Online Cybersecurity Programs In Virginia
If you are seeking for cybersecurity programs in Virginia then you are at the right place. There are several reputed institutions in Virginia which offer convenient and quality cybersecurity courses in online mode. These programs are suitable for people of all levels whether you are a complete newbies or a professional. It is possible to get an online cybersecurity associate degree, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree and even certifications.
Most of the universities in Virginia offer online courses so that you can learn at your convenience. This is ideal for the employed or those with other responsibilities to attend to. Topics that are usually explored in the course include network security, ethical hacking and risk management among others. This is because practice sections which include labs and real life scenarios are an important part in this field.
Also, some of the programs collaborate with the private sector as well as the public sector, which creates good opportunities for practical experience and internships. This can work in your favor when seeking for a job after completing your course. It is advisable to ensure that the program is accredited since this means that the program has met certain set educational standards. Given the current trends in the job market and the increasing need for cybersecurity experts, enrolling for an online course in Virginia can be a great investment for your career. It is recommended that one takes his or her time and choose a program that would be most suitable for his or her career path.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in West Virginia
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA - Public 4-Year - jmu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Computer Science, concentration in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
James Madison University's online Master of Science in Computer Science with a Cybersecurity concentration, ranked among the top 50 online graduate programs nationally, is designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise in secure computing systems. This fully online, asynchronous program offers flexibility for part-time or full-time study, typically completed in about 2.5 years, and is NSA Centers of Academic Excellence certified. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam such as the GRE. The curriculum focuses specifically on cybersecurity, preparing graduates to protect digital infrastructures effectively.
- 100% online asynchronous cybersecurity master's
- NSA Centers of Academic Excellence certified
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Information Security - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University's hybrid MBA with an Information Security concentration blends business principles with specialized cybersecurity knowledge, ideal for professionals aiming to safeguard organizational information assets. This 42-credit program is delivered primarily online with occasional in-person sessions in McLean, Virginia, emphasizing strategic leadership and information security management. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam like the GMAT. The concentration on information security ensures students gain targeted skills for high-demand roles in cyber defense and management.
- Fully online MBA with information security focus
- 42-credit program for working professionals
- Strategic cybersecurity leadership training
Graduate Certificate - Cyber Intelligence Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
James Madison University's online Cyber Intelligence Graduate Certificate provides a focused, 12-month program for professionals from diverse backgrounds to master cyber threat intelligence, analysis, and strategic defense. This fully online, asynchronous certificate includes six courses with a self-paced, interactive format and 7-week terms, covering industry-standard software and ethical frameworks without specific undergraduate prerequisites. As a graduate-level program, it requires an entrance exam such as the GRE. The online delivery allows flexible learning, equipping students for careers in high-demand cybersecurity intelligence roles.
- 12-month online graduate certificate
- 6 courses, 3 credit hours each
- Asynchronous course format
- 7-week term structure
- No specific undergraduate requirement
- Learn cyber threat intelligence
- Industry-standard software training
- Self-paced interactive learning
- Covers intelligence analysis, ethics
- Flexible for diverse backgrounds
Shenandoah University
Winchester, VA - Private 4-year - su.edu
Master's - MS in Applied Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's MS in Applied Cybersecurity is a 30-credit online graduate program designed for professionals with computer science or IT backgrounds. It prepares students to lead cybersecurity teams, develop security policies, and conduct incident investigations through an eight-week course format. Admission requires an undergraduate degree and a minimum 3.25 GPA or relevant work experience; no entrance exam is mentioned. The program is fully online, offering flexible learning with evening/weekend classes and alignment with CISSP certification domains, with potential salaries over $100,000 annually.
- 30-credit program aligned with CISSP certification domains
- Flexible online learning with evening/weekend classes
- Potential to earn over $100,000 annually
Master's - MBA with a Cybersecurity Management Certificate
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's MBA with a Cybersecurity Management concentration integrates four specialized cybersecurity courses into an online MBA program, requiring just one additional course for credentials. It targets professionals seeking to enhance business and technology skills for roles in the growing cybersecurity sector, with potential salaries exceeding $98,000 annually. The program is fully online and flexible for working professionals, includes CompTIA Security+ exam preparation, and addresses a 32% job market growth through 2028. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program.
- Four specialized cybersecurity courses within MBA program
- 32% job market growth through 2028
- CompTIA Security+ exam preparation included
Master's - MBA with a Cybersecurity Management Concentration
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's MBA with a Cybersecurity Management concentration is an online program that adds specialized cybersecurity credentials with one extra course, focusing on business leadership and cybersecurity principles. It prepares graduates for high-demand roles with potential salaries over $98,000 annually, offering flexible online learning to accommodate professional commitments. This master's-level program does not specify an entrance exam requirement and emphasizes career advancement in a rapidly growing field through comprehensive coursework.
