Cyber Defense, Ph.D.
Credits
72
Start Terms
Fall
|Spring
|Summer
Available
Online
Tuition
$3,365.10
estimated cost per semester
With a Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Defense from Dakota State University, you will become the essential security expert that businesses need, leading the way at the intersection of innovation and cybersecurity. You will be equipped to tackle the increasing cyber threats and implement effective defense strategies through a specialized cyber defense curriculum. By exploring risk management strategies and engaging in research on relevant topics, you will develop skills to validate authenticity and confidentiality. This preparation will enable you to create recovery plans for future IT infrastructures based on established design and security policies.
Unsolicited threats pose significant risks to organizations, ranging from government agencies to corporations. Therefore, having experts like you to protect these entities is more crucial than ever.
Curriculum and experience highlights
Select your specialization
This program offers you the chance to customize your degree to an area of interest that fit your career goals. Either enhance your knowledge in topics from your master's program or choose a new specialization in:
- Data privacy
- Management
- Technical fields
100% online courses
The Ph.D. in cyber defense coursework is offered entirely online, allowing you to continue working while earning your doctoral degree.
The annual residency requirement includes three on-site research seminars held on the Madison, South Dakota campus. Although students may petition to participate in the residency requirement from a distance, the in-person residencies offer a valuable opportunity to collaborate with faculty and peers.
“DSU gave me the tools to pursue what I wanted to get out of the program, and that means a lot to me. I can’t say enough good about the DSU program.”
Dave Schroeder, current PhD researcher in Cyber Defense
Why choose DSU for your PhD in cyber defense?
Center of Academic Excellence Designation
DSU holds recognized excellence in cybersecurity, education, and research that is central to our mission. We hold three prestigious Centers of Academic Excellence Designations (CAE) from the National Security Agency (NSA), one of which is the most technical for Cyber Operations.
Affordable education from experts
We prioritize making accessible and affordable services available to our graduate students, because pursuing your degree is a significant investment of both your time and money. You can complete your PhD in just three years or opt for a part-time path that stretches to seven years, all for approximately $3,365 per semester.
EXPLORE Graduate cost & aid information
Faculty
Expand your potential with a PhD in cyber defense
Choosing to expand your skill set with a doctorate in cyber defense will enhance your career opportunities. DSU graduates of this program have found employment with a variety of highly recognized organizations including Metra, Amazon, Hudl, Mandiant, and National Security Agency.
Your future at DSU begins today.
- A bachelor's and master's degree from an accredited institution in cyber, data privacy, computer science, or a technology-oriented degree.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Transcripts showing areas of knowledge in cyber, data privacy, computer science, or technology.
- If you don’t meet all requirements, you may still be accepted but might need to take additional courses.
- No GRE is required.
Next steps
-
April 1 for admission to the following fall semester
-
September 15 for admission to the following spring semester
