Associate Degrees in Cyber Security are a great way for aspiring security analysts to break into the information security industry. The best cyber security associate degrees are cheaper than four-year bachelor’s degrees and they can help you build the foundational skills needed to succeed in this field.
It’s also easy to transfer credits earned in a cyber security associate degree program into a bachelor’s degree. In this article, we explore some of the best Associate Degrees in Cyber Security and the schools where you can earn them. If you’re serious about taking steps to break into cyber security, you should take a look at some of the following programs.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber security is the practice of securing software and data so hackers can’t launch successful cyber attacks and potentially steal sensitive information. Professionals in this industry identify cyber risks, prescribe solutions, monitor information systems, and mitigate the effects of cyber attacks.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security are the Community College of Philadelphia, Rio Hondo College, and Davenport University. If you want to learn more about where to get a cyber security associate degree, this article covers 20 schools for in-person and online Associate Degrees in Cyber Security.
What Schools Offer the Best Cyber Security Associate Degrees?
- Howard Community College
- Nashua Community College
- Central Texas College
- Umpqua Community College
- LeTourneau University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security include a high school diploma or a GED. Some community colleges and universities might have additional requirements, like a minimum GPA score or SAT score. If you don’t meet those requirements, some schools offer prerequisite courses to get you started.
The required languages for cyber security include JavaScript, PHP, and C. However, language requirements for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security will usually be covered in your first year of school. Cyber security associate degree requirements are usually quite minimal because community colleges and associate degree programs are meant to be accessible to everyone.
Cyber Security Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- Online application form
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Official transcripts from a high school or college
- Test scores are usually required if you want college credit
How to Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security
You can get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security by completing around 60 credits of coursework. You do not need any type of knowledge before starting a cyber security associate degree because this level of degree is meant to provide a foundation of knowledge so you can go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree or start a career.
The best way to get a cyber security associate degree is to attend a community college because the admission requirements are minimal and the education is extremely affordable. These degree programs usually take two years to complete, but you may be able to finish at a faster pace if you take summer courses.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
You need 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security. How many credits for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security may differ slightly depending on the school you attend, but it will always be under 65 credits. This will take an average of two years to complete.
Cyber Security Degree Requirements
- Around 30 credits of major-specific courses
- Around 15 credits of electives
- Around 15 credits of general education courses
- A capstone project or portfolio may be required
Best Cyber Security Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Central Texas College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyberdefense: Information Assurance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Community College of Philadelphia | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Davenport University | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Defense | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Howard Community College | Associate of Arts in Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Nashua Community College | Associate in Science Degree in Cybersecurity Networking | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Northern Virginia Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Rio Hondo College | Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Southern Maine Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Umpqua Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NCCU) |
| Western Nebraska Community College | Associate of Arts in Cyber Security | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
Best Schools for Cyber Security: Top Cyber Security Associate Degree Programs
The best cyber security associate degree programs offer close contact with peers and professors. The top cyber security associate degree programs give students opportunities for experiential learning and collaborative research projects.
An in-person program may be a good option for you if you thrive in a collaborative environment and benefit from group instruction. For students that prefer studying in person, we’ve compiled a list of the best schools for Associate Degrees in Cyber Security.
What Is a Cyber Security Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Cyber Security is a two-year degree that teaches you the basics of data security, such as ethical hacking. The most logical next step is earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, but it’s a good idea to start with a cyber security associate degree because it can save you money and you can find out if the field suits you.
If you don’t have enough funds or time to complete a bachelor’s degree, you should consider an Associate Degree in Cyber Security. Some degree programs offer an accelerated pace so you can finish in less than two years.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
An Associate Degree in Cyber Security is important because it allows interested students to get an entry-level tech degree in two years. For those who want to get a tech degree from a community college, a cyber security associate degree allows people to quickly and affordably transfer to a four-year university or start a career in cyber security.
The main reasons why a cyber security associate degree is important are its accessibility and affordability. Not everyone can afford to attend a private university, and community colleges make education available at a low cost, especially for residents of the state where the college is located.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Cyber Security?
