Consider a sponsored online program currently accepting applicants.
School | Program | Admissions |
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Michigan State University | Online MS in Cybercrime and Digital Investigation
In as few as two years, you can complete your online master’s degree and graduate as you benefit from MSU’s partnerships with the Department of Homeland Security, the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center, the MSU Police and more.
| Website |
Methodist University | Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Focus on courses for certifications in Certified Ethical Hacker, Network+, Security+, Cloud+, Cyber Security, and Cloud Security.
| Website |
University of Saint Mary | Online B.S. in Cybersecurity
IACBE Accredited. Gain cybersecurity skills combined with essential business skills to help you communicate effectively with stakeholders and think strategically about core business functions.
| Website |
Tufts University | Online MS in Computer Science
GRE not required, 10 courses, 100% online. Tufts University attracts students with academic or professional programming experience (or CS experience) who are inquisitive, futuristic thinkers interested in developing innovative solutions for today’s digital challenges.
| Website |
Southern New Hampshire University | AS in Cybersecurity
Participate in National Cyber League competitions.
| Website |
Click to see sponsored 100% online cybersecurity programs currently taking applicants for 2024.
The vulnerability of personal and business information today should be a concern for everyone. Prospective students considering an academic path in information security should be applauded. Information security can be very broadly defined. Students will find information security degrees offer a concentration in one area of study as an option. Those who earn bachelor's degrees in information security can fight, detect and keep digital crime from occurring in the first place. This is done after a student takes classes that combine instruction in cutting-edge technology with forensics, investigative methods and critical thinking.
An information security job after graduation may be a computer systems analyst or as an IT professional designing and maintaining software architecture.
Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology will find the job market trending positive. A Computer Systems Analyst may earn an average of $88,270 while a Computer Network Architect may earn an average of $120,520 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (source).
Everyone from consumers to leaders in the business community to government employees have an interest in keeping our personal and professional data protected. Those who have earned degrees in information security are leading the charge against hackers who plan to steal information from shoppers, businesses and governments.
Are there online information security degrees?
Yes, there are information security degree programs available online. However, most degrees will need to be a Bachelor of Information Technology or a Bachelor of Cybersecurity with a concentration in information security. We have reviewed multiple programs that fit this criteria.
In depth review of some of the best online Information Security degree programs
Penn State University - Multiple information security degrees
This university offers 3 levels of the Information Security degree-associate, bachelor's and Master of Professional Studies. Students can have a seamless experience with their academic learning degree all at one university. Information security explores many facets of cybersecurity. Students can focus on the integration and application component of the industry. Design and development of information systems for students with an aptitude for technical knowledge is a concentration. \
- Associate of Science in Information Sciences & Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences & Technology
- MPS in Homeland Security - Information Security and Forensics
The transformation of information security is moving at the speed of light. The impact is global. Penn State University is a top university with multiple cyber degree programs. Prospective students will find a full course portfolio on cyber topics at this university. Students looking for a seamless academic experience can move through the academic curricula from start to finish encased in cybersecurity coursework. Online programs options are included for all three programs-associate, bachelor's, and Masters. Students interested in a career at the Department of Homeland Security can enhance a resume with the expertise and skills learned under this degree program.
Bachelor's program courses
Bachelor's degree programs on average will consist of 120 to 130 credit hours. This program requires 125 total credits The cost per credit hour between $620 and $664. Curricula for the course major is 84 credits. General credit education requires a total of 45 of which twelve are included in the course major credit count of 84. Students are then allowed eight credits of electives. The university offers a set of recommended electives and other optional credits on Integration and Application or Design and Development of cyber components.
Effective communication is critical in every business sector. The general education coursework includes required technical and business writing courses. IT language is unique to the sector and can be challenging for professionals who do not understand the technical terms. Students will learn the IT language and skills on effective communication of department goals. In the workforce, IT professionals become the bridge, sharing industry protocol with leadership. IT department leaders are tasked with packaging industry protocols and cyber language into business terms for CEO's and CFO's review, approval, and deployment.
