School | Level | Program |
---|---|---|
University of California, Berkeley |
Master | 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. |
Syracuse University |
Master | Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Complete in 15 months. No GRE currently required. |
Utica University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cybersecurity
Specializations: Network Forensics and Incident Response, Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation, and Cyber Operations. |
University of West Florida |
Master | Online M.S. in Cybersecurity
Can be completed in 2 years. Concentrations in data security, national security, security management or software and system security. |
Norwich University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cyber Security
National Security Agency member university. Asynchronous format and 90 maximum transfer credits. |
+ View more cybersecurity degree programs currently taking applications.
California Cybersecurity Degree Programs Overview
There are over a dozen different schools with a cybersecurity degree in California, including online Master's in Cyber Security programs at universities such as the University of California Berkeley.
Many people are now considering an online cybersecurity program for their graduate degree in cybersecurity, and California has plenty of options available for prospective students. Courses can be offered in synchronous format, where students can watch lectures remotely and participate in a virtual classroom, or they can watch on-demand videos of recorded lectures from the professor.
Coursework can usually be done at any time of the day, and this will either be done at the students' own pace or they will need to meet weekly deadlines to keep up with the rest of the class. All communication is done through the university's content management system, with tools such as chat rooms, discussion boards, and instant messaging.
Jump to list of campus and online California cyber security degrees.
Are there NSA CAE designated cyber security degrees in California?
Yes. Here is a list of California universities that are NSA CAE Designated Institutions and have a cyber security degree. Click to jump to the full detailed list of California cybersecurity degree programs.
- California State Polytechnic University - Pomona
- California State University - San Bernardino
- City College of San Francisco
- Coastline Community College
- Cypress College
- Long Beach City College
- Naval Postgraduate School
- Ohlone College
Why consider NSA CAE Designated Institutions for cyber security in California?
In order to be assured that students are receiving quality education to become a top cybersecurity professional, it is important to look for universities and programs that are recognized by the National Centers of Academic Excellence. This is a joint accreditation partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Security Agency (NSA).
Designations are divided up into the following designations: cyber defense for undergraduate and graduate programs, cyber defense for associate degrees and certifications, cyber defense research, and cyber operations. All schools must reapply for this recognition every five years in order to establish the program's proficiency in cybersecurity education.
In Depth Review of the Best Online Cyber Security Programs in California
University of California-Berkeley - Online Master of Information and Cybersecurity
The University of California-Berkeley has an online Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS). Students will have a strong understanding in national security, cryptography, legal and ethical issues within security, and engineering a secure network. The curriculum consists of nine courses that can be completed in 20 months. There is a required on-campus residency or at a related location approved by the program. The course management system is through the I School, and it offers on-demand coursework access around the clock, personal coaching, and continuously updated educational resources after graduation.
University of California-Irvine Online Information Systems Security
Another online option is completing a certification from the University of California-Irvine. They offer an Information Systems Security certificate that can be completed in as little as nine months if the courses are available - options will change in each of the four quarters. This program is for already-established professionals that need to gain specific certification to change or advance in their career. Required courses in the program include an Introduction to Cyber Security, Secure Systems, and Security Architecture and Design. Graduates from this program will be prepared for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional exam.
Featured online cybersecurity programs:School | Level | Program |
---|---|---|
Utica University |
Master | Online MS in Cybersecurity
Endorsed by the National Security Agency (NSA), Department of Homeland Security, Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), and the EC-Council. |
University of Delaware |
Master | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. |
Fairleigh Dickinson University |
Master | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security
100% online program. |
Norwich University |
Bachelor | Online Master of Science in Cyber Security
National Security Agency member university. |
Lindenwood University |
Bachelor | Online BA Cybersecurity
Curriculum areas include network security, IT auditing, digital forensics, cybersecurity analysis, penetration testing, and project management. |
Master's in Cyber Security Degrees in California
Pursuing a higher-level program, such as a Master's degree, in cybersecurity will have many requirements for admission. Holding an undergraduate degree, typically a Bachelor's degree, with a cumulative 3.0 GPA is at least recommended. Higher scores are especially beneficial in the later years of the program. Prior coursework should be completed in multiple levels of calculus and computer programming. In some cases, entrance exam scores, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), will need to be submitted, or they will be optional and prospective students can use them to enhance their application.
Typical Entry Requirements
Other typical submission requirements are the online application form with fee, official transcripts from an accredited institution, a statement of purpose that describes career goals, an updated resume, and at least a few letters of recommendation. Statements of purpose can also be required essays that detail accomplishments and what they hope to gain from pursuing the program. There may be a requirement to meet with a faculty advisor for a interview before admittance.
