Deciding where to learn cyber security can be difficult, but if you find yourself in the Old Dominion, then this list of the best cyber security schools in Virginia for you. In this article, we will break down the degrees available, the Virginia cyber security school rankings, and the best jobs for cyber security graduates in the state.
No matter if you’re a freshman, graduate, or want to expand your knowledge with a PhD program, there are many cyber security schools in Virginia for students to choose from. No matter where you choose to go, this list will help give you a bird’s eye view of several cyber security programs in Virginia.
How to Choose a Good Cyber Security School in Virginia
To choose the best cyber security school in Virginia, you should consider factors like the location of the school, the cost of admission and additional expenses, and what career goals you have upon graduation. We have detailed these important factors in the section below to help you find the school that is best for you.
Location
There are many schools in Virginia located all across the Commonwealth. Most of the schools on our list have amenities like dorms, on-campus dining, and easy access to the surrounding communities. Schools like the University of Virginia, Liberty University, George Mason, and Virginia Tech are great options for local accessibility.
Cost
College can be an expensive undertaking. However, all of the schools on our list offer financial aid options, scholarships, and other resources for students to pay for their higher education. The most expensive school on our list is Liberty University, while the least expensive school is Norfolk State University.
Career Goals
When deciding on a program, what you want out of your career is important. This goes hand in hand with location and three major hot spots for cyber security like Washington DC, Norfolk, and Richmond. Attending schools like George Mason, Norfolk State University, or East Coast Polytechnic Institute can pave the way for internships or potential careers in these locations.
Virginia Cyber Security School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Cyber Security Programs in Virginia?
| Cyber Security School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Cyber Security Focal Path | Master of Science in Computer Science | 25 (National) |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Bachelor of Science in Business – Cyber Security Management and Analytics (BIT-Cyber) | Master of Science in Computer Science Cyber Security Module | 75 (National) |
| George Mason University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Engineering | Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering | 148 (National) |
| Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 236 (National) |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 277 (National) |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Cyber Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 299-391 (National) |
| James Madison University | Bachelor of Science in Intelligence Analysis | Master of Science in Information Security | 3 (Regional) |
| Marymount University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Information Technology, Cyber Security Track | 38 (Regional) |
| Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 70 (Regional) |
| East Coast Polytechnic Institute (ECPI) University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 104-137 (Regional) |
Virginia Cyber Security Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Cyber Security Schools in Virginia
To rank the best cyber security schools in Virginia, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best cyber security program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Cyber Security Schools in Virginia Explained
In the section below, we will break down the best cyber security schools in Virginia in more detail. We will cover information such as accreditation, acceptance rates, ranking among other schools, costs, and the various programs offered by each school.
Best Undergraduate Cyber Security Schools in Virginia
The best undergraduate schools in Virginia balance cost, time, courses, and location in a way that meets students’ individual needs. Many community colleges offer great entry points for an associate degree without the time and cost of a traditional school. Several schools offer both associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Best Cyber Security Associate Degree Schools in Virginia
- ECPI University | Associate of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Concentration in Cyber and Information Security Technology. ECPI offers this 1.5-year degree in both in-person and online formats. The degree is focused on detecting, monitoring, and assessing threats. It also gives students a direct track to intelligence agencies like the NSA and DHS.
- Blue Ridge Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer and Electronics Technology: Secure Computer Networking. Blue Ridge Community College offers this 62- to 63-credit program to help students understand technology, systems, and the fundamentals of secure networking so they can start a career.
- Virginia Western Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology: Cyber Security and Network Administration Specialization. Virginia Western offers this degree to prepare students for working in IT. Skills like systems administration, networking, and network security are taught in this 67-credit program.
- Piedmont Virginia Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology: Cyber Security Specialization. Piedmont Community College is a great start for anyone who enjoys a hands-on experience. With this specialization, you receive hands-on training in computer repair, popular programming languages, cyber forensics, and network security.
- Capitol Technology University | Associate of Applied Science in Computer and Cyber Operations Engineering. Washington DC is one of the best places for cyber security, and Capitol Tech takes advantage of that by offering direct paths to internships through its associate program. With only 62 credits and a job placement rate of 82 percent within 90 days of graduation, Capitol is a great choice for an associate program.
Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Virginia
- George Mason University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Engineering. George Mason’s Bachelor of Science program is one of the best out there for earning both an undergraduate and graduate degree. In just five years, students can earn both degrees and be on their way to an exciting career with just 144 credits.
- Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Cyber Security. Liberty’s programs are offered 100 percent online and can be completed at a low cost in less time than a traditional college. Because the classes are eight weeks, students can take two semesters of classes in just one academic semester.
- Norfolk State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Track CYB: Cyber Security. Norfolk State offers a 120-credit program that uses electives to help guide students in their chosen path. Because the program is more self-directed, students prepare for their field more efficiently than in other programs.
- Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime. Old Dominion offers a bachelor of interdisciplinary studies to help students become well-rounded while still learning about their field via a curated elective track to prepare them for a potential career or master’s degree.
- Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. Regent offers both online and in-person classes to students who want to become cyber security engineers in this program. This 120-credit program is also endorsed by both the NSA and DHS and has several continuing education options upon graduation.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Cyber Security in Virginia
Graduate schools and programs in cyber security help give students the experience they need to excel in higher positions in the field. Schools like UVA, Virginia Tech, GMU, and ODU are all excellent options for graduate programs and master’s degrees for students wanting to be a cut above.
Best Schools for Master’s in Cyber Security in Virginia
- University of Virginia | Cyber Security Management Graduate Certification. While not a traditional master’s program, this certification is generally pursued by any computer science student. Paired with a computer science master’s program, UVA grads come out with knowledge and an extensive alumni network to help them land their first job.
- Virginia Tech | Masters of Information Technology: Security Track. Virginia Tech is a great school for many seeking a science degree with a focus on engineering or programming. The cyber security track of this program prepares students with a well-rounded curriculum and 33 credit hours and is a great choice for students.
- George Mason University | Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering. George Mason’s cyber security engineering program is a comprehensive program focused on the more technical aspects of cyber security. With 30 credit hours and internship opportunities in Washington DC, George Mason is a wonderful option for any graduate student.
- Old Dominion University| Master of Science in Cyber Security. Internships are plentiful in Norfolk, with companies like Northrop Grumman and other defense contractors located nearby. The 30-credit program is a wonderful step in a cyber security journey.
Best PhD in Cyber Security Universities in Virginia
- Marymount University | DSc in Cyber Security. Marymount offers a unique doctoral program, available to enroll in with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. This program focuses on applied research and leadership in the field.
- Virginia Tech | PhD in Computer Engineering with Cyber Security Track. Virginia Tech offers a PhD in Computer Engineering, with a focus on cyber security. This program is great for those who love the more technical aspect of computers and network security.
- Capitol Technology University | DSc in Cyber Security. CTU’s doctoral program has a laser focus on on-the-job training and includes low residency requirements. This makes for a powerful combo in deciding on a doctoral program.
- UVA | Computer Science Doctoral Program. Building on UVA’s Master’s in Computer Science, this doctoral program is self-guided with the help of an academic advisor. Because of the self-directed nature, the research, thesis, and projects can all be centered around cyber security.
- Old Dominion University | Doctor of Engineering in Cyber Security. This program prepares students for their doctoral thesis by expanding their knowledge and skills. Students also learn about different computer science disciplines and research for a thesis project.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Cyber Security Schools in Virginia
The basic admission requirements for cyber security schools in Virginia are different for graduate and undergraduate programs. For undergraduate programs, factors like GPA, test scores, and a high school diploma can be required. For graduate programs, overall GPA, programming ability, essay requirements, and letters of recommendation are usually needed.
Cyber Security Schools in Virginia: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Students must complete an online application and pay an admission fee.
- Generally, a high school GPA above 3.0 is required for cyber security programs.
- SAT and ACT requirements vary wildly from school to school. However, anything above 1060 on the SAT or 24 on the ACT is above average and could increase your chances of admission.
- Most education institutions require students to fill out the FAFSA, which requires financial records from guardians and other documentation.
Cyber Security Schools in Virginia: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Graduate students must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
- Generally, students must maintain a 3.5 GPA and be in good academic standing for graduation.
- Many schools require one or two letters of recommendation.
- GRE scores are not required for most schools currently. However, they are highly recommended.
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Cyber Security in Virginia?
It is not hard to get into a school for cyber security. Several of the schools detailed below have 100 percent acceptance rates and can be a great start to a career in cyber security. In our top 10 best schools list above, several of the schools like UVA, Virginia Tech, and George Mason have much stricter requirements.
Many community colleges have admissions advisors that help with the admission requirements for more elite schools. Piedmont, for example, has a path to UVA that helps students ease into college life while completing basic courses at a lower price.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Virginia for Cyber Security
- Piedmont Virginia Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Piedmont Virginia Community College is located just outside of Charlottesville. PVCC offers a cyber security associate degree and a certificate in the same field. With online classes and a low cost of attendance, PVCC is a great college to start your cyber security career.
- Blue Ridge Virginia Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. BRVCC is nestled in the Shenandoah Valley between Harrisonburg and Stanton. It is home to a great computer science program with a focus on computer networking and systems security.
- Virginia Western Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Virginia Western is located in Roanoke and is a great stepping stone for higher-level degrees. The Associate in Cyber Security and Network Administration is endorsed by the Department of Defense and the National Security Administration, making it one of the best choices.
- Old Dominion University | Acceptance Rate: 95%. Located in Norfolk, ODU has several excellent programs in cyber security. With both a bachelor’s and master’s program and a graduate certificate to top it off, ODU makes for a great choice for this list.
