Cybersecurity Guide

From JD to cyber pro: Your cybersecurity law degree roadmap

Written by Steven Bowcut – Last updated:

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 with 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 experts 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.

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 who 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 who 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 who intend to invest their careers in cybersecurity research or academia.

Best cybersecurity law programs for 2026

  1. Drexel University

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
    Program: LLM in Cyber Law and Data Privacy
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $31,200
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $975
    Credits: 32
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Program: Master of Science in Law and Policy Cybersecurity Law Concentration
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $30,060
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $835
    Credits: 36
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Regent University

    Virginia Beach, Virginia
    Program: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity Law
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $24,352
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $761
    Credits: 32
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  4. George Washington University Law School

    Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: LLM in National Security & Cybersecurity Law
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $63,600
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,650
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  5. St. Mary's University

    San Antonio, Texas
    Program: LL.M. in General Law – Concentration in Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus & Online
    Total tuition: $40,176
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,674
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Florida State University College of Law

    Tallahassee, Florida
    Program: Juris Master in Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Technology Risk Management
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $42,657
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $688 in-state | $1421.89 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Albany Law School

    Albany, New York
    Program: Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $50,664
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,111
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Texas A&M University School of Law

    Fort Worth, Texas
    Program: Master of Legal Studies | Cybersecurity Law & Policy
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $35,009
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,167
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  9. George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School

    Arlington, Virginia
    Program: Juris Master National Security, Cybersecurity, & Information Privacy
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $42,840
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $862 in-state | $1,428 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Ohio State University Moritz College of Law

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Master in the Study of Law (M.S.L.) with Intellectual Property and Technology Law concentration
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $56,235
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $825.19 in-state | $1,874.50 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

These rankings were compiled from data accessed in October 2025 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services of the National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of October 2025.

2025 ranking

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 of its 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 disposal 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 command premium tuition rates.

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.

The Cybersecurity Guide research team also took a look at LL.M. degrees available for cybersecurity.

This is what we found:

$24,352 is the cheapest law degree available and it is from Regent University.

$48,916 is the average cost of an LL.M. program, based on the cost of 22 programs.

$85,368 is the most expensive cybersecurity LL.M. program, and it is available from Columbia University.

Full details are available below in the school listing section.

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 projects that employment in computer and information technology occupations will grow 33 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

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‘s base pay is $289,000 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 $204,166. Bonuses and profit-sharing agreements can significantly boost wages to more than $349K a year.

Frequently asked questions

What is a cybersecurity law degree?

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.

Why should I consider getting a law degree in cybersecurity?

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.

What courses can I expect to take?

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.

Do I need a technical background?

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.

What are the career paths available after graduation?

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.

What is the earning potential?

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

  1. Albany Law School

    Albany, New York
    Program: Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
    Tuition: $2,111
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $50,664
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,111
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  2. American University Washington College of Law

    Washington, DC
    Program: Master of Legal Studies Cybersecurity Specialization
    Tuition: $2,386
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $71,580
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,386
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Boston College Law School

    Newton Centre, Massachusetts
    Program: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity, Risk, and Governance
    Tuition: $2,150
    Delivery method: Campus & Online
    Total tuition: $64,500
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,150
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Cleveland State University College of Law

    Cleveland, Ohio
    Program: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
    Tuition: $1,086
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $32,580
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,082.15 in-state | $1086 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Columbia University

    New York, New York
    Program: LL.M. Degree in National Security and Privacy
    Tuition: $3,557
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $85,368
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $3,557
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Cornell University

    Ithaca, New York
    Program: M.S.L.S. with Cybersecurity: Policy and Governance focus
    Tuition: $2,265
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $67,950
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,265
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Drexel University

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
    Program: LLM in Cyber Law and Data Privacy
    Tuition: $975
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $31,200
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $975
    Credits: 32
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Florida State University College of Law

    Tallahassee, FL
    Program: Juris Master in Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Technology Risk Management
    Tuition: $1,422
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $42,657
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $688 in-state | $1421.89 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  9. George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School

    Arlington, Virginia
    Program: Juris Master National Security, Cybersecurity, & Information Privacy
    Tuition: $1,428
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $42,840
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $862 in-state | $1,428 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  10. George Washington University Law School

    Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: LLM in National Security & Cybersecurity Law
    Tuition: $2,650
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $63,600
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,650
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Loyola Law School, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles, California
    Program: Master of Laws (LLM) with a Specialization in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
    Tuition: $2,310
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $55,440
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,310
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale, FL
    Program: Master of Science in Law and Policy Cybersecurity Law Concentration
    Tuition: $835
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $30,060
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $835
    Credits: 36
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Ohio State University Moritz College of Law

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Master in the Study of Law (M.S.L.) with Intellectual Property and Technology Law concentration
    Tuition: $1,875
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $56,235
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $825.19 in-state | $1,874.50 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Regent University

    Virginia Beach, Virginia
    Program: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity Law
    Tuition: $761
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $24,352
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $761
    Credits: 32
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Seattle University School of Law

    Seattle, Washington
    Program: Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity Compliance
    Tuition: $1,535
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $46,050
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,535
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Seton Hall Law School

    Newark, NJ
    Program: MLS - Privacy Law and Cyber Security
    Tuition: $1,530
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $47,430
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,530
    Credits: 31
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  17. St. Mary's University

    San Antonio, Texas
    Program: LL.M. in General Law – Concentration in Cybersecurity
    Tuition: $1,674
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus & Online
    Total tuition: $40,176
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,674
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Texas A&M University School of Law

    Fort Worth, Texas
    Program: Master of Legal Studies | Cybersecurity Law & Policy
    Tuition: $1,167
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $35,009
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,167
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  19. University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law

    Baltimore, MD
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Law
    Tuition: $979
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $29,370
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $979
    Credits: 30
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  20. University of Nebraska–Lincoln

    Lincoln, NE
    Program: LL.M in Space, Cyber, and National Security Law
    Tuition: $1,766
    Delivery method: Campus & Online
    Total tuition: $42,384
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,766
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  21. University of Southern California (USC) Gould School of Law

    Los Angeles, California
    Program: Master of Laws in Privacy Law and Cybersecurity
    Tuition: $2,801
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $67,224
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $2,801
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details

  22. University of Texas at Austin

    Austin, Texas
    Program: Cybersecurity Law
    Tuition: $2,062
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $49,490
    2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,387.6 in-state | $2,062.08 out-of-state
    Credits: 24
    GRE requirement: Not Required
    Learn more: Program details