- Online MBA with Cybersecurity Management Certificate
- Only one additional course for cybersecurity credentials
- Potential $98,350 annual salary after graduation
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Management Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management is a hybrid 12-credit program that can be completed in 8 months through four sequential courses. It covers cybersecurity foundations, networking, and advanced decision-making, with CompTIA Security+ exam preparation and hands-on projects led by industry-expert faculty. Designed for career advancement, it offers potential salaries exceeding $98,000 annually and addresses 32% job market growth, with courses in an 8-week format and applicability to an MBA pathway. No entrance exam is mentioned for this graduate-level certificate.
- 4 sequential courses
- Fully online program
- 8-month completion time
- 12 total credit hours
- CompTIA Security+ exam prep
- Potential $98,350 annual salary
- 32% job market growth
- Courses in 8-week format
- Industry expert faculty
- Applicable to MBA pathway
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - odu.edu
Bachelor's - Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is a 120-credit program that prepares students to protect digital infrastructure through interdisciplinary courses in computer engineering, criminal justice, and IT. As an NSA-designated National Center of Academic Excellence, it emphasizes combatting emerging cyber threats with a curriculum supporting 32% projected job growth. The program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam, offers in-state tuition starting at $408 per credit hour, and provides military discounts and flexible online learning for aspiring professionals.
- NSA-designated Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
- 32% projected job growth in cybersecurity field
- Flexible online learning with interdisciplinary courses
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity focuses on advanced threat analysis, cryptography, and network security through 12 credit hours of specialized courses. Ideal for computer science professionals, this fully online program can be completed in one year, with tuition ranging from $620 to $642 per credit hour and potential transfer credits toward a Master's in Computer Science. It does not require an entrance exam, features an NSA Academic Excellence Designation, and equips learners with machine learning techniques for a field projected to grow 32% by 2032.
- 12 credit hours total
- Fully online program
- Complete in one year
- NSA Academic Excellence Designation
- Four specialized cybersecurity courses
- In-state rate $620/credit hour
- Potential MS transfer credits
- Computer science background required
- Cryptography and network security focus
- Learn machine learning techniques
Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's hybrid Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity is a 78-credit, interdisciplinary program blending technical training with policy and social science perspectives. Designed for professionals aiming to lead research and innovation, it can be completed in three to five years with full-time or part-time options. The program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, and offers flexible online and on-campus learning, preparing graduates for roles in government, industry, and academia while leveraging the university's military-friendly environment.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum spanning technical and social domains
- Research-focused program preparing cybersecurity scholars
- Flexible online and on-campus learning options
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - Public 4-Year - www2.gmu.edu
Bachelor's - Applied Science, Cybersecurity Concentration (BAS)
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
George Mason University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Applied Science with a Cybersecurity Concentration, designed for community college graduates seeking to advance in the tech field. This program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam and focuses on developing cutting-edge skills aligned with NIST and NSA standards. Students complete 120-126 credits, including 24 credits in cybersecurity courses covering computer crime, cloud security, and IT project management. Priced at $546.50 per credit for Virginia residents, it provides an affordable, asynchronous learning path to high-demand cybersecurity roles, leveraging the strategic DC Metro location for career opportunities.
- 100% Online Degree
- Cybersecurity Career Focus
- Industry-Recognized Curriculum
- $546.50 per credit VA residents
- Designed for AAS Graduates
- 24 Credits Concentration Courses
- Strategic DC Metro Location
- NIST and NSA Aligned Training
- Fully Asynchronous Courses
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - Private 4-year - regent.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regent University's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students for high-demand careers protecting digital infrastructure through a comprehensive curriculum that includes network defense, digital forensics, and security strategy. The program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams and features hands-on training in a state-of-the-art cyber range. As an NSA-designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense and ABET accredited, it offers affordable tuition at $395 per credit hour online. With 120+ credit hours and flexible online options, graduates are equipped to defend against complex digital threats while anchoring knowledge in Christian principles.
