Frequently Asked Questions
Learn about the cybersecurity program
IT professions provide many great career options. Cybersecurity is one of the fields with the most promising outlook for the future. With an average salary of $99,730, cybersecurity is one of the technology fields with the best compensation.
Do you have an interest in technology, the big picture, providing solutions and being a part of a future-oriented industry that embraces what is next? Are you interested in protecting organizations and their data? If so, a degree in cybersecurity may be right for you.
You can fill out the Request info from WMU form for more information.
There is rolling admission for the bachelor’s degree, which means you can begin the program in fall, spring or summer. The master’s program starts in fall and spring only. The graduate certificate starts in the fall and spring only.
Students should have some technical background from either academic or professional experience. The co-directors may recommend you take courses to prepare you for this program.
There is a prerequisite for the bachelor’s degree program: pre-calculus.
The full bachelor’s degree is four years; however if you have transfer credit or AP classes it will shorten the degree length.
The master’s degree will take two years. The graduate certificate will take one year to complete if you start in the fall.
All cybersecurity programs are offered online or in person.
Yes! All cybersecurity degrees are now online or in-person and therefore have the option for international students to come to campus to complete this degree.
Flexible transfer pathways are available for students. Please email @email for more information on a seamless transfer experience that is tailored to your needs.
Financial aid in the forms of loans or grants may be eligible to students seeking a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Currently, the graduate certificate program is not eligible for financial aid.
First year: I am going to college for the first time after finishing high school, finishing an early or middle college program, or completing my GED.
Transfer: I am going to another college and want to finish my bachelor's degree at WMU.
Master's degree: I have a bachelor's degree and am seeking an advanced graduate degree.
Graduate certificate: I want to take classes toward a graduate certificate program but not earn a degree.
If you are willing to work hard, cultivate a passion for cybersecurity and focus on the fundamentals, WMU’s degree in cybersecurity will lead to a rewarding career. In addition, WMU has many resources to assist you in academic and career advising to ensure your success.
Career development
Cybersecurity is critical for businesses and organizations of all types. Having a cybersecurity team in place is one of the best ways businesses can practice good risk management and prevent serious breaches. Companies are investing resources in hiring cybersecurity professionals, who must have a verified knowledge base and specific skills.
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing fields with job opportunities expected to grow 32% by 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers who partner with WMU cite cybersecurity as an area with a shortage of qualified professionals, where employees are needed.
The cybersecurity degree gives you a diversified knowledge base in cybersecurity. You will have working skills in many key areas that organizations are looking for when hiring new employees. Real-world business projects will help you practice your ability to apply different frameworks and generate solutions. Opportunities for certifications, internships and externships will help you become more advanced in the field, and you will be able to add immediate value to an organization upon graduation.
There are many cybersecurity certificates that you can earn. The WMU cybersecurity program prepares you for the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certification exams, which are two certifications employers seek in their entry-level positions. Additional certification opportunities will also be available.
Current student support
Yes!
Future students: Interested in becoming a cybersecurity student? Schedule a 30-minute, in-person advising appointment or attend a virtual info session.
Enrolled students: Schedule your appointment about the bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity in the Student Success Hub.
Graduate students: For master’s degree advising, email @email.
Absolutely, for the bachelor’s degree you will meet with Stevie Prellwitz, academic advisor for the program who will build a degree plan and change your major.
Email Stevie Prellwitz or schedule an appointment in the Student Success Hub.
For the master’s degree and graduate certificate, you need to fill out a new application through the Graduate College.