Top 15 Best Cybersecurity Schools 2021
Information technology (IT), engineering, and information security theory and techniques are all included in a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. Information security consultant, chief information security officer, and security engineer are only a few of the jobs available after graduating from cybersecurity school.
As companies and other organizations shift more activities online, demand for computer and IT professionals continues to rise. Information security analysts are expected to rise by 31% between 2019 and 2029, far faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Organizations will continue to require trained professionals to strengthen information security as cyberattacks become more common.
A list of the best cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs can be found on this page. We also go through what to expect from a traditional cybersecurity program, what jobs graduates may be able to get, and how to choose the right school.
What Is The Cybersecurity Field Like?
Cybersecurity is a fascinating, lucrative, and in-demand area concerned with defending valuable and confidential data from cyberattacks by hackers and other malicious actors. Cybersecurity specialists were once mainly employed in specialized areas such as defense and government, but their expertise is now needed in sectors such as banking, retail, insurance, and healthcare.
Information security analysts, security engineers, and penetration tester are all common cybersecurity employment. Security managers and chief information security officers are two positions that cybersecurity professionals hold. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 131,000 information security analysts were working in the United States in 2019, with that number projected to rise by 40,900 by 2029.
Many interested in justice, privacy, and information security are drawn to the cybersecurity sector. These people are more likely to have a computer, math, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity will help students gain the technical skills and theoretical background they need to apply for a range of computer and IT careers, as well as graduate school in cybersecurity and related fields.
Many employers favor or expect bachelor’s degree holders. Specializing in cybersecurity can help you stand out from other applicants with backgrounds in IT or computer science. Employers can also need a bachelor’s degree for certain specialized industry certifications.
Why Apply for a Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Program?
Bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity train students for well-paying careers in computers and information technology. Earning a BS in cybersecurity takes time, resources, and effort, but it can pay off. We’ll go through some of the advantages of having a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree, such as the ability to gain professional expertise, earn a good salary, and have job protection.
Gain Technical Skills
Bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity offer students the opportunity to learn in-demand technological skills for mitigating and responding to cyberattacks. They are taught programming languages, risk management techniques, and how to recognize security threats.
High-Paying Field
Jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity usually pay well. According to the BLS, information security analysts receive a median annual salary of $99,730 in 2019, which is considerably higher than the $39,810 median annual income for all jobs.
Job Security
Computer and IT experts in general, and cybersecurity specialists in particular, are in high demand. Organizations need information security professionals to help secure their data as they perform more of their operations online.
2021’s Top Bachelor Degree Programs in Cybersecurity Schools
1.Messiah University
Messiah College, established in 1909, offers nearly 200 Christian graduate and undergraduate programs. Nearly 3,400 students attend the university in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and online.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Messiah’s Department of Computing, Mathematics, and Physics offers a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. Information assurance, ethical hacking, and safe applications are all topics covered in the cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. To receive the degree, each student must also complete an experiential learning requirement.
To meet degree requirements, Messiah’s experiential learning initiative allows students to complete an internship or service-learning program, hold student leadership positions, or undertake undergraduate research projects. Internships with companies such as Comcast, Ford Motor Company, and General Electric are available to cybersecurity students. The curriculum prepares degree candidates to apply Christian values to the field of cybersecurity.
Making an application to Messiah
A $50 application fee is required to apply to Messiah. With their completed admission application, each applicant must submit official high school records, a personal statement, and SAT, ACT, or CLT ratings.
A Quick Overview of the Program School MSCHE Accreditation Type: Private
- $36,340 a year intuition
- 123 credits are needed.
- Duration of the program: 4 years
- On-campus delivery format
2.Drexel University
Drexel University enrolls over 24,000 students and offers over 200 programs through several campuses in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With the advent of its online curriculum in 1996, Drexel was a leader in distance education.
Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology
Drexel’s bachelor’s in cybersecurity is available as a full-time on-campus program or as a part-time online degree completion program for transfer students with two years of experience. Students must choose either computer technology or a computing security focus. Drexel University has been designated as a national center of academic excellence in cybersecurity by the National Security Agency.
