How Much Can You Earn With a Master’s in Cybersecurity?

In a landscape where cyberattacks show no signs of stopping, with the global average cost of a data breach soaring to a staggering 9.48 million U.S. dollars in 2023, joining the field of cybersecurity is more than just a prudent choice—it’s a strategic imperative.

Professionals in the cybersecurity field continue to be in demand, reflective of the critical need to fortify digital landscapes. This demand, in turn, translates into lucrative financial rewards, notably in roles requiring a master’s in cybersecurity, where salaries are exceptionally competitive. 

If you’re considering entering this dynamic field, delve deeper to uncover detailed insights into salary scales for various roles with a master’s in cybersecurity and the other compelling benefits awaiting you.

How Much Can You Make With a Master’s in Cybersecurity?

A master’s degree in cybersecurity can significantly boost your earning potential by ensuring your eligibility for various specialized roles within the field. Below, we explore some of the many cybersecurity jobs you can pursue with a cybersecurity degree and the estimated earning potential for each one.

Cybersecurity manager

As a cybersecurity manager, you would oversee an organization’s security operations by developing and implementing security policies, managing security teams and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

In this role, you can expect to earn an average total pay of $168,816 per year. However, the exact amount can range from $102,000 to $283,000 per year, depending on location, experience, organization and more.

Cybersecurity engineer

As a cybersecurity engineer, you would be tasked with designing, implementing and maintaining security systems in order to protect an organization’s networks and data from cyber threats. In this field, the average annual pay is estimated to be $141,323. However, you can command salaries in the range of $110,000 to $184,000 per year, depending on your experience and expertise.

Cybersecurity architect

As a cybersecurity architect, you would be responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive security strategies for an organization to create a strong security framework that safeguards critical assets. In this role, you can earn between $146,000 and $235,000 annually, with the overall average annual pay estimated to be $183,762.

Cybersecurity consultant

As a cybersecurity consultant, you would be hired by organizations in order to assess their security posture, identify vulnerabilities, and provide recommendations for improvement. You could work as an independent contractor or as part of a consulting firm. Therefore, the salary can differ significantly depending on the exact role. Data shows that your average annual salary in this role could range from $101,000 to $296,000, with the estimated average total pay being $171,604 per year.

Network engineer

As a network engineer, you would be responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining an organization’s network infrastructure to ensure its networks are secure and resilient against cyber threats. In this role, you can expect to earn $100,106 for a year in total, with the exact salary ranging from $80,000 to $127,000 per year, depending on factors such as location and level of expertise.

Information security analyst

As an information security analyst, you would be tasked with monitoring an organization’s networks and systems for security breaches and vulnerabilities, as well as developing and implementing security measures against cyber threats. In this role, you can expect to earn an annual salary ranging from $69,000 to $169,000, depending on factors like industry and location, whereas the estimated total pay is $107,325 per year.

Systems developer (software developer)

As a systems developer, you would help develop and maintain software applications that are crucial for an organization’s operations, protecting them against cyber threats. In this role, the estimated total pay is $103,435 per year. However, the salary ranges from $84,000 to $128,000 per year, depending on your level of expertise and the complexity of the software projects.

Firewall engineer

As a firewall engineer, your specialization would be configuring and managing firewalls, which are critical components of network security in preventing unauthorized access and protecting against cyber attacks. In this role, you can earn an annual salary ranging from $77,000 to $195,000, depending on different factors, with the estimated total pay being $121,982 per year.

Penetration tester

As a penetration tester, you would be responsible for assessing an organization’s security by simulating cyber attacks in order to identify vulnerabilities. You would be crucial in strengthening the organization’s security through these simulations and the data gathered. In this role, you are estimated to earn $114,776 per year in total, with the average salary ranging from $69,000 to $193,000 per year.

IT auditor

As an IT auditor, you would evaluate an organization’s IT systems and processes to ensure compliance with industry regulations and security standards, as well as identify areas for improvement in security controls. In this role, you can earn an average salary ranging from $72,000 to $113,000, with the estimated total pay being $90,262 per year.

Comparing Master’s With Bachelor’s Degree Earnings

When it comes to earning potential in cybersecurity or any field in general, a master’s degree can make a significant difference. Reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveal that completing higher levels of education results in higher annual earnings. In fact, their data shows that graduates with a master’s degree are estimated to earn $1,661 per week, whereas those with a bachelor’s degree earn $1,432 per week.

This disparity is due to the advanced level of expertise and specialized knowledge gained through a master’s program compared to that achieved through a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, while a bachelor’s degree provides a solid foundation that might lead to entry-level roles, a master’s degree opens doors to higher-paying positions and more advanced roles within the cybersecurity industry.

Factors Influencing Salary

In addition to the level of education, several factors can play a crucial role in determining your salary as a cybersecurity professional. These factors include years of experience, specialized certifications, and geographic location.

