Online Cybersecurity Programs In North Carolina
There are several universities in North Carolina that offer quality online cybersecurity degree programs, some of which include North Carolina State University and UNC Charlotte. Some of the topics that are well covered in these institutions include network security, threat management and digital forensics among others. These programs are convenient and can be arranged in a way that you will be able to learn at your own pace all while tending to other responsibilities.
There are certificates, bachelor and master degree programs and you can find one that will help you meet your objectives. Some of the courses contain practical labs and actual projects which help the student to be well prepared for this field. Financial aid and scholarships might be available to assist with the costs, so make sure to check on that.
North Carolina is also known to have a strong technological sector and this therefore creates more job opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. This means that you can still have a look at these opportunities while a student, preparing yourself and interacting with people who can help you in the future.
Selecting an online program in North Carolina will expose you to a team of professionals and fellow students who are equally passionate about cybersecurity as you are. Therefore, it is a good time to enhance your skills and prepare for the future career in the field of cybersecurity as the demand for cybersecurity experts is ever increasing.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in North Carolina
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC - Public 4-Year - uncfsu.edu
Bachelor's - Cyber Security (BS)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fayetteville State University's hybrid Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students for high-demand technology careers through comprehensive digital protection and network security training. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical expertise in areas like penetration testing and digital forensics. As a bachelor's level program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. In-state students benefit from affordable $500 per semester tuition through NC Promise. This innovative program addresses the 3.4 million global cybersecurity workforce gap with multiple career paths in information security.
- First fully online BS Cybersecurity in UNC system
- 3.4 million global cybersecurity workforce gap
- Multiple career paths in digital security
Master's - Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Concentration: Cyber Security Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fayetteville State University's online MBA with a Cyber Security Management concentration provides advanced business leadership training tailored for professionals. This AACSB-accredited program features flexible 8 or 16-week course formats, with 93% online coursework enabling students to balance work and life commitments. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge cybersecurity management principles with real-world problem-solving skills. As a master's level program, entrance exams are required unless explicitly waived. Ranked #3 in North Carolina, this program offers exceptional value and career advancement opportunities in the growing cybersecurity field.
- Online MBA with Cybersecurity Management concentration
- Flexible 8 or 16-week course formats
- AACSB and SACS accredited program
Master's - Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fayetteville State University offers an online MBA program with a Cybersecurity Management concentration designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. The program provides flexible online and on-campus learning options, with 93% of students accessing courses remotely. Featuring AACSB accreditation and affordable tuition, the curriculum prepares leaders for modern technological challenges in cybersecurity. As a master's level program, entrance exams are required unless explicitly stated otherwise. The program accommodates working professionals and military personnel through adaptable course formats.
- AACSB accredited cyber security MBA concentration
- Flexible online and on-campus learning options
- Designed for working professionals and military personnel
Graduate Certificate - Cyber Security Management Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fayetteville State University's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management equips professionals with advanced skills to protect digital infrastructures through a comprehensive 12-credit program. The certificate focuses on security planning, intrusion detection, incident analysis, and cybersecurity best practices. Designed for working professionals and career changers, it requires a 2.75 undergraduate GPA and offers a pathway to enhance cybersecurity expertise. As a graduate level program, entrance exams are required unless explicitly waived. This online certificate can complement MBA programs and addresses complex cybersecurity challenges.
- 12 total credit hours
- Requires 2.75 GPA
- Four specialized cybersecurity courses
- Can complement MBA program
- Four core cybersecurity management courses
- Covers intrusion detection strategies
- Focuses on incident response techniques
- Undergraduate degree prerequisite
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - Public 4-Year - ncsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Carolina State University at Raleigh's Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity offers a hybrid online and on-campus format, ideal for professionals seeking to advance their digital security skills. The program requires 12 credit hours, including two mandatory core security courses, and can be completed part-time or full-time within five semesters. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and no fixed application deadline, it's designed for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. No entrance exam is required, and it provides a potential pathway to a master's degree, focusing on network defense and emerging security challenges.
- 12 total credit hours required
- Online and on-campus options
- Part-time or full-time enrollment
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- No fixed application deadline
- U.S. citizens and permanent residents
- Tuition premium applies
- Complete within 5 semesters
- Two core security courses mandatory
- Potential master's pathway
North Carolina A & T State University
Greensboro, NC - Public 4-Year - ncat.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
North Carolina A&T State University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity equips professionals with advanced digital defense skills through a flexible, customizable curriculum. This program emphasizes technical electives to address complex cybersecurity challenges and protect critical infrastructure in an interconnected world. As an online degree, it offers convenience for working professionals and does not require an entrance exam. Graduates are prepared for high-demand tech careers, with the program being military-friendly and offered by an HBCU.
