Cybersecurity Guide

Navigating your cybersecurity analytics degree options

Written by Steven Bowcut – Last updated:
In this guide

The U.S. is facing a significant skills gap in technology sectors crucial for safeguarding our digital infrastructure. One discipline that stands out in enhancing our cyber defense is cybersecurity analytics.

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Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze large datasets, this specialized field offers vital insights into existing cyber vulnerabilities.

More importantly, it paves the way for the creation of advanced defense mechanisms. A cybersecurity analytics degree is not just an academic credential; it’s a critical tool for addressing national cyber weaknesses and developing new protective strategies.

This guide will help students choose the best academic path to qualify for the growing number of cyber-related jobs in the US and worldwide. There has never been a better time to enter cyber defense-related fields of study. The demand for workers is high, and the educational and scholarship resources are plentiful. 

Data analytics vs. cybersecurity analytics

It can be said that the field of cyber analytics is the offspring of a marriage between data analytics and cybersecurity. To gain a clear picture of where cyber analytics — sometimes called security analytics — falls between these bookends, we need first to examine the common definitions for these three areas of study. 

Data analytics is the process of examining datasets to conclude the information they contain.

Valuable insights can be derived from uncovering and examining data patterns. Scientists categorize data as descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, or prescriptive to help them utilize data in innovative ways.

It can help companies better understand customer purchasing habits, measure the efficacy of advertising campaigns, discover new markets, and develop new products.

Cybersecurity, the other parent of cyber analytics or security analytics is the practice of defending digital assets against malicious attacks. This discipline employs various techniques, strategies, processes, and tools to diagnose, predict, and prevent unauthorized access to networks, systems, and devices. 

Cyber analytics, or security analytics, can then be described as the use of data analytics to achieve a cybersecurity objective.

It is a powerful tool born of a deep understanding of data that can describe cybersecurity risks, diagnose vulnerabilities, predict future malicious behavior, and prescribe protective remedies. 

Cyber analytics has evolved over the last few decades to become the basis for essential cybersecurity solutions and practices. It has provided a crucial understanding of bad actors, their techniques, and behaviors. 

It has been said that the best way to understand the difference between cyber analytics and cybersecurity (sometimes termed cybersecurity analytics and cybersecurity engineering) is to ask this question; “Do you want to be the person in the room who can answer how it works? Or do you want to be the person in the room that can answer why it works?” Cyber analytics answers the “how it works” question. Cybersecurity is more concerned with “why” things work as they do. 

Cybersecurity analytics and security analytics training

A degree in cyber analytics may be called by several different names.

The fields of data analytics and cybersecurity are relatively new disciplines, and as such, academia has not settled on a standard nomenclature for related degree programs. Depending on the institution, a cyber analytics degree might be described as any of the following:

  • Cyber analytics
  • Cybersecurity analytics
  • Security analytics
  • Information security analytics
  • Data analytics for cybersecurity
  • Big data security analytics

Like other college degrees, students can earn a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in cyber analytics, security analytics, or information security analytics. Doctorate-level students can earn a Ph.D. in cybersecurity with a focus on data analytics. 

A degree in cyber analytics will equip students with skills in modeling big data, data analytics, and statistical learning methods.

Data can be used to uncover dependencies, weaknesses, and risks, and identify corrective actions.

Graduates will have the ability to combine big data science with threat intelligence to detect, analyze, and prevent targeted attacks from external hackers as well as insider threats from rogue or careless employees. 

It is the application of big data analytics, rather than computer science or programming, that sets cyber analytics apart from traditional cybersecurity methodologies.

To be sure, both disciplines examine the same exploits, vulnerabilities, threats, and attack methods. Still, for a cyber data scientist, these challenges are viewed through the lens of big data security analytics.