For example, data shows that, on average, cybersecurity professionals earn $101,800 annually. However, the average annual salary differs depending on the years of experience, with the average wages esteemed to be:

Additionally, obtaining relevant industry certifications can further boost earning potential. According to statistics from BLS, there’s a significant difference in the earning potential of certified and noncertified workers—those with professional certification make 38.3% more than those without certification. 

Moreover, some states or areas offer higher wages than others for the same roles in an occupation. This is due to the difference in local demand for the work provided as well as the cost of living for that area.

Career Advancement Opportunities

A master’s degree in cybersecurity significantly enhances career advancement prospects, as many employers actively seek candidates with advanced degrees for senior positions. With a master’s, you become a prime candidate for leadership and management roles, as many high-level positions explicitly require advanced degrees.

So, if your goal is to become a chief information security officer or hold influential roles such as computer information systems manager or computer network architect, pursuing a master’s degree is the optimal path. 

Moreover, a master’s degree opens doors to specialized roles like security architect or penetration tester, offering abundant opportunities for continuous growth and specialization within the cybersecurity field.

The Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

Cybersecurity professionals have become incredibly important as the world continues to rely on technology for various aspects of life. As a matter of fact, according to HRForecast, the global cybersecurity market could reach $202 billion by the end of 2023.

Their data also shows that the need for cybersecurity experts has grown significantly in the last two years, with a 60% increase in the global demand for jobs related to cybersecurity. This trend shows how cybersecurity is in high demand and has become essential in various industries where protecting data and digital security are very important.

Other Benefits of a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity

A master’s degree in cybersecurity offers many benefits beyond the financial aspect, as noted by the influence of a master’s in cybersecurity salary. Some other advantages include:

• In-depth knowledge and specialization in complex cybersecurity concepts and practices
• An expanded professional network 
• Opportunity to be at the forefront of cybersecurity advancements by being exposed to the latest research and technologies
• Career advancement opportunities, particularly for leadership and management roles
• A higher level of recognition and authority in the competitive cybersecurity job market
• Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative solutions and practices that enhance global cybersecurity
• Job satisfaction

What Makes Someone a Good Fit for a Master’s in Cybersecurity?

Pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity is a significant step forward in one’s professional journey and the ideal candidate for such an endeavor possesses specific qualities that set them apart, such as:

1. Prior academic and professional experience: The ideal candidate already possesses a foundational understanding of cybersecurity, possibly through an undergraduate degree or work experience. This allows them to maximize the advanced knowledge imparted during the master’s program.
2. Aspiration for leadership: Those who envision themselves in leadership roles within cybersecurity departments or as heads of cybersecurity initiatives are the perfect fit. The program is designed to cultivate leaders who can strategize, manage and innovate in this challenging field.
3. Dedication to continuous learning: Cybersecurity is a field that’s constantly changing, with new threats emerging daily. The ideal candidate has an innate curiosity and a commitment to staying updated with the latest trends and technologies.
4. Strategic mindset: As this program covers both the technical and managerial aspects of cybersecurity, having a strategic mindset allows the student to grasp complex security protocols and their broader implications for organizations.

The Bottom Line: Is a Master’s in Cybersecurity Worth It?

Objectively speaking, a cybersecurity master’s degree offers excellent benefits that make the time, money and energy spent well worth it. From the increased salary to better job prospects and networking opportunities, this degree is a significant asset in the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity.

However, in the end, it all depends on your individual goals and aspirations. Assessing your career trajectory and considering how a master’s in cybersecurity aligns with your ambitions is crucial.

If you are ready to strengthen your future in cybersecurity and unlock a world of opportunities, join us in the journey towards success by exploring our cutting-edge cybersecurity program.

FAQ

How much does a degree in cybersecurity cost?

Costs vary but typically range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per semester.

Can you make 200k a year in cybersecurity?

Yes, it’s possible through a specialized role after some years of experience.

Will a master’s in cybersecurity get me a job?

Advanced degrees such as a master’s significantly improve job prospects, but success also depends on your skills and networking, among other factors.

Is cybersecurity a hard major?

It can be challenging, but it is manageable with dedication and hard work.

Is cybersecurity a lot of math?

Some courses may involve math, but not all areas of cybersecurity require advanced math skills.

Does cybersecurity require coding?

It often involves coding, especially for roles related to scripting and securing applications.

Can I learn cybersecurity with no IT background?

It is possible, but basic IT knowledge is recommended.

What pays more, programming or cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity offers a total pay of $101,800 annually, whereas programming provides slightly less at $94,307 per year. However, keep in mind that it depends on specific roles and expertise.

Do you need C++ for cybersecurity?

It can be useful, but it’s not always essential—we recommend you check the requirements for the role you’re interested in.

What is the easiest field in cybersecurity?

That depends on your individual strengths.