Best Cyber Crime Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College was founded as part of Shepherd College in 1974. In 2005, the school became accredited as an independent institution. The school is a two-year college that offers associate degrees across various disciplines and has a student population of 3,912.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security

This associate degree requires 60 credits for completion. The curriculum teaches students to explore risks, threats, and other security issues. It also covers how to carry out security assessments. Students will also learn how to develop security policies and give great responses to incidents. This training prepares students for entry-level roles as cyber security professionals.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $172/credit hour (in state); $311/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 35%

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Admission Requirements

• GPA: Minimum of 2.0
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT, other placement test scores accepted
• Application Fee: $25
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Blue Ridge Community and Technical College

1. Apply online.
2. Pay the $25 application fee to submit your application.
3. Submit your official high school transcript.
4. Provide your ACT or SAT score. Other standardized scores will be accepted. If you don’t have any standardized test scores, you’ll be given an Accuplacer assessment to take.
5. Complete new student orientation upon successful admission, following the instructions on your admission letter.

The College of Southern Maryland is a two-year public community college that was founded in 1958. The school offers associate degrees and certificates and has a student population of 18,653.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity

This course requires 60 credits for completion. In the first semester, students will learn about the basics of IT hardware and software. In the second semester, students will begin to explore some concepts in the cyber security field. Students will learn about digital forensics, information assurance, network security, and systems security.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $137/credit (county residents); $240/credit (in state); $308/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to College of Southern Maryland

1. Apply online and submit your application for free.
2. Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
3. Submit standardized test scores from the ACT or SAT. If you don’t have these, you can take the College of Southern Maryland Placement Test or the college can analyze your high school transcript.
4. Submit your high school transcript.
5. Complete new student orientation.

The Community College of Philadelphia was founded in 1965 and offers associate degrees to students. The school currently boasts a student population of 13,672 and has a very vibrant sports culture competing in various competitions within and outside the state of Pennsylvania.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity

The courses that students take in this program are meant to prepare them for the industry certifications of CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker, and Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator. Classes will teach students how to employ technology and critical thinking skills effectively in the analysis and communication of matters surrounding information security.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $159/credit hour (Philadelphia resident); $328/credit hour (in state); $497/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 61 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 16%

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

• GPA: Above 2.74 to waive placement test
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Community College of Philadelphia

1. Apply online for free.
2. Submit standardized test scores, such as SAT or ACT. If you don’t have these scores, you can submit your high school transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.74 or take a placement test.
3. Submit your high school transcript.
4. Register for classes and use the school code 003249 when applying for federal student aid.
5. Pay for classes.

Established in 1966, Cypress College is a top institution that offers many academic and vocational programs. The school offers 176 certificates and degree programs in 73 areas of study for its 15,325 students.

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense

This cyber security program requires 60 credits for completion. The courses prepare students to understand the fundamentals of cyber security and protecting cyber assets. The associate program will prepare students to qualify for bachelor’s degree-level cyber security programs, letting them further progress in the cyber security field and become cyber security professionals.

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense Overview

• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $46/unit (in state); $369/unit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 30%

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: None
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Community College of Cypress

1. Create an Open CCC account to apply online for free.
2. Complete an online orientation with myGateway or attend an in-person orientation by arranging it with the Community College of Cypress assessment center.
3. Schedule a group counseling session appointment to create an education plan.
4. Meet with a counselor to review your transcripts and test scores for class placement, or undergo the guided placement process.
5. Register for classes and pay fees to secure your place in the cyber crime degree program.

