List of Cybersecurity Degrees at the University of Minnesota 2026

Cybersecurity continues to grow as one of the most in-demand fields in technology, and many students are looking for reputable, research-driven programs to prepare for careers in digital security. If you’re exploring a University of Minnesota cybersecurity degree, you’ll find options that combine technical training with strong academic foundations. 

Below, we’ll go over the available programs, admissions requirements, career paths, and what to expect from studying cybersecurity at this major public research university.

Does the University of Minnesota Offer Cybersecurity Degrees?

The University of Minnesota offers cybersecurity-focused programs across multiple academic levels. While the university may not always label every option strictly as a “cybersecurity” degree, several programs include tracks with dedicated coursework in cyber defense, information assurance, network security, and digital forensics.

Students can pursue certificates, minors, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate-level options that prepare them for careers in information security and related technology fields. Many programs are housed within computer science, computer engineering, or information technology departments, allowing you to build both broad technical knowledge and specialized cybersecurity skills.

List of Cybersecurity Degrees at the University of Minnesota by Degree Level

If you’re exploring a University of Minnesota cyber security degree, you’ll find that options are available at multiple academic levels. Some programs are structured as standalone credentials, while others are concentrations or minors that pair well with computer science, engineering, or information technology majors. Below, we’ll break down certificates and minors that allow you to focus specifically on cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Certificate Program

The University of Minnesota offers an Undergraduate Information Technology Infrastructure certificate with a track in security through its College of Continuing and Professional Studies. This cybersecurity certificate program is designed for students who want focused training in IT systems, networking, and security practices without committing to a full degree program. 

Coursework typically covers areas such as network administration, operating systems, and security fundamentals. The security track allows you to concentrate on protecting systems and managing risk, making it a practical option if you’re looking to build targeted skills or add cybersecurity expertise to an existing degree.

Cybersecurity Minors

Students who want to complement a primary major with cybersecurity coursework can choose from two minor options:

• Undergraduate Information Technology Infrastructure minor with a track in Security
• Graduate Cybersecurity minor

The Undergraduate Information Technology Infrastructure minor with a track in security provides foundational and intermediate coursework in IT systems and security principles, making it a good fit for students in computer science or related fields. 

At the graduate level, the cybersecurity minor offered through the Technological Leadership Institute allows master’s and doctoral students to add specialized cybersecurity training to their degree. This minor typically focuses on policy, risk management, systems security, and strategic decision-making, which can be valuable if you’re preparing for leadership or advanced technical roles.

Bachelor’s Degrees in Cybersecurity

The University of Minnesota offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology Infrastructure with two specialized tracks that allow you to focus on cybersecurity:

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure with a track in Cybersecurity and Governance
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure with a track in Development, Security, and Operations (DevSecOps) and IT Project Management

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure with a track in cybersecurity and governance blends technical security skills with risk management, compliance, and policy coursework. This option may appeal to students who are interested in protecting systems while also understanding legal and organizational frameworks.

Students can also pursue the track in DevSecOps and IT project management. This pathway integrates cybersecurity practices into software development and IT operations, emphasizing secure coding, automation, and project leadership. Both tracks are designed to provide hands-on technical knowledge while preparing you for roles in IT security, systems management, or security-focused operations.

Master’s Degrees in Cybersecurity

At the graduate level, the University of Minnesota offers a Master of Science (MS) in Security Technologies through the Technological Leadership Institute. The Master of Science in security technologies focuses on advanced cybersecurity strategy, risk management, systems protection, and emerging security threats. Coursework is designed for working professionals and may be especially valuable if you’re seeking leadership roles in information security, governance, or enterprise technology management.

Other Technology Degrees at the University of Minnesota

While a University of Minnesota cybersecurity degree can prepare you for roles in information protection and digital risk management, the university also offers a wide range of related technology programs. If you’re still exploring your options, you may find degrees in computer science, computer engineering, data science, and information technology that align with your interests.

Many of these programs include coursework in networking, programming, systems architecture, and data management. Even if cybersecurity is your long-term goal, starting in a broader technology major can give you flexibility while building the technical foundation employers look for.

Technology bachelor’s degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure with additional tracks

Technology master’s degrees:

• Master of Computer Science
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Data Science
• Master of Science in Software Engineering

Technology certificates:

• Graduate Certificate in Data Science
• Graduate Certificate in Technology Leadership

Admissions Requirements for Cybersecurity Programs at the University of Minnesota

Admission requirements for a University of Minnesota cyber security degree depend on whether you’re applying to an undergraduate or graduate program. Because cybersecurity options are housed within broader information technology and engineering departments, requirements follow the standards set by those colleges. Below, we’ll go over what you can generally expect at each level.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

For bachelor’s programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure, applicants typically must submit:

• Completed University of Minnesota application
• Official high school transcripts
• Standardized test scores, if required under current admissions policy
• Application fee

Additional considerations may include:

• Strong preparation in mathematics and science
• Transfer transcripts (if applicable)
• Minimum grade point average requirements for transfer or upper-division entry
• English language proficiency documentation for international students

Because admission standards can vary slightly by campus or college, reviewing the specific program page before applying is important.