The types of Associate Degrees in Cyber Security you can get are an Associate of Arts, an Associate of Science, and an Associate of Applied Science. The best degree type for cyber security is an Associate of Science, mainly because it is the most common type of degree available for this field.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science in Cyber Security?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Cyber Security because AS degrees tend to focus more on technical skills like coding. The main difference between an Associate of Science and an Associate of Arts is that an AS is focused on math and science while an AA is focused on liberal arts. You may be able to take more electives in an Associate of Arts in Cyber Security program.
Prospective employers may prefer to see an Associate of Science in Cyber Security on your resume. However, the two degrees are essentially equivalent and will allow you to learn most of the same skills.
What Is the Difference Between a Cyber Security Associate Degree and a Cyber Security Certificate?
The main difference between a cyber security associate degree and a cyber security certificate is that an associate degree will give you a more foundational understanding of cyber security concepts and a broader range of knowledge. In an associate degree program, you will also get to study additional subjects that pique your interest.
You should get a cyber security certificate if you are either looking to enter the job market as soon as possible or you already have a career in tech and are looking to pivot to cyber security. You should get a cyber security associate degree if you are a recent high school graduate or someone with no prior experience in technology.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
The average cyber security associate degree cost of one year of tuition, fees, and housing at a two-year institution is $11,389. On-campus housing can increase costs. The cheapest Associate Degrees in Cyber Security on this list are provided by California schools to in-state students. If you are looking to lower your Associate Degree in Cyber Security costs, make sure to apply for financial aid.
Cyber Security Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Cyber Security Degree
To pay for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security, you can opt for federal grants, private loans, work-study programs, scholarships, or GI Bill benefits if you have served in the military. If you have the financial means to do so, you can always pay upfront. Federal financial aid for Associate Degree in Cyber Security students is available through FAFSA.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Cyber Security Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security. An Associate Degree in Cyber Security length will differ slightly depending on the school you attend and the number of credits required. You may be able to graduate sooner by attending classes in the summer or pursuing an accelerated associate degree.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
An Associate Degree in Cyber Security is not hard if you are able to commit to two years of studying general and major-specific topics. A cyber security associate degree is easy to get because community colleges design their curricula for students with no prior experience in their fields of interest. An Associate Degree in Cyber Security is hard if you have no interest in IT or math.
Why Should You Get a Cyber Security Associate Degree?
You should get an Associate Degree in Cyber Security if you want a low-cost way to enter the information security field. The benefits of an Associate Degree in Cyber Security are affordability, speed, and accessibility. The main benefit of getting an Associate Degree in Cyber Security is that you can enter the job market with technical skills in just two years.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Cyber Security?
Associate Degree in Cyber Security courses cover foundational topics like coding in popular programming languages, core cyber security concepts like penetration testing, and the ethics of hacking. Courses in Associate Degree in Cyber Security programs equip students with the skills they need to start a career in cyber security or attend a bachelor’s degree program.
Computer Mathematics and Logic
This course would introduce you to important mathematical concepts relevant to computer information systems. It might cover Boolean algebra, coding, and set theory.
Introduction to Cyber Security
This is an important course for Associate Degree in Cyber Security students because it covers the basics of cyber security. You might learn about firewalls, malware, cyber attacks, and privacy policy, among other topics.
Introduction to Computer Programming
Learning the basics of object-oriented programming is important for cyber security students. You will probably begin by learning how to code in Python, one of the most popular programming languages.
Managing Network Servers
This course will teach the basics of securing and troubleshooting server software and hardware. This is a relevant subject for those who want to take the CompTIA Server+ certification exam.
Cyber Investigation
This is an introduction to cyber forensics. Students will learn how to identify and investigate cyber crimes and how that evidence could be used in criminal investigations or court cases.
Continuing Education Paths for Cyber Security Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a cyber security associate degree is to transfer your credits to a four-year university and pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Digital Forensics, or Information Security and Assurance. Another path you can take after an Associate Degree in Cyber Security is to enter the job market with an entry-level career and gain in-field experience.
Related Cyber Security Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Cyber Security Associate Degree Programs
The best cyber security associate degree programs offer core cyber security courses as well as campus resources and low costs. You can expect introductory content, supportive staff, and small class sizes from a cyber security associate degree.
