Cybersecurity Advanced Certificate
A graduate certificate in cybersecurity that develops a strong foundation in computing security in order to create secure network environments.
Overview for Cybersecurity Adv. Cert.
Gain the fundamental knowledge and expertise in network security and forensics that is necessary for security in networked environments. In the advanced certificate in cybersecurity, you’ll learn to make computers and networks resistant to attack by monitoring intrusions and closing off vulnerabilities.
The application of forensics allows successful attacks on computer systems to be detected. This involves gathering information on the nature and extent of the attack for presentation in a court of law, as well as assessing the extent of the damage to an organization. Courses taken as part of this certificate can transfer into the MS in cybersecurity.
What is a Graduate Certificate?
A graduate certificate, also called an advanced certificate, is a selection of up to five graduate level courses in a particular area of study. It can serve as a stand-alone credential that provides expertise in a specific topic that enhances your professional knowledge base, or it can serve as the entry point to a master's degree. Some students complete an advanced certificate and apply those credit hours later toward a master's degree.
Curriculum for 2025-2026 for Cybersecurity Adv. Cert.
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
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Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is available on-campus only.
| Offered | Admit Term(s) | Application Deadline | STEM Designated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part‑time | Fall | Rolling | No |
Part-time study is 1‑8 semester credit hours. RIT will not issue a student visa for advanced certificates.
Application Details
To be considered for admission to the Cybersecurity Adv. Cert. program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete an online graduate application.
- Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college in computing security, computer science, software engineering, information technology, networking, computer engineering, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, or computer engineering technology (exceptional students from other fields may be admitted on a contingent basis). A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
- Satisfy prerequisite requirements and/or complete bridge courses prior to starting program coursework.
- Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
- Submit one letter of recommendation.
- Entrance exam requirements: GRE optional for Fall 2026 applicants. No minimum score requirement.
- Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, etc.), if required. Details are below.
English Language Test Scores
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.
Duolingo (DET): 130
IELTS: 6.5
LanguageCert Academic: 74
PTE Academic: 60
TOEFL: 88
International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Deaf and hard-of-hearing test takers with significant hearing loss do not need to take the listening and speaking sections for the TOEFL and IELTS. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.
How to Apply Start or Manage Your Application
Cost and Financial Aid
An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.
A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree
Additional Information
Prerequisites
Applicants must satisfy prerequisite requirements in computing (computer networking theory and practice, and systems administration theory and practice).
Bridge Courses
Based on the evaluation of an applicant's academic and relevant experience, the graduate program director may require some applicants to complete a bridge course to fulfill any gaps in the required prerequisites needed for admission to the program. The bridge course, Introduction to Computing Security (CSEC-600), is not part of the 12 credit hours required for the advanced certificate.
Related News
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January 27, 2025
NSF awards RIT more than $1 million to develop digital media forensics platform
A new RIT project aims to bring order to the chaotic world of digital media forensics. The project in development, led by Endowed Professor of Cybersecurity Matthew Wright, will help combat manipulated media, including deepfakes.
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September 18, 2024
Two faculty members installed as Kevin O’Sullivan Endowed Professors in Cybersecurity
Billy Brumley and Matthew Wright were appointed for their work in building RIT’s cybersecurity education and research legacy. As one of the highest honors in academia, endowed professorships recognize and support outstanding researchers and educators who profoundly impact the lives of their students.
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April 5, 2024
New study investigates illegal child sexual abuse material and anonymity on Tor network
With the help of multidisciplinary researchers from around the globe, Billy Brumley is investigating the availability of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in order to better understand and combat its widespread dissemination.
