Get a master’s in infosec or info assurance online

This guide will help sift through online master’s degree in information security and information assurance choices.

Cybersecurity career hit a plateau? Five or more years out of undergraduate school, upward mobility in information security may begin to diminish for some cybersecurity professionals.

Ad

cybersecurityguide.org is an advertising-supported site. Clicking in this box will show you programs related to your search from schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other information published on this site.

Featured Online Masters in Information Security Programs

School Name	Program	More Info
UC Berkeley School of Information	Online MS in Cybersecurity | No GRE/GMAT Required	website
Purdue Global	Master's in Information Technology	website
Southern New Hampshire University	Master's in Information Technology	website
Grand Canyon University	Master's in Information Assurance & Cybersecurity	website

Even with consistent refreshing and upgrading of skills and knowledge with new professional certifications, for many, there will eventually be a need to obtain additional degrees if upward progress is to continue and ambitions are to be met. With the extreme demand for cybersecurity professionals outstripping the supply of experienced professionals, there is a growing need for those with advanced skills and education.

The answer for opening up new career paths for many may be in obtaining a master’s degree in information security.

The availability of cybersecurity master’s programs has blossomed in recent years, so options for would-be students have grown as well. For busy professionals lacking the time necessary to commit to a campus-based masters program, online masters programs abound.

Online vs. campus-based masters in information assurance programs

After the decision to seek a master’s degree has been made, one of the first choices is whether it will be done via a real-time campus program or through an online education conduit.

Obviously, this will depend on the amount of time students are willing or able to devote to their education, and whether an appropriate campus program is available within a convenient distance of home.

Some people learn best, however, in a traditional classroom, and for them, campus-based formats are usually best.

Asynchronous online programs offer the greatest convenience, but synchronous programs also provide attractive advantages over campus-based programs. Lacking the commute of classroom-based courses, both types of online certification courses minimize the investment of time to complete a master’s degree. 

Synchronous programs have set times for class instruction and often student discourse, so time and schedule flexibility are limited.

Asynchronous programs, on the other hand, are often offered without time restrictions and permit students to make their own schedule and progress at their own pace.

And while online education has had a tarnished image in the past, high-quality courses from high-quality institutions are now readily available and quickly growing in number.

What does a master’s of information security mean for cybersecurity careers?

Aside from knowledge gained, professionals completing a master’s degree in information assurance can look forward to a considerable broadening of their career options, not to mention a higher pay scale.

Broadly speaking, these additional paths include more technically advanced cybersecurity positions, promotions up the corporate ladder, and potentially posts in education, research and consulting. 

More specifically, the following is a list of just some of the occupation titles that will be within reach of a master’s in information security.

• Network architect
• Database administrator manager
• Information security analyst
• Information security engineer
• Information security manager
• Risk management specialist  
• Chief information security officer

Earning potential of a master’s of information security degree

It’s difficult to put a number on how much any professional’s earning power will increase with the addition of a master’s degree to their cybersecurity resume.

This is because there are so many different jobs available for people with bachelor’s degrees, and a wide variety of career paths that become available to those holding a master’s degree. 

It would be trying to compare apples to oranges in most cases. The bottom line is that the possibilities and earnings ceiling are enhanced considerably by obtaining a master’s degree in information security.

Just using some of the above career possibilities as a guide, though, we can see that earning well into the six-figure range can easily be expected. 

• Network architect $120,000
• Database administration manager $110,000
• Chief Information Security Officer $160,000
• Information security manager $115,000

Online information security masters degree programs

The number of online programs available for master’s degrees in information security continues to grow rapidly. The quality of these programs is also gaining ground considerably. There are many other online masters of information security programs available. See the bottom of this page for a more extensive list.

