Associate Degrees in Information Security are two-year programs intended to help students land jobs in systems and cyber security. Businesses in a wide range of fields worry about keeping data safe from breaches, and the best Associate Degrees in Information Security will provide you with the necessary skills to fill these job roles.
This guide is your one-stop source for information about information security associate degree programs. We provide all the details you need if you are looking for a school where you can earn one of the best information security associate degrees. You will also learn about the career opportunities to consider once you complete your degree.
What Is Information Security?
Information security involves protecting sensitive and classified data and information, usually in a business or organization. With social media, information security is needed to safeguard private individuals’ data and prevent it from getting exposed to unwanted users. Information security is one of the practices under the cyber security umbrella that is concerned with creating concrete steps and technology to protect data.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Information Security?
The colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Information Security include Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Anne Arundel Community College, and Ivy Tech Community College. If you are wondering where to get an information security associate degree, keep reading to find a detailed list of options.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Security Associate Degrees?
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Ivy Tech Community College
- Minnesota West Community and Technical College
- Bismarck State College
- Tacoma Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Security?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Security usually include a high school diploma and official high school transcripts. Generally, Associate in Information Security requirements are not very extensive. You may be asked to complete placement tests if you don’t wish to provide your SAT or ACT scores.
You can find details about the requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Security on your chosen school’s website. However, many community colleges practice open admission, allowing anyone with a high school diploma to enroll. Most programs are designed for beginners, but you can study coding languages like SQL to ensure you are prepared for your studies.
Information Security Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma
- GPA of at least 2.0
- Completion of placement tests
- ACT or SAT scores
- Strong critical-thinking skills
How to Get an Associate Degree in Information Security
You can get an Associate Degree in Information Security by filling out an online application on your chosen school’s website. You may need to provide your high school diploma or test scores. You often don’t need extensive background knowledge for an associate degree program, but strong analytical thinking skills will be beneficial.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Information Security?
You generally need 60 to 65 credits for an Associate Degree in Information Security. This takes most students about two years to achieve. Some part-time programs allow you to complete your degree in three years.
Information Security Degree Requirements
- GPA of 2.0
- 30-40 core credits
- 10-15 general education credits
- 10-15 elective credits
- Completion of a capstone project
Best Information Security Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Bismarck State College | Associate Degree in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Davenport University | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Defense | State Approval Agency of the Department of Education |
| ECPI University | Associate of Science in Cyber and Information Science, Cyber and Information Security Concentration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Georgia Military College | Associate of Science in Cyber Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Glendale Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
| Ivy Tech Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance | The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Lackawanna College | Associate of Science in Cyber Security | Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Shawnee State University | Associate of Applied Business in Information Security | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Tacoma Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Network and Cyber Security | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Information Security: Top Information Security Associate Degree Programs
The best information security associate programs cover a range of cyber security concepts. Typically, information security is included as a possible specialization track. Here are some of the best schools for an Associate Degree in Information Security.
Best Online Information Security Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Central Texas College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyberdefense and Information Assurance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Franklin University | Associate of Science in Cyber Security | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Kirtland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security | Michigan Commission on College Accreditation |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Security and Assurance | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Saint Leo University | Associate Degree in Cyber Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Associate of Science in Cyber Security | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Trident University | Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Umpqua Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| University of Phoenix | Associate of Science in Cyber Security | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Nebraska Community College | Associate of Arts in Cyber Security | The Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Information Security: Top Online Information Security Associate Degree Programs
For many students, online learning provides flexibility and convenience. There are many online information security associate degrees from accredited schools available for you. Keep reading for a list of the best Associate Degree in Information Security online programs.
What Is an Information Security Associate Degree?
An information security associate degree is a two-year program that can usually be completed in around 60 credit hours. Some of the topics covered are the fundamentals of cyber security, problem-solving, computing, database management, and network security.
If you want to excel further in the field of cyber security, then you can take IT industry certification exams from CompTIA, Cisco, and Microsoft. Your Associate Degree in Information Security will prepare you for a professional certification exam. You can also use your associate credits for advanced degrees in information security.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Information Security?
It is important to have an Associate Degree in Information Security if you want to land an entry-level tech job. Getting certifications for information security is also important because it will help prove your abilities to potential employers. An information security associate degree is important for building a strong resume and preparing yourself for further education in the future.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Information Security?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for information security:
- Associate of Arts
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Applied Science
You should get an Associate of Applied Science if you want to get a job straight out of school, but the best type of degree for information security will depend on your long-term career and educational goals.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or an Associate of Applied Science in Information Security?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Information Security because it can help you further your education or land an entry-level job. An Associate of Science has a greater emphasis on preparing students for a bachelor’s degree, while an Associate of Applied Science prioritizes preparing students for the workforce.
