- Data vs. cybersecurity analytics
- 2026 rankings
- Degree programs
- Curriculum
- Tuition
- Career outlook
- FAQs
- Program listings
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.
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 Cybersecurity Training
| School Name | Program | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online BS in Cybersecurity - Data Analytics Fundamentals | website |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online MS in Information Technology - Data Analytics | website |
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 2026
Bachelor’s degree programs
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, Pennsylvania
Program: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations, BS
Tuition: $84,255
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online & campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $685
Credits: 123
Learn more: Program detailsSouthern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New HampshireProgram: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Data Analytics Fundamentals
Tuition: $41,040
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $342
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsCapitol Technology University
Laurel, MarylandProgram: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cyber Analytics
Tuition: $105,149
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $869
Credits: 121
Learn more: Program detailsVirginia Tech
Blacksburg, VirginiaProgram: Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major
Tuition: $147,500
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $452 in-state | $1,180 out-of-state
Credits: 125
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TexasProgram: Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor's Degree
Tuition: $164,880
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $835 in-state | $1,374 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program details
Master’s degree programs
Champlain College
Burlington, VermontProgram: MS Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $17,850
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $595
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsWebster University
St. Louis, MissouriProgram: Cybersecurity (MS) with an Emphasis in Data Analytics
Tuition: $15,210
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $390
Credits: 39
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of South Florida
Tampa, FloridaProgram: M.S. Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security
Tuition: $14,223
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $348 in-state | $431 out-of-state
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsCapitol Technology University
Laurel, MarylandProgram: Master of Science in Cyber Analytics
Tuition: $23,400
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $650
Credits: 36
Learn more: Program detailsGeorge Washington University
Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: Master of Engineering in the Field of Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $36,000
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,200
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Findlay
Findlay, OhioProgram: Master of Science in Applied Security & Analytics
Tuition: $26,010
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $765
Credits: 34
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New MexicoProgram: Master in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics
Tuition: $26,829
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $813
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsPennsylvania State University
University Park, PennsylvaniaProgram: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
Tuition: $34,221
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,037
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Delaware
Newark, DelawareProgram: Business Analytics and Information Management/Cybersecurity: M.S.
Tuition: $53,568
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,116
Credits: 48
Learn more: Program detailsWentworth Institute of Technology
Boston, MassachusettsProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $30,600
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,275
Credits: 24
Learn more: Program details
These rankings were compiled from data accessed in October 2025 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services of the National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of October 2025.
2025 ranking
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.
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.
- 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.
- Location: The cost of a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree might vary depending on geographic location. One thing to evaluate is whether the school has relationships with cybersecurity employers in a geographic area. This will make things like internships and career planning a little bit easier.
- Size: Overall, school and program size seem to correlate with 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Department of the Navy, Chief Information Officer – Information Assurance Scholarship Program
- Department of Defense – SMART Scholarship Program
- Center for Cyber Safety and Education – (ISC)² Women’s Scholarships
- Central Intelligence Agency – Undergraduate Scholarship Program
- National Security Agency – Stokes Educational Scholarship Program
- Cisco – Snort Scholarship
- CyberCorps – Scholarship For Service
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 2024 median annual salary for this position is $124,910. This government resource cites an anticipated 29 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 pursuits.
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
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.
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.
Courses often include subjects like data analytics, machine learning, network security, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity law and policy.
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.
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.
Cybersecurity analytics program listings
Bachelor’s degree programs
Anderson University
Anderson, South CarolinaProgram: Bachelor of Science (BS), Cybersecurity and Analytics
Tuition: $141,520
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,170
Credits: 121
Learn more: Program detailsBaldwin Wallace University
Berea, OhioProgram: Cybersecurity Analyst Major
Tuition: $161,640
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,347
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsCapitol Technology University
Laurel, MarylandProgram: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cyber Analytics
Tuition: $105,149
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $869
Credits: 121
Learn more: Program detailsCentenary University
Hackettstown, New JerseyProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Data Analytics
Tuition: $109,440
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $912
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsEmporia State University
Emporia, KansasProgram: Bachelor of Science in Business, Information Systems + Analytics, Cybersecurity Analytics Concentration
Tuition: $55,420
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $184.73 in-state | $461.83 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsMiddle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TennesseeProgram: Cybersecurity Management, Data Analytics Concentration, B.S.
Tuition: $150,840
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $350 in-state | $1,257 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsPennsylvania State University
University Park, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations, BS
Tuition: $84,255
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online & campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $685
Credits: 123
Learn more: Program detailsSouthern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New HampshireProgram: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Data Analytics Fundamentals
Tuition: $41,040
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $342
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TexasProgram: Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor's Degree
Tuition: $164,880
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $835 in-state | $1,374 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsVirginia Tech
Blacksburg, VirginiaProgram: Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major
Tuition: $147,500
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $452 in-state | $1,180 out-of-state
Credits: 125
Learn more: Program details
Master’s degree programs
California State University-San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CaliforniaProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics
Tuition: $33,780
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $566 in-state | $1,126 out-of-state
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsCapitol Technology University
Laurel, MarylandProgram: Master of Science in Cyber Analytics
Tuition: $23,400
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $650
Credits: 36
Learn more: Program detailsChamplain College
Burlington, VermontProgram: MS Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $17,850
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $595
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsGeorge Washington University
Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: Master of Engineering in the Field of Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $36,000
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,200
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsOklahoma State University
Stillwater, OklahomaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics, MS
Tuition: $42,484
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $472 in-state | $1,118 out-of-state
Credits: 38
Learn more: Program detailsPennsylvania State University
University Park, PennsylvaniaProgram: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
Tuition: $34,221
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,037
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsSt. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FloridaProgram: Master of Science in Cyber Security and Analytics
Tuition: $25,920
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $864
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Delaware
Newark, DelawareProgram: Business Analytics and Information Management/Cybersecurity: M.S.
Tuition: $53,568
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Campus
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,116
Credits: 48
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Findlay
Findlay, OhioProgram: Master of Science in Applied Security & Analytics
Tuition: $26,010
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $765
Credits: 34
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New MexicoProgram: Master in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics
Tuition: $26,829
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $813
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of South Florida
Tampa, FloridaProgram: M.S. Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security
Tuition: $14,223
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $348 in-state | $431 out-of-state
Credits: 33
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, TexasProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Data Analytics
Tuition: $53,640
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,007 in-state | $1,490 out-of-state
Credits: 36
Learn more: Program detailsWebster University
St. Louis, MissouriProgram: Cybersecurity (MS) with an Emphasis in Data Analytics
Tuition: $15,210
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $390
Credits: 39
Learn more: Program detailsWentworth Institute of Technology
Boston, MassachusettsProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics
Tuition: $30,600
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,275
Credits: 24
Learn more: Program detailsWestern Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KentuckyProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Data Analytics
Tuition: $16,530
Delivery method: Online
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $551
Credits: 30
Learn more: Program details