Coursework

Program Name

Master in Cybersecurity

Semester Intake

October

Duration

Full-time: Min. 2 semesters / Max. 4 semesters
Part-time: Min. 4 semesters / Max. 8 semesters

Apply Now!

Click to be redirected to the application page on the USM's Institute of Postgaduate Studies (IPS)

Details

Master in Cybersecurity

Overview

The programme aims to:

  1. cultivate a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of core cybersecurity principles and practices among postgraduate students.
  2. To nurture critical thinking and analytical skills for assessing complex cybersecurity threats and system vulnerabilities.
  3. To ensure postgraduates gain practical, real-world experience in implementing cybersecurity solutions and managing operational security environments.
  4. To develop expertise in cybersecurity policy, governance, and strategic planning aligned with global and national regulatory frameworks.
  5. To bridge academic knowledge with industry applications, preparing students to address contemporary cybersecurity challenges across various sectors.
  6. To promote a strong foundation for cybersecurity research and innovation, empowering students to contribute to scholarly advancements and pursue doctoral-level studies.

Admission Requirement

Applicants should possess the following:

A. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Electric & Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering/ Information Technology or equivalent

  1. CGPA of at least 2.75 / 4.00; or
  2. CGPA between 2.50 - 2.74 with the following additional conditions: or
    1. Research experience for at least one year; or
    2. Work experience in related field for at least one year; or
    3. At least one (1) academic publication in the relevant field; or
    4. Grade B for major / elective courses; or
    5. Grade B+ for final year project
  3. CGPA between 2.00 - 2.49 (Bachelor's Degree with Honours) with the following additional conditions:
    1. Research experience for at least five (5) years; or
    2. Work experience in related field for at least five (5) years; AND
    3. At least one (1) academic publication in the relevant field; or
    4. Grade B for major / elective courses; or
    5. Grade B+ for final year project

Language Requirement

Applicable for International Applicants Only

  • A minimum score of 80 in Internet- Based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) ;or
  • A minimum score of Band 6.0 in IELTS (International English Language Testing System);or
  • A minimum score of 169 in Cambridge English: Advance (CAE);or
  • A minimum score of 169 in Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE);or
  • A minimum score of 59 in Pearson Test of English (PTE);or
  • A minimum score of Band 4 in Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

Exemption can be given if:

  • English is the candidate's mother tongue or National Language; or
  • The candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction is English

Programme Structure

The programme consists of 42 units comprising six core courses and three elective courses (from six offered elective courses)

Core Courses

Semester I
  • Internet Governance (4 units)
  • Advanced Internet Security (4 units)
  • Cybersecurity Research Methodology (4 units)
Semester II
  • Ethical Hacking (4 units)
  • Cyber Security Project (10 units)
  • Identity and Access Management (4 units)

Elective Courses

Semester I
  • Cyber Security Audit and Assessment (4 units)
  • Cyber Operations (4 units)
  • Information Security and Cryptography (4 units)
Semester II
  • Security and Risk Management (4 units)
  • Cyber Threat Intelligence (4 units)
  • Forensic Analytics and Digital Investigations (4 units)

Fees

Malaysian (MYR)

  • Registration Fee: 330
  • Tuition Fee: 660 x 42 units = 25,200
  • Convocation Fee: 200

International (USD)

  • Registration Fee: 225
  • Personal Bond: 1,000
  • Tuition Fee: 225 x 42 units = 9,450
  • Convocation Fee: 50

* NOT inclusive 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) imposed by Government of Malaysia
** Fees are subject to change