- 120+ total credit hours
- Online and on-campus options
- Next session starts March 17, 2025
- NSA-designated Cyber Defense program
- ABET accredited
- Multimillion-dollar cyber range
- On-campus tuition: $9,975 per semester
- Online tuition: $395 per credit hour
- No program prerequisites
- Located near major military installations
Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Graduate Studies in Cyber Practitioner Preparation
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regent University's online Certificate of Graduate Studies in Cyber Practitioner Preparation is a 9-credit graduate program that does not require an entrance exam, focusing on practical skills for digital defense. It provides hands-on training in Linux systems and network architecture using an advanced cyber range, preparing students for five industry certifications like CompTIA Linux+ and Security+. Designed for career switchers, this fully online, asynchronous program costs $695 per credit hour and offers a pathway to a Master's degree. With flexible learning and affiliation with USCYBERCOM Academic Network, it serves as a strategic launchpad into cybersecurity careers.
- 100% Online Program
- 9 Total Credit Hours
- Next Session Starts March 2025
- $695 per Credit Hour
- Total Certificate Cost $6,255
- Prepares for 5 Certifications
- Hands-on Cyber Range Training
- Potential Master's Pathway
- USCYBERCOM Academic Network
- Asynchronous Course Delivery
Marymount University
Arlington, VA - Private 4-year - marymount.edu
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Marymount University's Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate is an online program tailored for secondary school educators, equipping them with advanced cybersecurity knowledge to teach dual-enrollment classes. This 18-credit graduate program covers enterprise infrastructure, computer security, legal frameworks, and technical skills without requiring an entrance exam. As a designated Center of Academic Excellence, it helps educators expand technological expertise and create impactful learning experiences in the evolving cybersecurity field, focusing on professional enhancement for teaching careers.
- 18 total graduate credits
- Designed for secondary teachers
- 9 core cybersecurity credits
- 9 elective specialized credits
- Designated Center of Academic Excellence
- Qualify for dual-enrollment teaching
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity for Educators Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Marymount University's Cybersecurity for Educators Certificate is an online graduate program providing secondary teachers with specialized credentials to teach dual-enrollment cybersecurity courses. This 18-credit program delves into cybersecurity principles, network infrastructure, security law, policy, and ethical compliance, with no entrance exam required. Part of a Center of Academic Excellence, it offers financial aid options and elective specializations, enabling educators to advance their professional capabilities and contribute to cybersecurity education landscapes through practical, focused learning.
- 18 total graduate credits
- Designed for secondary educators
- 9 credits core courses required
- Optional specialization courses
- Qualifies for dual-enrollment teaching
- Part of Center of Academic Excellence
- Financial aid available with combined programs
Doctorate - Cybersecurity (D.Sc.)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Marymount University's Doctorate of Science in Cybersecurity is a hybrid program that prepares professionals for advanced roles in digital infrastructure protection and national security. This online-accessible program requires an entrance exam and offers flexible learning options at $1,335 per credit. Located near federal cybersecurity agencies in the national capital region, it provides extensive research opportunities and focuses on real-world applications. Designed for working professionals with bachelor's or master's degrees, it emphasizes advanced research and complex cybersecurity landscapes.
- Nationally recognized cybersecurity doctoral program
- Strategic location near federal cybersecurity agencies
- Advanced research and real-world application focus
Hampton University
Hampton, VA - Private 4-year - hamptonu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cyber Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
Hampton University's online Master of Science in Cyber Security equips professionals with advanced skills in cyber defense through specialized coursework and mentoring. As a designated Center of Academic Excellence by the Department of Homeland Security and National Security Agency, it emphasizes real-world applications in government and industry sectors. The program boasts a 98% graduate placement rate, leveraging state-of-the-art resources without requiring an entrance exam. This HBCU and military-friendly program focuses on information protection, preparing students for high-demand cybersecurity careers entirely online.
- National Center of Academic Excellence certification
- 98% graduate placement rate
- Advanced cyber defense training
University of Lynchburg
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - lynchburg.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Lynchburg's online MBA in Cybersecurity integrates business management with advanced cybersecurity expertise, enabling professionals to identify and mitigate complex cyber threats. This master's-level program, offered entirely online with a part-time two-year completion option, focuses on cybersecurity as its concentration and does not require the GMAT entrance exam. It includes four globally-recognized cybersecurity certifications, has a tuition of $21,480, and is designed for those without prior business backgrounds, preparing graduates for technology leadership roles.
- 100% online flexible degree
- Four global cybersecurity certifications
- No prior business background required
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Lynchburg's online Cybersecurity Certificate delivers comprehensive training in network defense, threat analysis, and risk mitigation through a three-course program. This certificate, which starts its next cohort on February 3, 2025, is fully online and emphasizes practical skills for tackling cybersecurity challenges. It does not specify an entrance exam requirement and is ideal for technology professionals or career changers seeking to advance in the field, with hands-on training and contact available at [email protected].
