Starts from
September 2026
Duration
20 months
Format
On-Campus
MS-CSE provides essential knowledge and practical training for information security practitioners (public or private) who work to protect the safety and prosperity of companies, communities and the nation.
This program has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) by the federal government. Universities that receive this have met rigorous requirements and are recognized for a robust curriculum that is aligned with the global NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework.
Curriculum Overview:
Introduction to CS Concepts & Computational Tools
Cybersecurity Network Defense
Security Test Engineering
Incident Detection and Handling
Applied Cryptography
Secure Systems Life Cycle & Engineering
Capstone Project
Meet the Visionary behind MS-CSE
Haydar Majeed, PHD
Academic Director, Cyber Security Engineering
C|CISO, CISM, CISA, ISO/IEC
15 years of driving innovation in Cybersecurity, Blockchain and AI industries & an award-winning ex-intelligence contractor for the US military.
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CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Digital Forensics
A senior-level position responsible for planning, designing, testing, implementing and maintaining an organization's computer and network security infrastructure.
Projected Salary
$136,000
Information Security Analyst
Work on security measures for the protection of computer networks and information assets. Asses system vulnerabilities for security risks and implement risk mitigation strategies.
Projected Salary
$103,590
Develop/engineer secure, trusted systems. Perform risk assessments. Manage security technology and audit/intrusion systems to protect against advances persistent threats.
Projected Salary
$120,000+
All faculty have extensive industry experience in working in contested cyber environments and are recognized as leaders in the domain. The curriculum is refreshed multiple times in a year to align with evolving industry demands by direct input from an elite advisory board of Silicon Valley veterans & entrepreneurs.
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USD’s Career Development Center
Our dedicated career development ecosystem connects students with global employers, mentorship networks, and industry experiences that accelerate real-world success. We support students in developing and achieving career goals that lead to meaningful lives.
Handshake
Find your dream job or internship with Handshake tool — your gateway to top employers, USD career counselors, and on-campus opportunities.
Career exploration trips
Explore careers firsthand through Torero Treks — visits to leading companies across the US, offering insider access to industries, alumni, and real workplace environments.
Alumni Network
Join a powerful community of 50,000+ USD alumni — with 60% in Silicon Valley - offering lifelong connections, mentorship, and exclusive job opportunities.
Career Readiness Program
The Career Readiness Program delivers personalized guidance, résumé & interview prep, job-search tools, and dedicated career support throughout your journey.
Richard Rositas
•
MS-CSE 2018 Alumni
Sr. Principal Cybersecurity Engineer - Cubic Secure Communications
Where Purpose meets Progress
USD develops not only accomplished professionals but also responsible leaders committed to advancing global progress. Through rigorous academics and mission-driven training, students discover their purpose and develop the capabilities to influence society at every level.
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America’s Finest City
#46 best city in the word- World Best Rankings
The safest city in the US - Money Geek Rankings
Booming Tech Hub
Home to Qualcomm, Cubic, Illumina and General Atomics
Reported to have 2,000 tech companies and 76,000 jobs by 2025
Thriving Startup Community
70+ startup incubators and accelerators
Home to 378+ AI companies, indicating AI-readiness
