Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Written by Wendy Wittmer
Wendy Wittmer, MBA. Specializes in cybersecurity planning and strategy for small businesses. Training from the Department of Homeland Security, CISA, NIST, FTC, FCC, SBA, more.
Last reviewed February 20, 2023
School Program Admissions
Pace University Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
NSA- and DHS-designated. 100% online. No GRE/GMAT. Hands-on, specialized learning.
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Utica University Online BS in Cybersecurity
Specializations: Network Forensics and Incident Response, Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation, and Cyber Operations.
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Maryville University Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The online BS in Cybersecurity from Maryville University will teach you how to protect digital assets and information systems in various industries, from finance to healthcare. No SAT or ACT scores required.
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Maryville University Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Earn your MS in Cybersecurity online from Maryville University in as few as 12 months.
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University of California, Berkeley Master’s in Cybersecurity
Complete your degree in 20 months. Join the global UC Berkeley alumni network of technology, data science, privacy, and policy professionals.
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Click to see sponsored 100% online cybersecurity programs currently taking applicants for 2024.

There are several Cybersecurity Degrees offered online at all levels. The most popular online degrees are the Bachelor of Cybersecurity and the Masters in Cybersecurity. There are a handful of doctorate programs. Although, most are only available on-campus.

Multiple Levels of Online Cyber Security Degrees

Online cybersecurity degrees are available in several degree levels. Each college and university will have different offerings. Students can choose from an associate, bachelor or master's degree. Doctoral degrees and certificates are also an option. Some schools will offer one or two programs. Other schools will have more.

Undergraduate degrees

In general, cybersecurity employers require candidates to have at least a bachelor's degree. Associate degree programs typically take two years to complete. A bachelor’s degree program will take four to five years. The increasingly popular online degree programs provide greater flexibility. Such degrees often allow students more time to complete, yet still, have a deadline.

Graduate degrees

Earning a master’s or doctoral degree may take two to three years. A bachelor's degree is almost always a prerequisite to graduate degrees. Post-secondary certificates may only take a year. These certificates often require a previous degree in cybersecurity or a related field.

What to know about online learning

Online cybersecurity degree students can typically complete most of the courses online. General education, business and computer-related courses will be a part of the curriculum. Many students complete some online courses before even starting their actual degree programs. Prior to graduation, students might have to complete an internship. Today's programs understand the importance of real experience in a work setting. The internship might be paid or unpaid depending on the employer. Students in graduate programs may also be required to complete thesis or research projects.

Why Consider a Cybersecurity degree online?

Cybercriminals are increasingly clever and successful. There is also a massive shortage of properly trained and educated cybersecurity professionals. Governments also failed to address cybersecurity threats in a meaningful way until it became too late. This is a dangerous combination. Successful breaches cost enterprises billions, individuals their life savings and small business owners their livelihoods. Millions of people also lose their jobs as a result. Patients die at medical facilities. And cyberattacks leave countries vulnerable to economic collapse and an increase of other crimes. The good news is that preventative measures and strong recovery plans can help. They help minimize damage and stop virtual bad actors from ruining the lives of more victims. The world needs more powers of good online. And you can become one with a cybersecurity degree.

School Program Admissions
Pace University Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Website
Utica University Online BS in Cybersecurity Website
Maryville University Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Website
Maryville University Master of Science in Cybersecurity Website
University of California, Berkeley Master’s in Cybersecurity Website
University of West Florida Online M.S. in Cybersecurity Website
Syracuse University Master of Science in Cybersecurity Website
Arizona State University Online Master of Computer Science - Cybersecurity Website
Utica University Online MS in Cybersecurity Website
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Why online learning is emerging

Online education, also known as distance learning, has some similarities to traditional brick and mortar education, but students can learn in the privacy of their homes. Students have real time instructors but will also learn through virtual classrooms and DVDs, webinars, interactive media and other learning tools. Earning an online cybersecurity degree allows individuals to pursue a challenging and rewarding career while continuing to work and fulfill other obligations.

Why Cyber Security as a Field of Study?

Cyber security is a growing field that deals with protecting computers, programs, networks and data from damage, attacks or unauthorized access. When one is discussing computers, the term security is synonymous with cybersecurity.