Student Services
Even if you are attending a community college or an online program, you should make sure that the school you choose offers services to support you. If you need particular help in any area, make sure the school offers student services that can support you.
Cost
One of the main reasons people choose to pursue associate degrees is that they are affordable. If the cost of a cyber security degree is high, you should attend a community college in your district or state. These schools will offer you the cheapest tuition rates. If you want to attend a university or an out-of-district college, make sure to research your financial aid options.
Curricular Content
If there are certain skills you want to learn or subjects you are interested in studying, make sure to check the course curriculum for the Associate Degree in Cyber Security program you’re interested in.
Continuing Education Options
One of the best pathways to take with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security is to use your college credits to attend a bachelor’s degree program. Most schools that offer associate degrees make it easy for students to transfer to a bachelor’s program at the same school or an associate university.
Barriers to Admission
Community colleges and schools that offer associate degrees should be accessible to everyone, whether you are a high school student with a low GPA or someone with a GED. The tech industry is a high-paying field and an Associate Degree in Cyber Security should enable you to enter the industry quickly, regardless of your previous educational experience.
What Is the Most Affordable Cyber Security Associate Degree?
The most affordable cyber security associate degree is offered by Rio Hondo College in Whittier, California. California schools are extremely affordable for state residents. However, most community colleges offer affordable cyber security associate degrees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Cyber Security Associate Degree Graduates
Cyber security associate degree jobs are usually entry-level positions in information technology and security. Associate Degree in Cyber Security salaries are lower than entry-level salaries for people with bachelor’s degrees. However, the more experience you have in the field, the higher your salary will be. Getting certifications can also increase your original cyber security associate degree salary.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Cyber Security Associate Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a cyber security associate degree. The tech industry is usually open to hiring people with lower-level or alternative forms of education. However, it can be hard to get a job after getting an Associate Degree in Cyber Security because the industry can be competitive.
What’s the Average Cyber Security Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary of a professional with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security is $53,000. Professionals can earn more as they grow their skillset and gain more experience in the industry.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Cyber Security Associate Degree?
You can get entry-level tech jobs with a cyber security associate degree. These can range from an IT support technician to a penetration tester. As you gain more experience, you can get high-paying jobs like network security analyst with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security.
Cyber Security Degree Jobs
- Penetration tester
- Cyber security specialist
- Cyber threat analyst
- Source code auditor
- IT support technician
Potential Careers With a Cyber Security Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Cyber Security?
You can make between $40,000 and $85,000 with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security. As you gain more experience, your salary will increase. Getting certifications from CompTIA and others will also allow you to increase your salary.
Highest-Paying Cyber Security Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Cyber Security Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Cyber Security Penetration Tester | $87,737 |
| Security Specialist | $76,821 |
| Cyber Threat Analyst | $76,678 |
| Source Code Auditor | $69,449 |
| IT Support Technician | $45,979 |
Best Jobs for Cyber Security Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for an Associate Degree in Cyber Security are entry-level positions that require the technical skills learned in an associate degree program. Some of the best jobs for cyber security associate degree holders are field-specific, while others require more technical abilities.
*Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on Information Security Analysts
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Cyber Security Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Cyber Security is worth it if you want to break into the cyber security industry. These degrees are much cheaper than bachelor’s degrees, and you only study for two years. If you want a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree down the line, earning an associate degree first makes the process smoother and cheaper.
Cyber security is both a well-established field and an emerging one. Mounting security threats and the growing sensitivity of certain networks and databases are also causing an increased demand for cyber security experts. Most large organizations have experienced at least one cyber security threat. A cyber security associate degree is a great way to break into this growing field.
Additional Reading About Cyber Security
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Cyber Security Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, there are many entry-level positions available if you have an Associate Degree in Cyber Security. Many of these positions also pay well.
An Associate Degree in Cyber Security is good if you want to progress into entry-level roles after only two years of studying. Students can also seamlessly transfer into a bachelor’s degree.
Yes, many cyber security jobs pay well and you can expect to be paid over $50,000 per year early in your career.
The best way to do this is to apply for entry-level roles. Most employers will accept an associate degree for entry-level jobs. If you have some experience in cyber security, this will be a huge advantage.
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.