Deciding which is better, an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science, can be difficult for many students. The answer will look different depending on what you want out of your program. Either option can set you up for a successful career.
What Is the Difference Between an Information Security Associate Degree and an Information Security Certificate?
The main difference between an information security degree and an information security certificate is a certificate requires fewer credits and takes less time to complete. You should get an associate degree instead of a certificate if you have the time and resources because it will provide a more comprehensive education.
If you are trying to decide between an information security certificate and an associate degree, remember that an associate degree will be more helpful in helping you land a job. An information security certificate can help you further your career or learn new skills.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Information Security?
An information security associate degree is a two-year degree, which costs an average of $16,445 annually for students living on campus, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Private institutions cost between $32,279 and $34,019 on average. Public schools are more affordable, at an average of $15,748 per year, according to 2019-20 data. Some students use financial assistance to lower their Associate Degree in Information Security cost.
Information Security Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Information Security Degree
You can pay for your information security associate degree using federal financial aid, including loans and grants. Universities and colleges acknowledge that not everyone can afford the costs of taking a degree program, so scholarships are available for qualified students. The majority of undergraduate students use financial aid for an Associate Degree in Information Security.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Security Associate Degree?
It takes about two years to get an Associate Degree in Information Security. Most programs require you to earn at least 60 credits. Your Associate in Information Security length will depend on how many credits you take per semester.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Information Security?
It can be hard to get an information security associate degree because the required courses take strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Many students find getting an information security associate degree hard if they don’t have experience in the subject matter. Though earning an information security associate degree is hard, these programs are usually designed for beginners.
Why Should You Get an Information Security Associate Degree?
You should get an Associate Degree in Information Security so that you can learn a range of in-demand skills and give your resume a boost. Another major benefit of an Associate Degree in Information Security is that you can transfer the credits to a four-year institution if you want to go on to earn your information security bachelor’s degree in the future.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Information Security?
Associate Degree in Information Security courses that you will need to take will cover basic cyber security skills. You may also see general education classes on your Associate Degree in Information Security course list. Below are a few examples of some courses you might take during your program.
Network Essentials
This course will introduce you to the basics of what makes up a modern network. You will learn about different operating systems, protocols, and hardware, as well as how to create, maintain, and troubleshoot networks.
Introduction to Programming
Many cyber security professionals need some level of understanding of popular programming languages like Python and SQL. Learning the basics of computer programming will also help you develop your problem-solving skills.
Network Security Fundamentals
A course on network security fundamentals will teach you the skills you need to assess a network for potential threats and prevent security breaches. You will also learn ways to protect an organization’s data and how to respond when errors occur.
Ethical Hacking
One of the best ways of ensuring an organization’s data is secure is through ethical hacking. This course will teach you strategies and tools to test out security protocols and analyze vulnerabilities. You’ll learn about forms of malware, firewalls, and sniffers.
Digital Forensics
A digital forensics course could be either one of your electives or a core course. You will learn the basics of a digital forensic investigation while being challenged to evaluate technical issues regarding digital evidence. You will also be introduced to various investigative tools.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Security Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with an information security associate degree is to transfer your credits to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, you can apply for entry-level jobs and gain a few years of valuable real-world experience after you graduate.
Related Information Security Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Security Associate Degree Programs
The best information security associate degree programs have courses that cover all the subjects you need for your chosen career path. If you are wondering what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Information Security, check out our list of a few criteria to consider below.
Accreditation
It is important that you get your information security associate degree from an accredited college. This will show your potential employers that your education was of a high standard. It will also be essential if you decide to transfer your credits to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Cost
While community colleges and associate degree programs are known for being more affordable options, some schools can still be very expensive. Private schools often come with higher tuition prices. Look into your financial assistance options and choose a school in your state if you want to pay in-state tuition.
Format
Many community colleges offer both online or in-person programs. Some schools even offer part-time options. Consider your schedule and preferred learning format and choose a school that offers a program that ticks all your boxes.
Curricular Content
Read descriptions of the required courses on your chosen school’s website and make sure that they cover the skills you need for your chosen career. While many associate programs provide comprehensive education, some prioritize certain elements of the cyber security field. Look into the elective options and choose a school that will set you up for success on the job market.