The need for more cybersecurity specialists continues to grow as cyber attacks and intrusions are reaching an all-time high. Earning a cybersecurity degree can put you in a position to help fight this global problem. If attending college full time is a problem, you may want to check into online cybersecurity degrees, which are offered at many colleges as a part-time option.

Information continues to be gathered and stored at a rapid rate within data centers and the cloud as people become more reliant on technology. While it provides a better lifestyle with smartphone convenience and ongoing automation within our vehicles, there will always be dangers of this technology being in control of cyber attacks, stealing personal information or manipulating devices that operate on machine learning and artificial intelligence. These crimes end up costing businesses billions of dollars each year as cybersecurity is constantly overlooked, and oftentimes sensitive information can be leaked to the public or completely lost without any developed recovery methods.

School Program Admissions
Arizona State University Online Master of Computer Science - Cybersecurity Website
Utica University Online MS in Cybersecurity Website
Fairleigh Dickinson University Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security Website
Stevens Institute of Technology Master of Science in Computer Science Website
Utica University BS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations Website
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Online Cyber Degrees

Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security Degree

Course topics may include applied statistics, social psychology, business systems analysis and design, information technology fundamentals, cybersecurity and information assurance, database design and management, cyber law and ethics, website design and advanced information systems.

As part of a degree program, cybersecurity may be a major, but there are also programs that offer different areas of concentration. A student can study cybersecurity as a whole but specialize in a specific area such as forensics, cybercrime investigations or information assurance to name just a few. Although the concentrations are somewhat similar, they also cover different areas.

For instance, someone interested in working in law enforcement may choose a concentration in forensics while someone who enjoys finding clues and evidence used for prosecution may wish to focus on cybercrime investigations. A concentration in information assurance teaches students how to recognize possible security breaches and how to design and implement preventative measures. Choosing a concentration allows the student to gain more detailed knowledge in his or her area of interest.

Online Master’s in Cyber Security Degrees

With the increasing popularity of online education, more and more schools are offering online degree programs, and cybersecurity degrees are offered in many colleges and universities.

Some universities offer both bachelor’s and master’s degree online programs in cybersecurity; computer networks and security; software development and security; cybersecurity policy; digital forensics and crime investigations; and information technology. Also be on the lookout for different graduate or postsecondary certificates in various areas of cybersecurity.

The information technology degree offers concentrations in Homeland security management and information assurance. Southern New Hampshire University offers a bachelor’s degree in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity.

Aspiring cybersecurity students can find a listing of accredited colleges through the National Center for Education Statistics. This site allows viewers to find schools based on state, zip code and degree level. It also offers a sort filter, making it easier for students to find just the online schools.

Online Certifications in Cyber Security

Upon graduating, the graduate may wish to obtain certifications. Certification may not be required for employment, but many employers prefer to hire candidates who are certified because it’s an indication of knowledge, skill and commitment to the field. Software vendors often offer certifications when their products are being used. Additionally, various certifications are offered through the following agencies.

List of Some of the Top Online Cybersecurity Programs

University of Southern California
Colorado Technical University
Iowa State University
Carnegie Mellon University
The George Washington University
Walden University
Mississippi State University
Syracuse University

Cyber Security Careers

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies, cybersecurity offers a variety of career opportunities. Here are just a few of the many potential career choices for cybersecurity graduates: Information security analyst, Network and computer system administrator, Security analyst, Information assurance analyst, Forensic expert, Chief information security officer, Network security engineer, or Computer crime investigator.

What is Cyber Security?

Cyber security is the preventative methods of protecting digital information within a computer system so it is not compromised by an outside attack. This could be anything from unauthorized access by an employee to a malicious virus that attempts to destroy or steal data. As we continue to rely more on data and much of our private information is stored in these systems or within the cloud, it is extremely important to keep this information secure and avoid any data breaches or the misuse of this information.

Security is important not only within servers and networks that connect computers and mobile devices together, but the hardware itself and the software that is running on these systems. Strategies deployed within this sector include identifying potential risks and how they can be exploited, encryption to avoid any data leaks, and following the latest innovations to further protect these systems and being a step ahead of hacking attempts.