• SANS Technology Institute
• Arizona State University
• Purdue Global
• Southern New Hampshire University
• New York University

Five steps for choosing an online master’s of information security program

1. Application/Admission requirements  Each individual college institution offering master’s degrees in information security has its own stipulated requirements for acceptance. All masters programs require at least a BS degree, and some specify that it must be in a technical discipline or even computer science. Other requirements may include a minimum undergraduate GPA, usually 3.0 or higher, and GRE test scores, although waivers for the GRE tests are often granted when certain other requirements are met. Typically, the only other minimum application standards are a personal goal statement, personal and work references, current resume, and college transcripts. Pay attention to the requirements of each school, and whether it will necessitate more time, classwork, certifications, etc. in order to gain admission.
2. Tuition and scholarships  Affordable tuition is, of course, a must when choosing a school. But alternatives for financial assistance available from the school, private scholarship sources, and sometimes government agencies attempting to increase the cybersecurity workforce can significantly mitigate the overall cost. And, of course, government-sponsored and private education loans are available as well.                                                                                                                                   
3. School reputation, course quality, and availability – To get the most return out of an investment of time and money in education, it’s always best to choose from schools with the best reputation among cybersecurity professionals. Specific courses and available concentrations vary from one school to another. 
4. DHS/NSA CAE approvals US government intelligence agencies are perhaps the organizations most interested in developing the science and resources needed to conduct the most extensive, advanced and complete cybersecurity operations anywhere. The National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) jointly sponsor a program to promote cybersecurity education called National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD). Choosing an institution approved by the NSA provides assurance that the program is of the highest quality. It will also give graduates a leg up on securing jobs with federal government intelligence agencies. 
5. Thesis research options and faculty A critical part of any master’s degree is the thesis. The exact topic and focus do not need to be determined at the outset of entering the program. However, it should be possible to know that faculty members and other available resources provide the support needed to assist a student in choosing and completing their best thesis. 

Tuition and financial assistance for online masters in information security degrees

Scholarships for master’s degrees in information security are available from a number of sources, many of which are common to all masters degrees. There are several scholarship sources focused specifically on the cybersecurity industry. Examples of these include the following:

• Information Assurance Scholarship Program – available on a scholarship-for-service basis from the US Navy for both men and women
• Scholarship for Service – the National Science Foundation provides grants for cybersecurity students. Scholarship recipients are required to work after graduation for a federal, state, local or tribal government agency or approved SFS institution for a period equal to the length of the scholarship.
• Center for Cyber Safety and Education – offered by (ISC)² for women
• Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security (SWSIS) – a partnership between Applied Computer Security Associates (ACSA) and CRA-WP
• Raytheon – provides an $8,000 scholarship for women studying cybersecurity
• Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) – available to civilian Air Force employees and military officers 
• Snort Scholarship – Cisco sponsored for information assurance majors
• Department of Homeland Security – DHS has a vested interest in all types of security, particularly cybersecurity, and has several scholarship programs

Scholarships and grants may also be available from individual schools. Always check with the college’s financial assistance office to explore all options.

Frequently asked questions

A list of online masters in information security programs

The following list of online degree programs for masters in information assurance/information security includes up-to-date information.

It is not a ranking of any sort. It is instead offered to provide education options to those interested in seeking a master’s degree from online programs and to give a basis of comparison amongst the choices.

1. Augusta University

   Augusta, Georgia

   
   Program: Online Master of Science in Information Security Management
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online
   Total tuition: $7,080
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $236
   Credits: 30
   Learn more: Program details

2. California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

   Pomona, California

   
   Program: Master’s of Science in Information Security
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online
   Total tuition: $34,069 in-state | $46,345 out-of-state
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,099 in-state | $1,495 out-of-state
   Credits: 31
   Learn more: Program details

3. Champlain College

   Burlington, Vermont

   
   Program: Online Master's Degree Program in Information Security
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online
   Total tuition: $19,635
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $595
   Credits: 33
   Learn more: Program details

4. Georgetown University

   Washington, District of Columbia

   
   Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Management
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $53,460
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,620
   Credits: 33
   Program highlights:
   

   • Holistic view of information security and privacy, taking into account all the different factors involved, such as technology, governance, risk, and privacy.
   • Gain practical experience in developing and implementing risk management plans that cover all aspects of an organization.

   Learn more: Program details

5. Loyola University Chicago

   Chicago, Illinois

   
   Program: MS in Information Technology with a Concentration in Information Assurance
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online, campus & hybrid
   Total tuition: $34,950
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,165
   Credits: 30
   Program highlights:
   

   • Program offers a balanced combination of fundamental and advanced computer science and IT courses. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest trends in the field
   • Prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the IT field, including network administration, computer security, database administration, and business leadership

   Learn more: Program details

6. Marquette University

   Milwaukee, Wisconsin

   
   Program: Master of Science in Computing: Information Assurance and Cyber Defense
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $48,960
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,360
   Credits: 36
   Program highlights:
   

   • Customizable curriculum: Choose between Information Assurance and Cyber Defense specialization
   • Provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of IT roles, such as network administration, computer security, database administration, and business leadership.