Best cybersecurity analytics programs for 2025

  1. University of Virginia

    Charlottesville, Virginia
    Program: Undergraduate Cybersecurity Analysis Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $8,784
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $488
    Credits: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Champlain College

    Burlington, Vermont
    Program: Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $17,850
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $595
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  3. University of South Florida

    Tampa, Florida
    Program: M.S. Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $14,223
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $348 in-state | $431 out-of-state
    Credits: 33
    Learn more: Program details

  4. The George Washington University

    Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $36,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,200
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Capitol Technology University

    Greater Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: Master of Science in Cyber Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $22,680
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $630
    Credits: 36
    Learn more: Program details

  6. The University of New Mexico

    Albuquerque, New Mexico
    Program: Master's in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $26,565
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $805
    Credits: 33
    Learn more: Program details

  7. West Virginia University

    Morgantown, West Virginia
    Program: Business Cybersecurity Management M.S.
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $28,950
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $965
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Webster University

    St. Louis, Missouri
    Program: Cybersecurity (MS) with an Emphasis in Data Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $29,328
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $752
    Credits: 39
    Learn more: Program details

  9. University of Delaware

    Newark, Delaware
    Program: Business Analytics and Information Management/Cybersecurity: M.S.
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $49,344
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,028
    Credits: 48
    Learn more: Program details

  10. University of Texas at San Antonio

    San Antonio, Texas
    Program: Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor's Degree
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $39,010
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $50 in-state | $470 out-of-state
    Credits: 83
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Penn State World Campus

    University Park, Pennsylvania
    Program: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $49,302
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,494
    Credits: 33
    Learn more: Program details

  12. The Pennsylvania State University

    University Park, PA
    Program: B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $77,736
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $632
    Credits: 123
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Virginia Tech

    Blacksburg, Virginia
    Program: Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $133,250
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $406 in-state | $1,066 out-of-state
    Credits: 125
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Anderson University

    Anderson, South Carolina
    Program: Cybersecurity & Analytics (BS)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $136,004
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,124
    Credits: 121
    Learn more: Program details

  15. California State University, San Bernardino

    San Bernardino, California
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $36,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,200
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

These rankings were compiled from data accessed in December 2024 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of December 2024.

Choosing the right cybersecurity analytics degree program

The first step in choosing the right cyber analytics degree is to decide how much time to invest in education.

A bachelor of science (BS) in cyber analytics, security analytics, or information security analytics will prepare students for entry-level positions protecting data and defending digital systems from cybercriminals and nation-state adversaries. 

A master of science (MS) in cyber analytics builds on the foundation of the BS by preparing students for careers in risk management, malware analysis, penetration testing, or management positions in a security organization. 

A PhD in cybersecurity will prepare professionals to take a leadership role in stopping hackers and preventing data theft. Students are taught to think outside the box as an innovation leader and be prepared for various technology leadership roles to manage and mitigate risks in both government and private sector organizations.

After deciding on an appropriate level of education, it is time to examine the specific programs offered by various colleges and universities.

As detailed above, various academic institutions may describe their cyber analytics program using similar and related, but not identical, names. One good place to start your search for just the right degree program is with those institutions that offer a degree in cybersecurity.

Admission requirements

Before granting admission to a BS in cyber analytics degree program, colleges will commonly require applicants to be high school graduates.

Acceptance into a preferred academic institution may have more stringent requirements, such as a certain GPA or completion of advanced placement (AP) or honors courses during high school, but this will vary for each college.

Before applying for admission to a cyber analytics program, each applicant should engage in a thorough and honest self-examination to determine if their interests and strengths align with the program’s curricula and the job requirements. 

Applicants should have an interest in technology and an aptitude for working with numbers. The cybersecurity side of a cyber analytics degree requires a technical acumen consistent with someone comfortable working with networks, databases, and complex software.

The analytics component will require the ability to master concepts of statistical analysis and big data research. 

To apply to a graduate degree program in cyber analytics or security analytics an applicant should have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field or be completing a bachelor’s degree before enrollment.

Many programs require a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher for the applicant’s undergraduate studies. 

To measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills, many graduate schools require taking entrance exams like the GRE. Others may require applicants to take the GMAT to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills.

Cybersecurity analytics, security analytics, and information security analytics degree curriculum

Just as a cyber analytics degree may be given many different titles, each college or university that offers this unique hybrid between cybersecurity and data analytics will differ in the level of emphasis placed on the two primary characteristics.

Some degree programs will emphasize the cybersecurity aspects of the field, while others focus more on data analytics. 

As examples of what a student should look for in their search, a BS in Computer Science – Data Analytics might include courses such as:

  • Introduction to Structured Database Environments
  • Emerging Technologies and Big Data
  • Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning

The required undergraduate curriculum will cover the following areas:

  • Programming and Computers
  • Information Assurance
  • Analytics
  • Mathematics and Sciences
  • English, Humanities, and Social Science

An MS in Cyber Analytics program could be expected to offer classes with names like:

  • Network Assessment and Defense
  • Investigation and Digital Forensics
  • Cyberlaw and Ethics
  • Incident Detection & Response

Applicants should expect graduate-level courses to fall into both cybersecurity and data analytics areas.

