The Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) program at UC Berkeley ranked #1 among online cybersecurity master’s degree programs, according to an analysis by Fortune magazine released on June 30, 2022.
This is Fortune’s first-ever ranking of online master’s degree programs in cybersecurity, inspired by the demand in the cybersecurity job market. The ranking methodology is comprised of three components: Selectivity Score (50%), Success Score (30%), and Demand Score (20%).
There were more than 715,000 cybersecurity jobs left to be filled in the U.S. as of late 2021, and demand for these professionals is only expected to grow during the next decade—by 33% to be exact—more than four times faster than the average for all occupations, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
About MICS
The UC Berkeley School of Information’s Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) program prepares students with advanced technical and managerial skills to combat cyber attacks and become influential leaders in cybersecurity. Our holistic approach to cybersecurity develops students’ understanding of information security technologies, as well as the economic, legal, behavioral, and ethical aspects of cybersecurity.
“We’re not going to train you to just be a professional on the day you graduate — we’re going to train you with the underlying technology and knowledge so that you’ll be able to upgrade your skills over time and stay effective in the [job] market,” said professor emeritus Steven Weber, who helped design the program, which launched in 2018.
The program is 27 units and is designed to be completed in 20 months. The interactive online program features live online classes, as well as self-paced content, and career resources, including personalized coaching, job-search tools, and industry connections. Students participate in an in-person immersion experience on campus and complete a capstone project that integrates the core skills and concepts learned throughout the program. MICS students are part of the broader UC Berkeley community and enjoy a close connection with the Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity. Alumni continue to have access to course materials and asynchronous content through the MICS for Life program.
