Best Online Cyber Security Degree Programs, Associate, Bachelor's and Master's

These days, every industry has gone technical; we’re always connected to the web and digital know-how is a part of most jobs. And then you add in factors like advancing artificial intelligence, data breaches, and cyber-crime and the demand for cyber security experts has never been higher. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that cyber security jobs are expected to grow much faster than all other occupations between 2023 and 2033. Because cyber security pros are in high demand, entry- and mid-level professionals stand to earn well above the national average upon graduation.

You might be surprised to learn that many colleges and universities offer bachelor’s programs specifically in cyber security. Both traditional and online programs focus on areas like information technology, information systems, cyber operations, and cyber defense. In these programs, students gain technical skills, learn to handle cyber-threats, practice ethical hacking, and study risk management—key skills for success in the cyber security field.

The best online cyber security programs combine hands-on experience with affordability, financial aid, and strong job placement after graduation. These programs are ideal for working adults seeking a career change or building on existing IT or information security skills. Traditional college-age students can also benefit from this in-demand field, which offers excellent returns on investment, whether working as information security analysts or in IT management roles.

Featured Online Programs

How to Earn an Online Degree in Cyber Security

A successful cyber security career can take many forms, as most roles don’t include "cyber security" in the title. Professionals may work as information security analysts, assurance specialists, cyber operations managers, developers, systems architects, or auditors.

Entry-level cyber security jobs offer solid salaries, but staying current in this evolving field requires updating certifications every few years. These can be earned through state universities or online programs from cyber security associations.

The ideal candidate combines soft skills with technical expertise. Employers seek knowledge of IT fundamentals and security best practices, even without a degree or bootcamp experience. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are also highly valued.

While IT and programming offer rewarding careers, cyber security is in growing demand. Homeland Security, the Pentagon, and the private sector all need experts to implement advanced digital security plans, creating strong job opportunities for graduates.

Typical Requirements

cyber_security_experience_needed When researching programs, look for those with an interdisciplinary approach, offering courses in computer science, engineering, management, privacy, ethics, digital forensics, project management, and operating systems.

Your coursework will cover various topics and include collaborative projects with students and faculty. Look for programs offering hands-on learning to solve real-world problems. For guidance, visit the NICE Cyber Security Workforce Framework website. This US government breakdown of roles, skills, and knowledge sought by Homeland Security can help you identify what to learn in your traditional or online cyber security degree program, even if you don’t plan to work for the government.

Typical Certifications Needed

There are several types of certifications that professionals can use to take their career to the next level, and recent graduates, as well as IT veterans may choose to earn a credential to increase job prospects or keep up with the latest technology. Here are some of the more common certifications that employers may look for:

Some examples:

CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker
CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate
CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional
GSEC / GCIH / GCIA: GIAC Security Certifications

Academic Standards

Applicants to cyber security bachelor’s programs need a high school diploma or GED. Universities may also look for strong skills in statistics, calculus, science, and English. Students who don’t meet these requirements may need to take prerequisite courses or start at a two-year college before transferring to a university with an associate degree in information assurance or cyber operations.

Academic standards vary by school. Some are more competitive and require strong educational backgrounds, recommendation letters, and high SAT scores, while others only require a high school diploma. When considering less competitive schools, ensure you evaluate the curriculum, faculty, and other quality indicators of the program.

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Exams and Experience Needed

As mentioned, you don’t need an advanced degree or a bachelor’s in cyber security for a high-paying career. Success depends on your job performance and commitment to staying updated with the latest industry practices. Some employers may require information security analysts to have an advanced degree or certification in areas like cloud application development. An online master’s in this field takes about two years and covers advanced principles, ethics, policy, and business administration, preparing you for leadership roles.

Associate Courses and Rankings

An online associate degree in cyber security is a two-year program that can potentially set you up for an entry-level job or as a more affordable way to earning a four-year degree. Because cyber security is a relatively new area, an associate degree can provide an additional qualification to a working professional with IT experience and/or a degree in computer science.

Example Online Associate curricula:

Math
Science
Database Security
Digital Forensics
Cybercrime

Bachelors Courses and Rankings

You don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree in cyber security to find work in this field, as again, it’s a somewhat new space. That said, if you’re considering a bachelor’s program, this may be a good path, as it offers a more specialized education than say mathematics or computer science.

Example Online Bachelor’s curricula:

iHacking
iServer Management
iNetworking Fundamentals
iArtificial Intelligence
iProgramming
Network Administration

Online Bachelor’s Degree Concentrations:
Cybersecurity Management, Information Security, Computer Forensics, Cryptographic Systems, and Crime Analysis

Masters Courses and Rankings

Online Master’s degree programs in cyber security give students a more specialized education. Most programs are two years and may be a good choice for working adults who wish to further their career and expertise.

