Guide to Cybersecurity Degree Programs and Careers

Understanding Cybersecurity Education and Opportunities

Cybersecurity involves using advanced technologies and strategies to safeguard digital information from threats such as hackers, malware, and network disruptions. Also called IT security, it demands skilled professionals equipped to defend networks and systems. Many cybersecurity roles require at least a relevant degree. Some institutions offer dedicated cybersecurity programs, while others include specialized tracks within broader degrees like computer science, criminal justice, or information technology.

Learn key facts about pursuing a cybersecurity degree.

What educational background is necessary for cybersecurity jobs?

A four-year degree in fields such as computer science, information technology, or engineering, including courses in math, statistics, and English.

Meeting these academic requirements opens doors to cybersecurity careers.

How can one become certified in cybersecurity?

Certifications are available through industry-leading institutions, hardware vendors, and programs like the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

These credentials are obtained by passing standardized exams.

Potential job roles with a cybersecurity degree include:

Data Security Analyst

Information Technology Specialist

Cybersecurity Consultant

Security Manager

Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Software Developer

Cyber Forensics Expert

Online cybersecurity degrees typically take:

Two years for an associate's degree

Four years for a bachelor's degree

Two additional years for a master's degree

Average earnings in cybersecurity:

The median salary is approximately $116,000 annually.

This equates to about $55.77 per hour.

Top online cybersecurity programs include:

Western Governors University offers a comprehensive bachelor's in IT security covering systems, networking, data management, programming, and business aspects.

Excelsior College provides both general and specialized tracks in cybersecurity, including healthcare security and incident response.

Liberty University’s program emphasizes cyber defense, network security, and web security fundamentals.

Wilmington University focuses on digital forensics, cyber law, and data protection, with specialization options.

The University of Illinois at Springfield prepares students for system design and security assessments.

Bellevue University’s program covers programming, cryptography, and access control techniques.

Keiser University offers training in cyber forensics, network security, and attack prevention, with specialization tracks.

University of Maryland College Park provides degrees in network security, security management, and software security, fostering practical skills.

Champlain College emphasizes protecting organizational assets from cyber threats.

Southern New Hampshire University trains students in security network creation and management.