Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity are prepared to defend computer systems against harmful intrusions. With cloud computing being an increasingly important part of any business, cybersecurity has become a major industry standard. Holders of a cybersecurity degree can demonstrate the core knowledge required to stay current in a continuously changing sector.
Graduates with a cybersecurity degree enter an intriguing sector with a variety of flexible and possibly profitable career options. Computer and information technology workers earned median annual pay of $88,240 in 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Maryville University is a long-time leader in internet education, offering more than 50 online degrees and certificates through the Canvas platform. Flexible start dates and one-on-one help from admissions and academic advisors are available to students.
Internet Security Degree-7 Best Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degrees 2021
Through a curriculum that emphasizes project-based skill development, Maryville’s BS in cybersecurity prepares students for positions with government agencies, financial institutions, and technology corporations. Database design applied operating systems, and cyberlaw, policy, and compliance are among the topics covered in the program. Students must also finish a set of essential accounting and economics classes.
Candidates for an online cybersecurity degree can customize their study by choosing an offensive concentration focusing on mobile security and advanced ethical hacking instead of the general track. They could also focus on defensive tactics such as penetration testing and cloud security. The school’s virtual laboratory, the Cyber Fusion Center, provides distance learners with hands-on training.
What Is Cybersecurity?
The first virus capable of transmitting between computer networks was generated by an engineer named Bob Thomas about 1970, according to experts. In 1988, Robert Morris followed in Thomas’s footsteps by creating a worm that did enough harm to bring the fledgling internet to a standstill.
Cybersecurity specialists protect their organizations’ computer systems from threats, and they are now a required position in practically every industry. As businesses become more reliant on cloud computing, hackers try to steal sensitive data and disrupt operations, making cybersecurity a critical component of any firm.
Cybersecurity degrees should be pursued by those who have a strong interest in computers and technology. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and excellent deductive reasoning are all important talents.
Bachelor’s degree holders in cybersecurity are qualified to work as consultants, information security analysts, and computer and information systems managers. Computer systems design, management of organizations and enterprises, and credit intermediation and related activities are among the top industries employing information security analysts, according to the BLS.
With 131,000 information security analysts employed across the country, BLS projections show a 31% increase in demand between 2019 and 2029, well surpassing the national average for all occupations.
Why Get an Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree?
Higher education necessitates a tremendous time, energy, and financial investment. Holders of a cybersecurity degree can expect to enter a job market that rewards their investment with attractive positions in a variety of industries. In this demanding and lucrative field, technology lovers with good problem-solving skills will find plenty of chances. Consider these benefits of pursuing a cybersecurity degree:
Opportunity
Degree holders can work in a variety of industries and places now that cybersecurity is a critical component of most enterprises.
Challenge
Cyberattackers utilize new tactics to undermine computer systems as technology advances and evolves. Cybersecurity specialists must keep up-to-date knowledge and look for new ways to solve problems, making for an interesting and demanding career.
Earning Prospects
Information security analysts earned a median salary of $99,730 in 2019, according to BLS data. IT administrators, who earned a median annual salary of $146,360 in 2019, are one of the many profitable jobs available to cybersecurity degree holders.
Students in the University of North Dakota’s online cybersecurity program learn how to safeguard key data assets. Learners will be prepared for positions with defense corporations and technology-focused enterprises, especially those in the Red River Valley. Electrical engineering is the focus of the interdisciplinary curriculum, which includes topics like control systems and computer-aided measurements.
1.Maryville UniversityÂ
Maryville University is a long-time leader in internet education, offering more than 50 online degrees and certificates through the Canvas platform. Flexible start dates and one-on-one help from admissions and academic advisors are available to students.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Through a curriculum that emphasizes project-based skill development, Maryville’s BS in cybersecurity prepares students for positions with government agencies, financial institutions, and technology corporations. Database design applied operating systems, and cyberlaw, policy, and compliance are among the topics covered in the program. Students must also finish a set of essential accounting and economics classes.
Candidates for an online cybersecurity degree can customize their study by choosing an offensive concentration focusing on mobile security and advanced ethical hacking instead of the general track. They could also focus on defensive tactics such as penetration testing and cloud security. The school’s virtual laboratory, the Cyber Fusion Center, provides distance learners with hands-on training.
Applying to Maryville University
A least 2.5 GPA in high school is required for admission. Maryville University does not require prospective undergraduate students to have relevant work experience and does not ask them to take a test.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Private school type
- HLC (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs) accreditation
- Tuition is $622 per credit.
- 128 credit hours are required.
