Cyber security experts are the first and last line of defense between a company’s networks and unauthorized hackers trying to steal valuable data. Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security are one of the best ways to show an employer that you have what it takes to keep their company information safe.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best cyber security bachelor’s degrees in detail as we look at the top universities, practical online learning alternatives, and the highest-paying jobs you can get in this field after graduation.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber security, also known as information technology security, involves safely storing and processing data on computers and other devices for governmental and corporate entities. Hackers attempt unauthorized access to sensitive information, including intellectual property, financial information, or personal information.
Specialists in this field keep valuable data protected from hackers. Cyber security refers to the architecture, processes, and practices that guard networks, devices, programs, and data against damage or access by unauthorized parties.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
The best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security are Dakota State University, Thomas Edison State University, Purdue University, and Northeastern University. These colleges offer top-quality degree programs that will prepare graduates for a successful career in security and tech.
What Schools Offer the Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Dakota State University
- Northeastern University
- Purdue University
- Thomas Edison State University
- University of New Haven
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
The admission requirements for a bachelor’s degree are a high school diploma or equivalent. Standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT, and a minimum grade point average (GPA) may also be required, but these are school-dependent. Students will be expected to be proficient in math and science if they want to study subjects related to computer science.
Most universities don’t have programming language requirements for four-year cyber security programs. This is because students start with introductory courses that cover programming languages such as Python, Java, SQL, and C. Students with an associate degree may be able to transfer their credits and complete their bachelor’s in a shorter time.
Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 to 3.0 (school dependent)
- ACT or SAT scores
- Proficiency in math and science
- Letter of recommendation
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security by completing the required coursework of your program. Students will typically need to maintain a GPA of about 2.5, complete a minimum of 120 credits, and complete a capstone project to graduate. The best way to get a four-year degree is to complete the minimum requirements across general education and elective courses by taking 15 credits per semester.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
You need a minimum of 120 credits for the average bachelor’s degree, regardless of your major. The number of credits required to complete your degree will be determined by the school and specific program. The credit requirement is also broken down into general education classes, core classes, and a concentration path.
Cyber Security Degree Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Complete a minimum of 120 credits
- Fulfill core class requirements
- Fulfill general education requirements
- Capstone project may be required
Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Cedarville University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations | Higher Learning Commission |
| Dakota State University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations | Higher Learning Commission |
| DePaul University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Higher Learning Commission |
| ECPI University | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Information Security Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| George Mason University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Misericordia University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology( IT Security Specialization) | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Purdue University | Cybersecurity Degree | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA) |
| Thomas Edison State University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| University Of New Haven | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Networks | New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) |
Best Schools for Cyber Security: Top Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best cyber security bachelor’s degrees will provide students with an in-depth understanding of all the necessary technical and soft skills they will need to get hired. These degree programs will teach in-demand skills, use hands-on training, and provide real-world experience.
Best Online Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | Online Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Regis University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Texas A&M University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security (BS – CSEC) | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| University of Illinois | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Nebraska | Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies Degree (BMS) with a Concentration in Cybersecurity | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | Bachelor of Business Administration in Cyber Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
Best Colleges for Cyber Security: Top Online Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best online cyber security degree programs make learning accessible to students no matter where they live. Read the following list for more information about some of the top remote programs.
What Is a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
A cyber security bachelor’s degree is a four-year program that includes specialized training to prepare students for security and IT safety jobs. A bachelor’s degree is the level of education one attains after four years of study at a university.
Undergraduate students learn incident response, take programming competency courses, develop communication skills, and learn ways to address security concerns within a software program or network.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
It is very important to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security for a well-rounded education and professional training if you want to land mid-level security and IT jobs. Furthermore, a bachelor’s degree will allow you to transfer to grad school where you can go on to earn a master’s degree in a related field.
