Iowa Cybersecurity Degree Programs Overview
Iowa State University is the only campus with CAE designation. While this education is limited to the Ames area for undergraduate study, there are more options for higher education. Students may consider alternative options for undergraduate study, such as a community college. This can be transferred over to a university if admission requirements are met.
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Jump to list of campus and online Iowa cyber security degrees.
Are there NSA CAE designated cyber security degrees in Iowa?
Yes. Here is a list of Iowa universities that are NSA CAE Designated Institutions and have a cyber security degree. Click to jump to the full detailed list of Iowa cybersecurity degree programs.
- Iowa State University
Why consider NSA CAE designated institutions for cyber security in Iowa
Iowa State University is the exclusive institution that is designated as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE). CAE designation is awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Having this accreditation means that the institution has been successful at preparing students to various cybersecurity positions in the country.
Are there Online Cyber Security Programs in Iowa?
Yes, there is an online Masters in Cybersecurity program from Iowa State University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Pursuing an online program gives students flexibility to earn their cybersecurity education. Coursework is typically offered in an asynchronous format. Students view lectures in an on-demand format and complete assignments prior to deadline.
Iowa State University offers four graduate-level programs available online. The Master of Science (MS) in Information Assurance features a culminating thesis or independent research. Recommended academic background in computer science, management information systems, or similar. 24 or 27 credit hours required to satisfy curriculum requirements.
The Master of Engineering emphasizes security measures within the IT architecture. A Graduate Certification is an abbreviated format of these programs. 12 total credit hours are needed for the certification. Students pursue three main courses and select from a group of restricted electives.
Being able to pursue studies on a student's own time is only one benefit of online education. The learning management system offers easy course organization and communication. Students may have the opportunity to chat with faculty members or other peers through message boards and instant messaging.
Master's in Cyber Security Degrees in Iowa
Iowa State University's graduate cybersecurity education is through the Inforamtion Assurance discipline. Students can choose between the Master of Science or Master of Engineering formats. The MS program is available both on and off campus. An additional PhD is also available with an emphasis in Information Assurance.
There is an option to present a thesis or complete an independent research project. Core subjects in the curriculum consist of computer networking, security, and ethical and legal issues. Further specialized topics include forensics, cryptography, and securing wireless communication.
The Master of Engineering is available exclusively online with similar course availability. Courses must be listed in the 500-level or higher for the elective options. Computer science courses are not available to take online.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in computer engineering or related field. Recommended to hold a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from the undergraduate program. GRE scores are required, but waived if high academic achievement is met. Three letters of recommendation and a personal statement with career goals is also required.
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| School | Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Complete in 15 months. No GRE currently required. | Website |
| Arizona State University | Online Master of Computer Science - Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Learn to protect and defend information and information systems by ensuring their availability, integrity, authentication, confidentiality and non-repudiation through protection, detection and reaction practices. | Website |
| Utica University | Online MS in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Endorsed by the National Security Agency (NSA), Department of Homeland Security, Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), and the EC-Council. | Website |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security
Level: Master
100% online program. Become a professional in the security industry and protect your community and business . | Website |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Computer Science
Level: Master
Computer science faculty includes active researchers who are renowned experts in cybersecurity, software engineering and algorithms. GRE/GMAT not required. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations
Level: Bachelor
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation
Level: Bachelor
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Network Forensics and Intrusion Investigation
Level: Bachelor
Network forensics concentration. Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
List of the best cyber security degrees in Iowa
Undergraduate Cybersecurity Degrees
| School | Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
| Utica University | Online BS in Cybersecurity
Level: Bachelor
Specializations: Network Forensics and Incident Response, Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation, and Cyber Operations. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations
Level: Bachelor
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Cybercrime and Fraud Investigation
Level: Bachelor
Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
| Utica University | BS in Cybersecurity - Network Forensics and Intrusion Investigation
Level: Bachelor
Network forensics concentration. Multiple Designations as a National Center of Academic Excellence. | Website |
| Methodist University | BS in Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Level: Bachelor
Concentration in cybersecurity and information assurance. | Website |
| University of Saint Mary | Online B.S. in Cybersecurity
Level: Bachelor
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 |
| Bay Path University | BS in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Cybersecurity programs in: Digital Forensics and Incident Response, Information Assurance, Risk Management. Designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (Digital Forensics and Incident Response major). | Website |
| Grand Canyon University | Online BS in Cybersecurity
Level: Bachelor
100% online, no out-of-state tuition. | Website |
| Utica University | Bachelor's in Criminal Intelligence Analysis
Level: Bachelor