- Norfolk State University | Acceptance Rate: 91%. Norfolk State has both a master’s and bachelor’s program. This school also includes assistantships, which are a combination of a traditional internship and an apprenticeship, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Cyber Security in Virginia
The best online schools for cyber security in Virginia are Liberty, ECPI, Virginia Tech, George Mason, and UVA. Below, we have sorted the schools based on their graduation rate to give you the best option for online schools in the state. The overall graduation rates are sourced from NCES, and the programs are the best online programs for each school.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Cyber Security Program |
|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia | 91% | Cyber Security Management Graduate Certification |
| George Mason University | 74% | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Engineering With Accelerated Master of Science |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and University | 65% | Masters of Information Technology, Security Track |
| East Coast Polytechnic Institute | 53% | Associate of Science Computer and Information Science With a Concentration in Cyber and Information Security Technology |
| Liberty University | 34% | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Cyber Security |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Cyber Security in Virginia
The most affordable colleges for cyber security in Virginia include Virginia Western Community College, Piedmont Virginia Community College, George Mason University, Virginia Tech, and Regent University. These universities have the most affordable average tuition in the state.
How to Attend the Top Cyber Security Schools in Virginia With Financial Aid
Many of the top cyber security schools in Virginia offer scholarships, financial aid, and financial assistance. There are several options for Virginia financial aid. Each college may have its own financial aid office to help you, and this list should give you a great place to start your search.
Best Cyber Security Scholarships for Virginia Students
- G3 – Get Skilled, Get a Job, Get Ahead | Covers: Books, Supplies, Tuition. Students seeking an associate degree can apply for this award. It covers the student on a stacked basis as they hit certain milestones and earn certificates. Household income must be less than or equal to 400 percent of the federal poverty level. Students must fill out the FAFSA when enrolling in any of the community colleges in the state.
- Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program | Covers: Books, Some or All Tuition, and Fees. This program helps graduates of Virginia high schools attend college for a free or reduced rate. Students must have a GPA of 2.5 or above and be admitted to a two- or four-year academic institution. Students must check to see if their chosen degree is on the list of approved degree programs at their school.
- Virginia Commonwealth Award | Covers: Amount Needed by the Student. This award is for both graduate and undergraduate students. The award is given after students fill out the FAFSA, and each institution has different requirements. The school will decide the amount offered to the student based on their needs.
Virginia Employment Outlook for Cyber Security
The Virginia employment outlook for cyber security is tied to the field of computer science. There are several key jobs when it comes to cyber security that are different from computer science. Information security analysts and network architects are generally positions held by cyber security graduates.
Several of the best places to work in the field include the area of northern Virginia outside of Washington DC, Charlottesville, which has several key agencies and companies like the US Army’s National Ground Intelligence Center, and Norfolk, which has several options including Northrop Grumman and the US Naval Command.
Highest-Paying Cyber Security Careers in Virginia
| Cyber Security Job | Cyber Security Degree | Average Salary in Virginia |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | Cyber Security Master’s Degree | $136,710 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | Cyber Security PhD or Master’s Program | $129,680 |
| Information Security Analysts | Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree | $121,940 |
| Database Administrators | Associate Degree | $100,930 |
| Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Cyber Security PhD | $90,440 |
Best Cyber Security Jobs in Virginia Explained
The best cyber security jobs in Virginia are computer network architect, computer information research scientist, information security analyst, database administrator, and computer science teacher. This field will leverage your knowledge of computer science, security, and engineering to help you find a career in one of the most active states for cyber security.
Does It Matter What Cyber Security School in Virginia I Go To?
No, it does not matter what cyber security school you attend in Virginia. In the cyber security field, what matters is experience, and the schools on our list provide excellent experiential programs to get any student started in the field of cyber security.
Some of the most well-known schools in Virginia, such as UVA, Virginia Tech, George Mason, or James Madison, may help some students land their first job in the state thanks to their extensive alumni networks. Other factors to consider are the price of the program, location, or internship opportunities.
Additional Reading About Cyber Security
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Best Cyber Security Schools in Virginia FAQ
Any cyber security degree can be difficult. However, many degree programs build upon previous knowledge and skills. Starting with one of the best cyber security bootcamps, obtaining an associate degree, or achieving a certificate in the field are great first steps to prepare you for this challenging degree.
Cyber security can be a fun and rewarding career full of many challenges. Many career opportunities in cyber security will require you to solve problems, increase your skills, and challenge yourself. For many cyber security experts, this is the most fun and rewarding part of their career.
Yes, cyber security requires coding and programming. Many cyber security threats require monitoring, assessing, and combating active and passive threats. Learning to code and being proficient in programming is a necessary skill that can be built and improved on over time through practice.
Cyber security can be a stressful job. However, it can also be rewarding as you can earn a salary above the national average. Depending on whether you are employed in private sectors or federal agencies, many types of cyber security jobs involve creating and maintaining data networks and doing administrative tasks like software updates.
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