Drexel’s unique cooperative learning model offers opportunities for realistic job preparation. Learners can complete one co-op experience in four years or three co-ops in five years. Network management, information technology security and open servers are all required courses. A two-part senior project completes the degree.
Applying to Drexel University
Official high school transcripts, a personal essay, and two letters of recommendation are required of each nominee. For standardized test scores, Drexel currently has a testing-optional program. Official transcripts of all college-level coursework must be submitted by transfer students with at least 24 completed credits. Applicants with less than 24 credits are required to submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores may be required.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- In school, Type: Personal
- MSCHE accreditation$17,956 per term (on-campus); $530 per credit (online)
188 quarter credit hours are needed. - 4 years (with 3 co-op experiences) or 5 years (with 3 co-op experiences) (with 1 co-op experience)
3.Maryville University of Saint Louis
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The BS in cybersecurity program at Maryville University provides offensive, defensive, and general tracks. General education, business core, cybersecurity core, and elective coursework are also part of the program. A capstone prerequisite for the cybersecurity degree is business policies. Each student receives a free iPad and works with a life coach to personalize their education.
The Cyber Fusion Center was established at Maryville to allow students to provide free cybersecurity services to local organizations such as the Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club and the American Cancer Society. The university also offers an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity.
Applying to Maryville University
Throughout the year, Maryville accepts applications on a rotating basis. Official high school transcripts showing a high school GPA of at least 2.5 are required. Students may choose to submit their SAT or ACT ratings.
A Quick Overview of the Program School Type: Personal
- HLC accreditation
- $24,766 a year (on-campus); $622 per credit (online)128 credits are needed.
- 4 years (on-campus); 2.5 years (off campus) (online)
4.DePaul University
As the nation’s largest Catholic university, DePaul enrolls almost 22,000 students. Via hundreds of academic programs spread across ten schools and colleges, the university provides an “urban education” with a “world perspective.”
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The College of Computing and Digital Media at DePaul University offers a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. By designing and implementing infrastructure components, students gain practical experience. DePaul has a Cisco-equipped security lab where students can learn about virtual private networks, multi-vendor firewalls, and intrusion detection and prevention systems.
DePaul has been designated as a national center of academic excellence in cybersecurity by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. Cisco accredited network associate certificates are available to those pursuing a degree. The degree culminates in a capstone project in information systems security engineering. For students enrolled in DePaul’s cybersecurity bachelor’s program, many classes, including 100% of lectures, are accessible online.
Students may apply for early action or routine acceptance notification when applying to DePaul, but all undergraduate programs begin in September. Each applicant must request official high school transcripts, as well as ACT or SAT scores if desired.
A Quick Overview of the Program School Type: Personal
- HLC accreditation
- Tuition is $40,551 a year (12-18 credit hours) and $655 per credit hour (over 18 credit hours)
- 192 credit hours are required.
- Duration of the program: 4 years
5.St John’s University
More than 21,000 students attend St. John’s, which has campuses in New York, Italy, France, and Ireland, as well as online. More than 100 academic programs rooted in Catholic and Vincentian traditions are available at the university.
Cybersecurity Systems, Bachelor of Science
The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies and the Division of Computer Science, Mathematics, and Science at St. John’s offer a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity systems. The university’s main campus in Queens, New York, is where students can finish their degrees. Students will be prepared for jobs in Fortune 500 firms and law enforcement agencies after completing the program.
The foundational math, programming, and computing courses are emphasized in the bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity systems. Perspectives on Christianity, moral theology, and “discover NY” are all peculiar to St. John’s. In their fourth year of study, students may complete elective internships.
Applying to St. John’s All undergraduate programs
St. John’s has a free online application. Official high school transcripts, as well as standardized test scores or a personal essay, are required of all applicants. , test-optional candidates can also send resumes and letters of recommendation.
A Quick Overview of the Program School MSCHE Accreditation Type: Private
- Tuition is $1,439 per credit.
- 120 credits are needed.
- Duration of the program: 4 years
- On-campus delivery format
6.Greensburg, Pennsylvania
Seton Hill is one of the nation’s most prestigious Catholic universities, having been established in 1918. On-campus in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, and online, students can select from more than 100 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs.