| Website |
| School | Program | City |
|---|---|---|
Eastern Iowa Community College District |
Associate in Applied Science: Information Technology, Security and Forensics Track | Davenport |
Indian Hills Community College |
Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networks and Security | Ottumwa |
Iowa State University☑ CAE |
Cyber Security Engineering | Ames |
North Iowa Area Community College |
Associate in Applied Science: Information Assurance and Security | Mason City |
University of Dubuque |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Forensics & Security | Dubuque |
Western Iowa Tech Community College |
Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security & Digital Crime | Sioux City |
Western Iowa Tech Community College |
Associate of Applied Science in Networking Administration and Security | Sioux City |
Iowa Graduate Cybersecurity Degrees
| School | Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
| Pace University | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
NSA- and DHS-designated. 100% online. No GRE/GMAT. Hands-on, specialized learning. | Website |
| California State University San Marcos | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Learn a deep understanding of system configurations, compliance, incident response. CSUSM is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS. | Website |
| University of California, Berkeley | Master’s in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Complete your degree in 20 months. Join the global UC Berkeley alumni network of technology, data science, privacy, and policy professionals. | Website |
| University of West Florida | Online M.S. in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Customize your degree for your career goals through four concentrations — Data Security, National Security, Security Management or Software and System Security. | Website |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Complete in 15 months. No GRE currently required. | Website |
| Arizona State University | Online Master of Computer Science - Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Learn to protect and defend information and information systems by ensuring their availability, integrity, authentication, confidentiality and non-repudiation through protection, detection and reaction practices. | Website |
| Utica University | Online MS in Cybersecurity
Level: Master
Endorsed by the National Security Agency (NSA), Department of Homeland Security, Defense Cyber Crime Center (DC3), and the EC-Council. | Website |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security
Level: Master
100% online program. Become a professional in the security industry and protect your community and business . | Website |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Computer Science
Level: Master
Computer science faculty includes active researchers who are renowned experts in cybersecurity, software engineering and algorithms. GRE/GMAT not required. | Website |
| School | Program | City |
|---|---|---|
Iowa State University☑ CAE |
Masters of Science in Cyber Security (Online) | Ames |
Iowa State University☑ CAE |
Ph.D. in Computer Engineering with a focus on Information Assurance | Ames |
Iowa State University☑ CAE |
Ph.D. in Computer Science with a focus on Information Assurance | Ames |
Iowa State University☑ CAE |
Ph.D. in Math with a focus on Information Assurance | Ames |
Getting Started Working in Cyber Security in Iowa
Undergraduate Cybersecurity Degrees
Students can pursue an cybersecurity-focused engineering degree at Iowa State University. This program offers skills in securing an organization’s network and installing new innovative measures. Their goal is provide safety to other employees and the clients they work with.
A cybersecurity minor can be implemented into a computer science or software engineering program. Students gain a fundamental understanding in operating systems used and various security measures. Elective options focus on network security or what can be approved by faculty members. A total of 15 credit hours are needed to satisfy the minor requirements.
Graduate Cybersecurity Degrees
The Graduate Certificate in Information Assurance is an exclusive online option through ISU. Students take the following: Advanced Computer Networking, Computer Security, and Information Warfare. There is an option to take ethics, wireless security concepts, and other specialities as the final elective.
In total, there are 12 total credit hours needed to complete the certification. To get into the program, students must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Overall GPA should be 3.0 or higher in their undergraduate studies. A statement of purpose should detail career goals and current accomplishments.
Iowa Cyber Security Careers
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 830 workers represent an information security analyst position. Average salary estimate is at $87,080 across the state. This can reach $128,510 within the top 10 percent of those employed.
Cyber Security Employment Options
Various corporations and enterprises have representation across the state, including Wells Fargo, PayPal, and Deloitte. Principal Financial has its headquarters located in Des Moines along with various cybersecurity opportunities. Most of the related job options in the state are in the capital city of Des Moines.
An example of a cybersecurity role at Principal Financial is an information security engineer. In this position, the engineer performs auditing and recommends changes in the infrastructure where vulnerable. These assessments take place routinely, such as weekly or monthly. At least two years of experience is recommended before entering this position.
ProCircular is an information and cybersecurity company based in Coralville. They provide security solutions in various industries, including education, health care, and manufacturing. Consulting capabilities fit many budgets and routinely look for experts in the profession.
Top Cyber Security and Tech Employers and Organizations
The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) has a Des Moines Chapter. Members have an opportunity for professional development workshops and networking with established professionals. They can also earn continuing professional experience credit for certification.
Improving the profession overall and developing more professionals is the goal of the ISSA. Specific to the Des Moines Chapter is the annual Secure Iowa Conference. Professionals in security and auditing gather together in meeting with those in the risk management and compliance departments.
Different membership options are available based on skill and education level. Student memberships have lower rates as individuals continue their education. General memberships provide career development and networking capability. Advanced features are available with a cyber executive membership.