A complete guide to a bachelor’s in cybersecurity degree

The cybersecurity field is growing like crazy, which means that there are plenty of great career opportunities for professionals with the right skills, training, and experience. This guide covers all the key considerations when choosing to major in cybersecurity or when trying to evaluate a cybersecurity degree program.

• Why a Cybersecurity Degree?
• Degree Program FAQ
• Cybersecurity Major Overview
• Admission Requirements
• Tuition and Scholarships
• School Listings

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In this guide we will examine the many paths that can lead to a cybersecurity degree. We will also look at the common requirements for a bachelor’s in cybersecurity and some frequently asked questions about majoring in cybersecurity. Finally, we discuss some of the opportunities that open up for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity  (including continuing your studies at one of the popular cybersecurity master’s programs).

Top five biggest reasons to get a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree

Investing years of your life and tens of thousands of dollars in a college or university education is a big decision. Before diving in, it makes sense to make sure that pursuing a cybersecurity degree is a good fit for you. 

Here are a few of the top reasons to consider pursuing a cybersecurity degree:

• Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. This means that finding a good job is easier than most other professions, and that cybersecurity professionals are paid well (see our complete profile of cybersecurity careers for more information).
• Cybersecurity professionals make a difference. It’s not like cybersecurity professionals sit in some widget factory stamping out the same widget over and over again. Instead, cybersecurity professionals use their training and skills to protect critical digital infrastructure and services. 
• Cybersecurity is considered a top job in tech. Recently, US News and World Report named information security analyst as one of the top five jobs to have in tech. The ranking is based on earning potential and job demand. Other cybersecurity jobs follow similar trends.
• Cybersecurity job demand will continue to grow well into the future. The average annual growth in cybersecurity job demand, according to a number of employment sites, is about seven percent a year. That growth is expected to continue well into the future as the world only becomes more digitally interconnected.
• Cybersecurity is a dynamic job that is seldom boring. Between emerging threats and new technological innovation, cybersecurity is constantly changing, which means no boring days at the office.

In order to explore degree options in a little bit more depth, we compiled a few of the most frequently asked questions by students interested in pursuing a cybersecurity degree.

Frequently asked questions about the process of getting a cybersecurity degree

Q. What kind of degree do you need for a career in cybersecurity?

A. There are a number of pathways and degrees that can help launch a successful cybersecurity career including computer science, information technology, criminal justice, business management, or law. With these non-cybersecurity specific degrees, it is important that students take courses in computer coding, networking, cryptography, and cyber vulnerability testing (or penetration testing/ethical hacking). Increasingly, in part in order to meet workforce demand, many colleges and universities are offering cybersecurity-specific degrees at all levels, from an associate’s to Ph.D. These degree programs are both on-campus and online.

Q. Is a degree in cybersecurity worth it? 

A. Yes, a degree in cybersecurity is worth it. Let’s elaborate. There are generally two criteria for determining the worth or the value of something. There are intrinsic values and extrinsic values. Intrinsic values imply that something has value on it’s own, or for its own sake. In a lot of ways, this is true of cybersecurity. The purpose of the profession is literally in its name: to keep secure. If you remove cybersecurity experts working on the good side, then all you are left with is cybersecurity experts working for the bad guys. So, yes. Cybersecurity has intrinsic value. As far as extrinsic value — extrinsic value usually implies how others see the profession and how they value it. One really simple metric for extrinsic valuation is salary. In this regard, cybersecurity professionals are well regarded extrinsically because many people with a cybersecurity degree and job experience make six-figure salaries.

Q. What is a cybersecurity major?

A. Cybersecurity majors come in all different types, but they are generally focused on a core technical curriculum that contains aspects of computer science, networking, cryptography, and hacking. As we mentioned earlier, there are many different pathways to a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. Some students are interested in the networking or information technology and information assurance aspects of cybersecurity. Others are more interested in cyber defense and topics like ethical hacking. Still other students are more interested in digital forensics and criminal justice. With the right cybersecurity degree programs, prospective cybersecurity students will be able to pursue a professional path that interests them.

Q. How long does it take to get a degree in cybersecurity?

A. The standard time for completing a traditional campus-based cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program is 120 credits or roughly four years of full-time study. Competitive cybersecurity master’s degree programs usually require 60 credit hours or about two years of full-time study. However, today there are more flexible educational opportunities and options available, particularly for students that pursue online cybersecurity degrees. Also, of note, there are some master of cybersecurity programs that are designed for students that already have cybersecurity-related work experience and are looking to refine skills such as management, communications, and strategy. Depending on a student’s background some of these online master’s programs can be completed in a year.