Cybersecurity is an important subject (BS)
The BS in cybersecurity program at Seton Hill focuses on computer ethics and culture, cybercrime, and network security. Criminal justice, criminalistics, and interactive computing systems are among the subjects covered in elective courses. Any student is required to complete a three-credit internship. A computer systems research/seminar capstone course is required for the BS in cybersecurity.
Seton Hill was named an Apple Distinguished School for the sixth time recently. The Mobile Learning @ The Hill Program provides a free MacBook Air to all conventional full-time undergraduate students. At least half of the cybersecurity faculty members have earned a Ph.D. in their profession. The dedicated Career and Professional Development Center at Seton Hill helps students find internships and apply for cybersecurity work.
Applying to Seton Hill University
Official high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores are required. Test-optional candidates to submit 200-word essays as well as letters of recommendation.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- In school, Public in nature
- MSCHE accreditation
- Required Credits: 120 credits Tuition: $19,259 per semester
- Duration of the program: 4 years
7.On-campus delivery at Illinois State University
ISU enrolls nearly 21,000 students from 47 states and 74 countries, with a graduation rate of 69 percent. VIEW SCHOOL PROFILE At ISU, one out of every four students comes from an underrepresented group. More than 160 academic programs are available to students through seven schools and colleges.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
This cybersecurity bachelor’s degree focuses on cryptography, ethical hacking, and protection fundamentals. A background in computer hardware and software, networking, and programming languages is also included in the curriculum. Students in ISU’s BS in cybersecurity are also introduced to computer forensics. ISU has been designated as a national center of academic excellence in cybersecurity by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
ISU’s School of Information Technology and College of Applied Science and Technology all offer cybersecurity programs. Degree seekers can choose a cybersecurity major or minor, as well as enroll as first-year or transfer students. Transfer candidates to the School of Information Technology must have prior experience with Java programming, data structures, and computer problem-solving.
How to Apply to ISU
New freshmen are encouraged to apply for the fall semester at ISU. Applicants must show that they have completed high school coursework in English, math, science, social science, and a foreign language. For admission to ISU, a student’s GPA is often taken into account. Applicants can also apply SAT or ACT scores as well as a personal statement, though it is not necessary.
A Quick Overview of the Program School Public in nature
8.Taylor University
TU, which was established in 1846, offers Christian liberal arts programs. Nearly 1,800 students from 41 states and 25 countries attend the university, which has a 952-acre campus in Indiana and an online division.
Cybersecurity BS in Computer Science
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering at TU offers a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. The Association for Computing Machinery and the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education set requirements for the BS in computer science with a major in cybersecurity. The placement rate for graduates of TU’s computer science programs is nearly 100 percent.
A practicum, senior thesis, and computer science senior capstone are all required as part of the cybersecurity major. Digital forensics, software reverse engineering and analysis, and device and network security are all topics covered in these courses. Via grant-funded research for Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Technology Labs and a student-run cybersecurity club, TU provides practical experience.
TU Admissions
Each applicant must submit high school transcripts showing completion of English, math, chemistry, social science, and a foreign language or fine arts course. TU favors SAT or ACT ratings, but can also consider placement testing or academic recommendations. A testimony/statement and a Christian character reference are required of all candidates.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- In school, HLC Accreditation Type: Private$36,270 a term intuition
- Credits required: 128 hours Program duration: 4 years
9.On-campus delivery at the United States Air Force Academy
USAFA, based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers both academic and military training. More than 4,000 cadets attend the institution, which offers more than 30 programs. The cadet-to-faculty ratio at USAFA is just 8-1.
The cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program at USAFA includes main, major, and physical education modules. Statistics, physics, and chemistry are also covered in core classes. Each student is required to complete a two-part cyber science colloquium sequence as well as a two-part cyber science capstone. Graduates are eligible for specialist roles in the Air Force and the field of information security.
The program trains pilots to operate advanced software systems for aircraft, weapons, and military equipment, according to USAFA. Prior programming experience is not required of applicants. Introduction to telecommunications, cyber operations, and computer programming are all part of the cyber science degree.
