Cybersecurity has been taking over the world, especially in recent years.
Nowadays, in the digital era, nearly every company or organization requires cybersecurity experts.
That means that, by opting for this particular degree option, you will have a huge pool of opportunities to choose from.
Although this field of education is quite difficult and requires extensive knowledge, it is still possible to earn a diploma in up to four years and start your professional journey.
Moreover, the salaries for cybersecurity experts are insanely high, so that is another great incentive for pursuing this career.
Below you’ll find the top 10 online schools for earning a degree in Cybersecurity.
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is situated in Phoenix, Arizona, and it’s considered to be one of the best Christian universities in the area.
This university offers a notable online degree program in the field of cybersecurity which follows all the latest industry standards.
The curriculum is taught fully online and it was designed to equip students will relevant knowledge needed to succeed in this industry.
Among others, the Grand Canyon University offers the following courses:
- Cyber Forensic Investigation
- IT Business Case Planning for Global Enterprises
Prospective graduates will be able to obtain a diploma within four years.
There is also an accelerated format that allows students to earn their degree even sooner.
Official WebsiteChamplain College
Champlain College is a reputable name in the online education industry.
It offers an amazing Bachelor’s degree program in Cybersecurity that has six start dates every academic year.
The material is presented by seasoned industry professionals and it includes various cybersecurity courses, professional courses, as well as general education classes.
This degree option has also received accreditation.
Official WebsiteBellevue University
Bellevue University is yet another famous name when it comes to online education.
They have a very popular online degree program in the field of Cybersecurity, which aims to prepare students for a successful future in the IT industry.
Students will learn to identify, mitigate, and analyze various cybersecurity risks using state-of-the-art tools and techniques.
This university is recognized by the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the National Security Agency as a National Center of Academic Excellence in this particular area of expertise.
Official WebsitePenn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus has a very long tradition of producing successful industry experts.
This school features a well-rounded online degree program in Security and Risk Analysis which covers the following topics:
- Information
- Security
- Technology
This educational facility is one of the leaders in the online education industry and it has an amazing faculty that is comprised of knowledgeable experts in areas such as computer science, artificial intelligence, psychology, engineering, etc.
Official WebsiteKennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University is situated in Georgia and it has a brand-new online degree option in the field of Cybersecurity.
This particular degree program focuses on all tech-savvy and security aspects of the industry, making it very useful for prospective IT experts.
By attending this course, students will get an opportunity to develop their skills, understand the business side of cybersecurity, and to be aware and knowledgeable on different cybercrime issues.
Official WebsiteWestern Governors University
Western Governor University features a popular degree option in the field of Cybersecurity and Information Assurance.
The curriculum was designed with the help from leading cybersecurity experts, making it very current and useful.
Another benefit lies in the fact that the school’s program meets the guidelines set by the Department of Homeland Security, as well as the National Security Agency.
The faculty encourages hands-on, experiential learning, combined with relevant theoretical knowledge, making this degree option one of the most well-rounded on the list.
Among others, students will learn about the following topics:
- Data Management
- Systems and Services
- Networking
- Security
- IT Business
- Scripting
- Programming
Upon completion, prospective graduates will be fully capable to become a part of the workforce.
Official WebsiteMercy College
Mercy University is perfect for individuals who’d like to obtain a diploma in Cybersecurity.
This school was named as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency, as well as the Department of Homeland Security.
To graduate, students will have to complete 120 credit hours in following courses:
- Computing, Statistics
- Discrete Structures
- Program Administration
- Cybersecurity
- Disaster Recovery
- Computer Network
- Database Management
- Ethical Hacking
- Computer Network, and System Security
- Forensic/Electronic Discovery
Upon completion, prospective graduates will have learned to properly test, install, configure, and evaluate cybersecurity software and technologies.
Official WebsiteFranklin University
Franklin University offers a wide variety of online degree programs, including the Cybersecurity degree option as well.
This university has been around for over a hundred years and it has received accreditation thanks to its academic excellence.
By attending this program, students will get an opportunity to learn about the ever-evolving world of data breaches and ways on how to solve and prevent them.
To obtain a diploma, prospective graduates will have to complete 124 credit hours.
Official WebsiteNorwich University
Norwich University is perfectly suited for individuals who have to balance their work with education because their curriculum is very flexible.
They offer a notable degree program in the field of Cybersecurity which is delivered fully online.
By attending this course, students will receive premium knowledge on various aspects of cybersecurity, as well as improve their critical thinking, communication, research, and analysis skills.
Students will also be able to customize their program by opting for a concentration in forensics and vulnerability management or information warfare and security management.
Official WebsiteRoger Williams University
Roger Williams University offers a unique online degree program in Cybersecurity and Networking that has been created and developed by seasoned industry professionals.
By attending this university, students will improve and obtain a wide range of skills, including the following:
- Networking
- Telecommunication
- Computer Security
- Digital Forensics
- General Networking
- Security Auditing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much do tuition fees cost for an online degree in Cybersecurity?
Online learning has become a widely recognized alternative to traditional university education.
It is usually much cheaper than traditional universities and the prices depend on several factors.
Some universities charge higher prices to out-of-state students, while some have a flat tuition rate that isn’t dependent on residency.
Another factor to consider is the technology fee that applies to online students as well.
In general, to complete 120-126 credit hours usually takes up to four years.
An average cost per credit hour may range anywhere from $300-500.
In total, students will be obliged to pay anywhere from $23,000-61,000 for a full ride.
Q. Which jobs can I seek with a degree in Cybersecurity?
In recent years, the demand for cybersecurity experts has grown significantly.
According to a study done by the Center for Cyber Safety and Education, there is a shortage of cybersecurity expert that is expected to reach 1.8 million in 2022.
Having a diploma in Cybersecurity means that you will be equipped with relevant technical and business knowledge in various areas, including programming, databases, statistics, etc.
Degree holders also have an opportunity to broaden their expertise to AI, cryptography, or ethical hacking.
There is an abundance of job positions that one can find.
Graduates will be able to work with governments, military, private corporations, hospitals, or any other business.
These are the most common job titles cybersecurity majors have:
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Computer Forensic Analyst
Moreover, a lot of graduates often opt for working as network engineers, administrators, or security auditors, while others opt for working with law enforcement or private companies.
Q. How much money do cybersecurity professionals make?
The salary depends on multiple factors, including experience, education, and promotions.
On average, an analyst that works in the private sector makes anywhere from $70,000-120,000 per year.
Information security analysts that have a bachelor’s degree and less than five years of practical experience can expect to earn around $95,510 per year.
Final Thoughts
Many universities offer Cybersecurity education, however, not all of them are top-notch.
We have compiled a list of top ten universities that have been accredited by respective bodies, which further proves their quality.
Once you earn your degree, you will be able to work in virtually any industry, because everyone is in need of cybersecurity experts.
Although the journey might be exhausting, tough, and time-consuming, remember that, once you graduate, you will have a fruitful career, a great salary, and a dynamic workplace.