Admission Requirements for the PLU MS in Cybersecurity
Admission to the PLU Cybersecurity MS program is based on a holistic review of the applicant’s academic preparation, work and volunteer experiences, and potential contributions to the classroom experience, the profession of cybersecurity, and society. To be admitted, applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree with a 3.0+ GPA, a background or degree in computer programming and networking, and submit a resume, personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission.
Guaranteed Graduate Admission is offered to PLU Computer Science and Data Science graduates who hold a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Prerequisite Skills and Programming Knowledge
You do not need to have a Computer Science degree to apply to the PLU MS in Cybersecurity; we welcome applicants from various undergraduate backgrounds (Math, Engineering, Physics, IT). You will need to demonstrate technical proficiency through work experience or prior coursework.
Knowledge of computer networking, computer programming, and mathematics can be demonstrated by the following:
- Programming: Programming courses and/or professional experience in Java, C#, C++, C, or Python.
- Networking: Education, professional experience, and/or certification in CompTIA Network+, CCNA, etc.
- Mathematics: Discrete Structures and Introductory Statistics courses.
Application Dates for a Fall Semester Start:
June
1
Early Action Date
August
1
Final Application Deadline
Application Process
Click on each item in the list below to view the instructions in an expanded section, and then follow the steps to submit your application.
Create your application account
- Create your PLU application account (note: the application is not yet open)
- Select ‘Pacific Lutheran University Application 2026’, then ‘Graduate Application 2026’ & ‘Create Application’
- You’ll select your program on Page 2 of the application.
Complete application & submit all required supporting items
- Transcripts from ALL colleges/universities you’ve attended
- You may upload official OR unofficial transcripts to the application, or send them to gradadmission@plu.edu.
- If you are a PLU student or alum, you do not need to submit your PLU transcripts.
- Note: While we will accept unofficial transcripts at the application stage for domestic students, you must request official transcripts from all colleges/universities to be sent to PLU before you enroll in a PLU graduate program.
- You may upload official OR unofficial transcripts to the application, or send them to gradadmission@plu.edu.
- Personal Statement
- Please describe where you acquired your knowledge of computer networking, programming and mathematics. It might be from a college course, work experience, or self-taught.
- Essay
- Tell us why you would like to pursue your MS Cybersecurity and how it will help you reach your future goals (250-500 words).
- Resume
- Recommendations (1 Required)
- Identify up to two references on your application. Academic recommendations are encouraged.
- Your references will receive an email invitation with instructions for completing the reference electronically.
- Application Fee
- The application fee is $65 (non-refundable), but it is waived for PLU alumni and current students.
If you need to submit additional documents after submitting the online application, you can email them to gradadmission@plu.edu.
International Applicants
This program is not yet able to host international students. We are in the process of applying for authorization and hope to be approved soon.
FAQs
Can I apply without a Computer Science degree?
Yes, you can apply without a Computer Science Degree. PLU welcomes applicants from various undergraduate backgrounds (Math, Engineering, Physics, IT). As long as you can demonstrate technical proficiency through work experience or prior coursework, your application will be fully considered.
Is the GRE or GMAT required for admission?
The GRE/GMAT is NOT required for admission to the MS in Cybersecurity program at PLU.
How much is the application fee?
The application fee is $65 (non-refundable), but it is waived for PLU alumni and current students.