Tuition for a degree in cybersecurity analytics

Like most undergraduate degrees, a Data Analytics for Cybersecurity bachelor’s degree will require approximately 120 credit hours of coursework, including core courses and electives. 

The National Center for Education Statistics indicates that for the 2022-23 academic year, costs for undergraduate tuition, fees, and room & board were estimated to be $33,600 at public institutions, $58,600 at private nonprofit institutions, and $27,100 at private for-profit institutions.

According to this site’s complete guide to a bachelor’s in cybersecurity degree page, there are five things to consider when evaluating tuition costs.

  1. Cost per credit: This is probably the simplest metric to use when comparing cybersecurity degree programs to one another. Sometimes total tuition costs can include things like lab fees or other expenses. But to get a sense of the cost versus value of a cybersecurity degree, make sure and compare credit costs for each program.
  2. Location: The cost of a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree might vary depending on geographic location. One thing to evaluate is whether or not the school has existing relationships with cybersecurity employers in a geographic area. This will make things like internships and career planning a little bit easier.
  3. Size: Overall, school and program size seem to correlate to cost. Larger programs offer more in the way of diversity of course offerings because the programs are part of a larger university. However, bigger isn’t always better, so researching how individual programs will help meet individual student needs and aspirations is always advisable.
  4. Online vs. campus-based: It’s important to look at the cost per credit when comparing online degrees versus campus-based degrees. It’s also important to compare the required course hours to obtain the degree and then decide which is a better fit.
  5. Full-time versus part-time: While the decision to attend a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program full-time versus part-time might not impact the cost-per-credit, it still might make the degree more affordable, or at least financially obtainable, because students can work while attending school. Not all programs offer a part-time option, but enough do that it’s worth looking at as an option. 

Scholarships

The technology fields related to protecting our nation’s cyber infrastructure face a severe shortage of qualified workers to fill the millions of available job openings. An industry-wide deficit of trained workers can mean good news for certain groups of people. It can mean higher wages for those qualified to work in the field, and it can mean scholarship opportunities for students looking to become eligible for these positions. 

Below are several of the many applicable scholarships available from a wide range of sponsors. 

Cybersecurity analytics career outlook

The career outlook for cyber analytics is most decidedly positive. An example of a job that is representative of the many positions for which a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Analytics degree will qualify is that of an information security analyst. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook indicates that the 2023 median annual salary for this position is $120,360. This government resource cites an anticipated 32 percent increase in job growth for the information security analyst role. This growth rate is categorized as much faster than average.

The demand for graduates with a degree in cybersecurity or cyber analytics has never been greater. This demand for qualified workers has driven wages up and incentivized the development of many scholarship opportunities. For students looking for a meaningful career to protect valuable information and digital assets, cyber analytics, security analytics, and information security analytics are good choices for academic pursuit. 

Frequently asked questions

What is a cybersecurity analytics degree?

A cybersecurity analytics degree is an academic program that focuses on the use of data analytics and artificial intelligence to identify, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats and vulnerabilities.

Why are cybersecurity analytics degrees increasing in popularity and importance?

Given the increasing frequency and complexity of cyber attacks, there’s a growing need for professionals who can analyze large sets of data to identify vulnerabilities and develop defense strategies. This degree equips you with the skills to fill that gap.

What courses are generally part of the cybersecurity analytics degree curriculum?

Courses often include subjects like data analytics, machine learning, network security, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity law and policy.

How does this degree differ from a more general cybersecurity degree?

While a general cybersecurity degree covers a broad range of topics, a cybersecurity analytics degree focuses specifically on the data analysis and intelligence aspects of cybersecurity.

What skills will I gain from this degree?

You’ll acquire skills in data analytics, Artificial intelligence, risk assessment, and ethical hacking, as well as a deep understanding of cybersecurity laws and policies.