Recap
There are 14 institutions that are designated with CAE certification in their cybersecurity programs. Master's degrees and related higher education options can be found in eight of those schools, including California State University in San Bernardino, National University at La Jolla, Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, University of California in Davis, and the University of Southern California.
List of the best cyber security degrees in California
Undergraduate Cybersecurity Degrees
School | Level | Program |
---|---|---|
Utica University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cybersecurity
Specializations: Network Forensics and Incident Response, Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation, and Cyber Operations. |
Norwich University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cyber Security
National Security Agency member university. Asynchronous format and 90 maximum transfer credits. |
Lindenwood University |
Bachelor | Online BA Cybersecurity
Curriculum areas include network security, IT auditing, digital forensics, cybersecurity analysis, penetration testing, and project management. |
Point University |
Bachelor | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in Information Systems Security
100% online program. |
Utica University |
Bachelor | BS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. |
Utica University |
Bachelor | BS in Cybersecurity - Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. |
Utica University |
Bachelor | BS in Cybersecurity - Network Forensics and Intrusion Investigation
Network forensics concentration. Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. |
University of Saint Mary |
Bachelor | Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity |
Thomas Jefferson University |
Bachelor | B.S. Information Technology Management |
School | Program | City |
---|---|---|
California State Polytechnic University - Pomona☑ CAE |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Cyber Security Career Focus | Pomona |
California State Polytechnic University - Pomona☑ CAE |
Computer Information Systems Undergraduate Program: Information Assurance Track | Pomona |
California State University - San Bernardino☑ CAE |
B.A. Criminal Justice: Crime Analysis, Technical Proficiency Cyber Security | San Bernardino |
California State University - San Bernardino☑ CAE |
B.S. Information Systems & Technology: Cyber Security Intelligence | San Bernardino |
City College of San Francisco☑ CAE |
2 Year Cyber Security Program | San Francisco |
Coastline Community College☑ CAE |
Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | Fountain Valley |
Cypress College☑ CAE |
Associate of Science in Cyber Defense | Cypress |
Long Beach City College☑ CAE |
2 Year Cyber Security Program | Long Beach |
Los Medanos College |
Networking and Security AAS | Pittsburg |
MiraCosta College |
Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | Oceanside |
Ohlone College☑ CAE |
2 Year Cyber Security Program | Fremont |
Palomar College |
Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | San Marcos |
Sacramento City College |
Associate in Science in Information Systems Security | Sacramento |
California Graduate Cybersecurity Degrees
School | Level | Program |
---|---|---|
University of California, Berkeley |
Master | 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. |
Syracuse University |
Master | Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Complete in 15 months. No GRE currently required. |
University of West Florida |
Master | Online M.S. in Cybersecurity
Can be completed in 2 years. Concentrations in data security, national security, security management or software and system security. |
Utica University |
Master | Online MS in Cybersecurity
Endorsed by the National Security Agency (NSA), Department of Homeland Security, Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), and the EC-Council. |
University of Delaware |
Master | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. |
Fairleigh Dickinson University |
Master | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security
100% online program. |
Norwich University |
Bachelor | Online Master of Science in Cyber Security
National Security Agency member university. |
Utica University |
Master | Master of Professional Studies in Cyber Policy and Risk Analysis |
Utica University |
Master | MBA - Cyber Policy |
School | Program | City |
---|---|---|
California State Polytechnic University - Pomona☑ CAE |
Master of Science in Computer Science: Cyber Security Career Focus | Pomona |
California State University - Dominguez Hills |
Master of Science in Cyber Security (MSCY) | Carson |
California State University - San Bernardino☑ CAE |
Master of Business Administration: Cybersecurity Focus | San Bernardino |
California State University - San Bernardino☑ CAE |
Master of Public Administration: Cyber Security Concentration | San Bernardino |
California State University - San Bernardino☑ CAE |
Master of Science: National Security Studies: Cybersecurity Concentration | San Bernardino |
Naval Postgraduate School☑ CAE |
M.S. in Computer Science, Cyber Systems and Operations Specialization | Monterey |
Naval Postgraduate School☑ CAE |
Ph.D. in Computer Science (may elect Computer Systems and Security specialization) | Monterey |
San Jose State University |
Master of Science in Software Engineering: Cybersecurity Concentration | San Jose |
University of California-Davis |
Ph.D. in Computer Science: Information Assurance Focus | Davis |
University of San Diego |
Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering | San Diego |
University of the Pacific |
Master of Science in Cybersecurity | Stockton |
Getting Started Working in Cyber Security in California
Obtaining a cybersecurity degree in California is important when it comes to beginning a career with competition in the growing industry. There are plenty of NSA-designated programs at various education levels in the state of California, with some universities having programs available online for additional flexibility. Regardless of getting foundational education or pursuing further education to advance or change an established career, there are a large variety of choices in the state where companies are focused on enhancing their cybersecurity efforts.
