MCA in Cyber Security: Eligibility, Course Fees, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Feb 10, 2025 09:36 IST
Anshuman Singh

Anshuman SinghSenior Executive - Content

Is pursuing an MCA in cyber security a smart choice for future job prospects? Cybercrime is a growing threat with a huge risk to businesses, finances and national security. 

Along with technical skills, it's important to understand what Cyber Law is. Cyber law covers data protection, online crime and digital rights. As a cybersecurity professional, you must be aware of the legal aspects to better protect against cyber threats

MCA in Cyber Security

Apart from increasing cybercrime incidents, the cybersecurity industry is currently facing another major challenge: a shortage of 3.4 million skilled cyber professionals. As per Naukri, there are 27702+ vacancies in India alone. Although organizations understand the importance of protecting their network and systems, this gap makes it difficult for them to protect themselves from cyberattacks.

Because of the high demand for professionals and the vast nature of the work, pursuing a career in cybersecurity can be a very good option for you. And what could be a better choice than enrolling in a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) with a specialization in Cyber Security? This program equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to identify cybersecurity threats and effectively utilize security tools.

If you're new to the field or want to understand the fundamentals of cybersecurity, check out our detailed page on What is Cyber Security? This page will provide you with a deeper insight into the core concepts and practices in the cybersecurity domain.

MCA in Cyber Security: Highlights

Candidates can look at some of the key points of MCA in Cyber Security specialization in the table given below:

MCA in Cyber Security Course Highlight

Details

Course Level

Postgraduate

Duration

2 years (Full-time, Online)

Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree in stream related to computer science (preferably in BCA, BSc (IT) etc.)

Fees

2 lakhs to 5 lakhs (INR)

Top Institutions (Offering Regular MCA in CS)

Parul University, Presidency College, D.Y Patil International University, Jaipur National University, JECRC University, Poornima University, JECRC University, Sigma University, Galgotias University, Poornima University, etc.

Top Online Vendor & Institutes

Amity University Online, upGrad, Jain Deemed-to-be University - Online Campus, Amrita Ahead Online, Shree Pashmi Institute of Management and Science, Edugree, etc.

Average Salary

7 lakhs to 12 lakhs per annum

Top Recruiters

EY, Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, Accenture, Wipro, Infosys, IBM, Microsoft, CyberArk, Palo Alto Networks, Check Point Software, etc.

Job Positions

Cyber Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, Ethical Hacker, Malware Analyst, Security Engineer, Cyber Forensic Analyst, etc.

Q:   What is an MCA in Cyber Security course?
A:

MCA in Cyber Security is a postgraduate programme that focuses on computer applications and security measures. It prepares students for roles in protecting networks and data from cyber threats. The curriculum includes topics like ethical hacking, network security, cyber law, and data protection.

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Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for pursuing an online MCA in Cyber Security?
A:

To enrol in an online MCA in Cyber Security program, candidates need a bachelor's degree in computer applications, IT, or a related field with a minimum aggregate of 50% from a recognised university. Apart from that, having Mathematics at the 10+2 level may also be required. Some institutions may require the candidate to qualify for their entrance exam.

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Q:   What career opportunities are available after completing an online MCA in Cyber Security?
A:

After completing an online MCA in Cyber Security course, graduates can pursue roles such as Cyber Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, Information Security Manager, and so on. The demand for skilled cyber professionals is high. As of 10/02/2025, there are 29520 jobs available in IT firms, government agencies, and financial institutions, as per Naukri.

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Q:   What skills are essential to get success in Cyber Security field?
A:

Essential skills include analytical thinking, problem solving, knowledge of security protocols, and familiarity with programming languages. Communication skills are also crucial for explaining complex security issues to non-technical stakeholders.