Program listings

  1. Anderson University

    Anderson, South Carolina
    Program: Cybersecurity & Analytics (BS)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Campus
    Total tuition: $136,004
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,124
    Credits : 121
    Learn more: Program details

  2. California State University, San Bernardino

    San Bernardino, California
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Online
    Total tuition: $36,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,200
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Capitol Technology University

    Greater Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: Master of Science in Cyber Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $22,680
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $630
    Credits : 36
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Champlain College

    Burlington, Vermont
    Program: Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $17,850
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $595
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Penn State Beaver

    Monaca, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Hybrid
    Total tuition: $55,338 in-state | $94,254 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit Credits : $401 in-state | $683 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit Credits : 138
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Penn State Brandywine

    Media, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Hybrid
    Total tuition: $58,557 in-state | $99,167 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $447 in-state | $757 out-of-state
    Credits : 131
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Penn State Greater Allegheny

    McKeesport, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Hybrid
    Total tuition: $55,250 in-state | $94,250 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $442 in-state | $754 out-of-state
    Credits : 125
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Penn State Lehigh Valley

    Center Valley, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Hybrid
    Total tuition: $58,500 in-state | $99,250 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $468 in-state | $794 out-of-state
    Credits : 125
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Penn State Schuylkill

    Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Hybrid
    Total tuition: $58,500 in-state | $99,250 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $468 in-state | $794 out-of-state
    Credits : 125
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Penn State Shenango

    Sharon, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Hybrid
    Total tuition: $70,104 in-state | $121,031 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $552 in-state | $953 out-of-state
    Credits : 127
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Penn State World Campus

    University Park, Pennsylvania
    Program: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Online
    Total tuition: $49,302
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,494
    Credits : 33
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Penn State York

    York, Pennsylvania
    Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Hybrid
    Total tuition: $58,548 in-state | $99,261 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $476 in-state | $807 out-of-state
    Credits : 123
    Learn more: Program details

  13. St Thomas University

    Miami Gardens, Florida
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity & Analytics
    Delivery method : Campus
    Total tuition: $18,750
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $625
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details

  14. The George Washington University

    Washington, District of Columbia
    Program: Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $36,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,200
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details

  15. The University of New Mexico

    Albuquerque, New Mexico
    Program: Master's in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $26,565
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $805
    Credits : 33
    Learn more: Program details

  16. The University of Texas at Tyler

    Tyler, Texas
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Data Analytics
    Delivery method : Online
    Total tuition: $36,072 in-state | $53,640 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,002 in-state | $1,490 out-of-state
    Credits : 36
    Learn more: Program details

  17. University of Delaware

    Newark, Delaware
    Program: Business Analytics and Information Management/Cybersecurity: M.S.
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $49,344
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,028
    Credits : 48
    Learn more: Program details

  18. University of South Carolina

    Tampa, Florida
    Program: M.S. Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $11,484 in-state | $14,223 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $348 in-state | $431 out-of-state
    Credits : 33
    Learn more: Program details

  19. University of Texas at San Antonio

    San Antonio, Texas
    Program: Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor's Degree
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Delivery method: Campus
    Total tuition: $4,150 in-state | $39,010 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $50 in-state | $470 out-of-state
    Credits : 83
    Learn more: Program details

  20. University of Virginia

    Charlottesville, Virginia
    Program: Undergraduate Cybersecurity Analysis Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method : Online
    Total tuition: $8,784
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $488
    Credits : 18
    Learn more: Program details

  21. Virginia Tech

    Blacksburg, Virginia
    Program: Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method : Campus
    Total tuition: $50,750 in-state | $13,3250 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $406 in-state | $1,066 out-of-state
    Credits : 125
    Learn more: Program details

  22. Webster University

    St. Louis, Missouri
    Program: Cybersecurity (MS) with an Emphasis in Data Analytics
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $29,328
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $752
    Credits : 39
    Learn more: Program details

  23. Wentworth Institute of Technology

    Boston, Massachusetts
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics
    Delivery method : Campus
    Total tuition: $41,580
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $1,260
    Credits : 33
    Learn more: Program details

  24. West Virginia University

    Morgantown, West Virginia
    Program: Business Cybersecurity Management M.S.
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Delivery method : Online
    Total tuition: $28,950
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $965
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details

  25. Western Kentucky University

    Bowling Green, Kentucky
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Data Analytics
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $18,210 in-state | $27,510 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit : $607 in-state | $917 out-of-state
    Credits : 30
    Learn more: Program details