Accelerated Dual-Degree
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On Campus
Visit the College of Arts and SciencesThis accelerated dual-degree program is offered to highly motivated students who have a passion for data science and ambitions for a career in global cybersecurity. The program begins with undergraduate data science and cybersecurity courses to set the foundation for your master’s degree.
The Accelerated Dual-Degree BS in Data Science/MS in Cybersecurity (3+1) program will provide students with a passion for data science and cybersecurity with the critical tools necessary to solve complex problems while substantially increasing their employability and leading them on a track to success in virtually any industry.
Data science students gain a firm understanding of data context and learn how to integrate it with deep technical knowledge to draw meaningful conclusions. This bachelor’s degree is an essential foundation for advanced courses in cybersecurity such as database security, cryptology and IT infrastructure—each positioning students for a successful career. The MS in Cybersecurity program also offers hands-on courses taught by world-class security experts and culminates in a capstone project that utilizes commercial and open-source security tools.
Data scientists can leverage their passion for cybersecurity in roles such as editorial analyst, data analyst, product marketing specialist or sports data journalist while cybersecurity professionals analyze security measures to protect and defend companies and clients from data breaches. Pairing data and cybersecurity opens opportunities for you to leverage your passion and skills and make a meaningful difference in your life and for those around you.
Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33 percent from 2021 to 2031. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)
The global shortage of cybersecurity professionals at the end of 2021 is 2.7 million. Companies around the world are looking to fill these highly sought out positions. (ISC2)
National average pay for cybersecurity professionals (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).
As a 3+1 student, you will have the flexibility to participate in experiential learning, internships and study abroad opportunities. These experiences play a large role in career development and are central to this dual-degree program. Our students have a strong support system that includes dedicated faculty and staff, alumni connections and a career development office that works to develop job preparation and interview skills.
Our accelerated dual-degree (3+1) program enables you to earn your undergraduate and graduate degrees in the most efficient and economical way possible, positioning you for success in a competitive landscape. This approach to earning your degrees advances on traditional higher education models by focusing on rigorous, interdisciplinary and experiential learning.
The benefits include:
Saving time and money: You’ll complete your degrees sooner, save on tuition costs and enter the workforce at least one year earlier, with a graduate degree
Competitive career positioning: Your graduate degree will give you an advantage in a competitive landscape
Scholarships: Your scholarships are available throughout your master’s degree program*
Dedicated guidance: You’ll be partnered with the director of the program within the school who will also be your academic adviser
Experiential learning: You’ll have access to special programming and networking opportunities for program students
Course overload fees are waived during the Fall and Spring semesters for students in accelerated dual-degree programs up to 19 credits per term (or up to 20 credits per term for up to two semesters for students engaging in a study abroad program). Summer and/or January term courses may be required to earn the accelerated graduate degree and are also offered at no cost to students in accelerated dual-degree programs.**
*This only applies to the one graduate program associated with your chosen dual-degree.
**Not to exceed a seven-credit limit per Summer (Summer 1 and Summer 2 combined) or a three-credit limit per January term in which you enroll in courses. Any additional credits in a Summer or January term will have associated credit hour costs. Please see the tuition and fee schedule on the webpage for specific costs per program.
Accelerated dual-degree students, like all students, are required to live on campus for their first three years of enrollment.
Quinnipiac University has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity. This designation recognizes that our program serves the nation well, contributes to the protection of the national information infrastructure and addresses the critical shortage of professionals with cybersecurity skills.
Additionally, the National Security Agency and a committee of academic peers have validated Quinnipiac University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity programs through the 2027 academic year. Per the 2018 National Cyber Strategy, "A highly skilled cybersecurity workforce is a strategic national security advantage."
Our undergraduate admissions counselors are here to answer any questions you may have and help you navigate the application process.