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Table of contents
  • Skills Acquired During MCA in Cyber Security
  • Why Pursue an MCA in Cyber Security?
  • Eligibility Criteria for Pursuing MCA in Cyber Security
  • Best Indian Colleges to do MCA in Cyber Security
  • Popular Private MCA in Cyber Security Colleges in India
  • Top Online Vendors and Institutes Offering Online MCA in Cyber Security
  • Course Cutoffs
  • Popular MCA in Cyber Security Specializations
  • Online MCA in Cyber Security Syllabus
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Career Scope After Completing Online MCA in Cyber Security
View More

Skills Acquired During MCA in Cyber Security

Below is the list of skills that are taught during an MCA in Cyber Security Course:

Skill Category

Skills Acquired

Cyber Security Fundamentals

Understanding of key cyber security principles, risk management, threat landscapes, and the importance of securing digital assets.

Types of Cyber Attacks

Understanding and defending against various types of cyber attacks such as Phishing, DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service), Man-in-the-Middle, SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Ransomware, and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).

Network Security

Knowledge of securing networks using different types of firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and secure network protocols.

Cryptography

Proficiency in encryption algorithms, digital signatures, key management, and secure communication techniques to protect sensitive data.

Ethical Hacking

Skills in penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and identifying weaknesses in systems through cyber security tools and techniques.

Incident Response & Forensics

Ability to respond to security incidents, conduct digital forensics investigations, and implement effective response strategies to mitigate attacks.

Malware Analysis

Understanding Malware and its types (viruses, trojans, ransomware), their behavior, and techniques to analyze and mitigate their impact.

Security Auditing

Proficiency in conducting security audits, vulnerability assessments, and security compliance checks against industry standards (e.g., ISO 27001).

Cloud Security

Knowledge of securing cloud environments, data encryption, access control, and compliance with cloud security standards (e.g., AWS, Azure security protocols).

Application Security

Understanding of securing applications through secure coding practices, threat modeling, and vulnerability management (e.g., SQL injection, XSS).

Identity & Access Management

Expertise in managing user identities, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access control (RBAC), and directory services.

Security Automation

Ability to use automation tools for incident response, vulnerability scanning, and compliance monitoring to improve operational efficiency.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

Knowledge of risk assessment, managing cyber security policies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS).

Data Protection & Privacy

Skills in implementing data protection mechanisms, secure data storage, encryption, and understanding privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).

Advanced Threat Detection

Ability to identify and defend against advanced persistent threats (APTs), zero-day exploits, and complex attack techniques using threat intelligence.

Security Architecture

Designing and implementing secure system architectures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure network configurations.

Business Continuity & Recovery

Planning and implementing disaster recovery and business continuity strategies, ensuring critical systems remain operational during cyber attacks.

 

Why Pursue an MCA in Cyber Security?

Below are the few reasons for pursuing a MCA in Cyber Security:

  • As per Ambitionbox, people in the field of cyber security will earn an avg. salary of INR 5 to 12 lakhs annually also experienced people earning up to INR 25 lakhs.

  • Cyber security offers a many  of specialized roles like Cyber Security Analyst, Ethical Hacker, Security Consultant, SOC Analyst, Malware Analyst, etc.
  • Many cyber security roles provide the option for remote work, offering flexibility and a better work-life balance.
Why Pursue an MCA in Cloud Computing?

 

Q:   Is there a demand for Cyber Security professionals in the job market?
A:

Yes. There is a huge demand for Cyber Security professionals. As of 10/02/2025, there are 29520 jobs available for cybersecurity professionals (Naukri). With increasing cyber threats, organizations prioritise security, leading to numerous job openings in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and government.

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Q:   Can I pursue MCA in Cyber Security through distance learning?
A:

Yes. Several universities, such as Amity Online, Online Manipal, Chandigarh University, etc.,  offer MCA in Cyber Security through distance learning. This option allows working professionals to enhance their skills without disrupting their jobs.  

