The best schools for information assurance provide a balanced education of technological, analytical, and practical skills highly sought-after in the information technology field. The different information assurance degrees equip students with information protection knowledge and the best cyber security techniques.
The best information assurance universities enhance leadership and business management skills to promote cyber security professionals who aspire to leadership positions. Many programs offer the flexibility of an online degree. Some cyber security programs provide internship opportunities with partner programs to graduate and undergraduate students.
This article discusses the best information assurance schools. You’ll learn about the different associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs, including tips for choosing the best information assurance colleges. We also list the highest-paying information assurance jobs.
Best Information Assurance College and University Rankings: Top 10 Information Assurance Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | AR | In-person Online |
117 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | FL | In-person Online |
202 |
| George Mason University | VA | In-person Online |
148 |
| Kennesaw State University | GA | In-person Online Hybrid |
299-391 |
| Nova Southeastern University | FL | In-person Online |
213 |
| Pennsylvania State University | PA | In-person Online |
63 |
| Purdue University | IN | In-person Online |
49 |
| Sam Houston State University | TX | In-person Online |
249 |
| University of Maryland | MD | In-person Online |
59 |
| Wilmington University | DE | In-person Online |
299-391 |
Information Assurance School Rankings: Best Information Assurance Colleges and Universities
Prospective students should research the school they plan on attending, including the cyber security programs in their school search. Most schools require a good GPA score, letters of recommendation, and an application fee to apply. This section provides details on the best schools for information assurance.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Information Assurance: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
Information assurance is an interdisciplinary field requiring knowledge of accounting, business, systems and security engineering, information science, fraud, and criminology. Many schools offer college degrees and university programs, such as community college certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and doctorates.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Information Assurance Schools: Other Information Assurance University Rankings
The best information assurance schools can help prospective students find the right fit for their goals and interests. Researching the information assurance university rankings can assure you of quality education. The best information assurance universities will equip and prepare you with valuable business intelligence knowledge and inter-organization operations.
Best Online Information Assurance Schools
- Lewis University. This university designed its online program options specifically for adults who work full-time or part-time. The NSA and the DHS recognized the school’s information security program as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.
- Stevens Institute of Technology. This institute holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has a graduation rate of 87 percent. The program ranks highly for value, rigor, affordability, and career goals.
- The University of Dallas. Besides holding regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the cyber security program of the University of Dallas also has official recognition from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Best Community Colleges for Information Assurance
- Anne Arundel Community College. It is the first community college certified by the NSA and the first designated by the Defense Cyber Crime Center as a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. also accredited its information assurance and cyber security program.
- Honolulu Community College. The NSA and DHS recognized this college as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. The college offers credit programs, non-credit programs, special programs, cyber events, and competitions.
- Northwest Vista College. This community college offers many certificates related to the information assurance field. Focusing on practical experience, this college provides knowledge on routing, wireless, switching, troubleshooting, the essentials of the Linux operating system, and configuring, designing, and managing Microsoft servers.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Information Assurance
- Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon University is a highly ranked institution in its undergraduate level studies in information assurance. The bachelor’s degree is open to all undergraduates studying computer science.
- Georgia Institute of Technology. Georgia Tech’s cyber security program ranks second in the US News & World report. Students can choose any application for in-depth study, including social media, election systems, web security, cyber warfare, and hardware security.
- The University of Southern California. Ranked in the top 25 nationally by US News & World Report, this university offers innovation in education and veteran services. Its computer systems security faculty feature professional experts and nationally-recognized academics emphasizing practical and hands-on learning.
Best Graduate Schools for Information Assurance
- Iowa State University. Home to the first-ever electronic digital computer in the world, Iowa State University offers high-resolution virtual experiences in its virtual reality lab. The university’s information assurance department leads research and training through partnerships with citizens, government, industry, and experts.
- Sam Houston State University. Sam Houston State University is the 12th largest university in Texas. Emphasizing excellence in academics and student success, the online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security gives students knowledge and practical skills in security analysis.
- Western Governors University. This university provides a positive experience for each student by ensuring they get personalized attention from faculty. Aside from ranking number 12 on US News & World Report’s Most Innovative Schools list, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities also accredited this university.
Best Information Assurance Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Science in Information Security Policy and Management-Juris Doctor. This dual degree program gives students a deep understanding of privacy, security, and policy concerns and how they relate to the law. Students learn to tackle various legal gray areas facing private citizens, organizations, and governments in the digital world.
- Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Security Informatics and Master of Science in Engineering in Computer Science. This dual degree program allows students to access a platform for a distinctive graduate educational experience. It will enable both breadth and depth, suitable preparation for research.
- The University of Michigan | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science & Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. This program teaches students to approach some of the most dynamic challenges of an interconnected world. Students must enter the information systems concentration and the cyber security and privacy or digital forensics focus of the relevant bachelor’s programs.
Best Schools With Accelerated Information Assurance Programs
- George Mason University | Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science and Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance. Highly-qualified students can finish this accelerated program in five years. Graduate courses are accessible for students who complete seventy-five undergraduate degree credits and the computer systems and programming subject.
- Roosevelt University | Cyber Security & Information Assurance, Bachelor of Science/Master of Science Accelerated Program. Students can obtain both a graduate degree and a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security & Information Assurance through this program. Graduate courses are available for students in the second year of the accelerated program, and the entire program will take five years to complete.