Sample course titles
- Information, People and Technology
- Introduction To Formal Languages
- Mathematical Logic, and Discrete Mathematics
- Information Sciences and Technology Integration and Problem Solving
- Engineering Of Complex Software Systems
The bachelor's degree program is geared towards students who have beginning knowledge in IT or the cybersecurity field. Previous experience is not required but will likely reduce the study time commitment. Information security degree programs have several courses involving mathematics. Students should consider their academic coursework goals and prior aptitude for mathematics prior to pursuing. Math courses taken integrate the discipline of mathematics and cybersecurity topics.
Concentrations:
- Integration and Application: The industry language and information systems are rapidly changing. Software used within and between businesses becomes obsolete quickly. Software compatibility between corporations and software vendors create complications in cybersecurity collaboration and deployment. This concentration prepares students for high-level problem solving. Students will study the global impact of cybersecurity warfare and how it will change the world for business and consumers.
- Information Systems: Design and Development: Professionally with expertise and the ability to develop advanced information technology systems is critical. Cyber criminals can carry the expertise of a graduate student. Utilizing state-of-the-art tools this concentration will provide students the skills to troubleshoot existing and new technology as well as solve complex coded software. Professionals with this background will have the opportunity to create software and applications to drive technology forward to a more secure environment.
Bellevue University's undergraduate and graduate degree programs
The university offers both a bachelor and master's degree in information technology. Beyond the excellent set of curricula, students can build relationships with professors, local industry leaders and other international students. Collaboration with both government and corporations are strong in this institution. STRATCOM Air Force Base creates networking opportunities for students with high quality cybersecurity and IT professionals. The local business community is strong in with defense sector as well.
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Degree
- Master of Science in Information Technology Degree
The streamline academic path can be very smooth if students are looking to complete both a bachelors and masters with the same academic institution. Students will find both a bachelor and master's in information technology at Bellevue University. Learning information technology requires mastering the essentials of network systems. The university offers a base of foundational knowledge and real-world experience. An IT project requirement highlights the last semester. The project may be designed as research study to master IT concepts or an internship to improve communication skills and gain leadership skills.
Coursework is available in an online platform. Students have the flexibility to complete courses within day or evening timeframes. Elective courses offer content and exam preparation needed for testing on certifications. Certifications enhance a resume and increase the opportunity for immediate placement in an organization.
Curriculum Overview
A total of 127 credits are required 37 of those are integrative general education credits, 36 are major credits and 54 are electives. Bellevue university offers a very broad selection of electives to allow students to expand their major focus or gain perspective about information security's impact in other areas of interest. The cost per credit hour is $440; military do receive a preferred cost per credit.
Students acquire knowledge in fundamental principles surrounding maintenance and cybersecurity of cloud environments, networks, and servers. Admission to the university is relatively simple. Start with an admissions application showing you have finished high school, home school or have a GED. Students transferring from another institution will need to provide transcripts for review and approval. Review the admissions process in detail with the university staff.
Sample course titles
Concentrations
The Kirkpatrick Signature Series Is a unique undergraduate concentration set of course work. The social and cultural tensions and changes arising throughout the workplace are the focus. The advancement of technology and access to information emphasizes the need for better communication.
The concentration will focus on active intellectual discussion about the impact of technology. The government role is changing as global cyber-criminals infiltrate federal agencies and business sectors. The entrepreneurial process is threatened by supply chain vulnerability. An onslaught of cyber threats against business and citizens in our country continue a positive outlook for IT employment. Students graduating with this concentration will play a vital role in the ongoing discussion about how to deter cyber criminals and protect data today and in the future.
Consider a sponsored online program currently accepting applicants.
School | Program | Admissions |
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Grand Canyon University | Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Website |
Grand Canyon University | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity | Website |
Utica University | Online Bachelor of Science 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 Master's in Cybersecurity | Website |
Pace University | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity | Website |
Syracuse University | Master of Science in Cybersecurity | Website |
Middle State Georgia University's Bachelors in Information Technology
The university has a Bachelor of Science in information technology. Students will appreciate as our team of accredited experts do, the offering of 10 different concentrations in information technology. Students can define their academic path by choosing a concentration from Cyber Forensics to Health Informatics. Each focus area within the concentrations are all components necessary in cybersecurity problem solving. The degree can generate IT professionals with the expertise to deploy cybersecurity tools against cybercriminals.