- After completing general education, the program lasts 2.5 years.
- 100% of the time, the delivery is done online (asynchronous)
Baker provides affordable academics at its Michigan campuses and through asynchronous courses powered by Canvas. The college’s remote certificates and degrees are renowned for their innovation, earning a quality scorecard exemplary endorsement from the Online Learning Commission in 2016.
BS in Information Technology and Security
The online bachelor of science program in information technology and security with a concentration in information assurance/cybersecurity teaches students to respond to internal and external threats. Required coursework includes ethical hacking, security policies, and auditing, and VPN firewall. Learners also delve into IT legal/ethical issues like intellectual property and social media addiction.
All degree candidates need to gain at least 150 hours of work experience. The program culminates with a research-focused senior project that lets students examine a pertinent challenge in the technology field. Baker is a designated national center of academic excellence in cyber defense and education.
Making an application to Baker
Baker does not have a minimum grade point average requirement. Applicants may send ACT or SAT scores to strengthen their admissions portfolio, but doing so is not mandatory. Nearly 86 percent of students receive scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial aid.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Private school type
- HLC accreditation
- Tuition: $415/credit
- 120 credit hours are required.
- Duration of the program: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100 percent online (synchronous) or on campus
3.William Woods University
Based in Fulton, Mississippi, William Woods enrolls 3,500 students annually. Nearly two-thirds of learners engage in remote learning, earning their credentials through eight-week, asynchronous classes powered by the Moodle platform. The university offers over 20 fully online degrees.
Online BS in Cybersecurity
Students who complete the William Woods online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree are prepared for careers in government and military agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare. Database management systems and critical infrastructures are two courses that are required. Learners also look into information warfare and digital terrorism, with an emphasis on the legal strategies and information technology tactics, used to combat these threats.
Candidates for a cybersecurity degree gain practical experience through virtual laboratory sessions and internship training. They complete their undergraduate studies with a capstone project in which they research a major problem in the field of information technology and assurance. Classes might commence in January, March, April, June, August, or October for distance learners.
Interested in working at Williams Woods?
The admissions procedure at William Woods is on a rolling basis. In addition to a 2.0 GPA, applicants must have an ACT score of 19 or an SAT score of 980. Incoming first-year and transfer students can apply for scholarships at the university.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Private school type
- HLC accreditation
- Tuition is $235 per credit hour.
- 124 credit hours are required.
- Duration of the program: 3–4 years
- 100% of the time, the delivery is done online (asynchronous)
4.University of Charleston
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Students can acquire their cybersecurity degree online part-time or full-time. Incident handling, security analysis, and ethical hacking and countermeasures are among the topics covered in class. Learners can tailor their education by adding a supplementary minor, which consists of a pre-determined business course that covers basic marketing, accounting, and organizational management themes.
The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants has accredited UC as a training provider (E-C Council). IT certifications such as the Cisco certified network associate and CompTIA’s A+ credential are available to graduates. They can work as network administrators or security engineers for information systems.
How to Apply to UC?
The UC online cybersecurity degree requires applicants to have either an associate of cybersecurity or 60 credits of appropriate coursework as a degree completion route. A minimum 2.0 GPA is also required of prospective students.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Private school type
- HLC; EC-Council accreditation
- $380 per credit hour intuition
- 125 credit hours are required.
- Duration of the program: 2 years
- 100% of the time, the delivery is done online (asynchronous)
- Regent University is a private university in the United States.
5.Regent University
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Students pursuing an online cybersecurity degree learn how to design and manage integrated defenses to reduce an organization’s IT vulnerabilities. Coursework on computer science ethics, digital forensics, and project management and practice are all included in the curriculum. Contingency planning is also examined by candidates to aid businesses in recovering from external threats and internal subversion.
A capstone course in project management and practice complete the cybersecurity program. Students create and test large information systems in groups to synthesize major concepts and abilities. The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have selected Regent as a national center of academic excellence in cyber defense education.
Applying to Regent University
Regent does not require online students to achieve a certain GPA or pass standardized tests. Up to 90 transfer credits are accepted by the university. Candidates for a cybersecurity degree must, however, finish at least half of their major requirements at Regent.
A Quick Overview of the Program
Private school type
HLC accreditation
Tuition is $395 per credit hour.
120 credits are required.
Duration of the program: 4 years
100% online (asynchronous) or on-campus delivery format
6.University of Arizona
UofA Global offers more than 2,200 individual courses and 60 online undergraduate and graduate degrees. The institution is a national center of academic excellence for cyber defense education, as designated by the NHA and the Department of Homeland Security.