Example Online Master’s Curricula:

Cryptography
Penetration testing
Digital forensics

Online Master’s Degree Concentrations:
Cybercrime Investigation, Digital Forensics, Information Security and Assurance, Enterprise Systems, Cyber Security Analysis, Network Security, and Cryptology

Certificates

In addition to traditional degrees, many universities offer certificates in cyber security as a means of furthering expertise or adding credentials to graduates’ resumes. These programs typically consist of the “major” part of a degree—meaning, students can update their knowledge and skip the general education aspect of earning a bachelor’s degree. In some cases, students may apply credits earned to a master’s degree in cyber security down the road. Some students that have graduated with their bachelors or masters may decide to earn a certification or they may choose to earn an online PhD in cyber security.

Which Programs are the Most Affordable?

One of the best reasons to choose a more affordable cybersecurity school is to gain relevant experience sooner in one’s career. Affordable colleges and universities often offer greater program flexibility. As a result, students at less expensive schools are able to secure part-time or full-time work within the cyber security sector. While other students are restricted from daytime working hours to attend courses, affordable cyber security degrees allow students to study and work. Because educated cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, the earlier one is able to secure work experience, the better.

Which Campus Schools are the Best?

You might be wondering what education is needed to become a cyber security expert. While in the past some have found their way into the field without any formal education, cyber security education is becoming both more necessary and easier to find throughout the US. Choosing the right cyber security school can set the foundation for a successful career in this rapidly growing field. We've researched and analyzed the top programs to help you make an informed decision. The best cyber security schools offer a combination of comprehensive curricula, experienced faculty, cutting-edge technology, and industry connections.

Earning Potential

Earning potential for cyber security professionals doesn’t change too much based on the level of formal education. Sure, someone with a master’s degree in cyber security or a related field may be able to command a higher salary, but this field hinges success on merit and ability more than formal education, which is often the case in these newer fields. That said, someone with only an associate degree might not have the knowledge needed to find work in this field—and as such, may be able to work in a related field, but will likely need to earn some certifications and train on their own time to make up for the lack of formal education.

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Fields of Study

Below, we’ve included the average salaries, at each stage in a graduate’s career. What we should mention is, any of these fields of study will provide similar opportunities, and salary depends more on your role and your ability than your degree—or even whether you’ve completed a degree. Analysts tend to earn slightly less than a programmer or engineer, and IT jobs can span a wide range of industries.

Information Technology
IT programs teach students the foundations of computer systems. Coursework for an IT program will focus on network security, programming, web development and design, and database administration. Many students that pursue a degree in IT can find work as a developer, designer, or systems analyst. Because this field of study also covers cyber security, students will also receive a solid foundation for launching a career in this space. That said, students may want to earn an additional cyber security credential if they wish to specialize.
Computer Science
Computer science is a broad field of study and is always a good choice for students who want to work in an in-demand tech role after graduating. In most computer science programs, students will learn a variety of computing languages and learn to develop software, applications, and will build, design, and test computer programs. Additionally, students will study computer science theory, mathematics, and may choose to take courses that look more closely at cyber security.
Cyber Security
A four-year cyber security program is similar to computer science or IT degree but focuses in on network security, cyber-crime, or security maintenance. Typical courses include criminology (criminal justice), networking, disaster recovery, forensics, and information security planning. Students who specialize in cyber security may go on to work as digital forensics science experts, analysts, information security officers, or network security administrators.
Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is similar to computer science but slightly more specific. This area of study combines electrical engineering with computer science, and students will look at how to make computing better, faster, and more secure. Computer engineering is a major for students with a natural curiosity, as it aims to teach concepts that involve using technology as a way of solving problems and planning for the future.
Information Systems Security
A computer information systems degree is for students who want to learn specifically about protecting against emerging digital threats. Students will learn to protect a computer against hackers, fight viruses, and many programs prepare students to earn certifications in the cyber security field—which can boost employment prospects upon graduation. Coursework includes database administration, statistics, computer forensics, and programming.

Potential Occupations

Cyber Security Analyst
A cyber security analyst works to detect and prevent threats to an organization—be it a private employer or a government agency. In this role, you’ll look for weaknesses in the software, hardware, and network. You’ll plan and implement security protocols, monitor access, and come up with new ways to prevent data breaches. Additionally, you might work with outside contractors and may be tasked with training employees on how to stay safe online.
Security Consultant
A security consultant is an outside expert who helps organizations implement security best practices based on their needs and the risks they face as a business. Those who wish to become a security consultant should have a strong understanding of security systems, authentication protocols, and strong communication skills.
Computer Forensics Expert
Computer forensics specialists are something of a digital detective. In this role, you might work for a corporation, law enforcement agency, law firm, or the government. And you’ll work to recover and examine data from computers or other electronics, run data breach investigations, and compile evidence for legal cases. Additionally, you should be able to reverse engineer activity to prove how a breach might have occurred, be well-versed in cryptography, cloud computing, and the full range of programming languages. You’ll also need to be able to communicate well, presenting your findings in court or in front of a company’s executive board.
Security Engineer
A security engineer typically works for a specific company and their role aims to build and maintain IT solutions for a company. Security engineers also handle technical issues as they arise, much like a traditional IT worker, but they also configure and install firewalls and intrusion detection systems and perform vulnerability tests. Additionally, security engineers monitor for security breaches and investigate break-ins, as they occur. They’ll test for vulnerabilities and implement solutions—and they’ll make recommendations based on their findings.
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers, otherwise known as ethical hackers are skilled security specialists who spend most of their time attempting to hack into network security systems. Testers work with companies to ensure that those without authorization cannot access an organization’s data. In this role, testers will conduct physical assessments of servers, systems, and network devices. They’ll also perform security tests on applications, networks, and computer systems, and write assessment reports that reveal their findings and recommendations.