The university offers a unique perspective on information security by offering multiple concentrations to match student academic goals. Every business sector has unique cybersecurity challenges. The financial industry is no different. The BS in Information Technology offers coursework teaching students to implement disruptive technologies that thwart cyber-attacks against business specific to financial services and stock market activity. Industry experts and our SME's agree, data breach and loss of information occurs approximately every 30-40 seconds. Gaining a solid understanding of information security is key in the fight again the loss of data. A degree concentration component offers additional options for graduating students in the workforce. The university is recognized by the NSA & DHS with the National Center Of Academic Excellence In Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) and National Center Of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE).
The cyber defense education designation is designed to teach students how to reduce the vulnerability in our information infrastructure. The digital forensic academic excellence designation establishes best practices for digital forensics in IT. The best practices framework for cybersecurity is a collaboration between academia, industry sector standards and the US government. Counterintelligence and national defense are topics included in the concentration coursework. Graduates looking to join law enforcement may choose a specific focus like digital forensics. Degree concentrations become assets on a resume highlighting a specified skill set and expertise.
Curriculum overview
A grade of at least a "C" is required in all courses to meet the degree requirements. The minimum coursework credit for graduation is 120. Students may find a range from 120 to 130 credit hours required after choosing a specified concentration to follow. 45 credits will focus on general education, 60 hours on core major coursework and the balance is electives chosen by the student for the concentration focus.
Sample course titles
- Windows & Linux Systems Administration
- Virtual Computing
- Legal & Ethical Issues
- Senior Capstone Course
- Network Essentials
Concentrations:
The university has 10 concentrations for a student to choose. A sample is listed here:
- Cyber forensics
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Financial Technology
- Health Informatics
For example, one concentration offered is critical after a business experiences a loss of data. A cyber forensics analyst Is likely to be deployed after a data breach. IT professionals with expertise in this discipline will carry out a variety of procedures surrounding the breach in general. The evidence collected will be documented and stored in case needed for civil or criminal cases. Students who choose this discipline will learn how to handle digital evidence, preserve the integrity of an investigation, and improve the chance for a conviction against a cyber-criminal in court.
St. Louis University Online Bachelors in Computer Information Systems
A Bachelor of Science in computer information systems is available at this university. An information systems degree that includes managerial coursework to improve effective communication with leadership and other vendors requiring IT support. A virtual meeting with an academic coach is a highlight for prospective students. There are two concentrations available. One in data analytics and the other specifically in cybersecurity.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
Managing cybersecurity for a company today is not just the responsibility of information technicians (IT). Leadership is always part of the decision-making process when establishing goals, setting deadlines and are ultimately responsible for approving IT deliverables. IT professionals must learn how to function effectively with other departments as cybersecurity is a team effort. At Saint Louis University the bachelor's degree program in Computer Information Systems, with a concentration in Information Security & Assurance ensures graduates have the tools needed for supervisory success. Included in the major is a capstone research project for real world experience.
Curriculum Overview
Curriculum is the standard 120 credit hours for graduation and is available in an accelerated format. Along with an admission application students will need to confirm they have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Students coming from another institution should request transcripts for approval of any credit transfers. Perspective students must successfully complete a virtual meeting with an academic coach prior to attending courses. The student confirms commitment to the academic path and determines goals for a graduation timeline.
The undergraduate core group of degree classes is 32 to 35 credit hours, general education electives will range 37 to 52 and the balance of credit hours are student electives or required additional courses for a concentration certificate. The standard tuition cost is $650 per credit hour. Financial aid is available for incoming students. 98% of freshman successfully received financial aid in 2021 according to university information. https://www.slu.edu/financial-aid/tuition-and-costs/index.php
Sample Course Titles
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- System Analysis and Design
- Capstone Course
- Cybersecurity Principles
- Bachelor of Science-Information Technology
- Master of Science-Information Technology
- Business Data Communications Systems
- Information Systems Project Management
- Application Programming
- Organizational Behavior
- Database Management Systems
- Application & Database Development
- Data Networking & Security
- Gaming Design
- Web & Mobile Programming
- Computer Gaming Designer
- Computer Programmer
- Database Administrator
- Information Security Analyst
- Information Security Auditor
- Information Security Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Network Security Administrator
- Software Developer
- System Administrator
- Web Developer
Concentrations
Data Analytics: The gathering of online consumer and business data bytes is prevalent in the industry and a growing marketplace.Data vendor collectors utilize the data lifecycle by accessing, collecting and using consumer data to make important business decisions. This industry concentration finds graduates pursuing a career as a market researcher or data analyst.