Cyber Operations Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)
This practitioner-focused BAS in cyber operations with a defense and forensics emphasis teaches students how to build countermeasures and obtain digital evidence. The program covers topics such as social engineering, wireless networking, and cloud computing, in addition to security fundamentals for Linux and Windows systems.
Students also learn how to use Python to assist operational analytics and penetration tests in Cyberopolis, a cutting-edge virtual training environment. The curriculum concludes with students writing and presenting a research paper. Cyber operations concentrations in cyber engineering and cyber policy/law are also available at the University of Arizona.
Applying to the University of Arizona
The cybersecurity program is a degree completion track that requires students to transfer 60 credits from a regionally approved college with a minimum GPA of 2.4. A goal statement and a current résumé are two other admissions resources.
A Quick Overview of the Program
Type of school: public
- HLC accreditation
- $500/credit intuition
- 120-semester credits are required.
- Duration of the program: 2 years
- Format of delivery: 100% online or on-campus
- Drexel University is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
7.Drexel University
Drexel University enrolls nearly 24,000 students each year, making it one of the country’s largest private research universities. Approximately 20% of learners achieve their credentials remotely with Blackboard Learn’s flexible classes.
A bachelor’s degree in computing and security technology is available.
Working IT professionals who aspire to develop into leadership positions as software engineering managers or information assurance specialists might consider the Drexel online cybersecurity degree. Network administration, data science, and software project management are all required courses. Students also learn about human-centered design, which involves incorporating consumer and stakeholder feedback into the product creation process.
Candidates for cybersecurity study one of two concentrations: computing technology or computing security. The first approach focuses on mobile application and cloud computing platform protection structures. For risk management objectives, the latter track focuses on conducting multi-tiered penetration testing and systems audits.
Applying to Drexel University
Prospective students must have at least a 2.0 GPA and 36 transferable quarter credits (or 24-semester credits) from a regionally approved college. Distance learners at Drexel can use up to 90 credits toward their degree.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Private school type
- MSCHE accreditation
- $530 per credit intuition
- 188 quarter credits are required.
- Duration of the program: 3–4 years
- 100% of the time, the delivery is done online (asynchronous)
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity prepares students to protect digital assets through offensive and defensive methods. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with hands-on projects to emphasize skill-building in critical thinking, analysis, communication, and research. Students can also collaborate with local businesses.
To complete a cybersecurity degree, an enrollee must typically complete 120 credits, including any transfer credits. Some programs allow students to use work experience, such as industry credentials, to help them complete their degrees. Depending on the program, the number of transfer credits, and individual student needs, program timelines can vary from 18 months to six years.
Many cybersecurity degree programs allow students to choose from a variety of tracks or concentrations. Foundational courses cover topics like network administration, information security, and computer programming. Some programs also cover certain aspects of business environments, such as organization management. Tuition rates also vary by institution, though many schools feature reduced rates.
Admission Requirements
en require applicants to hold an associate degree or other college experience, like a certificate, before qualifying for admission. These programs expect students to enter the program with about 30 credits already earned. Some schools do not require any previous college coursework. In either event, most programs enable students to transfer as many credits as they need into the program.
GPA minimums, often in the 2.5-3.0 range, may also be encountered by applicants. Schools often demand an application fee, personal statement, résumé, transcripts, and letters of recommendation in addition to an online application.
The Common App allows prospective students to construct a single, streamlined application for many colleges. The Common App also has planning tools and information on financial help.
Degree and Concentration Options
BS degrees are offered by the majority of cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs. Bachelor’s degrees in business administration with a focus on cybersecurity are also available for those interested in combining business and technology.
- Many cybersecurity programs allow students to choose from a variety of specializations, allowing them to adapt their education to their own interests and future aspirations. Among the most common choices are:
- Computer Forensics: Computer forensics entails research and vulnerability testing, with network and malware forensics courses available. Students learn how to recognize network breaches and how to respond to them.
- This specialty focuses on uncovering crimes such as money laundering, credit fraud, and fraud prevention.
- Information Assurance: The information assurance concentration emphasizes the avoidance of data-driven cybercrime by teaching students how to conduct secure cyber operations and continuously assess system vulnerabilities.
- Information Warfare and Security Management: This specialty focuses on national security challenges and examines cyberintelligence from both an offensive and defensive standpoint.