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Scholarships

The Center for Cyber Safety and Education
The Center for Cybersecurity Safety and Education provides several scholarships for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and be enrolled in an accredited US institution. Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation, a personal essay, and current transcripts. Awards are valued at up to $5,000 and offered for one year, though winners may apply again for future funding.
Women in Information Security Scholarships
This center offers scholarships to undergraduate women in cybersecurity or information assurance. Students must have a 3.3 minimum GPA to qualify and may be enrolled in a program both in the US or abroad. To apply, students must submit a letter of recommendation, CV, and the answers to a series of essay questions.
CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service
CyberCorps is the US government’s effort to encourage more students to pursue cybersecurity careers. The organization awards undergraduate students with stipends up to $22,500 to cover tuition and fees. Students should be aware that the scholarship comes with a stipulation—students must take a position in the federal government after graduating for the length of time equal to the amount of time they participated in the scholarship program.
The Stokes Program
The Stokes Program is another government-backed program that offers generous rewards in exchange for a commitment later on. Students are eligible for awards up to $30,000 per year. Graduates must work with the National Security Agency upon graduation—keep in mind that the program also has some pretty strict background check requirements.

Professional Organizations

SANS
ISC
CIS

SANS

The SANS Institute

SANS is a trusted source for information security information, training, and certification. This organization works to help IT pros stay informed of the latest best practices and puts on events all over the country. They also run online courses, write white papers, and partner with public and private entities to help them apply best practices.

ISC

International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium

An international non-profit for information security professionals, the (ISC)2 offers training, certification, and membership to IT pros from all over the world. The site features many forums, an events calendar, and the opportunity to win awards. You’ll also gain access to member pricing for training and events and can start your own (ISC)2 chapter if you’d like.

CIS

Center for Internet Security

The Center for Internet Security is a non-profit organization that focuses on enhancing cybersecurity readiness and response, both in the public and private sector. CIS aims to offer a range of resources to their partners and serves as a well-regarded resource on cybersecurity best practices. The CIS also puts on cybersecurity events and provides a job board for professionals seeking employment in this field.

Choosing an Online Accredited College

Accreditation is crucial when pursuing an online bachelor’s degree, particularly in fields like cyber security, where skills and experience often matter more than the degree itself. However, choosing an accredited program ensures you're receiving an education that meets the standards set by recognized agencies, which impacts your ability to transfer credits, qualify for financial aid, and pursue graduate programs. Many employers also prefer candidates with degrees from accredited schools, as programs without accreditation may not guarantee the necessary skills or meet industry standards.

Online vs. On-Campus vs. Hybrid

These days, students have the option to choose how they earn their degree, and plenty of schools provide online learning opportunities for students who can’t drop everything to enroll in a traditional program.

Cyber security is an ideal major for those seeking an online degree, as you’ll be spending a great deal of time behind the computer anyway. Still, there are benefits to taking classes in person. Schools that provide both online and offline courses may be a good choice, as online students can elect to take courses on campus here and there—benefitting from the networking opportunities and hands-on experience with faculty.

The thing you do need to watch out for is that the high demand for cybersecurity degrees has led to an abundance of scam diploma mills. Countless programs will charge you for a worthless degree with no accreditation. As such, we recommend looking into programs offered through traditional schools — i.e., state schools, private universities, or smaller colleges with an on-campus component. If the school does not come with regional accreditation or is not recognized by the US Department of Education, you should consider it a warning to stay away.

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2025 Best Online Associate, Bachelors and Masters Cybersecurity Program Rankings

How to Earn an Online Degree in Cyber Security

Typical Requirements

Typical Certifications Needed

Academic Standards

Exams and Experience Needed

Associate Courses and Rankings

Example Online Associate curricula:

Top 25 Best Online Associate Degrees in Cybersecurity

LeTourneau University

University of Charleston

Southeast Technical College

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Minnesota State College Southeast

Sinclair Community College

Peninsula College

Sheridan College

North Central Texas College

Vance-Granville Community College

Oconee Fall Line Technical College

Madisonville Community College

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College

Bachelors Courses and Rankings

Example Online Bachelor’s curricula:

Top 25 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Cybersecurity

LeTourneau University

Friends University

Robert Morris University

Masters Courses and Rankings

Example Online Master’s Curricula:

Certificates

Top 25 Best Online Master's Degrees in Cybersecurity

Which Programs are the Most Affordable?

Top 50 Affordable Cybersecurity Colleges and Universities

Louisiana State University-Shreveport

University of Wisconsin-Parkside

Purdue Global

Which Campus Schools are the Best?

Top 25 Best Campus Cybersecurity Colleges