before committing to a full degree.

Is a UMGC Cybersecurity Degree Recognized by Employers?

UMGC is regionally accredited and designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Its programs are designed to align with industry practices and employer needs. Graduates work in government, defense, private industry, and consulting roles.

Discover Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs

If you’re exploring cybersecurity education options, visit Learn.org to compare accredited online cybersecurity degree programs and request information from schools. Learn.org can help you identify programs that align with your technical interests and long-term career goals.