The main reasons why a cyber security degree is important are:
- Job-ready after graduation
- Higher starting salary
- Broad education
- Pathway to master’s and doctoral degrees
- Projects help to build a professional portfolio
- Internship opportunities through university partner programs
- Access to alumni network
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Cyber Security?
You can get the following types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security:
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- Online Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Business Administration
If you want to focus on your career and look for work straight out of college, you should consider a Bachelor of Applied Science degree. If you want a broader education that will allow you to seek employment or transfer to a higher education program, you should look at a Bachelor of Science degree.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Security?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security because it focuses more on critical thinking, applied knowledge, and technical studies. It emphasizes more of the general education coursework so students can easily transfer to a master’s program. A Bachelor of Applied Science is often more suited to students transferring from an associate program.
The difference between a Bachelor of Science degree or a Bachelor of Applied Science is that a Bachelor of Science offers a broader education and focuses more on math and science. A Bachelor of Applied Science is a more specialized program that focuses on real-world and in-demand career skills to ensure they are equipped for the workforce.
While a Bachelor of Applied Science will help you get employed quicker, a Bachelor of Science is better for getting a job, as students will be able to earn graduate degrees and certifications to find higher-paid and upper-level work.
What Is the Difference Between a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree and a Cyber Security Certificate?
The main difference between a bachelor’s degree and a certificate in cyber security is the length of study, cost, and career opportunities. A sub-baccalaureate certificate is designed to only teach a specific area of study in a short space of time. This is ideal for students who already have a bachelor’s degree or similar qualifications.
Therefore, your career goals and educational background are the most important considerations if you are choosing between a bachelor’s degree or a certificate. A Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security is ideal for newcomers to the field who are straight out of high school or professionals looking to switch careers.
You should get a bachelor’s degree instead of a certificate because it covers core subjects, general education, and elective classes. Bachelor’s programs allow students to explore different areas of the discipline and take advantage of the college experience. While you can get security jobs with just a certificate, most employers will favor job seekers who have a bachelor’s degree.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
Cyber security degrees cost from $4,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the university. However, the tuition required can be reduced or even eliminated by taking advantage of financial aid and grant programs provided by colleges.
An online bachelor’s degree program or a coding bootcamp is cheaper than a four-year college program. Learning online is an excellent option for distance learners or people with full-time jobs that make traveling to on-campus classes difficult. Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security costs start from about $19,000 per year.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
It typically takes four years to get a bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor’s in Cyber Security length is determined by the university and some degrees can be completed in as little as two years in accelerated programs. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 120 credits to get their bachelor’s degree. The recommended curriculum by most colleges is 15 credits per semester, which works out as four years in total to complete the program.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
Any university degree can be hard to get, but keep in mind that cyber security bachelor’s degree programs are designed for newcomers. Students typically attend straight after high school and often don’t have much background knowledge.
While the coursework is technical and math-heavy, the first two years focus on introductory classes and lower-level electives. By following the recommended university curriculum of taking about 15 credits per semester, students will be able to progress through the basic classes easily and best prepare themselves for more advanced learning in their final years of study.
Why Should You Get a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security are:
- Broad education
- Portfolio development
- Access to student services
- Access to labs for practical and hands-on learning
- Networking through events and meet-ups
- Technical skills training
- Variety of electives and concentration tracks
Some people who already have a bachelor’s degree choose to get a second degree in cyber security to learn in-demand skills and new technologies. This is a field that is constantly evolving as hackers learn new ways of breaching systems. Therefore, you must have up-to-date skills and knowledge.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Cyber Security?
The required courses use hands-on learning, collaborative projects, and real-world training to teach students IT technical skills. Bachelor’s in Cyber Security courses typically include computer programming, networking, systems security, and project management. Continue reading for some common courses you will find in your program.
Ethical Hacking
Ethical hacking is used to prevent malicious cyber attacks. Students will learn how to test computer systems and networks for flaws and breaches and how to fix any potential issues. Top universities will have state-of-the-art labs where students can practice ethical hacking during their coursework.