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Eligibility Criteria for Pursuing MCA in Cyber Security

These are some basic conditions which you need to fulfil in order to pursue an MCA Cyber Security program. All are mentioned in the table given below for your reference:

Criteria

Details

Course Level

Postgraduate

Duration

2 years (Full-time, Online)

Eligibility

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related fields

Minimum Aggregate

50% aggregate in undergraduate degree

Mathematics Requirement

Mathematics at the 10+2 (higher secondary) level may be required

Entrance Exams

Some institutions may require entrance exams like JEE, NIMCET, or university-specific tests

Age Limit

No upper age limit

Q:   What is the duration of online MCA in Cyber Security programme?
A:

An online MCA programme lasts for two years, divided into four semesters. The duration also depends upon the college, university, or vendor from where you are pursuing the online MCA in Cybersecurity course. 

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Best Indian Colleges to do MCA in Cyber Security

35 K - 6.16 L
4.0
5 L - 9.3 L
5.16 - 6.03 LPA
5 K - 11 L
4.0

IT & Software Applications open. Apply Now

3.75 L - 4.5 L
6.5 - 8.1 LPA
3 Courses
9.04 L - 9.6 L
3.5
1.59 L
5.75 LPA

Popular Private MCA in Cyber Security Colleges in India

10 Courses
1.1 L - 3.36 L
3.8
31.2 L
4.0
36 K - 7.8 L
3.75 - 4.8 LPA

IT & Software Applications open. Apply Now

2 L - 16 L
4 - 8.1 LPA

IT & Software Applications open. Apply Now

5 K - 11 L
4.0

IT & Software Applications open. Apply Now

1.27 L - 3.6 L
3.6

Top Online Vendors and Institutes Offering Online MCA in Cyber Security

Here are some of the top online vendors and institutions offering online MCA Cyber Security specialization:

Collage

Tuition Fees (INR; Lakhs)

Amity University Online

2.5

upGrad

2.4

Jain Deemed-to-be University

1.6

Amrita Ahead Online

1.95

Edugree

1.5

LPU Online

1.4

Jain Online

1.6

Online Manipal Jaipur

1.58

Online Manipal Sikkim

98,000

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular MCA in Cyber Security colleges is given below:
Master of Computer Applications (MCA) : MAH MCA CET 2025 Last Round Closing Rank (General-All India)Accordion Icon V3

Popular MCA in Cyber Security Specializations

Following are the most popular MCA in Cyber Security Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

Online MCA in Cyber Security Syllabus

Here is a general outline of the syllabus for an Online MCA program specializing in Cyber Security:

Semester

Course Name

Key Topics

Semester 1

Mathematics for Computer Science

Linear Algebra, Probability, Graph Theory, Discrete Mathematics

 

Computer Programming

C Programming, Algorithms and Data Structures, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

 

Computer Organization & Architecture

CPU, Memory hierarchy, I/O Devices, ALU, Control Unit, Types of Computer Networks, Basic Security Concepts

 

Operating Systems

Processes, Threads, CPU Scheduling, Memory Management, File Systems, Basic OS Security

 

Data Communication & Networks

OSI Model, Network Devices in Computer Networks, IP Addressing, Switching and Routing, Network Security Measures, Network Protocol

Semester 2

Database Management Systems

Relational Databases, SQL, Data Modeling, Transactions, Normalization, Security in Databases

 

Software Engineering

Software Development Life Cycle, Requirements Analysis, Design, Testing, Maintenance, Security in SDLC

 

Cryptography & Information Security

Symmetric & Asymmetric Encryption, Hashing, Digital Signatures, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

 

Network Security

Firewalls, VPN, IDS/IPS, Network Access Control, Security Policies, Securing Communication Protocols

 

Ethical Hacking

Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Assessment, Tools (Metasploit, Wireshark), Exploit Techniques

Semester 3

Malware Analysis

Types of Malware, Behavior Analysis, Reverse Engineering, Anti-virus Software

 

Cyber Law & Ethics

Cybecrime, Intellectual Property Rights, Types of hackers (Grey hat hacker, white hat hacker, etc.), Digital Evidence, Legal Frameworks for Cyber Security

 

Incident Response & Forensics

Incident Handling Process, Evidence Collection, Forensic Tools, Digital Forensics Analysis

 