- Three-course comprehensive certificate
- Next cohort starts February 3, 2025
- Covers network security fundamentals
- Advanced cyber threat analysis
- Prepares for cybersecurity challenges
- Hands-on risk mitigation training
- Contact email: [email protected]
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA - Public 4-Year - vcu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity, Certificate in
Online Learning - Visit Website
Virginia Commonwealth University's online Cybersecurity Certificate is a post-baccalaureate program requiring a bachelor's degree, preferably in computer science, with a minimum 3.0 GPA and calculus/discrete math prerequisites. This 12-credit, career-focused curriculum blends theory and practice to equip professionals with skills to analyze, defend, and assess security for computer systems, networks, and databases against cyber threats. International students must submit TOEFL/IELTS scores, but the program does not require an entrance exam like the GRE. Graduates are prepared for dynamic roles in industry and public sector cybersecurity, with fall and spring entry options.
- Post-baccalaureate certificate program
- 12 total credit hours
- Fall and Spring entry
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Calculus and discrete math prerequisite
- Four total courses required
- Undergraduate and graduate electives
- Prepares for cybersecurity roles
- International students welcome
- Three recommendation letters needed
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cyber Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's online Master of Science in Cyber Security equips professionals with advanced skills to combat evolving digital threats. This 36-credit program focuses on digital forensics, network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking through entirely online, 8-week courses that offer flexibility for working adults. Notably, no entrance exam is required for admission, and the program includes a hands-on capstone project for practical experience. With tuition at $565 per credit hour and a military-friendly approach, it provides accessible, career-focused education in cybersecurity.
- 100% online, 8-week flexible courses
- No standardized testing for admission
- Hands-on capstone project experience
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Virginia
When considering the differences between the associate and bachelor degrees in the online cybersecurity programs in Virginia, it is important to look at the level of depth and opportunities that are offered. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree can be completed within the span of two years. It provides a good base for the core cybersecurity concepts such as network security and threat assessment. This is a good choice for those who are in a hurry to find a job or want to try out this profession without having to commit for too long.
In contrast, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree will usually involve completing a course for four years. It delves deeper into the understanding of issues that include advanced cryptography, digital forensics and security policy. This degree not only increases your technical knowledge and proficiency but also fosters critical thinking and management skills. The individuals with bachelor’s degree often get better salaries and there are more opportunities for their career growth.
Both degrees can help the student obtain certifications that are very important in the cybersecurity field. For this reason, many employers require their potential employees to have a bachelor’s degree especially when it comes to strategic positions. But if you are just beginning your career or seeking a new one, an associate’s degree can serve as the first level of education. Finally, it is important to note that the decision you make should be in line with your objectives, the duration you are willing to spend and the cost. Thus, both can help you to build a successful career in the field of cybersecurity which is currently expanding.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $161
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $337
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $374
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $407
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
When deciding between the master’s and doctorate degrees in online cybersecurity programs in Virginia, it is crucial to state your career goals and the skill set that you want to gain. An online cybersecurity master’s degree, for instance, needs a student to attend school for one to two years after acquiring a bachelors’ degree. Some of the areas it covers include advanced level topics such as cybersecurity leadership, risk management and incident response among others. This degree is suitable for the working professional who seeks to advance within the organization, or switch to a more challenging position.
On the other hand, an online cyber security doctorate degree takes three to five years to complete and includes a research component. It primes you for senior executive positions including the chief information security officer or academic positions in universities. It is also important to note that, doctoral programs may demand a dissertation, which allows you to present new information to the field. This level of education is recommended for those who love research or teaching since it is the highest academic qualification one can achieve.
Both degrees improve your credentials and can result in high paying jobs. Nonetheless, a master’s degree is more than enough for most industry roles while a doctorate degree sets the stage for academic and research based jobs. Finally, it should be in line with your objectives, your willingness to study and the contribution that you want to make in the cybersecurity field. Both of them have their advantages that can influence your further work.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 36
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Cost Per Credit In State: $551
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,387
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $690
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $830
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in looking for other ways to an online cybersecurity program in Virginia, then there are several ways to do so. Community colleges are known to provide basic courses that can help one prepare for further education. There are online boot camps which offer intensive training on certain skills that can help one gain entry into the field.
Some of the certification include CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker which are also useful. They build your credibility and prove your worth to your employer. You can attend networking events or local cybersecurity meetups where you can meet people who can direct you to the right path when it comes to education. Going through these options may assist you in identifying the proper choice for yourself in the field of cybersecurity.