Cryptology
This course will teach students the fundamental practices of cryptology and cryptanalysis. Students will learn about ciphers, codes, and public-key cryptography.
Computer Systems
Computer systems classes focus on machine-level programming and architecture. Students will develop a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, networking, debugging, and assembly language. Problem languages in this class often include C and Python.
Network Security
During this course, students will learn the fundamentals of network security design and implementation. Network security covers firewalls, routers, security auditing and tools, virtual private networks, and intrusion detection systems. Students will have access to labs where they can practice network security and gain real-world experience.
Cyber Forensics
Students will learn how to legally collect evidence to prevent security crimes, such as hacking. The class will cover criminal investigation proceedings, data storage and file systems, security incidents, gathering digital evidence, and network forensics.
Continuing Education Paths for Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take as a university graduate is to pursue industry certifications. Some common industry certifications include Certified Ethical Hacker, CompTIA Security+, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Graduates may also pursue graduate certificates, master’s degrees, or doctoral degrees in related fields.
Related Cyber Security Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best degree programs in this field have official accreditation, top reviews, flexible learning, experienced faculty, and up-to-date curriculum content. If you are trying to find a program that will prepare you to succeed in your future career, look for schools that offer hands-on training, lab work, and real-world projects.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures a university is approved by a neutral or third-party commission. Not only does this guarantee that the program you choose is of a high standard, but potential employers will favor accredited qualifications. You can check the school’s official website for its accreditation and ensure it is of a high standard.
Curricular Content
Cyber security bachelor’s degrees cover a wide range of subjects and often have various specializations. Be sure to check the course catalog for a list of elective and core classes. Choose a program that has classes in your scope of interest and that fit your career goals. You can also assess if the curricular content includes internships, capstone projects, and lab work, if this is of importance to you.
Cost
Getting a bachelor’s degree is expensive and students are often left with a lot of debt when they graduate. Be sure to consider the cost of your degree before you commit to a program. If the cost is expensive, but the university has a job guarantee or plenty of career partners, it might be worth the extra expense. You can take advantage of financial aid and scholarships to offset high tuition rates.
Faculty Credentials
When studying a tech-heavy subject like cyber security, the faculty must be well trained in current practices. Faculty with real-world experience in tech is vital as students will need to master up-to-date technologies to keep ahead of hackers and other cyber threats.
Format
While studying in-person is often the best choice for a technical field, as it allows you to access labs and learn via hands-on training, some students can’t commit to a full-time in-person degree.
Because of this, many Bachelor’s in Cyber Security are offered online and some programs can be taken part-time. Online programs are often cheaper than in-person programs but may take longer to complete.
What Is the Most Affordable Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable option is the Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security offered by Thomas Edison State University. In-state students pay a full-time flat rate of just $3,579. Alternatively, students may consider the Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security from Purdue University, which costs $9,992 per academic year for in-state students.
Salary and Job Outlook for Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Cyber security is a growing and in-demand career path and a bachelor’s degree will allow job seekers to quickly land mid-level roles across a variety of industries such as finance, healthcare, tech, or government. With this major, you can earn a high salary at the start of your career. On-the-job training, experience, and an industry certification can increase your wages even further.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
It is easy to get a job with a cyber security bachelor’s degree. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security jobs are set to grow by 35 percent over the next 10 years. This is far greater than the average job growth rate. Cyber attacks are growing every day, and specialists are required to come up with solutions to these threats to protect a company’s vital assets.
Cyber professionals are required across a wide variety of industries from finance to healthcare to tech to government. An increase in cloud services by smaller businesses will also provide more work for graduates.
What’s the Average Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a cyber security bachelor’s degree is $72,000, according to PayScale. In addition, security personnel in senior positions can make up to $120,000 annually. This salary will depend on factors such as years of experience, job title, and the industry you work in. Official certifications will help boost your salary.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a cyber security bachelor’s degree include cryptographer, cyber security engineer, information security analyst, and security systems administrator. These graduates will typically seek careers in IT, security, and computing. Security experts are required in a multitude of industries as the threat of cyber attacks increases.
