When a digital disaster strikes, organizations want someone who understands what happened and someone who can clearly articulate the road to recovery.
Cybersecurity is increasingly becoming a vital consideration for every organization, particularly as generative artificial intelligence continues to evolve and impact every facet of businesses and public organizations.
In response, Humber’s new Master of Computer Science – Cybersecurity Operations and Management program was designed in collaboration with industry partners and the program addresses some of today’s most urgent challenges: a global cybersecurity workforce shortage projected to exceed 3.5 million unfilled positions.
“Humber is committed to tackling Canada’s productivity crisis by building our nation’s cybersecurity leadership, ensuring organizations can operate securely, safeguard innovation, and enhance the resilience of our economy,” said Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO, Humber Polytechnic. “This innovative credential further establishes Humber as a national leader in applied graduate education and marks another milestone in the Ontario government’s initiative to allow colleges and polytechnics to deliver Master’s level education in specialized and high-demand fields of study.”
Unlike traditional Master’s programs, Humber’s applied model ensures all research and scholarly activities are linked to real-world challenges. The curriculum blends advanced technical training with strategic leadership development.
Francis Syms, associate dean for the program, says the program focuses on integrating cybersecurity with AI, and embedding operations management to equip students with the leadership and communications skills required for executive level roles in the field.
“In the event of a ransomware attack, organizations need more than just technical expertise — they need cybersecurity professionals who can lead breach investigations, manage legal and reputational risks, and communicate clearly with stakeholders,” says Syms. “This degree is designed to equip students with that executive-level acumen. It’s like an MBA for cybersecurity professionals — combining deep technical knowledge with the operational, legal, and leadership skills needed in today’s boardrooms.”
Launching in Fall 2026, the two-year, four-semester program culminates in a capstone Applied Research Industry Project. Over the course of more than 300 hours, students will work alongside industry mentors and faculty advisors to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges facing sectors from financial services and health care to energy, government, and telecommunications.
The degree will be delivered in Humber’s Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation, home to a state-of-the-art Digital Technology Hub featuring a dedicated data centre, cyber range capabilities, and specialized penetration equipment.
“Humber Polytechnic’s new Master of Computer Science in Cybersecurity Operations and Management is an important development for the cybersecurity industry in Canada,” said Imran Ahmad, partner at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP, co-head of Cybersecurity and Privacy. “This program will develop the highly skilled talent needed to strengthen the cyber resiliency of Canadian organizations through the development of specialized skills.”
More information can be found by visiting the Master of Computer Science – Cybersecurity Operations and Management webpage.
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