In this guide
Cybersecurity law professionals are in high demand. From security analysts to pen testers, the need for employees trained and qualified in this field far outstrips the current supply. This skills gap includes people who hold a cybersecurity law degree
As the frequency and severity of cyber breaches increase, so does the political pressure for legislation to protect personally identifiable information (PII), proprietary information, and intellectual property.
The need to understand and adhere to new and changing laws and regulations creates a thriving market for cybersecurity legal expertise. Cybersecurity regulation compliance is crucial to business success.
Working in cybersecurity law will require specialized education. This guide will outline the various options and requirements for those wishing to work in this specialized field of law.
Degree programs for cybersecurity law
There are essentially four graduate degrees that qualify an individual to work on the legal side of cybersecurity. These are an MLS, a J.D., an LL.M., and an S.J.D. These are discussed in order from the least amount of training needed to the most amount of education required below.
The main focus of this guide will be the LL.M. degree with a concentration in cybersecurity. It is the most beneficial law degree for students aspiring to become practicing cybersecurity lawyers.
MLS (Master of Legal Studies) is a master’s degree that provides a firm working knowledge of the law and concentrates on compliance, legal research and analysis, risk management, ethics, and professional standards. Earning an MLS does not allow the graduate to practice law.
There are, however, many employment opportunities within private corporations for which an MLS is sufficient. Graduates will typically find these opportunities in risk and compliance departments as legal assistants or paralegals.
A Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) program provides students a broad understanding of the law. With a J.D., graduates are permitted to practice law in the United States after passing a state bar examination and obtaining a law license. As the minimum requirement for practicing law, law school J.D. curriculum does not usually include courses specific to cybersecurity law.
A Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree is an internationally recognized post-Juris Doctor (J.D.) law degree. To be awarded an LL.M., US domestic students must already hold a J.D. degree, and international students must have a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or its equivalent.
LL.M. degrees focus on a specific area of the law, providing students with the experiences and expertise to become an expert in that area. Cybersecurity concentration provides law students with a sophisticated understanding of the legal, policy, and technical structures associated with cybersecurity.
Graduating with an LL.M. in Cybersecurity Law and Data Privacy will prepare a student for a job practicing law in the fields of cybersecurity and information privacy, or any area that deals with high-value or confidential information. Lawyers with LL.M. degrees work at law firms, for the government, or as in-house counsel at corporations.
The highest degree offered in the field of law is the Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.). It is equal to the Doctor of Philosophy.
The National Association of Legal Professionals states that the S.J.D. is “the most advanced law degree that would follow the earning of the J.D. and LL.M. degrees.” Most schools require an LL.M. before admission to an S.J.D. or a Ph.D. law degree program. Like the Ph.D., the S.J.D. degree generally requires a graded dissertation, orally defended and then often published as a book or series of articles.
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Considerations for choosing the right cybersecurity law degree program
Not every law student will have the available time or access to the required financial resources needed to pursue an LL.M. in Cybersecurity. If a student’s situation dictates that they take a progressive approach to their legal studies, they may wish to begin with an MLS.
An MLS will often provide the graduate with the opportunity to work in a legal department for and with lawyers that specialize in cybersecurity. This strategy can provide valuable experience, but it should be noted that while there are some part-time and online J.D. and LL.M. programs, many programs require students to attend full-time in-person (when in-person classes are open).
Beginning with an MLS presents a danger that additional education will become difficult if life circumstances do not allow the student to attend law school full-time. Going back to school is often more difficult than staying in school.
A common route to a job in cybersecurity law is to obtain a J.D. and pass the state bar exam. This common strategy will allow the graduate to practice law broadly while gaining specific cybersecurity experience in the workplace. After some time in the workplace, a licensed lawyer may petition to take a hiatus from work to return to law school and get an LL.M. or find an online LL.M. option.
The most direct route to becoming a practicing cybersecurity legal specialist is to continue in law school for an additional year after completing a J.D. to get an LL.M. This is the preferred strategy for students that have the available time and financial resources.
Education advisors recommend the LL.M. degree, especially for those students wanting to specialize in global cybersecurity law or work in cybersecurity law for an international firm.
