Best Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs in 2025. Explore admission requirements, affordable colleges, online options, costs, and career outlook in cybersecurity.
Want to start a career in one of the fastest-growing fields in tech? A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can prepare you for jobs that protect businesses, governments, and individuals from cyberattacks. With the rise in demand and competitive salaries, it’s one of the best choices for students who love technology.
Introduction
Cybersecurity is more than just preventing hackers from stealing data. It’s about protecting entire digital systems, financial networks, healthcare records, and even national security. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in information security are expected to grow by 29% between 2024 and 2034, which is significantly faster than most careers.
As this demand grows, many students wonder: What’s the best path to join this field? The answer often starts with a cybersecurity degree.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about pursuing a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree, including admission requirements, costs, career outlook, and the best colleges for cybersecurity in the US.
What is a Cybersecurity Degree?
A cybersecurity degree is an academic program that teaches students how to protect digital systems, networks, and data from attacks. In a Bachelor of Cybersecurity program, students learn:
- How to detect and respond to cyber threats.
- Fundamentals of computer science and programming.
- Network security, cloud security, and ethical hacking.
- Laws and policies related to digital security.
A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree usually takes four years and prepares students for entry-level to mid-level roles in IT and security. Some programs also offer accelerated or online cybersecurity degree options, which are popular with working students.
Affordable Colleges for Cybersecurity
Many students worry about the cost of college. Fortunately, several universities offer affordable pathways to a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. These schools combine low tuition with strong academic programs.
Here are a few cost-effective options you can explore:
| Rank | College/University Name | Location State | Type | Fee (In State) | Fee (Out-of-State) | Grad Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lone Star College | Texas | OnCampus | $7,470 | $9,390 | 19% |
| 2 | Wilmington University | Delaware | OnCampus & Online | $12,630 | – | 23% |
| 3 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Maryland | Online | $8,136 | $12,336 | 30% |
| 4 | St Petersburg College | Florida | OnCampus & Online | $2,682 | $9,286 | 37% |
| 5 | Metropolitan State University | Minnesota | OnCampus | $9,840 | – | 38% |
| 6 | Southern New Hampshire University | New Hampshire | Online | $17,200 | – | 45% |
| 7 | ECPI University | Virginia | OnCampus & Online | $18,484 | – | 45% |
| 8 | Purdue Global University | Indiana | Online | $10,101 | $14,412 | 48% |
| 9 | National University | California | OnCampus & Online | $13,284 | – | 50% |
| 10 | Davenport University | Michigan | OnCampus & Online | $24,466 | – | 50% |
| 11 | Western Governors University | Utah | Online | $8,658 | – | 51% |
| 12 | The University of Texas at San Antonio | Texas | OnCampus & Online | $9,011 | $22,051 | 51% |
| 13 | American Military University | West Virginia | Online | $8,400 | – | 53% |
| 14 | University of North Texas | Texas | OnCampus | $11,309 | $21,149 | 60% |
| 15 | University of North Dakota | North Dakota | OnCampus & Online | $10,951 | $15,570 | 63% |
| 16 | University of Phoenix | Texas | Online | $9,552 | – | – |
Choosing a budget-friendly program makes it easier for students to graduate with less debt while still gaining the skills employers want.
Best Colleges for Cybersecurity
If you’re aiming for top-ranked schools, here are some of the best colleges for cybersecurity in the US:
| Rank | College/University Name | Location State | Type | Fee (In State) | Fee (Out-of-State) | Grad Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stevens Institute of Technology | New Jersey | OnCampus | $63,462 | – | 90% |
| 2 | Maryville University | Missouri | OnCampus | $27,166 | – | 72% |
| 3 | DePaul University | Illinois | Online | $45,999 | – | 70% |
| 4 | University at Albany | New York | OnCampus & Online | $10,866 | $31,256 | 64% |
| 5 | Liberty University | Virginia | Online | $22,362 | – | 63% |
| 6 | University of Nevada | Nevada | OnCampus & Online | $9,748 | $27,411 | 50% |
| 7 | Augusta University | Georgia | OnCampus | $8,414 | $24,734 | 49% |
| 8 | Kennesaw State University | Georgia | OnCampus | $5,808 | $17,736 | 48% |
| 9 | University of Colorado Denver | Colorado | OnCampus | $10,383 | $29,391 | 47% |
These colleges combine hands-on labs, research opportunities, and strong ties to employers, helping students transition into cybersecurity careers.
Admission Requirements for a Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree
Getting into a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program is similar to applying for other STEM majors, but some colleges place extra emphasis on technical readiness.
While requirements can vary by college, here are the most common expectations:
- 🔐 High School Diploma or GED
- Almost all universities require a standard high school diploma or its equivalent (GED) to qualify for a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program.
- Strong performance in STEM subjects during high school is often preferred.
- 🔐 SAT or ACT Scores
- While many colleges once required standard test scores, a growing number of institutions have adopted test-optional policies in recent years.
- However, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores, especially in Math and Science, can enhance your application at selective universities.
