Online Cybersecurity Programs In Colorado
If you are seeking for online cybersecurity programs in Colorado there are several institutions that provide excellent courses to help you achieve your goals in this field. There are various courses available in different levels such as online cybersecurity certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. Some of the institutions of higher learning in the area include the University of Colorado Denver and Colorado State University that have excellent online platforms that address core areas of security such as network security, ethical hacking and digital forensics.
These programs may involve practical assignments and labs as part of the course work, which allows the student to practice what he or she has learned in the real world. Also, most of them provide a very flexible schedule, which is quite convenient if a person has some other responsibilities in his or her life.
Also, Colorado has a strong tech sector, so graduating from a cybersecurity program in this state can open doors to great job prospects. This will put you in touch with the local industry players and you may be able to secure internships or interact with employers.
It is recommended to find out about the accreditation and industry partnerships of the program when selecting one. This makes your education to be valid and relevant in the eyes of the employers. Whether you are just beginning your career or if you want to move up in your current position, online cybersecurity courses in Colorado can assist you to create a successful career path.
Best Online Cybersecurity Programs In Colorado
#1
University of Denver
Cybersecurity, MS
Information and Communications Technology (Cybersecurity Management)
Information and Communications Technology (Information Systems Security)
MS in Cybersecurity
Corporate cybersecurity plan | Governance and compliance | No GRE required
#2
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Cybersecurity, BS
Major in Computer Science, Networks and Security Concentration
Security Architecture | Cyber Vulnerabilities | No SAT or ACT Required
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Computer Information Systems
STEM-designated | NSA-validated | No GRE or GMAT required
#3
Regis University
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
120-credit program | Eight-week terms | No SAT or ACT required
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security
36 credit hours | No application fee | No GRE or GMAT required
#4
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Cybersecurity, BS
Business, BS - Cybersecurity Management
Defend against cyber threats | Day-to-day cybersecurity operations | No SAT or ACT Required
Cybersecurity, MS
Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Risk management | Regulatory compliance | No GRE/GMAT required
Cybersecurity, MS
Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Cybersecurity technologies | Enterprise information security | No GRE/GMAT required
#5
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity operations | 120 credit hours | No SAT or ACT required
Want to know how we came up with our rankings? Take a look at our methodology!
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Colorado
It is important to consider the online cybersecurity programs in Colorado and the differences between the associate and bachelor degrees in order to make a right decision. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree will take about two years to complete and the focus will be on core skills that are necessary for cybersecurity. Some of the topics you will cover include network security, ethical hacking and database management among others. This degree is suitable for those who are in a hurry to find a job as it will enable them to get positions such as IT technician or cybersecurity support specialist.
On the other hand, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree takes about four years and will afford the student with more detailed learning. Topics that are discussed in detail include digital forensics, risk management and security architecture. They are often employed in positions that include cybersecurity analyst or security engineer, which are positions that usually come with higher salaries and more duties.
Both the degrees can be pursued in online programs and are thus suitable for the students as well as the working professionals in Colorado. Your decision should be based on your goals. For instance, if you want to start working as soon as possible then an associate’s degree may be the right choice. Nevertheless, if you have plans to be in the field in the long run and wish to advance in your career, then a bachelor’s degree may be the right course to take. Think about what you want in your future and which way will help you to achieve it in the field of cybersecurity.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 65
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Cost Per Credit In State: $164 - $280
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $674 - $700
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $412 - $500
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $700 - $1,000
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
It is essential to know the differences between a master’s degree and a doctorate degree when searching for online Cybersecurity programs in Colorado. An online cybersecurity Master’s degree can be completed within 2 years and covers topics that are more advanced in nature such as network security, risk management and incident handling. This degree is suitable for those working professionals who are interested in advancing their knowledge and experience and break into management positions like cybersecurity manager or cybersecurity consultant. This is a great choice for those who are in a hurry to gain the necessary expertise.
However, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree may take more time to complete because it usually takes three to five years and is suitable for those who want to engage in research or teach in a university. The doctoral programs entail extensive research on Cybersecurity theory and principles, and students write a dissertation that adds knowledge to the current knowledge in the field. They can work as university professors, researchers or at the highest level in a company.
Both of the degree options are offered in the online format which provides the students with the ability to study in comfort and work at the same time. When comparing programs, some of the factors that could be of interest include the experience of the faculty, research options, and resources that are available for networking. It is also possible to gain from interacting with alumni and industry practitioners as well.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 48
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Cost Per Credit In State: $610 - $740
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $700 - $800
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 72
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $700 - $1,000
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,000 - $1,500
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in pursuing an online Cybersecurity program in Colorado there are other ways that you can do so. Community colleges are known to offer cheap certificate courses which can act as a bridge to a degree. Besides, professional online cybersecurity boot camps are an excellent way to receive immersive and practical enhance training your that skills can in a short time. There are numerous online learning platforms such as Pluralsight and Cybrary which offer courses that focus on different aspects of Cybersecurity. Attending local tech meetups or being part of online forums will enable you meet people in the industry to guide you. Reading through the scholarship and financial aid sections can also help one get financial support for their education. Each path can lead to a successful career in Cybersecurity as well.