M.S. in Cybersecurity to M.S. in Computer Science

[risingcodeninja]

I've been contemplating switching from a M.S. in Cybersecurity to a M.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity (or Information Assurance) because I think the CS degree has more overall utility and leaves more pathways open. But, there's just one problem. I haven't taken Calculus I or II**. BUT, I have taken higher level math courses where they were the pre-req's and passed with good grades - Discrete Math ('B'), and Numerical Methods ('A'). 

Because of how well I did in Discrete Math and Numerical Methods, will adcoms overlook my lack of Calculus I and II? Or do I need to find a way to squeeze these courses in before August/September?

S/N: I don't have a B.S. in Computer Science. I went back to school at a 4-year college intending to get it as my second degree, but got the opportunity to enter the M.S. in Cybersecurity program, which is why I returned to school for CS in the first place. I have 27 undergraduate CS credits from a 4-year college with a 3.44 GPA, attending full-time with fully active Systemic Lupus.

Advice, please.

** I started Calculus I, but got really sick and had to drop, which meant I had to drop Calculus II. Discrete Math was different enough, I guess, that they let me attempt it, and I did well. I'd already had the Numerical Methods prof for other math and comp sci courses, so he was very confident in my abilities and told me I'd do fine, and he was right.

[emmm]

I think you may have answered your own question -- "Discrete math was different enough." I think you probably need to take calculus. You could ask the program you're interested to suggest what you need to do to be considered a serious applicant. They might be open to you applying before you finish  the classes.

[Pratik567]

I'd probably go with the MS in Computer Science if you're still deciding. It gives you a broader foundation, and you can always move into cybersecurity later through electives, projects, or even your first job.

I wouldn't worry too much about the calculus requirement until you've talked to the universities directly. Every program seems to handle prerequisites a little differently. Some may ask you to complete the course before enrolling, while others might let you take it during the program or consider the rest of your academic background.

If I were in your position, I'd email the admissions offices of the schools you're interested in before making a final decision. A quick response from them can save you a lot of guesswork.

[Laboni765]

I don't think switching is automatically the right move unless you know why you're doing it. A CS degree definitely gives you a broader foundation, but if your goal is cybersecurity, I'd also look at the actual courses, research opportunities, and internship connections instead of just the program title. I've seen people with cybersecurity degrees do well because they built strong projects and gained hands-on experience alongside their coursework. In the long run, your skills and experience will probably matter more than whether the diploma says CS or Cybersecurity.

 

[Laboni765]

I think Dubai’s tech growth is interesting because it’s not just about adopting the latest technology, but also about building an environment where companies can actually use it effectively. Areas like AI, cloud computing, fintech, and smart infrastructure are creating more demand for skilled software developers.

The international nature of Dubai also seems to be an advantage, since companies can bring together talent and ideas from different markets. At the same time, long-term success will depend on developing strong local technical talent and maintaining good engineering practices as the industry grows.

It will be interesting to see whether Dubai can turn this rapid investment in technology into a sustainable ecosystem for startups and established companies alike.