Did you know that Texas ranks among the top U.S. states for cybersecurity job demand? With industries like energy, defense, healthcare, and finance based in the Lone Star State, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. As a result, cybersecurity degrees in Texas are gaining popularity among students and professionals seeking to future-proof their careers.

This guide explores the best universities, degree options, career paths, and salary expectations for cybersecurity graduates in Texas. Whether you’re a student planning your next step or a professional looking to upskill, Texas offers opportunities worth exploring.

Why Pursue Cybersecurity Degrees in Texas?

The U.S. faces a projected 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2025, and Texas is one of the fastest-growing states for security-related roles.

Key reasons to consider Texas for your cybersecurity degree:

  • Strong Industry Demand: Texas hosts major employers in energy, oil and gas, healthcare, and financial services—all prime targets for cyberattacks.

  • Government & Military Presence: Texas is home to military bases and federal agencies, fueling demand for cleared cybersecurity experts.

  • Attractive Salaries: Cybersecurity professionals in Texas earn competitive wages, often above the national average.

  • Educational Investment: Universities in Texas are heavily investing in cybersecurity research and programs.

Types of Cybersecurity Degrees in Texas

Associate’s Degree

  • Typically offered by community colleges like Austin Community College or Houston Community College.

  • Great starting point for entry-level roles such as IT security support or SOC analyst.

Bachelor’s Degree

  • Four-year programs focusing on computer science, information assurance, and security.

  • Examples: BS in Cybersecurity or Computer Information Systems with a cybersecurity concentration.

Master’s Degree

  • Advanced programs for mid-career professionals.

  • Options include MS in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, or MBA with cybersecurity specialization.

Doctoral Programs

  • Offered at select universities for those pursuing research or academic careers.

Best Universities Offering Cybersecurity Degrees in Texas

1. University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

  • Offers cybersecurity-focused computer science and information security programs.

  • Known for research excellence and industry partnerships.

2. Texas A&M University

  • Provides degrees in cybersecurity engineering and management.

  • Recognized for its Cybersecurity Center.

3. University of Houston

  • Offers undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity degrees.

  • Strong ties with Houston’s energy and healthcare industries.

4. University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

  • Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by NSA/DHS.

  • Nationally ranked for cybersecurity research and education.

5. Southern Methodist University (SMU)

  • Private institution offering cybersecurity-focused programs.

  • Strong alumni network in Dallas’s tech sector.

6. Community Colleges

  • Affordable pathways with associate degrees and transfer options to universities.

  • Example: Dallas College offers applied science degrees in cybersecurity.

Online Cybersecurity Degree Options in Texas

Flexibility is key for working professionals. Many Texas universities now provide online cybersecurity degrees at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

  • UTSA and Texas A&M offer hybrid/online cybersecurity programs.

  • University of Houston provides online master’s-level cybersecurity courses.

  • Community colleges also offer online associate’s programs for entry-level paths.

These online degrees make it easier for students to balance education with work.

Career Opportunities After Cybersecurity Degrees in Texas

Cybersecurity graduates in Texas can pursue careers across industries. Some common roles include:

  • Cybersecurity Analyst – Monitor and defend against threats.

  • Penetration Tester – Simulate attacks to identify weaknesses.

  • SOC Analyst – Work in security operations centers.

  • Cloud Security Architect – Secure cloud-based systems.

  • Government Cybersecurity Specialist – Protect critical infrastructure and defense systems.

Key Industries Hiring in Texas:

  • Energy & Oil (Houston)

  • Finance & Banking (Dallas, Austin)

  • Healthcare (Houston Medical District)

  • Defense & Military (San Antonio, Fort Hood)

Skills You Gain from Cybersecurity Degrees

Cybersecurity programs in Texas prepare graduates with technical and strategic skills such as:

  • Penetration Testing & Ethical Hacking

  • Incident Response & Digital Forensics

  • Cloud Security & Network Defense

  • Risk Assessment & Compliance (HIPAA, PCI-DSS, CMMC)

  • Programming & Automation for security tasks

These skills ensure graduates can adapt to evolving threats.

Average Salaries for Cybersecurity Graduates in Texas

Cybersecurity salaries in Texas vary by role and experience:

  • Entry-Level (SOC Analyst, IT Security Support): $60,000–$80,000

  • Mid-Level (Cybersecurity Engineer, Pen Tester): $90,000–$120,000

  • Senior-Level (CISO, Security Architect): $140,000–$200,000+

Compared to the U.S. average salary for cybersecurity professionals (~$110,000), Texas offers competitive pay plus lower cost of living in many regions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Degree Program

When evaluating cybersecurity degrees in Texas, consider:

  1. Accreditation – Look for NSA/DHS designations like CAE-CD.

  2. Curriculum Relevance – Ensure programs cover cloud, AI, and modern threats.

  3. Hands-On Learning – Labs, internships, and capstone projects.

  4. Job Placement Support – Strong alumni and employer partnerships.

  5. Flexibility – Online or hybrid options if you’re a working professional.

The Future of Cybersecurity Education in Texas

As cyber threats evolve, so will education in Texas:

  • AI & Cybersecurity Integration – Programs are adding AI/ML for threat detection.

  • Cloud & IoT Security – Rising demand for securing connected devices.

  • National Security Role – Texas universities increasingly collaborate with federal defense projects.

Expect more specialized degree tracks and certifications to emerge in the coming years.

FAQs: Cybersecurity Degrees in Texas

Q1: What are the best universities for cybersecurity degrees in Texas?
UT Austin, Texas A&M, University of Houston, UTSA, and SMU are among the top.

Q2: Can I earn a cybersecurity degree online in Texas?
Yes. UTSA, Texas A&M, and other universities offer online or hybrid programs.

Q3: What jobs can I get with a cybersecurity degree in Texas?
Roles include analyst, engineer, penetration tester, cloud architect, and government cybersecurity specialist.

Q4: How much do cybersecurity professionals earn in Texas?
Entry-level salaries start at $60K–$80K, with senior roles exceeding $150K.

Q5: Are cybersecurity degrees in Texas accredited?
Yes. Many are NSA/DHS-designated Centers of Academic Excellence.

Q6: Is Texas a good state for cybersecurity careers?
Absolutely. With booming industries and government demand, Texas is a top hub for cybersecurity talent.

Q7: Do community colleges in Texas offer cybersecurity programs?
Yes. Many community colleges provide affordable associate degrees with transfer pathways.

Conclusion

Texas is rapidly emerging as a cybersecurity education and career powerhouse. With top-ranked universities, accredited degree programs, online flexibility, and strong industry demand, pursuing cybersecurity degrees in Texas is a smart investment in your future.

Whether you aim to become a penetration tester, SOC analyst, or CISO, Texas offers the academic foundation and career opportunities to help you succeed.

Action Step: Explore Texas universities and community colleges offering cybersecurity programs today, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in digital defense.