Applying to the United States Air Force Academy
Each applicant must be between the ages of 17 and 23, a United States citizen, unmarried with no dependents, and of good moral character. In addition, to assess academic fitness for the program, USAFA includes SAT or ACT ratings, class rank, and GPA. Candidates must also fulfill the physical and medical criteria for admission.
A Quick Overview of the Program
- Type of school: publicly; ABET accreditation
- There is no tuition; however, students must agree to serve in the United States Air Force or Space Force.
- Credits required: 145 semester hours Program duration: 4 years
10.Roger Williams University
RWU enrolls around 6,500 students on two campuses in Rhode Island and online. GRADUATION RATE 70% VIEW SCHOOL PROFILE Across nine schools and colleges, students can select from more than 60 graduate, undergraduate, and certificate programs.
Program on Cybersecurity and Networking
Practical learning is emphasized as a tenet of RWU’s higher learning model. Students in the cybersecurity and networking program may apply for internships with companies including Dell SecureWorks, Raytheon, or police crime labs. A signature core course sequence is needed at RWU. A senior seminar concludes the program.
Penetration checking, cryptography, and digital forensics are among the advanced topics covered in this course. Many cybersecurity students double major in computer science, psychology, criminal justice, or web creation, as do the majority of RWU students. RWU has cybersecurity professors who have worked with companies like SecurityWeekly.com and CyberPatriot.
When it comes to applying to RWU, there are a few things to consider.
Candidates apply their applications, which include an essay, through CommonApp. Official high school transcripts and a letter of recommendation are also required by RWU. Students have the option of submitting their ACT or SAT ratings.
A Quick Overview of the Program School NECHE Accreditation Type: Private
- $1,581/credit in tuition120 credits are needed.
- Duration of the program: 4 year
- On-campus delivery format
What to Expect From Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs emphasize information security, risk reduction, and data analytics while teaching fundamental IT and computer skills. A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity usually takes 120 credits, which can be completed in four years by full-time students. Some cybersecurity schools deliver time-saving accelerated programs.
The cost of a cybersecurity degree varies by school, but in-state students at public four-year universities paid an average of $9,212 in tuition and fees in the 2018-19 academic year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
A BS in cybersecurity, a BS in IT with a cybersecurity concentration, a BS in information assurance, and a BS in computer science with an IT concentration are just a few of the degree options available in the cybersecurity sector. Despite their similarities, these degrees often emphasize different skills and expertise fields. Students should choose the degree form that best fits their career objectives.
Concentrations in areas like mobile device creation and data analytics are available in some cybersecurity programs. The particular types of courses that cybersecurity majors take vary by program, but a common curriculum includes classes on digital forensics, cybersecurity legal issues, and ethical hacking.
Admissions Criteria
The qualifications for admission to a cybersecurity school differ depending on the program. Usually, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate, a 2.5-3.0 GPA, and appropriate SAT/ACT grades.
Prospective students must complete an online application, pay a nominal fee, and submit high school transcripts and standardized test scores as part of the application process. Applicants with a relevant associate degree or credential may have a better chance of being accepted.
Many colleges and universities use the Popular App, which allows students to apply to several schools at once by filling out a single application. The Popular App makes the time-consuming and frustrating process of applying to several programs much easier. Some schools require CommonApp applicants to submit additional materials such as letters of recommendation, resumes, or essays.
Degree and Concentration Options
Students can select from several cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs. We compare various forms of cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees in the table below.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity offers a solid base in the field. Students learn to assess network vulnerabilities, secure data from cyberattacks, and comprehend computer protection legal issues. Information security consultants, chief information security officer, and security administrator are all possible jobs for those with a BS in cybersecurity.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Cybersecurity Focus
Programming, data science, and software engineering skills are developed as part of a BS in computer science with a cybersecurity focus. Computer and information technology managers, information management analysts, and chief information security officers are among the positions available to graduates.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a Cybersecurity Focus
A bachelor’s degree in information technology with a cybersecurity focus emphasizes networking and security. Graduates are eligible for positions such as IT manager and web developer.
Information Assurance Bachelor’s Degree
A standard BS in information assurance follows the same curriculum as a BS in cybersecurity, and graduates pursue similar professions.