The LL.M. is the degree of choice for career advancement and international credibility, particularly in today’s competitive and globally focused legal environment. Early- and mid-career lawyers often pursue the LL.M. when looking to expand their proficiency in a specific area of law, such as cybersecurity.
The final option to consider for cybersecurity law education is obtaining an S.J.D. This degree should be a consideration for students that intend to invest their careers in cybersecurity research or academia.
Cybersecurity law school admission requirements
After completing the requirements for a J.D. degree, students can apply for admission to their law school’s LL.M. program. These are typically one-year programs that require full-time attendance.
The University of Texas at Austin Law School (Texas Law) LL.M. admissions and curriculum requirements are similar to many other law schools. They can be used as a guide to what students may expect in these areas.
Texas Law requires students to complete at least 24 semester hours of credit and keep a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 1.90 to be awarded an LL.M. degree.
Students must maintain a GPA of at least 1.80 to continue in the program. Students who fail one class are placed on scholastic probation. A student who fails two courses in a single semester will be dropped from the program, regardless of the student’s GPA.
Cybersecurity law degree curriculum
Texas Law provides an excellent example of the curriculum requirements for an LL.M. degree with a concentration in cybersecurity law. Like many other law schools, Texas Law does not accept transfer credits in the LL.M. Program. Students currently in another LL.M. program may apply to the Texas Law LL.M. Program but must take the required 24 credits.
- Students must complete a total of 24 credit hours in one academic year.
- 12 concentration-specific credit hours.
- A three-credit writing seminar or a two-credit directed research project.
- Constitutional Law for Foreign Lawyers. (This is a requirement for students with a foreign law degree. Students with a background in common law may request a waiver from this requirement.)
- Non-US J.D. students interested in taking a US state bar exam will also be required to take specific bar-required courses to be eligible to sit for the bar exam.
All Texas Law LL.M. in Cybersecurity students must take the following courses:
- Cybersecurity Law & Policy — This course surveys the landscape of legal, policy, and institutional-design issues associated with cybersecurity, ranging from litigation and regulatory matters to hostilities in cyberspace.
- Technology of Cybersecurity, An Introduction for Law and Policy Students – This course provides a tailored introduction to key technical concepts associated with cybersecurity.
- Writing Seminar, Emerging Cybersecurity Legal and Policy Issues — This seminar engages an evolving array of cutting-edge legal and policy issues related to cybersecurity, including a variety of guest speakers.
- International Law of Cyber Conflict — This course explores the application of international law to state-sponsored cyber activities.
- Privacy Law — This course examines U.S. and foreign legal regimes for the protection of information.
The University of Southern California (USC) cites the outcome for their LL.M. in privacy law and cybersecurity degree curriculum as follows:
- Evaluate, manage, and mitigate risk associated with the acquiring, storage/retention, use, sharing, and disposing of data.
- Identify privacy and data protection issues across various sectors.
- Understand the legal aspects of cyber risks in different business sectors, including legal issues with computer hacking crimes, identity theft, internet fraud, malware and phishing offenses, and civil torts.
- Identify threats to cybersecurity and the necessary compliance frameworks for cybersecurity.
- Communicate effectively about privacy and data protection issues.
- Demonstrate solutions to relevant stakeholders such as customers, end-users, suppliers, vendors, regulatory authorities, and others.
Cybersecurity law school tuition
Law school is by no means a low-cost proposition: the overall earning potential and cultural status associated with being a lawyer commands premium tuition rates.
The following list represents the top 10 best law schools for the 2023-2024 academic year as reported by US News & World Report along with their full-time annual tuition.
- Stanford University – Not listed
- Yale University – $71,425
- University of Chicago – $74,607
- University of Pennsylvania (Carey) – $73,008
- Duke University – $72,632
- Harvard University – $71,734
- New York University – $76,290
- Columbia University – $78,278
- University of Virginia – $68,500
- Northwestern University (Pritzker) – $72,212
Students planning to attend one of the top ten US law schools to earn a J.D. and then an LL.M. in cybersecurity in four years can expect to pay total tuition of over $262,000 on average.
American Bar Association-approved law schools usually require three years of full-time study to earn a J.D. An LL.M. in Cybersecurity degree will take another full year.
