Canadian Universities offer a cybersecurity master's degree program under various names, such as Master's in Computer Systems Security and Master's in Information Security. In this post, we will explore everything you need to know about an MS in cybersecurity in Canada.
First, Which Universities in Canada Offer an MS in Cybersecurity?
Currently, several Canadian universities are offering Master's in Cyber security programs. They include:
Ontario Tech University: Information Technology Security (Master's program)
Northeastern University Toronto: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
University of Guelph: Master of Cybersecurity and Threat Intelligence (MCTI)
Concordia University Montréal: Information Systems Security (Master's)
New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), Vancouver, Canada: Master of Science in Information, Network security and Computer Security
What are the Average Requirements (Academic and Professional) to Get Into an MS in Cybersecurity in Canada?
Every school offering a Cybersecurity master's has a unique scope of requirements for one to be enrolled in their programs.
However, there are a few standard requirements. They include:
At minimum, a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or information security, information technology, or other computer science-related subjects.
A minimum, an average of grade B during the last four semesters of full-time study.
Relevant work experience or background knowledge in the cyber security field.
Have successfully completed at least one advanced course in mathematics e.g., calculus and programming.
An English proficiency test for applicants whose first language is not English.
Despite the different admission criteria for individual schools, most institutions offering a Master's of Cybersecurity degree in Canada strive to teach the latest theory and research beyond the fundamentals of IT.
Coursework is usually hands-on, dealing with real-life security systems and information systems. Some of the courses taught in cybersecurity master's program includes:
Data encryption and preservation
Engineering of secure software and systems
Computer and cyber forensics
Web security and privacy
Crisis, disaster, and risk management
Ethical hacking
Before you enroll for any Cybersecurity master's, it is imperative to research the program requirements of each university to see if it fits your needs.
Why Pursue a Master's in Cybersecurity in Canada?
Students, both domestic and international, will likely benefit from the diverse learning environments offered by universities in Canada.
Studying a Master's in Cybersecurity in Canada provides students with world-class education that enables them to practice and refine their skills on a global level. Most Canadian universities offer internships and hands-on training opportunities that equip students with valuable work experience before they graduate.
Secondly, there are many cybersecurity scholarship programs that help cut down the costs of getting a master's degree. Many institutions are offering financial incentives for those who qualify as master's in cybersecurity candidates. We will expound on scholarships shortly.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Master's in Cyber Security in Canada?
While a Master’s in Cybersecurity prepares graduates to keep abreast of the emerging trends in cybersecurity, there are more benefits to pursuing the degree in Canada.
Here are four of them:
With the increasing sophistication of cybercrimes, and as organizations scramble to protect their data and information, cybersecurity experts have excellent job security.
As part of your master's program, you will receive training on leadership and management. These are critical skills if you are looking to advance in the cybersecurity arena.
With a significant shortage in supply and a surplus of demand, salaries are constantly on the rise. Cybersecurity professionals are well paid, and with a master's degree you have the potential to earn more at the managerial level.
While there are many opportunities in the cybersecurity space, a higher level of education and experience is needed. Obtaining a cybersecurity master's strategically positions you to land lucrative jobs both in the private and public sector.
What Can You Do with an MS in Cybersecurity from a Reputable Canadian University?
Students graduating with a master's of cyber security in Canada are a great fit for a variety of positions in the cybersecurity space. A few roles that they are likely to land include:
Cybersecurity administrator
Information security analyst or officer
Intelligence analyst
Digital forensics analyst
Systems software developer
These roles present a host of opportunities to manage the security systems of a company. Daily roles include installing firewalls, creating network systems, surveilling cybercrimes, auditing security systems, and overseeing entire security teams.
The field also offers a variety of choices when it comes to picking specific roles. You can land a role both in the public or private sector, with employers consisting of:
Government agencies, including the military
Private corporations and businesses
Health institutions
International organizations
Public and private colleges and universities
Are Scholarships Available to Students in Canada Interested in Pursuing a Master's in Cybersecurity?
Even for a field that is increasing in professionals, scholarships in cybersecurity are not easy to come by. Every scholarship scheme has its own criterion that is used to pick qualified and deserving students.
Some scholarships are meant for low-income students who lack opportunities in fields such as cybersecurity. Other scholarships are meant to funnel individuals into specific roles in cybersecurity.
Here are a few scholarships open for students to undertake a master's in cybersecurity in Canada:
To qualify for this scholarship, which has an award of up to $5,000, you have to be a woman studying a computer science course or a related discipline (which cybersecurity falls under) in Canada. You have to present a resume, motivational essays, references, and transcripts to be considered.
For the Master of Cybersecurity and Threat Intelligence (MCTI), the University of Guelph has the following scholarships available:
Information Systems Architects Inc. Scholarships in Cyber Security
This scholarship is open to students registered for the Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence program with the School of Computer Science. You can't accept this award alongside another one meant for the same program. This is often offered to one female student and one male student and it often doesn't require applications.
Georgian Partners Scholarship in Cyber Security
This scholarship is open to students registered for the Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence program with the School of Computer Science. You can't accept this award alongside another one meant for the same program. Preference is given to a female student, and it often doesn't require applications.
eSentire Scholarship in Cyber Security
This scholarship is open to students registered for the Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence program with the School of Computer Science. You can't accept this award alongside another one meant for the same program. This is often offered to one female student and one male student, and it typically doesn't require applications.
Co-operators Scholarships in Cybersecurity
This scholarship is open to students registered for the Master of Cyber Security and Threat Intelligence program with the School of Computer Science. You can't accept this award alongside another one meant for the same program. The recipient is selected from a pool of those with the highest average during admission. It doesn't require applications.
Students applying to study a Master's in IT Security from Ontario Tech University should consider applying for The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program if they need financial aid. This scheme is supported by the provincial government and encourages graduate students to pursue excellence. Offered both to master's and doctoral students, the scholarship is merit-based, open to all academic disciplines as well as domestic and international applicants.
How is the Cybersecurity Job Market in Canada?
A recent Deloitte study tabled findings that Canadian companies will be recruiting over 8,000 cybersecurity personnel over the next two years.
In October 2018, Canada announced that it was launching a cybersecurity centre in Ottawa. According to industry analysts, there is a need to hire over 140 front-line cybersecurity professionals. Their work will consist of countering hackers from attacking Canadian companies, either for financial gain, political reasons, or other malicious intent.
According to Global News Canada, even though cybersecurity jobs are on the increase, there is no equality in the employer demand-employee availability ratio. Cybersecurity job advertisements are still receiving less attention than other technology-related jobs, in spite of the high salaries that accompany them.
Closing thoughts about a Master’s in Cybersecurity in Canada
Pursuing a Master's in cybersecurity in Canada will provide you with world-class education, and give you a chance to work with top Canadian companies. Go ahead and invest in yourself today, and soon you will land a rewarding job, cash a better paycheck, and enjoy a higher level of job security.