Best Online Cybersecurity Programs
Best Online Cybersecurity Programs In Online Cyber Security Degrees
#1
Spring Arbor University
Bachelor of Professional Studies with a Major in Cybersecurity
Hands-on curriculum | 120 credits required | No SAT or ACT required
Doctor of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics
45 credit program | Cohort format, Saturday classes | GRE or GMAT not mentioned
#2
University of South Florida
Master of Science in Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security
Master of Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
Technical-analytic curriculum | Proactive defense strategies | No GRE or GMAT required
MBA
Cybersecurity
Information Security Management | Business Continuity | No GRE or GMAT mentioned
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Technical foundation | Cyber operations | No specific mention
#3
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Cybersecurity, BS
Certificate in Information Security
Comprehensive academic perspective | Information technology policy | No SAT or ACT required
PhD in Computer Science
Science
World-class curriculum | Security research focus | No GRE/GMAT mention
#4
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity
Combines technical and business skills | 30 total credits, 10 courses | No GRE or GMAT required
#5
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Cybersecurity, MS
Cybersecurity Management Graduate Certificate
Global Approach | Risk Management | GRE/GMAT not required
Cybersecurity, MS
Information Security and Cyber Leadership MS
Technical and Social Skills | Flexible Online Format | GRE/GMAT not mentioned
#6
Florida International University
Cybersecurity, MS
MBA in Cybersecurity Risk Management
STEM-designated | 16-month duration | No GRE or GMAT mentioned
Cybersecurity, BS
120 semester credit hours | Multiple Cybersecurity Concentrations | No specific SAT or ACT requirement mentioned
Cybersecurity, BS
Multiple Cybersecurity Concentrations
CAE-CD certification eligible | STEM strategic emphasis | No specific SAT or ACT requirement mentioned
#7
University of San Diego
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
20 months duration | National Center of Excellence | No GRE or GMAT mentioned
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership
Leadership skills | National Center of Excellence | No GRE or GMAT mentioned
#8
Cedarville University
Cybersecurity, MBA
Cybersecurity Management
Accredited by ACBSP | Flexible seven-week terms | No GRE or GMAT required
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Cyber Operations specialization
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations
NSA Center of Excellence | Hands-on lab experiences | No specific mention of SAT or ACT
#9
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Cybersecurity, MS
BS in Computer Science - Cybersecurity focus
Flexible curriculum | 8-week sessions | No GRE or GMAT required
BS in Computer Science - Cybersecurity focus
120 credit hours | CAE-CD accredited | ACT/SAT required
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Cybersecurity focus
High quality research | Significant dissertation | GRE not mentioned
#10
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cyber Security
Protecting information systems | 30-hour graduate-level | GRE not explicitly required
Want to know how we came up with our rankings? Take a look at our methodology!
Online Cybersecurity Degree Options
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
Overview: An associate degree in cybersecurity is the first step towards a rewarding career in a growing and important industry. Associate degree programs can last anywhere from one year to two years and are designed to help students get baseline exposure to the cybersecurity industry and prepare to take industry certification exams.
-
Duration: Typically 1 - 2 Years
-
Requirements: Prospective students need to have obtained a high school diploma, taken the prerequisite math and science courses (the exact prerequisites will depend on the individual program) and be proficient in English.
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
Overview: A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is often considered a necessity for entry into the cybersecurity profession. Because of the technical nature of cybersecurity, companies, and organizations hiring for cybersecurity positions often (but not always) look for applicants holding a cybersecurity degree, or a degree in a closely related field.
-
Duration: Typically 4 Years
-
Requirements: Like other undergraduate degree programs, most undergraduate cybersecurity schools require a high school diploma or a GED.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
Overview: A master’s degree in cybersecurity is a great option for students with a related undergraduate degree (such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics) who are looking to develop specific expertise and connections to take advantage of the massive opportunities unfolding in the cybersecurity space.
-
Duration: A master’s degree in cybersecurity usually requires 60 hours of study and can be tailored to specific interests.
-
Requirements: Some schools use common applications, while others require specialized admission requirements. Most often, students are expected to compile the GRE/GMAT test scores, letters of recommendation, and transcripts showing successful completion of undergraduate work, including any of the prerequisite courses in science, math, or technology.
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
Overview: Like other cybersecurity degree programs, there has also been an evolution in cybersecurity PhD programs. With increased flexibility and more options to study across disciplines, cybersecurity PhD programs have never been more attractive to students looking to refine their expertise.
-
Duration: Typically 1 - 2 Years
-
Requirements: Specific degree requirements will vary by program. All undergraduate and graduate transcripts, GRE scores, A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest, Letters of reference, Application fee, Online application, A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments
Certificates in Cybersecurity
At a Glance-
Overview: Certification is an important facet of the cybersecurity industry. The kinds of certifications that exist can be broken down into two general categories. There are academic certification programs, which are designed to help professionals who already have degrees or work experience sharpen cybersecurity skills.
-
Duration: Typically 3 - 6 Months
-
Requirements: Specific degree requirements will vary by program. All undergraduate and graduate transcripts, GRE scores, A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest, Letters of reference, Application fee, Online application, A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments
Cybersecurity Bootcamps
At a Glance-
Overview: As cyber threats increase, more trained employees are needed to protect businesses and critical IT infrastructure. Bootcamps are designed to fill the need for qualified employees quickly. While bootcamps provide students with the fundamental skills and knowledge to join the workforce as cybersecurity professionals, they do not include general education or elective courses.
-
Duration: Typically 6 Months - 1 Year
-
Requirements: Specific degree requirements will vary by program. All undergraduate and graduate transcripts, GRE scores, A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest, Letters of reference, Application fee, Online application, A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments
Pros vs. Cons of Online Cybersecurity Degrees
When considering an online cybersecurity degree, the pros and cons should be weighed. First of all, flexibility is a major advantage. You can study at your own pace and in your own time and it won’t be a problem if you have a job or other responsibilities that you need to balance. Additionally, online programs provide the ability to access a wider variety of materials and also the chance to network with professionals globally.
But there are cons as well. Online learning requires a lot of motivation and will power since you don’t have a physical class to go to, which can make you more likely to put off the work. You will also miss out on hands on lab work and personal interactions since this is an industry that is more hands on than theory. In addition, all employers do not consider online degrees as equal; therefore, it is important to select a good program. By weighing these factors properly, you will be able to make a decision that suits your purpose for pursuing a career.
Fast & Shortest Online Cybersecurity Degrees
If you are wanting to get fast and affordable online cybersecurity degrees then there are several options that can help you get started in your career without having to spend a lot of money. Associate and bachelor’s degrees are available at many community colleges and online universities and can be completed in as little as one to two years. These programs are often designed for flexibility, allowing you to study while working or handling other responsibilities.
Affordable Degrees
Also important is affordability. Financial aid, scholarships or tuition discounts for online students are what you should look for in schools. Some programs also enable you to transfer credits from previous learning, which will accelerate your graduation. It is also important to verify that the program is accredited and is well perceived in the industry as this will determine how well you will be placed in the job market after graduation. So, picking the right program, you will be able to acquire useful skills and recognition quickly and move towards the growth in the field of cybersecurity.