   Learn more: Program details

7. Marymount University

   Arlington, Virginia

   
   Program: Master of Science in Information Technology - Cybersecurity Concentration
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $45,900
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,275
   Credits: 36
   Program highlights:
   

   • Students can choose to focus on the technical aspects of cybersecurity, such as risk management and malware analysis, or the management aspects, such as security policy development and incident response.
   • Program provides students with the opportunity to learn how to use real-world tools and techniques, such as Kali Linux and Wireshark.

   Learn more: Program details

8. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

   Natchitoches, Louisiana

   
   Program: MS in Computer Information Systems with a Concentration in Cybersecurity
   Delivery method: Online & campus
   Total tuition: $7,128 Campus | $15,675 Online
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $216 Campus | $475 Online
   Credits: 33
   Program highlights:
   

   • Acquire a thorough understanding of the theoretical foundations of computer information systems.
   • Gain experience applying information technology concepts to real-world problems by working on a research project or thesis.

   Learn more: Program details

9. Sam Houston State University

   Huntsville, Texas

   
   Program: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Delivery method: Online
   Total tuition: $9,600
   2024/2025 Cost per credit: $320
   Credits: 30
   Learn more: Program details

10. SANS Technology Institute

    North Bethesda, Maryland

    
    Program: Master of Science in Information Security Engineering (MSISE)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $54,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,500
    Credits: 36
    Learn more: Program details

11. St. Cloud State University

    St. Cloud, Minnesota

    
    Program: Information Assurance (M.S.)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $15,510 in-state | $23,550 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $517 in-state | $785 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program Overview: Curriculum covers the latest trends and technologies in information security, giving students the skills they need to stay ahead of the curve.
    • Scholarship for Service, Graduate Assistantships, and DoD Cyber Scholarship Program are available for eligible students

    Learn more: Program details

12. St. John's University

    Queens, New York

    
    Program: Cyber and Information Security, Master of Science (M.S.)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $46,800
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,560
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

13. Stanford University

    Stanford, California

    
    Program: Master of Science in Computer Science (MCS) with a concentration in Security
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $65,520
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,456
    Credits: 45
    Program highlights:
    

    • Fast-track your degree and graduate in 12 months.
    • Financial aid and military benefits are available to eligible students.

    Learn more: Program details

14. The University of Texas at Austin

    Austin, Texas

    
    Program: Master of Science in Information Security and Privacy (MSISP)
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $45,000
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,500
    Credits: 30
    Learn more: Program details

15. University of Bridgeport

    Bridgeport, Connecticut

    
    Program: M.S. in Technology Management - Information and Cyber Security Management Concentration
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $24,480
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $720
    Credits: 34
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program Overview: Prepares students for careers in the field of business analytics, where they will use their skills to develop and implement solutions that improve the way businesses operate.
    • Opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through internships and capstone projects.

    Learn more: Program details

16. University of California - Berkeley

    Berkeley, California

    
    Program: Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS)
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $73,224
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,712
    Credits: 27
    Program highlights:
    

    • Holistic approach to teaching students about the technical, economic, legal, behavioral, and ethical aspects of cybersecurity.
    • Attend one in-person immersion, to have the opportunity to network with other students and professionals in the cybersecurity field.

    Learn more: Program details

17. University of Central Missouri

    Warrensburg, Missouri

    
    Program: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online & campus
    Total tuition: $11,010 in-state | $21,990 out-of-state
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $367 in-state | $733 out-of-state
    Credits: 30
    Program highlights:
    

    • Practical Learning: Learn the scientific principles of problem-solving and how to apply them to real-world cybersecurity challenges.
    • Real-World Technologies: Students have 24/7 access to the NDG NetLab system to hone advanced ethical hacking and computer forensics skills in a risk-free setting.

    Learn more: Program details

18. University of the Cumberlands

    Williamsburg, Kentucky

    
    Program: Online Master's in Information Systems Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Delivery method: Online
    Total tuition: $11,005
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $355
    Credits: 31
    Learn more: Program details