Q. Is cybersecurity hard?

A. Yes. Obtaining a cybersecurity degree is hard. Most often cybersecurity degrees are based on engineering, computer science, mathematics, and other technical disciplines. Proving proficient in these fields known for depth and rigor is not easy. That’s not to say that getting a cybersecurity degree is impossible. Increasingly, universities are using hands-on learning exercises, such as cyber-ranges and project-base capstone projects to make sure the cyber curriculum is a good balance between the technical and theoretical and the practical.

Q. What skills do you need for cybersecurity?

A. Traditionally, cybersecurity experts have had a deep background in computer science, computer coding, information technology, and networking. Increasingly, in order to reflect the challenges faced by the cybersecurity profession, university cybersecurity curriculum developers are also including courses on domestic and foreign policy, criminal justice, business management, and strategy in the mix. The goal is to educate tomorrow’s cybersecurity leaders so that they are capable of thinking about and tackling big problems.

Q. What requirements are needed for a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree?

A. There are three main requirements to get into a cybersecurity bachelor’s program: GPA, experience, and test scores. All universities and degree programs have different admission requirements but they generally focus on some combination of previous GPA, past work experience or academic experience, and required test scores. An average acceptable GPA for a bachelor’s in cybersecurity program is generally reported as a 3.0, but more competitive programs will require higher GPAs, while less competitive programs will require a lower GPA. Master’s  degree programs also have some kind of GPA component, but, like bachelor’s programs it will vary higher or lower than a 3.0 based on a variety of factors. In terms of experience for bachelor’s degree programs, it is always a good idea to show an interest and proficiency in computer science or programming. This can be demonstrated through a project portfolio, prior coursework or certifications, or through competitions or membership in clubs. Competitive master’s candidates will be able to show some cybersecurity-related work experience, or some other means of demonstrating the skills and acumen needed to be successful in the academic program and in the career path beyond.

Q.What can I do with a bachelor’s of cybersecurity?

A. There are dozens of potential career options available to graduates of cybersecurity degree programs. We actually have an entire section of this website dedicated to in-depth profiles of cybersecurity careers, ranging from entry-level positions to the c-suite. As mentioned earlier, the completion of a bachelor’s degree program will give you a well-rounded background and training to tackle a number of different kinds of roles. Additionally, most cybersecurity programs (both at the bachelor’s level and at the master’s level allow students to specialize. Since there is such a high demand for cybersecurity experts, professionals that hold a bachelor’s degree can generally find a good position early in their career.

The cybersecurity major overview

In this section

• Admission Requirements
• Common Cybersecurity Courses
• Tuition and Scholarships
• School Listings

Five key considerations when choosing the right bachelor’s degree program

1. Research: The first step in finding the right fit for a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is researching all of the available options (which is probably what lead you here in the first place). As the cybersecurity field grows and matures, so too do the options available to students looking to get the skills and experience necessary to launch a career in a high-demand profession. In addition to traditional campus-based academic programs, there are also a number of cybersecurity bachelor degree programs available online that are worth investigating.

2. Visit or contact colleges and universities for more information: Each academic program is different in terms of course offerings, degree requirements, student and career services, available financial aid, and other critical factors. Visiting or calling individual schools and creating the opportunity to talk to professors, students, and support staff is a great way to understand the true costs and benefits of a program. Plus actually talking to real people will reveal valuable information that is not contained in the college or university’s marketing materials, which is a good thing.

3. Admission prep: After developing a list of target schools and programs, dive into admissions requirements and understand what kind of preparation can be done in advance. Look at the test scores required, prerequisites, experience needed and other factors that can be prepared ahead of time. Develop good relationships with teachers and other people who can be called on as references. There is more information on admission requirements in the next section.

4. Apply: Applying to a college or university program can be a daunting experience, but understanding specific timelines and deadlines in advance can make the process feel a little bit more manageable. Also, pay attention to schools and programs that use common applications (where one application can be used for multiple schools) and keep a list of scholarship opportunities and deadlines.

5. Budget: One of the biggest challenges to obtaining a bachelor’s degree is creating (and sticking to) a sustainable budget. Understanding the total degree costs (credit costs per year + cost of living + other factors) is one key step. Also understanding what kind of student financing options are available is critical to developing a realistic budget. 

Cybersecurity degree admission requirements

Like other undergraduate degree programs, most undergraduate cybersecurity schools require a high school diploma or a GED. 

Since cybersecurity is computer-intensive, learning the basic building blocks for computing infrastructure and programming might help demonstrate the skills and aptitude necessary to be a successful cybersecurity student and professional. 

Learning to write computer code, or how to design computer software and hardware, are all good ways to prepare for a cybersecurity bachelor degree. 

Not all professionals working in cybersecurity start out with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or information security. Some major in math or computer science or engineering, but specialize in security either through coursework, internships, or preparing for industry certifications. 

Common courses for cybersecurity majors

Reflecting the diversity of roles that are possible in the workforce for skilled cybersecurity professionals, the coursework and curriculum for undergraduate cybersecurity programs is broad and comprehensive. 