- Undergraduate Degrees:
There are numerous cybersecurity programs at California State University – San Bernardino (CSUSB). Within the undergraduate selections, the Bachelors of Science in Information Systems Technology has options within Cybersecurity and Intelligence, and there is a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with an option in Crime Analysis with Proficiency in Cybersecurity. The latter of these options requires 37 credit hours to complete with required courses in Cyber Defense, Computer Forensics, Information Networking and Security, and there is an option to complete an internship.The Coastline College Cybersecurity Center has a number of associate degrees and certification selections. The Associate of Science in Cybersecurity requires 60 credit units to complete and it aids the graduate in starting their career at an entry-level position. Education will consist of an in-depth look at security within the Windows and Linux operating systems, Python programming, how to protect private information through the internet, and firewall protection. Examples of the Certifications of Accomplishment, which requires up to 12 credit units to complete, include Cybersecurity Fundamentals, IT Foundation, and Penetration Testing.
- Masters and Continuing Education:
A popular online opportunity is the Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering through the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. This is a program that is geared toward students interested in a career path in computer engineering, information security, and network administration. There is an option for limited status enrollment, which requires a Bachelor’s degree in the engineering field and a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Students are able to complete the entire program online or they can opt into on-campus lectures as the curricula are identical. All faculty and classroom features are the same for on-campus and online students.Originally, CSUSB began their cybersecurity education by implementing a concentration within their Master of Business Administration program. A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, personal statement, updated resume, two letters of recommendation, and a business aptitude requirement are all needed to get into the program. The business aptitude requirement can be a higher GPA from an AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) program, two years of professional experience, other graduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, or satisfactory results from GMAT or GRE exams. The Master of Public Administration also has a Cybersecurity concentration.
Also at CSUSB, there is a unique program, the Master of Science in National Security Studies. This involves a curriculum that is geared toward a career in the United States Intelligence Community, like the NSA and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Admission is divided up into three terms, 10 weeks within the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Within the program, there is a Certificate in Intelligence Methodology that has some of the following required courses: National Security Policy, Strategic Intelligence, and electives in Crime and Intelligence Analysis, Digital Image Processing, and Operations Analysis.
Cyber Security Employment Options
There are many cybersecurity positions available in the state’s biggest cities – San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Plenty of opportunities exist at some of the largest tech firms in the world, such as Apple, Facebook, and Cisco. An IT compliance analyst at Cisco works with a performance monitoring solution in order to create a successful governance process. Tasks include training others and providing information to other employees on governance and risk, auditing IT controls, and improve compliance across the IT sector.
California Cyber Security Careers
According to CompTIA, the largest sector of tech occupations is among software and web developers in California, with cybersecurity analysts coming in second. Nearly 9.4 percent of all workers in the state represent the tech industry, which is over 1.78 million people, and the average salary for tech employees is over $96,200. Much of this opportunity is centered around Silicon Valley and its massive growth with established tech giants and numerous startups. Specific to cybersecurity, the salary range for a typical analyst falls between $77,763 to $108,998, and the higher-paying opportunities are located in places like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Mountain View.
Top Cyber Security and Tech Employers and Organizations in California
Simplicit Technologies is an information technology service provider that is located both in the Los Angeles and New York locations. They provide traditional services in this category, managing network security, data backup solutions, and disaster recovery for their clients. Some of the operations within network security includes implementing and maintaining enterprise-level firewalls, blocking out any vulnerable software and blocking viruses and malware that can infiltrate the system, and provides reports on various activities to determine any potential problems in the future. They have partnerships with some of the biggest tech companies in the world, including Microsoft, Google, Cisco, and Trend Micro.
The Cyber Defense Group was created in 2016 in Los Angeles to help create the solution for more cybersecurity consulting options, giving companies the tools and knowledge needed to protect themselves from internet attacks. They work with organizations to determine if they are following the California Consumer Privacy Act and protecting people’s identification and information securely, and if they are meeting General Data Protection Regulation if they have any business with the European Union.