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Erin Nolan

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erinnolan@usf.edu

Cybercrime

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FULLY ONLINE MASTER'S DEGREE

Who Steps in When Cybersecurity Isn't Enough?

Cybercrime is a pressing issue in our digital age. From data breaches and identity theft to ransomware attacks and online fraud, cyber threats can disrupt lives and businesses alike. As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals, making it essential to stay informed and prepared.

The Master of Science in Cybercrime will equip you with the knowledge to understand and combat these threats. You’ll learn to analyze cyber threats, investigate incidents, and implement robust security measures to protect sensitive information.

Distinguish yourself to potential employers by mastering key skills in areas such as ethical hacking, digital forensics, cybersecurity policy, threat analysis, and incident response. With expertise in these critical fields, you’ll be ready to defend against the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime and contribute to safer digital environments.
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Experienced Faculty

USF's cybercrime program features a faculty full of real-world experts—many with over 20 years of hands-on law enforcement experience in tackling cyber threats. This isn’t just textbook learning. You will be learning from people who have worked in the field, facing the challenges of cybercrime firsthand.

Engaging with these knowledgeable instructors will equip you with the practical skills and insights you need to thrive in the fast-changing field of cybercrime.

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No Tech Degree Required

USF's cybercrime graduate students aren't required to have a technology-based background. This program has no computer science prerequisites. 

The Cyber Criminology concentration offers a traditional criminology perspective focused on theory and research. In contrast, the Digital Forensic Investigations concentration is STEM-based, leading to job opportunities in civilian and government organizations investigating cybercrime. 

You can choose one or both concentrations.

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Fully Online on Your Time

This program is fully online, with asynchronous courses. Most courses are delivered in a convenient, eight-week format.

If selecting either the cyber criminology concentration or the digital forensic investigations concentration, students complete a total of 30 credit hours. If selecting the double concentration focusing on both disciplines, students complete a total of 42 credit hours. All courses are led by faculty members with experience in both research and real-world application.

FOLLOW THIS LINK FOR OUR ONLINE BROCHURE

Fill out the form at the bottom of this page to get immediate access to our in-depth program brochure. The form will help us personalize information to guide you through your decision-making process.

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Admissions Recruiter

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Master of Science in Cybercrime Course Map

Click each cybercrime course to read the description.

Click each cybercrime course to read the description.

LEGRANDE GARDNER, PHD
PROGRAM DIRECTOR, MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CYBERCRIME
 
Associate Professor of Instruction
26-Year Career in Federal and Local Law Enforcement
Previous Special Agent with the FBI Cyber Crimes Unit
 
Gardner’s law enforcement career included over 17 years managerial, administrative, and supervisory experience as well as assignments in criminal intelligence, computer crime and crimes involving digital media, digital forensics laboratory, computer forensics, anti-terrorism, Homeland Security, organized crime, criminal gang interdiction and suppression, surveillance and counter-surveillance operations, patrol operations, narcotics and vice, specialized street-level tactical operations, career criminals, surveillance operations, and Special Weapons And Tactics. In his last years of active duty, he was assigned as a Task Force Agent to the FBI’s Cyber Crimes Unit.
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    Thomas Hyslip, PhD

    Assistant Professor

    Computer Hacking
    Malware
    DDoS Attacks
    Federal Law Experience
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    Lauren Miley, PhD

    Assistant Professor

    Incarceration of Disadvantaged Groups
    Injustices within the Criminal Legal System
    Developmental and Psychological Risks for Offending
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Ranking 2025

 

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Projected to Grow

With demand in the cybercriminology field projected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, USF’s program equips graduates with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in high-impact roles across law enforcement, national security agencies, and private sector firms like JPMorgan Chase, Citi, and Department of Defense contractors.

Average Salaries

The MS in Cybercrime can lead to enhanced career opportunities and significant salary increases. Some job opportunities and their national median salaries include*:

  • $80-90K - Fraud Investigator
  • $81,000 - Digital Forensic Specialist
  • $91,100 - Detectives and Criminal Investigators
  • $83,960 - Emergency Management Directors
  • $64,940 - Forensic Science Technicians

*Salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Erin-Crop

Erin Nolan

Admissions Recruiter

Schedule a Call

erinnolan@usf.edu