As noted on Nerd Wallet, “Most law school scholarships come from law schools themselves to attract the best candidates. But private awards are available, and taking the time to apply could reduce the amount you borrow for your J.D.”
Cybersecurity law career outlook
While not explicitly required for an LL.M. in cybersecurity law degree, many experts recommend that a job applicant have at least a basic knowledge of cybersecurity principles. Taking undergraduate courses in IT and information security is a good investment for aspiring cybersecurity legal professionals.
Obtaining an IT-related certification demonstrates a basic understanding of cybersecurity and computer networks. Studying for the certification will provide students with a conceptual framework of how IT professionals manage security risks and mitigate vulnerabilities.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023) projects that employment in computer and information technology occupations will grow 23 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Research indicates that the global cybersecurity market will increase from $85.3 billion in 2016 to over $187 billion in 2021. A global surge for jobs in the field is expected.
Cybersecurity Ventures predicts there will be 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings by 2021. Many major law firms have begun to establish cybersecurity law practices. Graduates of LL.M. programs will be employable across every industry – both public and private sectors – as consultants, chief security officers for businesses, and government.
Glassdoor says that a chief security officer base pay is $153,000 per year.
The USC Gould School of Law suggests that there are five careers that an LL.M. graduate can pursue. Of those five, Law Firm Partner is most applicable for a cybersecurity concentration.
According to PayScale, the median salary for law firm partners in the United States stands at $179,953. Bonuses and profit-sharing agreements can significantly boost wages to more than $400,000 a year.
Frequently asked questions
A law degree in cybersecurity is a specialized legal education that focuses on the intersection of law and cybersecurity issues. This degree equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate legal challenges in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, such as data breaches, privacy concerns, and regulatory compliance.
The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks have made cybersecurity a top concern for organizations and governments alike. With a law degree in cybersecurity, you’ll be uniquely positioned to address complex legal issues related to cybersecurity, making you a valuable asset in the job market.
Courses in a cybersecurity law program may include Cybersecurity Law and Policy, Data Privacy Law, Intellectual Property Law, and National Security Law, among others. These courses aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape surrounding cybersecurity.
While a technical background can be beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement for most programs. The focus is generally on legal principles and how they apply to cybersecurity, so a strong foundation in law is more important.
Career options are diverse, ranging from cybersecurity legal advisor and compliance officer to roles in government agencies focusing on national security. Some graduates also choose to work in academia or research.
Salaries can vary widely depending on the sector, location, and level of experience. However, specialized legal fields like cybersecurity law often command higher salaries compared to general legal roles.
List of schools offering cybersecurity law degree programs
Albany Law School
Albany, New York
Program: LL.M. Degree in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Cost per credit: $1,915
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Focus on Legal Frameworks: Study the legal aspects of cybersecurity and data privacy, including international laws, regulations, and standards.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical skills through hands-on exercises, simulations, and real-world case studies to address current cybersecurity and data privacy challenges.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from industry experts, experienced lawyers, and cybersecurity professionals who bring real-world insights and knowledge to the program.
American University Washington College of Law
Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: Master of Legal Studies (MLS) with a Specialization in Cybersecurity
Cost per credit: $2,141
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Curriculum covering cybersecurity law and policy
- Hands-on training in digital forensics and incident response
- Opportunity to explore emerging legal issues in data privacy and cybercrime
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OhioProgram: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Cost per credit: $593 in state | $1017 out of state
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Required
Program highlights:- Cutting-edge curriculum covering legal principles and concepts in cybersecurity and data privacy.
- Interactive and hands-on learning experiences to develop practical skills in analyzing and addressing legal issues in cybersecurity and data privacy.
- Opportunities for networking and collaboration with industry professionals and experts in the field.
Columbia University
New York, New YorkProgram: LL.M. Degree in National Security and Privacy
Cost per credit: $3,269
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Learning the Complex World of Law: Students learn to navigate the complex world of national security, business, and privacy laws, preparing to work in the public sector.
- Student Society: The student-run National Security Law Society helps build connections through events and networking opportunities.