While individual learning will vary depending on each cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program requirements, there are some universal curriculum trends. Undergraduate cybersecurity students can expect to take courses in:

1. Computer science: Computer science theory and application is the bedrock of cybersecurity work.
2. Network security design and hardening: Understanding how different data networks operate (and how different networks can become compromised ) are also key to the profession.
3. Ethics in information technology and security fields: These courses might outline the rights and responsibilities expected of a cybersecurity professional, especially when handling or accessing sensitive data or intelligence. Issues covered might include ethical hacking, and when it is permissible to move from a defensive security position to an offensive security posture. 
4. Forensics: These courses relate to diagnosing a security breach or intrusion and figuring out how to trace its path to find the person or group responsible.
5. Mobile and wireless security: As the world becomes increasingly more mobile and wireless, the security concerns surrounding these systems is becoming its own specialty within the cybersecurity world.

Not only are there different technical components of cybersecurity (such as learning about network security, versus how to prevent social engineering attacks) but there are other ways to specialize too.

At Colorado Technical University, for example, there is a bachelor’s degree program for students interested in pursuing management and cybersecurity. This kind of program would be ideal for someone that is interested in learning the technical components of cybersecurity while also preparing to lead teams and work within the leadership structure of a company or organization. 

Online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs

The good news here is that with each passing year there are more options for students to complete their cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. 

More and more colleges and universities are offering coursework and degree programs for cybersecurity students, including certificates and other professional programs. 

They are also offering online degree programs that are well-suited to working professionals or for people that have other commitments that prevent them from taking on-campus courses. 

Campus-based courses might offer students additional access to student groups and professional organizations, as well as internship and mentoring opportunities. 

As online education becomes more prevalent, universities are offering hybrid degrees, which allow students to attend some in-person, campus-based instruction and pair it with online courses. These programs seem to offer the best blend of both worlds, by offering students campus opportunities and the flexibility of completing coursework online. 

How much is tuition for a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree?

Tuition for cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees can vary widely, depending on a variety of factors. 

Like most undergraduate degrees, a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree will require between 120 and 126 hours of coursework, which includes technical courses and electives. 

Tuition based on credit hour can range anywhere between $300 and $500 per credit, which means total tuition for a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can range anywhere between $23,000 and $61,000, according to research published by U.S. News and World Report. 

Here 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 really get a sense of the cost versus value for 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 conducting research on 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 degree program full-time versus part-time might not really 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. 

One thing to consider when evaluating bachelor degree options is to consider community college cybersecurity programs. Increasingly, community colleges are offering bachelor’s and associate’s degrees for cybersecurity majors with campus and online course offerings.

Scholarships

Qualified professions with a background and understanding of computer and network security are in such high demand that there are a number of cybersecurity specific scholarships available for undergraduate students. Many of the cybersecurity scholarship opportunities are supported by companies looking to expand the cybersecurity workforce or government agencies and organizations that need to fill critical cybersecurity-related roles.

Here are a few examples of the kinds of scholarships available for students interested in   a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree:

The Science, Mathematics, and Research Transformation (SMART) Scholarship for Service Program: This scholarship pays full tuition, pays a stipend, and offers other benefits. It is designed for students interested in working for the Department of Defense (DOD) during the summer while enrolled in an undergraduate program and then working full-time for a set a period for the DOD after graduation.

The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, which is part of the International Information Systems Security Certifications Consortium, Inc., offers a number of scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate scholarships. Some of the scholarships are specifically designed to support women studying cybersecurity. The scholarships are available for students pursuing both traditional on-campus degrees and online cybersecurity degrees. 

The Stokes Educational Scholarship Program: High school students who are planning on enrolling in a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program can apply for this scholarship. Run by the National Security Agency (NSA) the scholarship offers up to $30,000 a year and provides other benefits and stipend opportunities. Students enrolled in this program are required to work for the NSA after graduation for 1.5 times the number of years the scholarship funded. 

Cybersecurity career outlook

Whether a top-secret government, military, or intelligence work or a buttoned-down office job with a Fortune 500 company or as early start-ups building the latest technology, cybersecurity bachelor degree holders are able to find rewarding and high-paying jobs in all kinds of industries and sectors.

From a financial or career perspective, obtaining a cybersecurity degree should provide a good return on the initial investment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for an entry-level information security worker with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is $95,510. 

Many cybersecurity undergraduate degree programs focus on a combination of computer science with information and network security. The background and experience obtained during an undergraduate cybersecurity degree is also great preparation for the cybersecurity certification process, which is a core component of the cybersecurity field.

School listings 

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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. Got it!

Featured Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Now it’s time to take the next step and begin researching cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees that might be a good academic and personal fit. What follows is a continually updated, comprehensive list of the latest cybersecurity degree offerings.