Alexis Bernard’s decision to pursue a career in the dynamic cyberpsychology field is inspirational. Her pursuit of an online Master of Science in Cyberpsychology degree from Norfolk State
University is empowering her to expand her impact. Upon earning her degree at the end of 2024, she will pursue policy-making roles and continue to pass along essential opportunities and diverse perspectives to others, especially women of color.
The Ideal Degree Program
Alexis had been working as a cybersecurity marketing analyst when she decided to enroll in the cyberpsychology degree program. Her goal was to transition into higher-level technology roles more aligned with her creative interests in art, gaming and social sciences. She said: “I did have experience in cybersecurity, but I wanted to gain the experience necessary to progress within the field.”
She was pleased to learn about the Norfolk State cyberpsychology program, one of the first of its kind offered in the United States. The unique program prepares professionals to study how technology affects the human mind. Alexis knew this field was the “happy medium” between her creative and analytical interests. Not only did the curriculum match her career goals, but the 100 percent online courses gave Alexis the flexibility to study at her convenience.
Alexis also appreciated the support from faculty and classmates. “Norfolk State University has been tremendously helpful in my journey. Professors are always respectful of our personal lives,” she said. “I’ve been able to engage in discussion boards. We talk about various subjects, our experiences, what we hope to see moving forward in the technology field and how we hope to apply the skills we’ve learned.”
A Worthwhile Investment
Alexis was thrilled with the career-focused coursework that prepared her for a new career in the high-growth cyberpsychology industry. The program empowered her to apply her learning in real-world case studies and engage with prominent brands, giving her a head start for transitioning into leadership.
Soon after enrolling, Alexis was given her first opportunity to investigate in a cyberpsychology laboratory. “I studied with one of my professors. It was a hands-on, eye-tracking experiment. That gave me a better understanding of how to apply my degree once I graduated,” she said.
During class projects, Alexis also met with some notable representatives. “I engaged in a roundtable discussion with the National Cyber Director. I told him about my experience within this program. He was very encouraging. I also had the opportunity to connect with a Netflix recruiter. They reviewed my portfolio and gave me feedback. Being able to connect with Netflix was one of my biggest dreams. And I was able to do that.”
Since starting the program, Alexis has begun stepping into the role of a cyberpsychology industry leader by attending roundtables, forums and panels where she is able to encourage other interested professionals and mentor young future cyberpsychologists. She said: “It feels rewarding to be a face that people can recognize within the community. When I first started in the technology industry, I didn’t see many people that looked like me, a Black woman. I’m able to educate others about cyber etiquette. I hope to change the narrative about who can be a part of the technology industry.” She plans to continue mentoring future students who aspire to work in this new discipline.
With that goal in mind, she has decided to pursue opportunities in tech policy. “I am trying to be a pioneer in this field. I’ve researched how the technology industry has evolved, specifically within the last 10 years, with the introduction of AI and virtual reality. I have launched my own brand, focusing on being a liaison between cyberpsychology and cyber law.”
With her Master of Science in Cyberpsychology, Alexis is excited and confident about her professional future. “This degree will set me apart from anyone else in technology. I’m happy I’ve been able to blossom as a student, step into a leadership role and take advantage of opportunities that I would have never dreamed of.” She is sure that her choice to gain this advanced degree was worth the time and money spent. She said, “I’ve already seen the return on investment.”
Set New Trends for How People Interact with Technology
Contribute to original research with the 100 percent online Master of Science in Cyberpsychology program from Norfolk State University. This affordable program is one of the first in the United States designed to prepare the next generation to study the connections between technology and human behavior.
The curriculum will deepen your understanding of the psychological processes related to cyberactivism, cyberbullying, cybercrime, digital health, gaming and more. Through the accelerated coursework you will develop your ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research experiments to determine how media, virtuality, cyberspace and other digital environments affect consumers and humans in general. Learn to use psychology methods so you can make ethical decisions about how emerging technologies should be implemented.
As a graduate student, you will spend significant time conducting original research focused on the growing digital presence and its impact on human behavior. With the support of experienced faculty members, you will spearhead new discoveries that will form the foundation for this burgeoning field. Take advantage of multiple start date choices and pay-by-the-course tuition to continue working while gaining advanced credentials. Apply new learning immediately through opportunities for hands-on learning, exclusive networking and meaningful research.
As a graduate of this program, you will be prepared to pursue roles such as:
• Clinical Research Manager
• Social Science Researcher
• Cyberpsychology Consultant
• Social Media Manager
Learn more about the online master’s in cyberpsychology program.
NSU offers a broad range of online technology programs that can help you develop mastery of cutting-edge skills for today’s digital environment. View our tech program options and choose the graduate degree or certificate that best matches your career goals.