Continuing Education Options
If you already know that you want to go on to earn a bachelor’s degree, make sure you choose a program that will prepare you for a smooth transition. Some community colleges offer transfer degrees and others work with local universities to design a curriculum that will prepare students for a more advanced degree.
What Is the Most Affordable Information Security Associate Degree?
You can find the most affordable Associate Degree in Information Security programs at schools like Glendale Community College, Central Texas College, Western Nebraska Community College, and Ivy Tech Community College.
Salary and Job Outlook for Information Security Associate Degree Graduates
The best information security associate degree jobs come with a high annual wage and strong benefits. You can generally improve your Associate Degree in Information Security salary by gaining a few years of experience or furthering your education.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Security Associate Degree?
It is not too hard to get a job with an information security associate degree because cyber security skills are in very high demand. While you may need a bachelor’s degree for advanced roles, an associate degree can help you land entry-level jobs.
What’s the Average Information Security Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for an information security associate is $63,145, according to PayScale. While the information security associate degree average salary is impressive, you can get a higher annual wage by gaining experience and furthering your education.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Information Security Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with an information security associate degree include computer systems analyst, computer programmer, and computer support specialist. Your program will provide you with transferable skills that will be relevant in various tech roles.
Information Security Degree Jobs
- Computer systems analyst
- Computer programmer
- Network and computer systems administrator
- Web developer
- Computer support specialist
Potential Careers With an Information Security Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Information Security?
You can make between $40,000 and $129,000 with an Associate Degree in Information Security, according to PayScale. You can gain industry certifications, seek real-world experience, and further your education if you want to earn a higher salary.
Highest-Paying Information Security Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Security Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $80,600 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | $62,760 |
Best Jobs for Information Security Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for an information security associate degree grad will give you the chance to practice your new skills and make connections in the industry. Keep reading for our list of the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Information Security student.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Information Security Bootcamp vs Information Security Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Information Security is better than an information security bootcamp because it will provide a more comprehensive education and set you up better to further your education. However, there are several benefits to an information security bootcamp.
Benefits of an Information Security Associate Degree
- Broader curriculum. If you want to learn additional skills on top of technical skills, such as good communication, an associate degree can provide this through its curriculum.
- Ideal for students with jobs. An online degree is a great option if you need to continue working while studying.
- Certification-ready curriculum. Information security associate degree programs are designed to get you ready should you decide to take a certification exam.
- Expert instructors. The instructors are reliable and known to have good credentials with experience in the tech field. They also need to meet the accreditation standard of the university or college.
- Credit hours for a four-year degree. You can transfer your credit hours from an information security associate degree should you decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.
Benefits of an Information Security Bootcamp
- Intensive tech skills training. Bootcamp programs typically only take a few months to complete. The intensive curriculum focuses on developing your technical skills in a specific field.
- Short program duration. Most programs only take about 12 to 14 weeks for full-time students. You can apply for a job immediately upon completing your courses.
- Project-based curriculum. You can build your portfolio with any activities or projects that you worked on during the program.
- Reliable career services. Part of your tuition cost goes to career services that help develop your resume, provide one-on-one interview practice, and connect you with tech companies for a chance of being hired.
- Cost efficiency. Bootcamp programs are generally less expensive than the annual tuition of a college or university. Most bootcamps provide students with multiple financing options to ease the financial burden.
Is an Associate Degree in Information Security Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Information Security is worth it if you want to start a career in cyber security. In two years, you can acquire the necessary skills to excel in the field and contribute to the development of a more secure digital world.
An information security associate degree opens up opportunities for a stable career, a training ground for various certification exams, and even transferable credit hours should you decide to take up an advanced degree later. If you want an entry-level cyber security job, you will find getting an Associate Degree in Information Security worth it.
Additional Reading About Information Security
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Information Security Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, you can get an information security or cyber security job with an associate degree. If you want a higher position, you can still make your way up through different means, such as taking a professional certification exam or continuing to a bachelor’s degree.
An information security associate is similar to an information security analyst. You will be dealing with data and information security concerns and building reliable databases to safeguard them. You also need to live by and practice standard information security procedures at all times.
Yes, it takes two years to complete an information security associate degree. The programs are typically composed of a 60-credit-hour curriculum. However, two years is only the standard. It might take you less or more time depending on your capabilities and preference. You can also earn a four-year Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security.
Yes, a degree in information security is worth it. The skills that you will acquire by getting an Associate Degree in Information Security will be helpful for your future career goals in the field. Information security is a highly technical discipline, and an associate degree can bring you valuable knowledge and practical skills.
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.
