Frequently Asked Questions

Flexible transfer pathways are available for students. Please email wmu-cybersecurity@wmich.edu for more information on a seamless transfer experience, tailored to your needs.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FRESHMEN: I am going to college for the first time after finishing high school, finishing an early/middle college program, or completing my GED.

TRANSFER: I am going to another college and want to finish my bachelor's degree at WMU.

MASTERS: I have a bachelor's degree and am seeking an advanced, graduate degree.

CERTIFICATE: I want to take classes towards a graduate certificate program, but not earn a degree.

Financial aid in the forms of loans and/or grants may be eligible to students seeking a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Currently, the certificate program is not eligible for financial aid.

The full bachelor’s degree is 4 years however if you have transfer credit or AP classes it will shorten the degree length.

The master’s degree will take 2 years. The graduate certificate will take 1 year to complete if you start in the fall.

All cybersecurity programs are offered online or in person.

There is a pre-req for the bachelor’s program, pre-calculus is required.

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 rolling admission for the bachelor’s degree which means you can begin the program fall, spring or summer. The master’s program starts in fall and spring only. The graduate certificate starts in the fall.

Absolutely, for the bachelor’s degree you will meet with Stevie Prellwitz who is the academic advisor for the program. During this meeting she will build a degree plan and change your major.

For the master’s and certificate, you need to fill out a new application through the graduate college.

Yes! Click here to schedule an appointment for bachelor’s advising.

For master’s advising, email wmu-cybersecurity@wmich.edu.

Fill out this form for more information.

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.