Established in 1965, Dallas College boasts seven campuses in Texas. The school offers different degrees to its student body of 74,781, including associate and bachelor's degrees. The school also runs certificate programs for students.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security

This degree prepares students for several entry-level technician roles relating to information security. The program focuses on the areas of digital forensics and cyber security. There are five areas of specialization on which students can place emphasis, including digital forensics, security administration, information assurance, system security administration, and cyber defense.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $79/credit (Dallas county residents); $135/credit (in state); $200/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 21%

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement for general admission; 3.3 GPA for Honors Program students
• Standardized Tests: Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirement must be met; SAT or ACT will suffice
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Dallas College

1. Apply online for free.
2. Submit an official transcript from high school.
3. Submit TSI assessment or standardized test scores from the ACT or SAT.
4. Submit proof of meningitis vaccination if you are younger than 22.
5. Meet with a success coach, attend a new student orientation, and prepare to register.

Ferris State University is a public university that was founded in 1884. The school was founded by an educator from New York known as Woodbridge Nathan Ferris. It is one of the largest universities in the state of Michigan with a student population of 11,165. The school offers several different degrees, including associate and bachelor's degrees.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence

This program prepares students for a wide range of career possibilities in fields requiring strong technical and problem-solving skills. Some of these career paths include information security, computer forensics, ethical hacking, incident response, penetration testing, and mobile security. These opportunities exist in different industries, including intelligence and finance.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $455/credit (US residents and Canadians); $734/credit (international)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 50%

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence Requirements

• GPA: 3.0
• Standardized Tests: Minimum Math ACT score of 22 or SAT score of 550
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: 750- to 1000-word essay

Applying to Ferris State University

1. Arrange a campus visit.
2. Register for and take the ACT during high school. You must achieve a minimum math score of 22 on the ACT to be eligible for admission to this program.
3. Apply after your junior year of high school. Include a 750- to 1000-word essay that describes why you want to study this program, a personal talent, quality, or accomplishment, and a person who has influenced you.
4. Submit your ACT score using the code 1994, or submit your SAT score of at least 550. Arrange for your high school to send the official transcript of your education to FSU.
5. Respond to orientation mail and attend the mandatory orientation events.

Lehigh Carbon Community College was established in 1966 and offers over 90 different study programs in various fields including computer science, technology, communication, and business. The school currently has a student population of 6,205.

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security

This computer forensics program provides a solid base for students in both the theory and application of technical and non-technical cyber security skills. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the digital security industry. Students can go on to register in a four-year institution to earn a bachelor of science degree upon graduation.

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition: $3,660/12-18 credits (in state); $5,490/12-18 credits (out of state/international)
• Required Credits: 64 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 20%

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Lehigh Carbon Community College

1. Apply online for free, then receive your LCCC Student Portal login details.
2. Submit your official transcript from high school.
3. Submit SAT or ACT test scores, or complete placement testing at an LCCC campus or remotely. Arrange remote testing by emailing admissions@lccc.edu and advise whether you have a webcam.
4. Register for classes and take part in virtual orientation events.
5. Pay for college to secure your place.

Palm Beach State College was established in 1933 as the first community college in the state of Florida. The school has grown to have around 26,666 students who have over 130 programs to choose from. At the moment, the school offers both associate and bachelor’s degrees, along with certificate programs.

Associate of Science in Network Administration

This degree prepares students on how to plan, install, and configure computer networks. Having adequate knowledge of computer networks is essential in keeping them secure from cyber crime. Students will learn how to troubleshoot and manage these networks in a LAN or WAN setting. The coursework includes networking terminology and computer hardware concepts. It will take three years for part-time students to complete this course, and two years for full-time students.

Associate of Science in Network Administration Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $101/credit (in state); $363/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 44%

Associate of Science in Network Administration Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required for adult students or transfer students
• Application Fee: $40 (US); $75 (international)
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Palm Beach State College

1. Apply online and pay the $40 or $75 application fee to submit your application.
2. Apply for financial aid through FAFSA and declare Florida residency if you intend to pay in-state tuition fees.
3. Get your high school to submit your education transcript within a PDF file to Palm Beach State College Admissions via admissions@palmbeachstate.edu.
4. Check to see if you are required to take a Palm Beach State College placement test. Ordinarily, this will be the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT).
5. Contact your assigned academic advisor for the next steps, and register for student orientation events.