Graduate Admission Requirements

For the Master of Science in security technologies and other graduate-level options, applicants generally must provide:

• Completed graduate application
• Official transcripts from all colleges attended
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Professional resume

Additional factors that may strengthen your application include:

• Academic background in engineering, computer science, information technology, or a related field
• Relevant professional experience in cybersecurity or technology
• Minimum undergraduate grade point average, as specified by the program
• English proficiency documentation for international applicants

Since graduate programs are often competitive and may review applications holistically, demonstrating both technical readiness and professional experience can be beneficial.

Careers You Can Pursue With a University of Minnesota Cybersecurity Degree

Earning a University of Minnesota cyber security degree can prepare you for a wide range of technical and leadership roles. Because the university’s programs blend systems knowledge, risk management, governance, and security technologies, graduates may qualify for positions in both hands-on technical roles and strategic security management.

Common career paths include:

• Information security analyst
• Cybersecurity analyst
• Network security engineer
• Security operations center analyst
• IT risk and compliance specialist
• DevSecOps engineer
• Security consultant
• Chief information security officer (with experience)

Bachelor’s graduates often begin in analyst, systems, or infrastructure roles, where they help monitor networks, identify vulnerabilities, and implement security controls. Master’s graduates may move into more advanced positions involving enterprise security strategy, governance, risk assessment, and leadership.

Cybersecurity skills are in demand across industries, including health care, finance, government, manufacturing, and technology. Because Minnesota is home to major corporations and public-sector organizations, graduates may find opportunities both locally and nationally.

Accreditation and Program Quality at the University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards for academic quality, institutional stability, and student support.

In addition to institutional accreditation, many technology-focused programs align coursework with current industry standards and workforce needs. The University of Minnesota is classified as a major public research institution, which can provide students access to faculty expertise, research initiatives, and industry partnerships.

FAQs About University of Minnesota Cybersecurity Degrees

If you’re considering a University of Minnesota cyber security degree, you probably have questions about cost, flexibility, career value, and program structure. Below are answers to some of the most common questions students ask before applying.

Is There a Dedicated Cybersecurity Major at the University of Minnesota?

The University of Minnesota does not always label programs strictly as “cybersecurity,” but it offers several degree pathways with cybersecurity-focused tracks and coursework. For example, students can pursue the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure with a track in cybersecurity and governance or complete a graduate-level Master of Science in security technologies. These programs integrate security principles into broader IT and engineering frameworks, allowing you to build both technical depth and practical industry knowledge.

Can You Earn a University of Minnesota Cyber Security Degree Online?

Some cybersecurity-related programs are designed with working professionals in mind and may offer flexible or hybrid formats, particularly through the College of Continuing and Professional Studies and the Technological Leadership Institute. Availability can vary by track and degree level, so reviewing current delivery formats is important. If you need full online flexibility, you may want to compare on-campus and hybrid options carefully to ensure the structure fits your schedule.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Cybersecurity Degree at the University of Minnesota?

A bachelor’s degree such as the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Infrastructure typically takes about four years of full-time study. Students transferring credits may finish sooner, depending on how many previously earned credits apply. The Master of Science in security technologies is often structured for working professionals and may be completed in about one to two years, depending on enrollment pace and course load.

What Background Do You Need to Study Cybersecurity?

Most undergraduate cybersecurity pathways do not require prior professional experience in the field, but a strong foundation in mathematics, computer science, and problem-solving can be helpful. Graduate programs typically expect applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a technical field such as engineering, computer science, or information technology. Relevant work experience in IT or security may strengthen a graduate application, especially for leadership-focused programs.

Is a University of Minnesota Cyber Security Degree Worth It?

A cybersecurity degree from a regionally accredited public research university may carry strong recognition among employers. The University of Minnesota’s academic reputation, research activity, and industry connections can add credibility to your credentials. While no degree guarantees a specific job outcome, structured cybersecurity training combined with internships, certifications, and hands-on experience can position you competitively in a growing technology field.

Discover Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Find the perfect cybersecurity program by exploring the accredited degree options featured on Learn.org. Reach out to the University of Minnesota or other highlighted schools to learn more about program offerings.