Popular Cybersecurity Degree Courses
Each cybersecurity degree program has its own set of prerequisites and expectations. While studying institutions, prospective students should keep their personal interests in mind, as coursework varies greatly amongst colleges. Even so, degree-seekers may expect to come upon some parallels when they weigh their alternatives.
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity usually has core requirements as well as electives or focus options. In some programs, each student must also complete a capstone or senior project. The following courses are frequently required:
Jobs for Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Graduates
Cybersecurity professionals must have a thorough understanding of the systems they are tasked with safeguarding. Learners get the core knowledge they need to apply security measures by studying networking theories and protocols, as well as common structures and vocabulary. Common networking types, hardware, applications, and routing ideas are among the topics covered.
Candidates with degrees in cybersecurity can use their experience to impress potential employers for a variety of computer-related jobs. According to BLS data, information security jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree paid a nationwide median pay of more than $80,000 in 2019. In 2019, computer systems analysts made a median salary of $90,920, while computer programmers made an average salary of $86,550.
Information Security Analyst
Professional certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, may also be useful in helping graduates land lucrative manager or director positions. A master’s degree can also help you get a job as a computer and information research scientist, which pays $122,840 a year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Analyst for Information Security
- Manager of Security
- Architect for Computer Networks
- Administration of a database
Security Manager
These professionals, who work primarily in computer and information systems management, coordinate security plans for their companies and frequently supervise staff teams. They conduct regular research to stay up to date on the most recent trends and threats. Cybersecurity graduates can qualify to work as security managers with bachelor’s degrees, though master’s degrees may help with advancement opportunities.
- Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Job Outlook (2019-2029): +10 percent
- Median Annual Salary: $116,170
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects handle the hardware components for their organizations’ data communication networks. Implementation, maintenance, and research all factor into a computer network architect’s responsibilities. Top-employing industries include telecommunications, computer systems design, and management of companies and enterprises.
- Bachelor’s degree is required for this position.
- Job Outlook (2019-2029): +5 percent
- $112,690 is the median annual salary.
Database Administrator
These professionals keep an eye on their employers’ data systems to ensure that sensitive information is kept safe. They safeguard client information, financial information, and medical histories. Database administrators also perform tests, patch installations, and data backups. Computer systems design, company and enterprise management, and colleges, universities, and professional schools are among the top industries.
- Bachelor’s degree is required for this position.
- Job Prospects (2019-2029): + 10%
- $93,750 is the median annual salary.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Network and computer systems administrators are in charge of their organizations’ everyday IT operations. Upgrades and installations, user setup, and problem-solving are all things they deal with when it comes to a data connection. They also keep an eye out for security issues and work to resolve them. Computer systems design and educational services are two of the top employers.
- Bachelor’s degree is required for this position.
- Job Prospects (2019-2029): +4%
- Annual Median Salary: $83,510
Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Degree
Our rankings serve as a great starting point for students looking to start or continue their search for the best cybersecurity degree. Before committing to a program, prospective enrollees should think about their own goals and preferences.
Accreditation is quite important while looking for a degree program. Regional and national accreditation is for institutions as a whole, whereas programmatic accreditation is for specific degrees within a school. Many colleges and universities do not accept transfer credits or degrees earned outside of their regional accreditation. Look for schools certified by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense or Operations if you’re looking for a cybersecurity degree.
Extracurricular activities and university resources should be considered by prospective students. Distance learners may be interested in learning more about the program’s community-building possibilities, such as club memberships and online activities. Career services and alumni networks, library aid, disability services, and tutoring are all valuable tools.
For many degree aspirants, the cost of a program is also a major consideration. Scholarships and other forms of financial aid are available through some programs, so students should inquire about them when contacting suitable colleges. Learners should also consider the cost of education versus the possibility for earning – many schools provide information on graduate success rates, such as how quickly graduates found jobs, income ranges, and specific job titles.
Why You Should Get Your Degree Online?
As more top universities see the value of distance learning, online education’s success improves year after year.
Students studying cybersecurity can readily master the relevant ideas and principles via online lectures, with practical computing projects suitable to distance learning in particular. While learning online, students can still participate in group projects and build vital contacts.
However, before committing to an online degree, students should think about their unique interests and proclivities. The distance education curriculum is on par with in-person courses in terms of rigor, needing considerable self-motivation on the side of students. Some people like to be in a crowded on-campus environment, while others prefer to study alone.
Students should think about which program format best suits their needs and personalities. Some online courses use real-time web meetings and require students to attend classes at specific times. Others provide students with materials to finish on their own time. A hybrid approach, which includes regular or occasional in-person meetings, may be preferred by degree seekers.