Jobs for Cybersecurity School Graduates
While each cybersecurity school offers a different set of courses, the majority of them concentrate on risk management, information technology security, and programming. Core, elective/concentration, and general education courses are required in most bachelor’s programs. A practicum, capstone, or internship may be required in some cases. Courses in cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs are described below.
- This course covers the foundations of information security theory and practice.
- Network vulnerabilities, physical media protection, and mitigation techniques are among the topics covered.
- The best practices for information security procedures and policies are taught to students.
- Graduates of cybersecurity schools may find work in a variety of fields.
- Graduates of cybersecurity schools are prepared for lucrative computer and information technology careers that help businesses develop their information security.
- The majority of bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity pay substantially more than the national median wage for all professions.
Many graduates go on to work as information security analysts, which pay $99,730 a year on average. On the other hand, chief information security officers receive an average annual salary of $163,559. Below, we’ve listed some cybersecurity occupations, along with their usual responsibilities, career outlook, needed education, and annual salaries.
Information Security Analysts
Computer systems and networks are protected by information security experts in their organizations. Monitoring networks for security risks, implementing software to secure data, and developing organizational best practices are all common job responsibilities. They can expect steady job growth and high salaries in this sector.
- Bachelor’s degree is needed for this role.
- Work Prospects (2019-2029): +31%$99,730 is the median annual salary.
- Engineer in charge of security
Officer in Charge of Information Security
Chief information security officers are in charge of their organization’s information infrastructure and data security, and they have a high-level, high-paying job. A bachelor’s degree and 7-10 years of IT experience are normally required. This position necessitates excellent leadership, coordination, and organizational abilities.
- Bachelor’s degree is needed for this role.
- $163,770 is the average annual salary.
The administrator of Information Technology Security
IT security managers are in charge of an organization’s information security concerns. They create and enforce policies and processes to enhance security and prevent breaches. The majority of security administrators begin their careers in lower-level IT jobs and work their way up.
- Bachelor’s degree is needed for this role.
- $66,870 is the average annual salary.
Tester for Penetration
Penetration testers are usually part of a team of IT and cybersecurity professionals. Conducting penetration checks, assessing protection requirements, and detecting vulnerabilities are all common job responsibilities. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, penetration testers also need specific certifications.
- Bachelor’s degree is needed for this role.
- Annual Average Salary: $85,170
Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Program
Our list of the best cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs is a good place to start, but finding the right program requires some study. For those with different career aspirations or personal circumstances, the best cybersecurity degree may not be right for them. Additional factors to consider when choosing a curriculum are outlined below.
Obtaining accreditation
Attending a regionally accredited college increases the chances of earning financial assistance, applying for graduate school and technical certifications, and transferring credits. Your college’s regional accreditation also indicates that it meets minimum quality requirements.
Size of the School
Do you want to go to a big university to take advantage of the academic, professional, and cultural opportunities? Or are you looking for a small college where you can form closer bonds?
the price
Before you start looking at services, make a budget and decide how much you want to spend. In-state tuition at a public university is typically the most affordable choice for students.
Services for Career Development
Many universities provide students and alumni with career development services such as resume assistance, mock job interviews, and networking activities. Internship and work opportunities are often available via the career services office at a school.
Can You Pursue Your Education Online?
You can learn anywhere and at any time by enrolling in an online cybersecurity school. Students with family commitments and full-time employment benefit most from distance education, but online learning is attracting a growing number of people from all walks of life. Companies today recognize that distance learning can offer the same quality education as on-campus alternatives, so the stigma attached to online degrees no longer causes problems for job seekers.
Asynchronous learning is included in most online bachelor of cybersecurity programs, allowing students to log on to a virtual classroom at their leisure to engage in debates, watch lectures, and send assignments. In certain cases, online learning can be less expensive than attending a class in person. Tuition discounts, fee exemptions, and free textbooks are also available via online services. By continuing to work while in school, students can be able to graduate with less debt.
Your learning style, schedule, and the relevance of student facilities and extracurricular activities to you are all things to consider when pursuing an online cybersecurity degree.
