Online Cybersecurity Programs In West Virginia
If you want to find online cybersecurity programs in West Virginia, there is a great selection to choose from to suit your needs. A few institutions have come up with flexible online degree programs which are at the associate, bachelor, and master’s levels. The associate degree is a good option for those who want to start their careers soon as it offers foundational knowledge in areas such as network security and ethical hacking.
If you want to gain more knowledge and understanding then there are bachelor and master degree programs also. Some of the topics covered in these programs are digital forensics, cybersecurity policy and risk management among others. Moreover, most of the universities also involve practical labs and simulated exercises to help the students.
Besides degree programs, there are also boot camps available online that help you gain particular skills in a short time. These courses are suitable for those who require changing their occupations or increasing their employability. Other qualifications are also important as they show your skills and determination to your potential employers.
It is also possible to expand your network and meet like-minded people through local tech groups and virtual meetups. Thus, enrolling in an online program in cybersecurity in West Virginia can be a perfect decision for those who are interested in joining this fast-growing field.
Best Online Cybersecurity Programs In West Virginia
#1
West Virginia University
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity Management
30 total credit hours | $1,004 per credit hour | No GRE required
Cybersecurity, MS
Business Cybersecurity Management M.S.
Cutting-edge technical topics | Industry-recognized certifications | No GRE or GMAT required
Cybersecurity, BS
Cybersecurity
Data Security | Software Security | No specific requirement mentioned
#2
Marshall University
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Advanced cryptography | State-of-the-art tools | No GRE/GMAT required
Cybersecurity, BS
Cyber Forensics and Security, B.S.
Practitioner-focused | Hands-on environment | No SAT or ACT mentioned
#3
University of Charleston
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Cyber Intelligence
Cybersecurity Strategy
Information Assurance
Leadership role | Strategic security | No GRE/GMAT
Applied Computer Science - Cybersecurity
Practical lab work | Industry-certified security certifications | No SAT or ACT required
Bachelor Degree Completion Program in Cybersecurity
Hands-on learning | Advanced cybersecurity topics | No SAT or ACT required
Associate of Science in Cybersecurity
Hands-on approach | Industry-related certification | No SAT or ACT required
#4
West Liberty University
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Cybersecurity
Cyber Threats | Digital Forensics | No specific mention
#5
West Virginia State University
Cybersecurity, Master's
Cybersecurity Clinic
Hands-on training | Free digital services | No GRE mentioned
Want to know how we came up with our rankings? Take a look at our methodology!
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in West Virginia
When looking into online cybersecurity programs in West Virginia, it is crucial to identify the variations in the depth of learning and job prospects between an associate’s degree and an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree can be completed within 2 years. Some of the areas it covers include; basic cybersecurity concepts, network security and system administration among others. This option is good for those who want to work as soon as possible, possibly in positions such as IT support or cybersecurity technician.
However, a bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to complete. It delves deeper into the understanding of issues that include advanced threat analysis, digital forensics and security management. This degree not only improves on technical skills but also fosters critical thinking and problem solving skills. They can easily get positions such as cybersecurity analyst or information security manager.
Both degrees can also lead to useful certifications and these are very important in the cybersecurity field. But due to the nature of the field, many employers still consider candidates with a bachelor’s degree as the better candidates for the higher level positions. Finally, it is your decision based on your objectives, your financial status and the amount of time you can spend to acquire the training. Each degree is equally important, they are a step towards a bright future in the field of cybersecurity.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60
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Cost Per Credit In State: $292
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $756
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $292
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $756
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
Do you have an interest in cybersecurity and want to pursue further studies, but you are also tied down with work and other responsibilities in the Mountain State? Now, let’s explore the possibility of pursuing Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Cybersecurity online from the institutions based in West Virginia. In this way, you will be able to increase your level of expertise and gain new qualifications without having to put your work and personal life on hold.
Online cybersecurity Master’s degree programs can be completed within 2 to 3 years and offer a comprehensive understanding of cyber security specialties. It will help you to gain practical skills with modern applications and technologies. Online cybersecurity Doctoral programs are more research intensive and may take 4-6 years to complete. They are ideal for those who want to contribute new knowledge and theory to the field and become future leaders.
West Virginia University has an excellent online M. S. in Cybersecurity program while Marshall University has an online M. S. in Information Systems with concentration in Cybersecurity. If you want to pursue a terminal degree then West Virginia University offers an online Ph. D. in Computer Science with concentration in Cybersecurity.
When comparing the two, it is important to take into consideration what you want to achieve in your career as well as how much free time one has. A Master’s degree will help you get a promotion in your workplace, while a will Doctorate help degree you to get a job in academics and research based companies. In any of the paths that you decide to take, you will be prepared to meet the challenges of cyber-crises of the future.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 36
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Cost Per Credit In State: $705
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,385
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $765
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,050
Other Degree Pathways
Considering Other Ways to Learn Cybersecurity Field in West Virginia?
Not ready for a full-fledged degree program? No problem! There are other ways to start your cybersecurity journey in West Virginia as well. There are certificate programs too like the online Graduate Certificate in Information Security offered by West Virginia University. These shorter courses are quite intensive and help you gain essential skills in a comparatively shorter duration.
Some community colleges and technical colleges in West Virginia are Blue Ridge Community and Technical College which provide associate degrees and certificates in Cybersecurity. These programs are ideal for those who want to try out the field first or are planning to work right after graduation.
If you want to learn at your own pace, then consider the online boot camps or the massive open online courses (MOOCs) that are affiliated with West Virginia universities. These options give you the freedom to learn at your own time and they are also cheaper than other programs.