The most affordable online cybersecurity PhD programs

Exploring the right online PhD program involves of several critical factors. For many students, affordability is a key driver in their ultimate choice.

Bearing this in mind, our research team at the Cybersecurity Guide has researched an extensive list that highlights the top online PhD programs. These selections are notable not just for their academic rigor but also for their relative affordability in tuition costs.

Affordability does not equate to a sacrifice in quality or career preparedness.

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Featured PhD Program

This year five programs made the cut. To qualify for the 2024 rankings of the most cost-effective online PhD degree, each program on the list is also acknowledged as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE). This ensures that students receive an education that is both financially accessible and academically robust, equipping them with the tools needed for a successful professional journey.

2024 rankings for the most affordable online cybersecurity PhD programs

1. Mississippi State University

   Mississippi State, Mississippi

   
   Program: Ph.D. Computer Science – Computer Security Concentration
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
   Credits: 63
   Cost per credit: $537
   Total tuition: $33,831
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Delivery method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

2. Dakota State University

   Madison, South Dakota

   
   Program: Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Defense (PhDCD)
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
   Credits: 72
   Cost per credit: $581
   Total tuition: $41,832
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Delivery method: Campus & online
   Learn more: Program details

3. Marymount University

   Arlington, Virginia

   
   Program: D.Sc. in Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,190
   Total tuition: $42,840
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Delivery method: Campus, hybrid, & online
   Learn more: Program details

4. Walden University

   Minneapolis, Minnesota

   
   Program: Online Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) - Cyber Security Focus
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Credits: 69
   Cost per credit: $660
   Total tuition: $45,540
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Delivery method: Online
   Learn more: Program details

5. Colorado Technical University

   Colorado Springs, Colorado

   
   Program: Doctor of Computer Science - Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Credits: 100
   Cost per credit: $598
   Total tuition: $59,800
   GRE requirement: Not required
   Delivery method: Online
   Learn more: Program details