- Online flexible master's degree in cybersecurity
- Customizable curriculum with technical electives
- Prepares professionals for high-demand tech careers
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC - Public 4-Year - appstate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Appalachian State University's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is a 120-credit hybrid program that prepares students as digital defenders in today's complex technological environment. Available at both Boone and Hickory campuses, it combines rigorous technical training with critical thinking to address emerging cyber threats. The curriculum covers networking, ethical hacking, forensics, and strategic security management, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge for innovative problem-solving. As a bachelor's program, it may require ACT or SAT entrance exams, though specific requirements should be verified with the university. This hybrid format offers flexible learning with both online and on-campus components.
- 120-credit comprehensive cybersecurity degree
- Multiple campus locations with flexible learning
- Curriculum addressing emerging digital threats
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - Public 4-Year - ecu.edu
Bachelor's - BS in Information and Cybersecurity Technology
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
East Carolina University's online BS in Information and Cybersecurity Technology with a Cybersecurity concentration provides a practical, industry-aligned education for aspiring professionals. This beginner-friendly program covers network security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking, preparing students for certifications like CompTIA Security+ and AWS. With 120 credit hours and transfer-friendly options, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for bachelor's admission. In-state tuition is $412 per credit hour, and graduates report an average salary of $83,848, with opportunities in tech and finance sectors.
- 120 credit hours, transfer credits accepted
- Prepare for key industry certifications
- Average graduate salary $83,848
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in North Carolina
Comparing an associate’s degree with a bachelor’s degree in online cybersecurity programs in North Carolina? Let’s start with the basics. An associate’s degree in cybersecurity will take approximately two years to complete. The core skills that are covered in this degree include basic network security, information technology, and introductory programming. This option is relatively cheap and allows you to be employed in entry level positions within a short time. It is a good choice if you are motivated to begin working and would like to gain a fundamental knowledge of the field.
However, a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity does not end the learning process at the end of two years; it goes deeper and takes longer. Topics covered at this level include encryption, ethical hacking and risk management among others. This degree thus helps you prepare for specific positions and can result in better pay. It is recommended for those who want to be well equipped and have a long way to go in their career.
Both the degrees are offered online by the North Carolina institutions which makes it easy for the students to manage their time schedule. When choosing, take into consideration your goals, the amount of money you can afford to spend, and the amount of time that you can sacrifice. If you plan on entering the workforce soon and would like to minimize on costs, then it is best to start with an associate’s degree. If you are interested in delving deeper into the field of cybersecurity and are willing to invest time and effort for a brighter future, then a bachelor’s degree is the right choice. Both the roles are in high demand and provide valuable skills in the current scenario.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 75
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Cost Per Credit In State: $76
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $268
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
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Cost Per Credit In State: $205
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $883
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
Comparing between the master’s and doctorate in online cybersecurity programs in North Carolina? Find out the differences below. An online cybersecurity master’s degree is a two-year program that emphasizes skill enhancement and management. Some topics that you will encounter include cybersecurity policy, advanced threat detection, and management science. If you want to proceed to higher positions or focus on a particular area then this is the best choice.
However, a doctorate in cybersecurity is more research based and it may take four to six years to complete. It entails researching and coming up with new knowledge to be added to what is already known in the field. This path is suitable for those who have passion for academics, high level consultancy or to become experts in cybersecurity.
Both the degrees can be pursued in online mode from reputed universities of North Carolina to suit the professional students. Please consider the career objectives, the level of interest in research, and the ability to commit time when choosing between the two. Master’s degree will help you to improve your practical knowledge and skills and will help you to get a promotion at the workplace. A doctorate will place you in a position to direct thinking and will enable you to have a spot in academia as well as a high level of research.
No matter what decision you make, both degrees will help you grow in a field that is now in high the demand. ability The to programs learn in from North the Carolina experts provide while a being good in education the and comfort of your home and with the flexibility of online learning.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 36
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Cost Per Credit In State: $550
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $780
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $890
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,230
Other Degree Pathways
Considering other ways to get into an online cybersecurity program in North Carolina? Then there are cybersecurity bootcamps and professional certifications. Bootcamps are academic programs that are intensive and short and are oriented towards practical employment skills. They are ideal if you are in a hurry to embark on the cybersecurity career path. There are other certifications which are also useful such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or CompTIA Security+. They offer specific knowledge and are generally well received by employers.
Community colleges are also available for online learning and the courses taken in these colleges can help the student gain certificates or credits for further studies. These options are very convenient and are also relatively cheaper as compared to the degree programs. They make it possible for you to get the necessary skills as well as the credentials that will help you to move up in your cybersecurity career.