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Rise with us

DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

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Home ― Cyber Operations, Ph.D.

Cyber Operations, Ph.D.

Program Quick Facts

Credits

61

Start Terms

Fall

|

Spring

Available

Online

Tuition

$3,365.10

estimated cost per semester

More tuition details

Gain a foundation in cyber operations while specializing in data collection, software exploitation, analysis of malicious code, and reverse engineering. Our Ph.D. in cyber operations is a technical program grounded in computer science with an emphasis in cybersecurity.

In addition to online curriculum, complete three on-site research seminars designed to acquaint you with cybersecurity issues. Discuss articles pertinent to cybersecurity, meet faculty, and present your dissertation proposal. These research seminars are held annually and take place over multiple days. Because of this, there is a residency requirement for this program. 

The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences

Curriculum and experience highlights

Key speaker presenting in Beacom to crowd.

A research-driven experience

You will undertake in essential courses that concentrate on research methodology and design and implementation within the fields of computer and cybersecurity. Alongside these studies, you will also have opportunities to engage in person with your fellow students in the cyber operations program and connect with faculty members. Every year, DSU hosts multi-day seminars designed to introduce students to key topics in cybersecurity research. These seminars offer a valuable platform for students to report on, present, and discuss relevant issues in the field. Through this seminar you will enhance your interaction with faculty, help you find a dissertation advisor, and guide you through the processes of presenting both your dissertation proposal defense and your final dissertation defense or oral comprehensive exam.

“My exceptional and experienced peers shared their learning journey with me—such great people in the program doing essential work.”

Dr. Daniel Nash, PHDCO '24

Why choose DSU?

Professor teaching class

Distinguished education

We are proud to be recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a Center of Academic Excellence across all three categories, including cyber operations. Our cyber programs are not only highly technical but also interdisciplinary, ensuring you receive top-notch education from experienced faculty members.

Notable connections 

When you attend DSU, you have the opportunity to connect with real-life professionals and organizations. Our partnerships with these entities help address the national demand for cybersecurity professionals and researchers. Upon graduation, you will possess a strong understanding of cybersecurity, making you a valuable asset to any company.

We have established ties with, but are not limited to, the following organizations, National Security Agency (NSA), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Navy SPAWAR, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory, Army INSCOM, Carnegie Mellon’s Software Engineering Institute, and MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory.

Faculty

Michael Ham

Michael Ham

Associate Professor / Coord. for Cyber Ops Initiatives / Dept. Chair - Cyber Ops
Ahmad Al-Hammouri Profile Photo

Ahmad Al-Hammouri

Associate Professor
Kyle Cronin

Kyle Cronin

Associate Professor / Coord for Academic Computing / Dept Chair - Cyber Defense
Pat Engebretson

Pat Engebretson

Associate Professor
Tyler Flaagan

Tyler Flaagan

Assistant Professor
Tom Halverson

Tom Halverson

Professor / Associate Dean of Beacom Undergraduate Programs
Andrew Kramer

Andrew Kramer

Assistant Professor

Possibilities with a PhD in cyber operations

We are experts in cybersecurity. We leverage our expertise in all things tech to give you an innovative doctoral degree that meets the needs of a vast array of organizations.

  • Professor
  • Researcher for private industry firms
  • Researcher for government agencies
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Your future at DSU begins today.

  • A bachelors or master's degree in computer science from an institution with full accreditation.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Must be a US resident or hold a permanent resident card to apply.
  • No GRE is required.

Timelines & requirements

 

Next steps

  • August 15 for admission the following fall semester
  • September 15 for the following spring semester

Apply now     Application help