- 🔐 Background in Math, Science, and Computer-Related Courses
- Students with prior coursework in computer science, coding, or advanced math (like algebra, calculus, or statistics) are often better prepared.
- Students with prior coursework in computer science, coding, or advanced math (like algebra, calculus, or statistics) are often better prepared.
- 🔐 Letters of Recommendation and Personal Essay
- Colleges typically ask for one to three letters from teachers or mentors. These letters demonstrate your academic readiness and interest in technology.
- Colleges typically ask for one to three letters from teachers or mentors. These letters demonstrate your academic readiness and interest in technology.
- 🔐 Transfer and Non-Traditional Pathways
- Not all students start their cybersecurity journey right after high school. Many colleges accept transfer students with associate degrees in IT, computer science, or related fields.
- Some colleges also offer credit for military experience in cybersecurity or information technology. For instance, American Military University and WGU provide flexible transfer pathways for military and working professionals.
Pro Tip: Students can boost their application by earning industry certifications (like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco’s CCNA) during high school or community college.
These aren’t mandatory, but demonstrate commitment and readiness to study cybersecurity at a bachelor’s level.
How much does a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Program Cost?
The cost of a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree depends on whether you choose public or private schools, and whether you study on campus or online. As per the data listed in 2022-23, the tuition costs for different institutions were as follows:
- Public institutions (in-state): $9,800 per year on average
- Private non-profit institutions: Around $40,700 per year.
- Private for-profit institutions: Average of $18,200 annually.
On the other hand, online programs often cost less and may allow you to pay per credit or per term, which makes them flexible for students.
Benefits of an Online Cybersecurity Degree
Many students today prefer an online cybersecurity degree because it offers flexibility while still delivering high-quality education. With more universities investing in virtual learning platforms, online programs are becoming just as respected as on-campus ones.
The benefits of an online cybersecurity degree allow you to:
- Study at your own pace, especially if you work with a busy schedule.
- Lower costs compared to traditional campus programs, since you save on housing, commuting, and additional fees.
- Access to the same professors, curriculum, and certifications as on-campus students, which ensures no compromise in academic quality.
- Opportunities to complete internships virtually or locally, which allow you to gain hands-on experience without relocating.
- Chance to earn industry-recognized certifications (like CompTIA, CISSP, or CEH) during the program, which makes graduates more competitive in the job market.
An online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree is especially useful for students who want to balance work, study, and family responsibilities while preparing for one of the fastest-growing tech careers.
Cybersecurity Career Outlook
Once you graduate with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, it will open doors to many high-demand career paths. Below are some of the most popular roles, along with typical salaries and job descriptions:
| CAREER | JOB DESCRIPTION | SALARY (USD/yr) |
|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analyst | Develops and implements security measures to safeguard computer networks and systems. Monitors for breaches, installs firewalls, performs vulnerability testing, and responds to incidents. Often serves as the “first line of defense” in protecting sensitive organizational data. | Median salary of $124,910 per year |
| Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) | Simulates cyberattacks to uncover system weaknesses before real attackers exploit them. Uses the same tools as hackers but in a controlled, legal way. Provides detailed reports on vulnerabilities and recommends fixes to strengthen defenses. | Average annual salary of around $100,708. |
| Cybersecurity Consultant | Advises organizations on strategies to protect data and systems. Conducts security audits, designs tailored frameworks, ensures compliance with regulations, and trains staff on cyber hygiene. Often works across multiple industries and clients. | Salary range between $59,425-$181,492/yr |
| Network Security Engineer | Specializes in protecting the backbone of IT systems and networks. Designs secure network architecture, configures VPNs, firewalls, and IDS/IPS systems, troubleshoots issues, and ensures secure connectivity for employees and applications. | Median salary of $115,289/yr |
With unemployment rates in cybersecurity close to 0%, graduates can expect strong job security, high salaries, and opportunities for career growth across industries like finance, healthcare, government, and tech.
FAQ’s
▶ Is cybersecurity a 2-year degree?
Yes, some community colleges and technical schools offer two-year associate degrees in cybersecurity. These programs cover the basics of network security, IT fundamentals, and ethical hacking. However, most employers prefer candidates with a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree, especially for higher-paying jobs or specialized roles.
▶ Is a cybersecurity degree worth it in 2025?
Absolutely. With job demand growing 29% till 2034, a cybersecurity degree remains one of the smartest investments for tech-focused students. The combination of high salaries, low unemployment, and job security makes it a strong career path in 2025 and beyond.
▶ Are cybersecurity degrees hard?
A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can be challenging because it combines technical fields like computer science, math, and problem-solving. Students often need to learn programming languages, encryption methods, and network defense strategies. But don’t let that discourage you; many universities offer tutoring, labs, and hands-on practice that help students succeed.
▶ Will a cybersecurity degree get me a job?
Yes. Earning a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree will increase your chances of landing a job. Data says the global industry faces a shortage of over 4 million professionals, meaning employers are eager to hire graduates.
▶ What is the unemployment rate for cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity jobs currently have an unemployment rate of nearly 0%, which is far lower than most industries. This means graduates entering the workforce have excellent job security, with many employers competing for skilled professionals.
