Cybersecurity
BSc • BA • International iBSc / iBA • Dual Degree pathways
Protect the systems modern life depends on
Entry in:
Fall, Winter or Summer
Cybersecurity with AI integration
Navigate modern, AI-driven security challenges using intelligent, adaptive solutions.
Tackle real challenges
Gain hands-on experience through labs, workshops, co-op placements and hackathons.
Launch your career
Connect with leading employers and gain the skills to thrive in high-demand cybersecurity roles.
Program overview
Cybersecurity is an integral part of daily life and the modern economy. Banks, transportation, electrical grids, hospitals and schools rely on security to function safely. Security is essential in designing new software and systems such as delivery drones, self-driving cars, social networks, streaming platforms and mobile apps. As these systems become smarter, AI is transforming how they operate and are protected, increasing the need for skilled, forward-thinking professionals.
A degree in Cybersecurity provides you with a skillset to kick-start your career as a leading expert in protecting these infrastructures. You’ll learn how to assess the cybersecurity risk and mitigate possible security threats in software, networks, databases, Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices and other computer systems. You will also explore how AI is shaping cybersecurity through faster threat detection, automated responses, and smarter, more resilient systems.
At the end of the program, you will develop an advanced understanding of computer science and software engineering topics with an emphasis on building secure systems.
We offer both BA and BSc degrees, which share the same computer science and math requirements.
What makes this program different
Integrating AI into modern solutions
The Cybersecurity program integrates AI into both defensive and practical learning experiences, preparing students to address emerging challenges in AI-driven systems. Students explore how AI enhances threat detection, automates responses and secures complex infrastructures, while also learning to anticipate and mitigate AI-related vulnerabilities.
Opportunities outside of the classroom
Build research skills through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council Undergraduate Student Research Awards (NSERC USRA), the Lassonde Undergraduate Research Award (LURA) and Research at York (RAY). Participate in hackathons, YSpace Lassonde and develop job-ready skills through workshops and sessions with the Cyber Security & Cloud Computing @ York University club.
Exclusive industry events & workshops
Students recently dived into a hands-on Tech Talk with RBC, tackling challenges in financial services, IoT, smart grids, telehealth and digital wallets. Collaborating with industry experts, they designed secure systems and planned incident responses, gaining the skills and confidence to thrive in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity.
Hands-on learning & lab experiences
Vulnerability management
Learn to identify and fix real-world security vulnerabilities in systems and applications.
Cryptography
Study the mathematical foundations of modern encryption and secure communication.
Network & web security
Understand how networks operate and how attackers exploit weaknesses in online systems.
Systems & database security
Protect operating systems and databases that store sensitive information.
Pen testing & threat detection
Learn how security professionals identify vulnerabilities and detect cyber attacks.
Malware analysis
Explore how malicious software operates and how it can be detected and prevented.
“Lassonde provided a solid foundation in security principles which helped me understand the theory behind the tools and concepts and made it easier for me to apply them in real world scenarios.”
– Valeria Chazmava, Cybersecurity student
Work & learn
Gain industry experience with paid work terms
Students have access to paid co-op and industry-connected learning opportunities across technology, finance, consulting and the public sector. These experiences build confidence, professional skills and clarity about future directions.
Some students may also explore industry partnership options, where learning connects closely to real workplace environments throughout the degree. Learn more about co-op
Learn from exceptional faculty
Cybersecurity students learn from faculty shaping the future of digital security. Learn from experts like Navid Mohaghegh, who helped build Canada’s national proof-of-vaccine system and secure industrial platforms for CN Rail. Students gain hands-on experience with AI-driven threat detection, post-quantum cryptography and privacy-preserving systems, preparing them to address real-world challenges in government and industry.
Research is part of everyday learning here. Through hands-on projects, research opportunities and close mentorship, students work alongside faculty who are building and studying real systems.
Industry connections
At Lassonde, we are always expanding partnerships to give students more hands-on opportunities and direct exposure to leading employers. Our Cyber Security program connects students with top organizations such as:
- Beyond Media
- CIBC
- Interac Corp
- University of Twenty (Holland)
- Toyota
Designed for you
Degree options
BSc in Cybersecurity
Dive deeper into the science behind technology. Pair your core computer science and math foundation with studies in biology, chemistry and physics to develop a strong analytical and technical edge.
BA in Cybersecurity
Blend technical expertise with a broader perspective. Alongside core computer science and math, explore psychology, communication, history and languages, building critical thinking and real-world insight that sets you apart.
Your future career in Cybersecurity
Graduates move into roles such as:
Hands-on learning & lab experiences
Security engineer
Designs and implements security systems to protect computers, networks and data from cyber threats.
Chief security officer
Leads an organization’s overall security strategy, protecting systems, data and operations from cyber and physical threats.
Cybersecurity analyst
Identifies, analyzes, and responds to cyber threats to protect digital systems and sensitive data.
Information security analyst
Develops and enforces security policies to safeguard an organization’s information and technology assets.
Network security engineer
Builds and maintains secure network infrastructures to prevent unauthorized access and cyber attacks.
Systems designer
Plans and designs complex computer systems by defining their structure, components and interactions.
Course details
Sample first year schedules
Cybersecurity BSc & BA
Year One Common Core
• Class • Lab • Tutorial
Mon
Introduction to Computing: A Net-centric Approach
Physics with Life Science Applications 1
Applied Linear Algebra
Research Directions in Computing
Tues
Differential Calculus with Applications
Physics with Life Science Applications 1
Differential Calculus with Applications
Introduction to Statistics
Wed
Physics with Life Science Applications 1
Applied Linear Algebra
Thurs
Differential Calculus with Applications
Introduction to Computing: A Net-centric Approach
Introduction to Statistics
Fri
Physics with Life Science Applications 1
Applied Linear Algebra
Application and admissions info
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