- Collaboration with a Military Academy: The program works with the U.S. Military Academy at West Point to offer enriching events and discussions.
Cornell University
Ithaca, New YorkProgram: M.S.L.S. with Cybersecurity: Policy and Governance focus
Cost per credit: $2,070
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Who is it for? Business people who work in areas like making deals, managing risks, and handling employee matters.
- What will you learn? How to use U.S. law language and ideas to help your company face different situations.
- Who will teach you? A group of experienced law professors from Cornell, including Dan Awrey and Celia Bigoness, among others.
DePaul University College of Law
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Intellectual Property Law & Information Technology (LLM)
Cost per credit: $1,688
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Orientation: The program kicks off with an orientation to help you familiarize yourself with the DePaul community and resources.
- Support for International Students: If you're an international student, you'll receive guidance on adapting to the U.S. legal system and improving your legal writing and research skills.
- Program: Offers a rich variety of courses covering different aspects of IP law, providing a well-rounded education in the field.
Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law
Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaProgram: LLM in Cyber Law and Data Privacy
Cost per credit: $1,250
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Online, Hybrid
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Advanced study of cyber law and regulations to understand legal frameworks surrounding data privacy and cybersecurity
- In-depth exploration of emerging legal issues related to data protection, digital rights, and privacy in cyberspace
- Practical application of legal principles through case studies, moot courts, and real-world scenarios to develop expertise in cyber law and data privacy
Duke University
Durham, North CarolinaProgram: Juris Doctor with Technology, Science and Innovation focus
Cost per credit: $852
Number of credits: 87
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Cutting-edge curriculum blending law, technology, science, and innovation
- In-depth study of legal issues in emerging technologies and scientific advancements
- Opportunities to explore commercialization, intellectual property, and policy issues related to innovation
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FloridaProgram: Juris Master in Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Technology Risk Management
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Cost per credit: $688 in state | $1355 out of state
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Open to Everyone: You don't need any previous knowledge in cybersecurity or technology to join.
- Hands-on Experience: The courses offer practical knowledge, including how to respond to cybersecurity breaches and manage intellectual property risks.
- Well-Recognized: Earn a degree from a well-ranked law school and public university.
George Washington University Law School
Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: LLM in National Security & Cybersecurity Law
CAE designation: CAE-R
Cost per credit: $2,450
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- In-depth study of national security and cybersecurity laws
- Critical analysis of legal and policy frameworks in the field
- Practical experience through simulated exercises and case studies
Indiana University Bloomington Maurer School of Law
Bloomington, IndianaProgram: J.D. degree with an M.S. in Cybersecurity Risk Management
Cost per credit: $1076 in state | $1689
Number of credits: 103
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- In-depth coursework in key areas of law such as constitutional law, contracts, and criminal law.
- Specialization in cybersecurity risk management, covering topics like risk assessment, incident response, and legal aspects of cybersecurity.
- Practical hands-on experience through internships and clinics, allowing students to apply legal and cybersecurity knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CaliforniaProgram: Master of Laws (LLM) with a Specialization in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Cost per credit: $2,130
Number of credits: 12
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Integration of legal principles and theories with practical knowledge in areas of cybersecurity and data privacy
- In-depth exploration of emerging issues and challenges in the field of cybersecurity and data privacy
- Hands-on experience through real-world case studies and practical exercises
New York University
New York, New YorkProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Risk and Strategy
CAE designation: CAE-R, CAE-CO, CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $2,917
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Understanding of cybersecurity risk management methodologies and strategies
- Development of skills in designing and implementing secure systems
- Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and tools used in cybersecurity
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FloridaProgram: Juris Doctor (J.D.) with Intellectual Property, Technology, and Cybersecurity Law Concentration
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $1,030
Number of credits: 90
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Top Rankings: The program boasts impressive rankings, including a #7 national rank for its Legal Writing Program and being the best Health Law Program in Florida.
- Trial Advocacy Program: This program has received national acclaim, securing a spot in the top 50 as per U.S. News & World Report.
- Curriculum: The curriculum is comprehensive, encompassing core and secondary subjects, along with practical experiences and service projects.
Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
Columbus, OhioProgram: Master in the Study of Law (M.S.L.) with Intellectual Property and Technology Law concentration
Cost per credit: $1000 in state | $1767 out of state
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Campus, Online, Hybrid
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Optional Courses: Students can choose from a range of courses available in the college’s course catalogue to complete their credit requirements.
- Learning: Students will develop skills in contract review and drafting, and improve legal communication skills.
Santa Clara University School of Law
Santa Clara, CaliforniaProgram: JD/MSIS Combined Degree
Cost per credit: $2,088
Number of credits: 86
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Required
Program highlights:- Dual degree program combining Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)
- Develops expertise in both law and information systems
- Prepares graduates for careers at the intersection of law and technology
Seton Hall University School of Law
Newark, New JerseyProgram: Master of Science in Jurisprudence (MJS) with a Concentration in Privacy Law and Cyber Security
Cost per credit: $1,286
Number of credits: 31
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- In-depth study of privacy laws and regulations to develop expertise in emerging legal issues related to privacy and cybersecurity.
- Examination of the legal and ethical implications of data breaches, identity theft, and cybercrimes to understand the impact on individual rights and organizational responsibility.
- Exploration of cutting-edge strategies and best practices for designing and implementing privacy policies and safeguarding sensitive information in an increasingly digital world.
St. Thomas University School of Law
Miami Gardens, FloridaProgram: LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Cybersecurity Law & Policy
Cost per credit: $1,267
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Cutting-edge curriculum focusing on cyber laws and policies
- Expert faculty with extensive experience in cybersecurity law
- Opportunities for practical application through internships and case studies
Syracuse University College of Law
Syracuse, New YorkProgram: Master of Laws (LL.M.) with National Security Policy & Law concentration
Cost per credit: $2,495
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- In-depth exploration of national security policy and law, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks and policies that govern national security.
- Specialized coursework focusing on the emerging legal challenges in the field of national security, including cybersecurity, counterterrorism, intelligence law, and homeland security.
- Opportunities to engage with leading professionals and experts in the field through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events, enhancing students' understanding of the practical applications of national security policy and law.
Texas A&M University School of Law
Fort Worth, TexasProgram: Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Law and Policy
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
Cost per credit: $989 in state | $1473
Number of credits: 33
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Required
Program highlights:- Cutting-edge curriculum combining law and cybersecurity
- Focus on legal, policy, and ethical considerations in cybersecurity
- Opportunity for hands-on experience through real-world case studies
The University of Miami School of Law
Coral Gables, FloridaProgram: The Business of Innovation, Law, and Technology Concentration: BILT
Cost per credit: $2,350
Number of credits: 26-28
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Courses in intellectual property law and patent law
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with business and engineering students
- Exposure to real-world case studies and emerging legal issues in technology
University of Maryland - Francis King Carey School of Law
Baltimore, MarylandProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Law
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Cost per credit: $923
Number of credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Comprehensive study of cybersecurity laws and regulations
- Critical analysis of legal and ethical issues in cybersecurity
- Practical application of legal frameworks to cybersecurity incidents
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NebraskaProgram: LL.M. in Space, Cyber, and Telecommunications Law
Cost per credit: $1,185
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- LL.M. in Space, Cyber, and Telecommunications Law offers cutting-edge courses in emerging legal fields
- Program emphasizes the intersection of law, technology, and policy in the space, cyber, and telecommunications sectors
- Hands-on learning opportunities through practical assignments, moot court competitions, and internships
University of Southern California (USC) Gould School of Law
Los Angeles, CaliforniaProgram: Master of Laws (LLM) in Privacy Law and Cybersecurity
Cost per credit: $5,096
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Cutting-edge curriculum covering data privacy regulations and cybersecurity
- Opportunity to engage with industry experts and professionals
- Hands-on practical training through real-world case studies
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TexasProgram: LL.M. Program with Cybersecurity Law concentration
Cost per credit: $1322 in state | $1963 out of state
Number of credits: 24
Delivery method: Campus
GRE: Not Required
Program highlights:- Thorough understanding of cybersecurity law and its intersection with technology
- In-depth analysis of the legal frameworks and regulations governing cybersecurity
- Hands-on experience with practical case studies and simulations in cybersecurity law