Cybersecurity: A concentration in cyber security could open a door for graduates to assist securing organizations information assets and confidential business or employee paperwork. The back end of the data lifecycle is retention and destruction of data. A focus in cyber security is to assist a business in decision making on data retention and destruction once there is no longer a legal use to retain data.
Liberty University Online Bachelors in Information Technology
An online Bachelor of Science-Information Technology program with a focus in data networking and security is offered. The technical expertise of professors incorporates high level knowledge learning in a variety of industry software. Hands on projects and real-world experience is expected with this degree. Network security coursework delivers content to minimize or eliminate unwanted intrusions and develop mitigation plans to prevent future cyber-attacks.
A Bachelor of Science-Information Technology program is offered at Liberty University. The nonprofit institution degree program has 4 focus areas that students can choose. One is data network and security. A function of network security is setting deliverables that routinely and successfully deploy security software keeping data safe in an organization. The degree has a component offering hands on projects and real-world experience. The ongoing evaluation of cyber security and communication with leadership in a critical component focused on in this degree.
Tuition for this degree has remained very stable for years, despite the economic challenges. Students can complete the degree in under four years if following the academic road map provided by the institution. University is a faith-based institution. Prospective students should consider if a faith-based component matches student goals prior to admissions or enrollment.
Curriculum Overview
The degree program is 100% online and offers students the opportunity to learn from industry leaders. Total credits for the program are 120. General education and foundation force requirements are 39 to 42. There are 48 hours in the core major coursework. Students will find several electives that support a focus or concentration within the information security degree. A total credit of 30 hours must be upper-level courses and 25% of the major must be taken through Liberty University. A transfer student can move up to 75% of the degree credits upon admission. Full time undergraduate students' tuition cost is $390 per credit hour. Military undergraduate students will pay less than the standard tuition cost. Review your program for additional course fees on top of tuition.
Liberty University is currently designated as a NSA & DHS Center of Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense Education (NSA/DHS CAE-CDE).
Sample course titles
Concentrations:
Every sector of business requires an information technology specialist to assess and make recommendations on cyber security policy and procedures. Students interested in gaming design or web and mobile programming will find unique concentrations for this sector and industry.
Specialized Information Security Degrees - Information Assurance and Computer Forensics
If a student is interested in further specialization in their information security studies, some of the fields they can pursue include information assurance or forensics. Information assurance is simply the study of regulating information-related liabilities. In other words, those who work in information assurance protect data from such outside sources as hackers and terrorists. Forensics is simply the use of investigative techniques to detect crime.
What curriculum or courses should I expect for an information security degree?
Some of the classes that an information security student would take include courses in ethics, network management and security, cybersecurity law, and foundation courses that teach students the theoretical knowledge of the information security field. In addition to courses relating to information security, students will also have to take classes in statistics, calculus and other types of advanced mathematics.
Some of the colleges and universities that offer degree programs in information security are some of the more academically rigorous institutions in the nation. These schools include Pennsylvania State University, Utica University and Saint Louis University.
10 Top courses in this area
Curricula with a cybersecurity component will have similar course titles and content across degrees. Courses in this area will focus on information security. Most programs begin with a basic cybersecurity introductory class. Cybersecurity changes rapidly and course curriculum is updated frequently.
Students will find course work often refers to industry frameworks. Gramm Leach Bilely (GLB) which models a technical, administrative, and physical cybersecurity protocol. The CIA Triad model offers a 3-prong approach in cybersecurity with a focus on confidentiality, integrity and availability of data. Both models are similar and incorporate cybersecurity theory and real world mitigation protocol.
Consider a sponsored online program currently accepting applicants.
School | Program | Admissions |
---|---|---|
Pace University | Online Master of Science 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 |
Fairleigh Dickinson University | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security | Website |
Constant change in cybersecurity creates a complicated decision tree for IT. Educational institutions course titles and descriptions can give students insight to the focus of the particular program details. Discussion on course content with a professor is a secondary option.
Network Cybersecurity Data Protection
Undergraduates learn best practices about the basics of network cybersecurity data protection. Industry standards are reviewed, and courses explain the purpose of networking structures. Configurations for personal use contrast the business community’s legal and ethical security protocol, the current regulatory environment and the ongoing commitment to data security.