Regent University is a Christian school that was established in 1977. As one of the best universities in Virginia, this school offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees across various fields to its 10,483 students. It also offers a range of online courses to distance learners seeking an affordable online education.

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Associate of Science in Information Systems

This Associate of Science in Information Systems program provides fundamental knowledge in subjects including technical design, development, and management. Requiring 64 credits to complete, students will learn top skills that can help them gain entry-level jobs in education, business, and government agencies. Students can attend the in-person or online program.

Associate of Science in Information Systems Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $9,040/semester (full-time); $603/credit (part-time)
• Required Credits: 64 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Associate of Science in Information Systems Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: A laptop that is powerful enough to run the required program software

Applying to Regent University

1. Apply to Regent University online by filling out the application form.
2. Complete the admissions questionnaire by following the link you receive after filing your application.
3. Submit all unofficial education transcripts. Official transcripts will be required once you are made an offer of study.
4. Submit a government-issued ID, if applicable.
5. Submit FAFSA for financial aid using the Regent University code 030913.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks was established in 1917 but it started full operation in 1922. The school offers certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and postbaccalaureate degrees in various fields for its 6,813 students. The academic attributes of this school are top-notch, and this shows in its high retention rate of 78 percent.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity

This is a two-year program that prepares students to work in entry-level roles as IT specialists, giving them the skills to carry out network administration and protect systems from cyber attacks. The program fortifies students with knowledge in the basics of network administration and support, network security, computer programming, and server operating systems.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition: $234/credit (in state); $800/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 39%

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: ACT and SAT requirements are waived until 2025
• Application Fee: $40
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old

Applying to University of Alaska Fairbanks

1. Create a university account online and apply for admission.
2. Pay the $40 application fee to submit your application.
3. Submit your official high school transcript.
4. SAT and ACT scores are being waived until 2025 and their submission is now optional, but you can submit official test results using the ACT code 0064 and the SAT code 4866.
5. Wait for an admission update and contact an admissions counselor if you need assistance.

The job of an information security analyst is to plan and execute security measures that serve to protect the computer networks and systems of an organization. Information security analysts play an important role in creating the disaster recovery plan of the organization they work for, ensuring that the IT department of an organization can always continue to work smoothly.

• Average Salary: $102,600
• Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 141,200
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Maryland, New York, Iowa

The job of a cyber security engineer is to identify active threats and vulnerabilities in the systems and software of a company's network. They apply their skills to develop and use high-tech solutions in the defense against all sorts of cyber crimes such as malware, hacking, and insider threats.

• Average Salary: $97,841
• Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 141,200
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Maryland, New York, Iowa

A malware analyst identifies, examines, and determines different types of malware and their methods of delivery. Some malicious software include different types of bots, bugs, adware, spyware, Trojan horses, and viruses. Once an incident has been identified and contained, a malware analyst will deconstruct and reverse the malicious code that triggered the attack.

• Average Salary: $92,880
• Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 141,200
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Maryland, New York, Iowa

The job of an ethical hacker is to use the tools that cyber criminals use to test the security of the network and data against cyber threats. Ethical hackers, or penetration testers as they are also called, carry out mock cyber attacks to identify the vulnerabilities and weaknesses of systems. Ethical hackers can work in healthcare facilities, government agencies, and corporate offices.

• Average Salary: $87,860
• Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 141,200
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Maryland, New York, Iowa

Computer forensics analysts focus on computer-based crimes, assisting in the criminal investigation of cyber security incidents. They collect and analyze data to uncover cyber crimes like identity theft, scams, and electronic fraud. They also help law enforcement agencies, like Homeland Security, recover information that has been deleted, encrypted or hidden.

• Average Salary: $61,930
• Job Outlook: 16% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 17,200
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, Oregon