Cyber Security Degree Jobs
- Cryptographer
- Cyber Security Engineer
- Technology Management
- Security Administrator
- Penetration Tester
Potential Careers With a Cyber Security Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security?
You can make between $62,000 and $146,000 per year with a bachelor’s degree if you major in cyber security. As security specialists gain experience, further training, and master’s and doctoral degrees in related fields, they will earn six-figure salaries in roles such as information assurance engineers, chief information security officers, or site reliability engineers.
Highest-Paying Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Cryptographer | $145,356 |
| Cyber Security Engineer | $120,708 |
| Penetration Tester | $116,323 |
| Cyber Security Consultant | $115,767 |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $99,815 |
| Technology Manager | $99,550 |
| Security Systems Administrator | $81,230 |
| Cyber Security Technician | $72,502 |
| Vendor Risk Specialist | $70,032 |
| Cyber Security Associate | $62,558 |
Best Jobs for Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for cyber security majors are engineering and administrative roles that involve big data protection for high-profile companies. While these jobs are high-paying, they may require additional training, experience, or a certification.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Cyber Security Bootcamp vs Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security is better compared to a cyber security bootcamp because it provides students with a broader education and access to more jobs. Although most employers prefer that candidates have a traditional degree, getting your foot in the door as a cyber security professional is possible through alternative educational options.
Many candidates simply don’t have the time or financial resources for a four-year degree. Online bootcamps are a cheaper and quicker alternative. The best cyber security bootcamp programs help students gain in-demand tech skills in a matter of months.
Benefits of a Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree
- Job security: Cyber threats and attacks are becoming more frequent and sophisticated, leading to a demand for security professionals. The lack of specialists with a college education means that job security is virtually assured.
- Worthwhile investment: The field offers a wide range of opportunities and job openings, but the education level required can be pretty high. Therefore, investing in an in-depth education will pay off in the long run.
- Networking: In addition to the knowledge, insight, and diversity of opinions gained while completing your bachelor’s degree, the connections you make during college can be immensely valuable when looking to launch or advance your career upon graduation.
Benefits of a Cyber Security Bootcamp
- Flexibility: Many online undergraduate degree programs require students to adhere to strict schedules. Most bootcamps will offer a wider range of scheduling options, including full or part-time classes, or even self-paced study.
- Time-saving: Coding bootcamps cover a wide range of security concepts and tactics in intensive, focused, and condensed classes. These classes will be engaging, hands-on, and designed to maximize your learning experience.
- Certifications and certificates: High-achieving students from bootcamps can still earn certifications to stand out to employers, even without a college degree. Some coding bootcamps provide certificates upon completion of the program. These certificates can increase your expertise and value to potential employers.
- Career services: Many bootcamps provide career services to help students land tech jobs quickly after graduation. These might include interview prep, career counseling, resume building, or salary negotiation coaching.
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security is worth it if you want to attain the technical and analytical skills necessary for a wide range of IT careers, many of which offer strong projected growth rates and high annual wages. A bachelor’s degree will teach you the fundamentals of cyber security and greatly enhance your professional resume.
Additional Reading About Cyber Security
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Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The best bachelor’s degrees for cyber and information security careers are in computer science, computer programming, database management, computer hardware engineering, and network administration.
Yes, a Bachelor’s in Cyber Security can land you a job. Not all companies within the private sector require a degree, but they will help you stand out to potential employers. Gaining relevant certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker, can also help you get hired.
No, most entry-level cyber security jobs don’t require coding skills. In some cases, however, you will need to know how to write code for mid-level and senior positions after gaining enough qualifications through work experience.
No, it’s not hard to get into cyber security once you have the required knowledge. The field is not necessarily more challenging to get into, but many positions require pre-IT knowledge or several years’ experience in another area or related position.
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.