- Southern Connecticut State University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Cybersecurity. This five-year accelerated program gives students a solid foundation in information assurance strategies and best practices. It is ideal for students seeking an advanced degree and a career in cyber security, ethical hacking, consultation, network administration, and a PhD.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Information Assurance Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for information assurance is worth it if you want to become a professional in a notable career. Global cyber crimes are increasing, and there is a lack of highly-educated and qualified workers to meet the demand. Earning an information assurance graduate degree could be the best investment since companies pay top dollar for top talent.
Many of the best information assurance universities and colleges offer in-person and online graduate program options. Some schools have an open enrollment policy, while others have particular admission requirements. These requirements include school transcripts, a high GPA score, a high school diploma, and an application fee.
What Jobs Can You Do With an Information Assurance Degree?
Jobs you can do with an information assurance degree are information security analyst, network and computer systems administrator, computer systems analyst, computer and information systems manager, database administrator, and computer user support specialist. Information assurance positions are one of the most demanding computer specialties.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Information Assurance?
You can earn between $51,000 and $155,000 per year with a degree in information assurance, according to PayScale. An associate degree graduate can earn about $52,000 a year. Information security officers earn between $60,000 to $139,000 depending on tenure and experience, while a network security analyst earns a median salary of $75,887 annually.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can get jobs with an average annual salary of $79,000. The average annual wage of an information security manager is $119,505, while an information security specialist earns $76,524 per year.
The average job salary for a master’s degree graduate is about $97,000 annually. A chief information officer can earn an annual average pay of $168,712, while cyber security analysts make about $77,235 annually. An information assurance engineer earns $97,383, while a security manager averages $72,063 per year.
Highest-Paying Information Assurance Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $159,010 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | Master’s degree | $131,490 |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $120,520 |
| Quality Assurance Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,270 |
| Database Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $98,860 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s degree | $93,000 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $80,600 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | Associate degree | $71,350 |
Best Jobs With an Information Assurance Degree
The best jobs with an information assurance degree are computer and information systems manager, computer and information research scientist, computer network architect, quality assurance analyst, information security analyst, and computer systems analyst. Availability of jobs depends on the degree level as listed below.
How Can I Pay for Information Assurance School?
You can pay for information assurance school by applying for financial aid, scholarships, state grants, tuition assistance or reimbursement, or an emergency relief fund. Students have access to various financial aid opportunities.
- Financial aid. Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form through the student aid website or by downloading the app. After submission, the student must complete entrance counseling and sign the Master Promissory Note. Some schools may require the completion of additional documentation before awarding the financial aid.
- Scholarships. Scholarships are available through the generosity of various corporations, foundations, and several individuals. Each school offers different scholarships, and the process may differ from one school to another.
- State grants. State grant programs have strict application deadlines for funding eligibility. Since state grants differ for each state, it is best to contact the school and visit the state websites for further information and assistance.
- Tuition assistance or reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement policies vary for each company. Some add it to the student’s paycheck amount, while others give it back in stock shares. Most companies reimburse the tuition costs after completing course credits or earning a degree.
- Emergency relief fund. The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund is federal funding disbursed as student emergency aid grants. Students must meet the criteria of exceptional financial need to be eligible for the said fund.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Information Assurance School for You
When choosing the best information assurance school for you, you should consider accreditation, faculty credentials, graduation rate, cost, and student career counseling services. With numerous schools offering information assurance, the following information can help students make the right choice.
Accreditation
An accreditation from notable authorities on education ensures the school meets the standards to teach students the offered programs. A formal recognition says a lot about the school’s level of academic quality. Accreditation provides eligibility for federal financial aid and scholarships.
Faculty Credentials
Certified, productive, and efficient faculty members can better carry out the school’s mission. Faculty credentials refer not only to academic credentials but to overall qualifications. Accreditors consider these during accreditation visits. Faculty credentials are also necessary for publicity, sharing faculty expertise, grant proposals, student recruitment, recognition, evaluation, and promotion.
Graduation Rate
A high graduation rate highlights the faculty members’ commitment to education, students’ hard work, and the availability of support systems. Students get insight into the number of students who finish their degree by checking the school’s graduation rate.
Cost
Most students do not want to create a financial burden for themselves or their families. With education costs increasing, it is crucial to check available financial aids and support programs when choosing a school. Students should consider the tuition fee and the cost of living during the course. Research where you can get the same education level for a lower price.
Student Services
Student services are one factor that affects the quality of a student’s learning experience and academic success. University dropout rate and campus diversity are also affected. Student services include everything from admissions and career services to alcohol and drug education programs and campus ministries.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Information Assurance?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for information assurance. As mentioned above, there are various factors to consider when choosing a school. Not all schools offer the same benefits and provide similar services. Selecting a school while considering the factors above will ensure good quality education and provide a satisfactory academic experience.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Information Assurance University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Information Assurance
We ranked the best information assurance schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our information assurance university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of information assurance degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Information Assurance
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Best Information Assurance Schools FAQ
Information assurance is essentially protecting information and information systems. The five pillars of information assurance have many applications. These pillars are integrity, availability, confidentiality, authentication, and non-repudiation.
The difference between information assurance and information security is that information assurance is a broader discipline. It is more concerned with addressing the overall risk to an organization’s information. Information security focuses on dealing with individual, exterior threats. It is a more hands-on discipline, prioritizing the development of tools, technologies, and other countermeasures.
You will go to school for around four years if you want to earn a full-time Bachelor’s Degree in Information Assurance. Community college certificates and associate degrees take about two years to complete. You can complete a master’s degree in 18 months to two years, but combined undergraduate/graduate programs allow students to finish in five years.
An information assurance degree allows graduates to land a career in cyber security, information security, and network security. Some of the top jobs include quality assurance analysts, computer network architects, computer and information systems managers, and computer and information research scientists.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
