There are a limited variety of educational options for a cybersecurity degree in Rhode Island: the Community College of Rhode Island in Warwick and the University of Rhode Island in Kingston.

The former has been designated by the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) in recent years and offers a two-year undergraduate degree in cybersecurity with online options. The latter has graduate-level degrees and certifications within cybersecurity and computer science. Numerous cybersecurity jobs are located in Newport and Providence.

Here is a list of Rhode Island cybersecurity degrees that are from NSA CAE Designated Institutions:

Community College of Rhode Island
University of Rhode Island

Click to jump to the full list of Rhode Island cybersecurity schools.

Online Cyber Security Programs in Rhode Island

The only undergraduate program based in the state of Rhode Island is the Associate in Science in Computer Studies and Information Processing with a concentration of Cybersecurity at the Community College of Rhode Island.

While the program is offered online, it is also at four of the campuses, including the main Warwick location, with an option to take these courses in the afternoon or evening. 61 total credits are needed to complete the program, divided up into 21 credits for general education and 40 credits toward cybersecurity topics. Example courses include Introduction to Computer Forensics, Database Design and Management, and Networking Technology.

Master's in Cyber Security Degrees in Rhode Island

For students that have completed an undergraduate degree and are looking for continuing education in Rhode Island, the University of Rhode Island has three options: the Cyber Security Professional Science Masters Degree (PSM) and certifications in Cyber Security and Computer Forensics. Either of these certifications can be obtained with the PSM by choosing that specific specialization.

While the PSM requires prior education, no technical training is needed to complete either certification. The application deadline happens on July 1st each year for these options for the fall semester. Estimated time of completion for the Master's degree is 1-3 years with the certifications between 9-20 months. All courses are also offered online.

Getting Started Working in Cyber Security in Rhode Island

Rhode Island may have limited options for cybersecurity education, but it has two universities that have been designated as NAE institutions and there are various options to choose from regardless of education level.

Those needing to create foundational blocks and establish themselves in the field should consider an associate degree from the state's community college, while those looking to advance in the profession should look at the certifications and Master's degree at the University of Rhode Island. Both schools offer online learning for flexibility as they continue their career.

Rhode Island Cyber Security Careers and Organizations

There are limited tech opportunities in Rhode Island, but entry level positions in information systems and cybersecurity will make between $54,370 to $73,380 according to Salary.com, with the higher-paying locations at Hopkinton, Rockville, and Hope Valley. The average is slightly higher when compared to the entire United States. Some notable companies that consistently higher for cybersecurity positions include Rite-Solutions and Citizens Bank.