Software Systems and Cybersecurity, MSE
Penn Engineering continues to broaden its graduate portfolio with the launch of the Master of Science in Engineering in Software Systems and Cybersecurity (MSE-SSC), offered in both online and residential formats. Building on Penn’s recognized strengths in computer science, systems, and cybersecurity, this program reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding access to premier engineering education around the world.
The MSE-SSC program is designed for students with a background in computer science or related fields who want to deepen their expertise in systems architecture and cybersecurity. The curriculum blends rigorous foundations in software infrastructure with advanced training in cybersecurity, complemented by a wide range of technical electives in high-demand areas such as big data systems, blockchain, and cloud technologies.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Curriculum
The MSE-SSC degree consists of 10 course units (CUs) and is designed to give students a solid foundation in systems and security, while offering flexibility to explore a range of technical electives.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation (1 CU, if needed, and if so, counts towards open elective) | ||
| Computer Systems Programming | ||
| Core: Software Systems (3 CUs) | 3 | |
| Software Systems | ||
| Operating Systems Design and Implementation | ||
| Networked Systems | ||
| Internet and Web Systems | ||
| Core: Cybersecurity (3 CUs) | 3 | |
| Computer and Network Security | ||
| Cryptography | ||
| Secure Software Engineering and Management | ||
| Technical Electives (2 CUs) | 2 | |
| Embedded Software for Life-Critical Applications | ||
| Big Data Analytics | ||
| Software Analysis | ||
| Wireless Communications for Mobile Networks and Internet of Things | ||
| Database and Information Systems | ||
CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) - To Be Developed | ||
CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) - To Be Developed | ||
CIS XXXX: S3 Capstone TBD (1.0) | ||
| Open Electives (2 CUs) | 2 | |
Any CIS, ESE, or EAS courses | ||
| Total Course Units | 10 | |
Curriculum
The MSE-SSC degree consists of 10 course units (CUs) and is designed to give students a solid foundation in systems and security, while offering flexibility to explore a range of technical electives.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation (1 CU, if needed, and if so, counts towards open elective) | ||
| Computer Systems Programming | ||
| Core: Software Systems (3 CUs) | 3 | |
| Software Systems | ||
| Networked Systems | ||
| Internet and Web Systems | ||
| Core: Cybersecurity (3 CUs) | 3 | |
| Computer and Network Security | ||
| Cryptography | ||
| Secure Software Engineering and Management | ||
| Technical Electives (2 CUs) | 2 | |
| Big Data Analytics | ||
| Software Analysis | ||
| Wireless Communications for Mobile Networks and Internet of Things | ||
| Database and Information Systems | ||
| Cloud Technologies Practicum | ||
| Blockchains | ||
CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) - To Be Developed | ||
CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) - To Be Developed | ||
CIS XXXX: S3 Capstone TBD (1.0) | ||
| Open Electives (2 CUs) | 2 | |
Any CIS, ESE, or EAS courses | ||
| Total Course Units | 10 | |
On Campus Program Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Course Units | |
| CIS 5480 | Operating Systems Design and Implementation | 1 |
| CIS 5510 | Computer and Network Security | 1 |
| CIS 5450 | Big Data Analytics | 1 |
| Course Units | 3.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 5580 | Secure Software Engineering and Management | 1 |
| CIS 5550 | Internet and Web Systems | 1 |
| CIS 5470 | Software Analysis | 1 |
| Course Units | 3.00 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| CIS 5050 | Software Systems | 1 |
| CIS 5560 | Cryptography | 1 |
| CIS 5500 | Database and Information Systems | 1 |
| Course Units | 3.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS XXXX: S3 Capstone TBD | 1 | |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Total Course Units | 10.00 | |
Online Program Plan of Study
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Course Units | |
| CIT 5950 | Computer Systems Programming | 1 |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 5530 | Networked Systems | 1 |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Summer | ||
| CIS 5050 | Software Systems | 1 |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| CIS 5550 | Internet and Web Systems | 1 |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 5510 | Computer and Network Security | 1 |
| Course Units | 1.00 | |
| Summer | ||
| CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) | .5 | |
| Course Units | 0.50 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| CIS 5560 | Cryptography | 1 |
| CIS 5580 | Secure Software Engineering and Management | 1 |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIS 5470 | Software Analysis | 1 |
| CIS XXXX: S3 Capstone TBD | 1 | |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Summer | ||
| CIS XXXX: Applied Cyber TBD (.5 CU- industry practitioner courses) | .5 | |
| Course Units | 0.50 | |
| Total Course Units | 10.00 | |