Network Infrastructure & Management
Students who master the introductory network security concepts meet the next academic challenge in this course. Learning to manage a network and create an infrastructure designed to stop cyber-attacks.
Focus is on management of the network. IT staff ensure the performance of all essential network operations and maintain cybersecurity protocol. Infrastructure failure and the consequences are real world and discussed in the course.
Configuring and Troubleshooting networks
Information specialists will learn to configure, identify, diagnose and solve cybersecurity and operational issues within a network structure. Troubleshooting configuration errors or investigating a possible cyber incident are systematic processes and required skills for graduates. IT professionals will participate in networks pre-emptive attacks and practice real world experience in this field of study.
Network security protocols and managing risk
IT professionals are tasked with setting protocol and presenting to leadership all preventative measures deployed against cyber-attacks. Assessing risk and understanding the organization vulnerabilities are key components in the course material. IT departments build protocol according to industry standards. Courses may reflect on the foundational CIA Triad 3-prong approach for network security. Industry standards still model today’s security protocols after the 3-prong security approach which includes the components of confidentiality, integrity and availability.
Cloud computing and governance
The development of best practices for cloud governance defines how all users in the organization can operate in a cloud environment. Clear protocol increases the operational efficiency resulting in cost optimization and improved performance management. IT professionals collaborate with leadership, assess risk and develop cloud computing and government policies to support company cybersecurity protocol.
Server management
Hardware and security software management are discussed in this course. Students will learn different operating systems and how business can benefit from making good choices in hardware and software products. Protocol for deploying cybersecurity tools is explored. Students begin configuration task management and allocate roles within the company for server management. The IT management tasks includes hardware, software, cybersecurity and the backup of the server systems. Staff support is in charge of day-to-day management of the servers. Graduates with the right experience can apply for supervisory positions in the industry.
Information Technology Project Management
The use of a computer system to access, collect, store, retrieve and transmit data is information technology maintenance. The study of IT project management combined with real world experience for students is the focus. Students design projects to meet internship requirements or utilize the skills mastered in completion of Capstone courses.
Network Security
Most undergraduate programs include an introductory and advanced network security course. Students become familiar with known tools like routers and firewalls software. Industry focus may divide between hardware or software network cybersecurity. Students who advance to higher education find course content about intrusion detection systems and cryptography. The ongoing security necessary in cloud and hardware networks demonstrate the popularity of this course.
Data Driven Decision-Making
The process of collecting, accessing and using consumer or business data in today’s environment is complicated. The course discusses strategic planning and the marketing aspects of data analysis. Data is filtered through a structured framework and put through automation testing frameworks. Goals for data use are validated prior to deployment of any marketing or strategic of a business. Graduates are going to be involved in data-driven decision making in most positions where they are employed.
Information security
Both hardware and software security structure are components of information security. Website management is another facet of cyber integration. Students will discover there are a variety of website development structures and a multitude of approaches to cybersecurity. Business owners can engage outside freelance IT professionals to assist in the security of all external marketing platforms. This course provides an overview of the type of security programs necessary for external marketing platforms and the initial steps to implementing and maintaining security structure. Students will learn how an unauthorized or accidental release confidential data through one of these platforms impacts consumers, business and the consequences for failure.
Careers in Information Security
According to the Bureau of Labor Occupational Handbook Statistics, the Information Technology sector can expect an increase of 13 percent from 2020 to 2030. That is faster than the average of labor in general.
Information Security and global cyber warfare is only beginning. The speed at which technology is changing creates a monumental challenge to the information cybersecurity community. Staying ahead of cybercrime is a fulltime commitment in the workplace. IT Professionals should expect a lifetime of learning. As the United States government and US Corporations increase global reach with data sharing, so does the need for highly trained IT professionals to implement cybersecurity protocols. Global cyber warfare increases the need for diversity in a graduate’s academic resume. Student showing an aptitude for global affairs have a positive outlook for employment in the IT community according to our experts in the field with years of experience, and expertise.
Sample careers positions information security degree graduate can hold
The Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms the average salary for information security analysts in 2022 was $102,600. The employment outlook is positive and full of growth in the information security workforce.