Who is the Master's programme in Cyber Security Management suitable for?
The part-time Master's programme in Cyber Security Management is aimed at professionals who wish to specialise in strategic and operational tasks in IT security management. It targets specialists from the fields of computer science, business informatics, software development as well as operations or network administration, who already have a technical or business-related first degree and/or relevant practical experience. The programme is ideal for computer scientists, IT project managers and IT managers who want to take responsibility for cyber security, compliance, risk management or the development of security concepts within a company.
What formal admission requirements do you need to meet?
For admission to the Master Cyber Security Management (M.Sc.) at FOM University, you need:
- A first university degree (e.g. Bachelor, Diploma, Magister or State Examination). Degrees from accredited vocational academies are recognised.
- Proof of at least 40 ECTS credits in (business) computer science modules from your first degree or relevant professional experience in the IT sector (such as software development, system administration, network administration). Up to 10 ECTS credits can be credited per full year of relevant professional experience, with a maximum of 4 years or 40 ECTS.
- Current employment is mandatory, as the programme is organised alongside work.
A combination of computer science study components and relevant professional experience is also possible for admission. Prior achievements from other Master programmes or professional further training can be credited individually.
You should have a strong interest in IT security issues, digital technologies and strategic planning. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills and a sense of responsibility are essential, as you will assess, develop and enforce complex security structures. Initiative, communication skills, as well as a willingness to continuously inform yourself about current cyber threats and legal developments will support you during your studies and later professional life. Prior experience in IT project management or initial leadership roles will ease your entry but are not mandatory. Good knowledge of German is required as the courses are conducted in German.
What subject content can you expect in the Master’s Cyber Security Management?
In the Master’s degree programme Cyber Security Management (M.Sc.), the focus is on strategic planning as well as holistic management of IT security measures in companies. In addition to technical knowledge, management skills and practical abilities to defend against digital threats are primarily taught. You will develop competencies in the key areas:
- IT Security Strategy: Development, control and implementation of comprehensive protection measures for corporate networks and digital infrastructures
- Risk Management & Compliance: Analysis and assessment of cyber risks, implementation of legal requirements and compliance with data protection regulations
- Security Architectures: Building, assessing and further developing secure IT system landscapes
- IT Audits & Crisis Management: Conducting security reviews, planning disaster recovery and effective crisis communication
- Leadership & Organisation: Expansion of leadership skills, process responsibility and raising employee awareness of cyber risks
During your studies, you will learn to recognise various attack scenarios, develop practical defence measures, and manage security risks from both a technical and organisational perspective.
How is the digital Master’s degree in Cyber Security Management structured?
The programme is organised on a part-time basis and specially tailored to the needs of working professionals. All courses are held as a digital live study: you participate remotely in interactive, live-streamed lectures. You have direct contact with lecturers and fellow students, work in groups, and can actively communicate via chat. In addition, lectures are usually recorded and can be accessed at any time.
- Standard period of study: 5 semesters (including Master’s thesis)
- Semester start: March (summer semester) and September (winter semester)
- Time model: Evening and Saturday sessions, suitable for working professionals
- Semester holidays: In August and from mid to late February
- Language: German
- ECTS: 120 Credit Points
As part of the programme, additional offers are available to you, such as free preparatory courses (SmartStart), skills development programmes („Master your Career“) and the opportunity to participate in international Summer Academies. Previous achievements from related degree programmes or Master modules can be credited, which shortens the duration of studies.
What career paths can you expect after the Master’s in Cyber Security Management?
As a graduate, you will take on specialist and managerial roles in the field of IT security and will be particularly active in the following areas:
- Management of IT security in companies and authorities
- Security architectures: Developing and implementing modern security structures
- Risk management and compliance: Responsibility for adherence to statutory requirements and regulations
- Crisis prevention and incident response: Steering and coordinating security measures and crisis reactions
- Awareness and training: Raising awareness and further education of employees regarding cyber risks
With the state-recognised and internationally accredited Master’s degree, you are also entitled to pursue a doctorate and open the door to scientific careers as well as consulting or expert roles at the highest level. Your knowledge is in demand across industries – there is an acute need for qualified specialists and managers in Cyber Security Management in healthcare, banking, industry, the public sector and the technology sector.
Where and how does the study take place?
The digital live study at FOM University enables you to study independently of location and flexibly. All lectures are live-streamed from the FOM studios. Participation is possible from any location where you have a stable internet connection. Additionally, you can complete individual modules on campus if you wish or switch completely to traditional on-campus study – thus maintaining maximum flexibility.
- Study location: Online, completely digital
- FOM university centres: Optional face-to-face phases at 29 locations nationwide
- Access to digital learning platforms and media libraries
All digital offers are tailored to the needs of working professionals and give you the opportunity to perfectly combine your studies with your professional and private life.
How high are the tuition fees for the Master’s in Cyber Security Management and what should be considered regarding financing?
The total tuition fees for the entire course amount to €15,000, payable in 30 monthly instalments of €500 each. Additionally, an enrolment fee of €1,590 is due at the beginning, which can be split into 6 monthly instalments of €265 (this amount is halved with certain prior qualifications). At the end, there is a one-off examination fee of €500.
- Total costs: €17,090 (including enrolment and examination fee)
- Flexible instalment payment without interest
- Fees are tax deductible (also expenses for specialist literature, travel costs and work materials)
Prior achievements from completed degree programmes can be credited, thereby reducing the total duration and cost of the studies. In cases of financial hardship, individual payment arrangements as well as up to two leave semesters (fee-free) are possible. FOM University is a non-profit organisation, and tuition fees are fully used for quality assurance and the further development of the studies. Funding, scholarships and support in special emergencies can be assessed individually.
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