TL;DR: Mastercard and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have initiated the NTU-Mastercard FlexiMasters in Cybersecurity & Digital Trust to address the growing threat of cybercrime. This program, part of the Mastercard-NTU Joint Lab, focuses on the Asia Pacific region, aiming to strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem. Tailored for mid-career professionals, it is the first part-time FlexiMasters program in cybersecurity within NTU’s portfolio. Mastercard’s involvement, including real-world insights and expertise, contributes to shaping the program’s practical applications.

Mastercard and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have introduced the NTU-Mastercard FlexiMasters in Cybersecurity & Digital Trust, a collaborative initiative to combat the escalating challenge of cybercrime. This program, representing the first milestone of the Mastercard-NTU Joint Lab, is strategically focused on strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem in the Asia Pacific region.

Addressing the Cybersecurity Challenge in Asia Pacific

With a 16% YoY increase in cyber attacks and identified skills gaps in cyber threat intelligence, the FlexiMasters program aims to equip mid-career professionals with cybersecurity expertise. Digital trust, recognized as crucial for Singapore’s digital economy, is a key focus.

Tailored for Mid-Career Professionals

The FlexiMasters program is designed specifically for mid-career professionals, allowing them to pursue cybersecurity education part-time, accommodating existing work or family commitments. This unique offering is open to professionals from all backgrounds, fostering a diverse pool of cybersecurity talent and providing opportunities for career switches.

Mastercard’s Commitment to Cybersecurity

Mastercard’s involvement goes beyond traditional roles, marking its first engagement in the development and co-delivery of a Master’s level program. Leveraging its global knowledge and insights, Mastercard contributes to shaping the program’s curriculum, seamlessly integrating real-world applications. The program aligns with Mastercard’s broader commitment to supporting the Asia Pacific region’s cybersecurity efforts.

Experienced NTU faculty members, in collaboration with Mastercard’s global in-house experts, will deliver the program’s curriculum. Mastercard experts will conduct nine modules during the inaugural run, simultaneously training NTU’s faculty for subsequent program iterations.

Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How, Ministry of Communications and Information, emphasized the importance of industry-academia collaborations to equip professionals with relevant skills in advanced areas of Cyber Threat Intelligence and Digital Trust.

He said: “Securing Singapore’s digital ecosystem is crucial to our security and economy. At the same time, the cybersecurity sector provides exciting career opportunities for Singaporeans. Therefore, I am heartened to see private sector firms working closely with our Institutes of Higher Learning to equip our professionals with industry relevant skills, especially in advanced areas of Cyber Threat Intelligence and Digital Trust. I look forward to more of such industry-academia collaborations to open up more pathways for Singaporeans interested in a career in cybersecurity.”

Towards a Secure and Resilient Digital Future

This collaborative effort aligns with NTU’s NTU2025 strategic plan, promoting lifelong learning and addressing key educational pillars. The program’s launch signifies a significant stride toward a more secure and resilient digital future in the Asia Pacific region.