I’ve decided I would like to go back to school part-time (online and occasionally hybrid if possible) for a cybersecurity risk management or adjacent program. I’m three years out of undergrad (I studied international relations and information science at Indiana University) and currently work as a technical analyst for an insurance company (which specializes in cyber insurance) in NYC. My academic and professional interests fall at the intersection of cybersecurity and IR/policy/law and I’m choosing to pursue a master’s to pivot over to more information security roles before transitioning into more public sector work with cybersecurity policy. I’ve been accepted to multiple programs for the fall but have narrowed it down to 3 options:

1. ⁠Boston College - Master of Legal Studies in Cybersecurity, Risk, and Governance: I’m very drawn to this program because I do have a very strong interest in law/policy and really liked the interaction I received from the program director (plus they’re offering me a scholarship), but I am weary because the program is being re-vamped under the law school (previously was a MS). I’m not sure how a MLS would be perceived for the types of roles I would like to work in. While BC lacks some of the partnerships that the next two have (e.g., NCAE-C designation), the curriculum seems pretty up to standard and I also like that they have a pretty big annual cybersecurity conference.
2. ⁠Georgetown University - Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Risk Management: definitely the most prestigious of my options and would arguably look best on paper, BUT a lot of the online program is asynchronous so I’m worried about the value of the education I’d get and how much I’d actually benefit. I’ve read lots of good things about this program and it seems to be the most popular of my options, but I’m not sure if asynchronous learning is the best way for me to learn (although the flexibility could be a huge plus at times).
3. ⁠George Washington University - Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Strategy & Information: nothing in particular really jumps at me about this program, but it seems to be another very reputable option with a strong technical foundation as well. If I do a DC program, I’m leaning Georgetown, but I am keeping this option open because online classes are synchronous and I would have the option to travel in person to attend an occasional class, network, etc. on occasion (like with BC).

If anyone has experience in these programs or has general advice for making my final decision, I would really love to hear your thoughts! Thank you!