Online Cybersecurity Programs In Missouri
If you are interested in searching for online cybersecurity programs in Missouri, then there are various options available to choose from. The several universities across the state of Missouri provides online learning in the form of accredited online degrees at the bachelors and masters level. Some of the topics that are covered in these programs include network security, ethical hacking and digital forensics among others.
If you are new to the field, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree is a good place to start. It normally takes four years to complete and gives the student the knowledge and skills to enable him or her to work as a cybersecurity analyst or an IT specialist. If you have a master’s degree, you can gain deeper knowledge of the field and get better opportunities for leadership positions.
Besides degree programs, many institutions provide certificate courses. These more concise programs are aimed at particular abilities, for instance, incident response or penetration testing, and can be completed in a few months.
Online learning is convenient, so you can attend classes and complete assignments while working or managing family responsibilities. Search for programs that include labs or simulations where you can practice what you learn. Choosing an online cybersecurity program in Missouri will enable you to be well equipped for a career in this field that is rapidly expanding.
Best Online Cybersecurity Programs In Missouri
#1
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
#2
Lindenwood University
Cybersecurity, MS
Cybersecurity Management (MS)
Industry-driven coursework | 36 credit hours | No GRE or GMAT required
#3
Saint Louis University
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
33-credit program | Eight-week terms | No GRE or GMAT required
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
33 Credit Hours | Eight-Week Terms | No GRE/GMAT Required
Cybersecurity, MS
Applied Analytics
Organizational Leadership
Combats cyberattacks | Corporate and public roles | No GRE or GMAT mentioned
Cybersecurity, BS
In-demand technical skills | Certificate of Completion | No specific mention of SAT or ACT
#4
Evangel University
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
Software engineer | Systems analyst | No specific mention
#5
Missouri State University-Springfield
Cybersecurity, MS
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Hands-on labs | Accredited program | No GRE/GMAT required
Cybersecurity, BS
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Co-developed with IT industry | 100% online program | 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 Missouri
When considering the differences between the associate and bachelor degrees in the online cybersecurity programs in Missouri, it is crucial to consider the time involved, the level of detail covered in the program, and the types of jobs available. An associate’s degree in cybersecurity can be completed within the period of two years. It provides a good base for cybersecurity essentials and includes topics on network security, system administration and basic threat management. This degree is suitable for those who are in a hurry to find a job as it can lead to entry level positions such as an IT technician or a cybersecurity support specialist.
On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree in computer science will usually take four years to complete and delves further into the practical aspects of the field including cryptography, ethical hacking and risk assessment. This degree not only improves on the technical skills but also the critical thinking and problem solving skills. The graduates with bachelor’s degree have opportunities to work in positions such as cybersecurity analyst or information security manager.
Both degrees can pave way to good careers, but the decision will depend on your objectives. If you plan to work and study at the same time or if you are new in the field then an associate’s degree may be suitable. But if you have your sight set on better positions and more knowledge then it is advisable to go for a bachelor degree. Both ways are equal in the sense that they provide equal opportunities in the field of cybersecurity which is rapidly expanding.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 65
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Cost Per Credit In State: $68 - $120
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $102 - $240
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
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Cost Per Credit In State: $268 - $663
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $536 - $1,070
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
When deciding between the master’s and doctorate degrees in online cybersecurity programs in Missouri, it is crucial to consider the career and personal goals. Master’s degree in cybersecurity or master of business administration requires 1 to 2 years of student’s time and concentrates on higher level cybersecurity skills. Some topics that you will cover include advanced network security, threat intelligence and incident response. This degree is designed to ready the student for positions of leadership such as cybersecurity manager or consultant and suits the working professional who needs to advance his or her career in a brief time.
In contrast, a doctorate degree in cybersecurity involves a longer time commitment, which may range from three to five years. It is suitable for the learners who want to pursue further studies in cybersecurity, or those who have interest in research, teaching or policy making in cybersecurity. In the course of studying for a doctorate, a student will have to do research and add new knowledge into the field while one may be required to write a dissertation. They go to the academic positions or direct research in government or the private sector.
Both degrees provide good career prospects, but the decision depends on the goals and desires. Thus, if one is searching for a way to make a difference in the workplace, a master’s degree may be suitable. But if one is interested in research and developing the field of cybersecurity, then one may wish to consider a doctoral program. Each of these paths has its own advantages in this ever-changing field.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30
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Cost Per Credit In State: $339 - $833
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $678 - $1,537
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $607
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,175
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in other ways of getting into an online cybersecurity program in Missouri, then there are other options besides degrees. Several community colleges offer certificate programs that help the students gain essential cybersecurity skills which can be completed within a short time. These programs can be very useful if you are looking for ways to start the course as quickly as possible.
Another option is online cybersecurity boot camps. They are designed to give students practice and experience and are usually completed within a few months with the aim of helping the student find a job quickly. Also, there are non-degree online courses from websites such as Coursera and edX which you can take at your own time. You should also consider attending local cybersecurity meetups or joining online forums to interact with like-minded people and learn from them. All these paths can provide you with fruitful employment in this ever-expanding domain.