Security in Web & Mobile Applications

Secure Web Application Development, OWASP Top 10, Mobile App Security, Secure Coding Practices

 

Advanced Cryptography

RSA, AES, Blockchain Types of Cryptography, Steganography

Semester 4

Cloud Security

Cloud Service Models, Security Issues in Cloud, Data Encryption in Cloud, Cloud Service Providers' Security

 

Advanced Threats & Attack Techniques

Cyberattack Types, Advanced Persistent Threats (APT), Zero-Day, Phishing, DDoS Attacks, Ransomware, Salami Attack

 

Identity & Access Management

Authentication vs Authorization, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Multi-Factor Authentication

 

Cyber Security Auditing & Compliance

Auditing Techniques, Security Standards (ISO 27001, NIST), GDPR, PCI-DSS, Cybersecurity Frameworks

 

Capstone Project

Real-time Cyber Security Projects, Research, Industrial Exposure, Thesis/Dissertation on Cyber Security

Q:   What subjects are covered in an online MCA in Cyber Security curriculum?
A:

The curriculum includes subjects like Cyber Law, Ethical Hacking, Network Security, and Digital Forensics. These subjects equip students with the necessary knowledge to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges.

Career Scope After Completing Online MCA in Cyber Security

There are many jobs which you can apply after doing an online MCA in Cyber Security program. Students can check the table given below to know more about the same:

Job Profile

Average Salary (India)/(INR/LPA)

Top Recruiters

Cyber Security Analyst

2.5 to 10

IBM, Accenture, Deloitte, Cognizant, TCS, Wipro, HCL Technologies, Infosys, etc.

Ethical Hacker

0.5 to 50

Amazon, Google, Cisco, Dell, PwC, Deloitte, Accenture, KPMG, etc.

Security Consultant

4.2 to 25

PwC, EY, Deloitte, Capgemini, Cognizant, Wipro, Accenture, etc.

Cyber Security Engineer

3 to 19.4

Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Cognizant, HCL Technologies, Tech Mahindra, IBM, etc.

Security Architect

20 to 40

IBM, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Accenture, Cisco, Deloitte, etc.

Malware Analyst

2 to 20

Symantec, McAfee, IBM, Check Point, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Accenture, etc.

Incident Response Analyst

3 to 21

Cognizant, Accenture, Capgemini, EY, Deloitte, IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), etc.

Digital Forensic Analyst

2.4 to 7.2

Kroll, EY, PwC, Deloitte, IBM, Accenture, Cognizant, HCL Technologies, etc.

Penetration Tester

6 to 17

RedTeam Security, Rapid7, HackerOne, IBM, Cisco, PwC, Deloitte, etc.

Network Security Engineer

3 to 14

Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, IBM, Wipro, Accenture, Infosys, etc.

Cloud Security Specialist

3.6 to 13.3

AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, IBM, Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini, etc.

Cyber Security Manager

12.5 to 47

Accenture, Cognizant, EY, Deloitte, Capgemini, PwC, IBM, Infosys, etc.

Data Privacy Officer

5.5

Google, Amazon, IBM, Accenture, Cognizant, PwC, Deloitte, Wipro, etc.

 

Career Scope After Completing MCA in Cyber Security

 

Q:   What is the average salary of a graduate who has completed an online MCA Cyber Security course?
A:

The average salary of a graduate who has completed an online MCA Cyber Security course varies based on experience and job role. Entry-level positions may start at around INR 2.5 Lacs annually (Cyber Security Analyst), while experienced professionals earn around INR 47 Lacs annually. (Cyber Security Manager) (As per Ambitionbox)

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Some of the popular colleges offering B.Tech in Cyber Security in India are mentioned in the table below -

CollegesFees structure
Galgotias UniversityINR 6.16 LPA
Chandigarh UniversityINR 6.44 LPA
Chandigarh UniversityINR 13.56 LPA

Source - Multiple external/official sites on the web, data may vary.

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MIT INR 2.58 LPA
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Source - Multiple external/official sites on the web data may vary.

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