From scholar to expert: Cybersecurity PhD options

In this guide

• Industry demand
• 2024 rankings
• Preparation
• Considerations
• FAQs
• School listings

The cybersecurity landscape is not just growing—it’s evolving at a breakneck pace. And what better way to stay ahead of the curve than by pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity?

This advanced degree is no longer confined to the realm of computer science. Today, it branches into diverse fields like law, policy, management, and strategy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern cyber threats.

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If you’re looking to become a thought leader in this dynamic industry, a PhD in cybersecurity offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your expertise and broaden your horizons.

This guide is designed to give prospective cybersecurity PhD students a general overview of available cybersecurity PhD programs. It will also outline some of the factors to consider when trying to find the right PhD program fit, such as course requirements and tuition costs. 

Industry demand for PhDs in cybersecurity

Like other cutting edge technology fields, until recently, cybersecurity PhD programs were often training grounds for niche positions specialized research, often for government agencies (like the CIA, NSA, and FBI),  or closely adjacent research organizations or institutions. 

Today, however, as the cybersecurity field grows to become more pervasive and consumer-oriented, there are opportunities for cybersecurity PhDs to work at public-facing companies like startups and name-brand financial, software, infrastructure, and digital service firms.

One trend that is emerging in the cybersecurity field is that cybersecurity experts need to be well-versed in a variety of growing threats. If recent headlines about cybersecurity breaches are any indication, there are a number of new attack vectors and opportunities for cybercrime and related issues. Historically, committing cybercrime took resources and a level of sophistication that required specialized training or skill.

But now, because of the pervasiveness of the internet, committing cybercrime is becoming more commonplace. So training in a cybersecurity PhD program gives students an opportunity to become an expert in one part of a growing and multi-layered field.

In fact, this trend of needing well-trained, but adaptable cybersecurity professionals is reflected by the move by cybersecurity graduate schools to offer specialized master’s degrees and many companies and professional organizations offer certifications in cybersecurity that focus on particular issues related to cybersecurity technology, cybersecurity law, digital forensics, policy, or related topics.

That said, traditional research-oriented cybersecurity positions continue to be in demand in academia and elsewhere — a trend that will likely continue. 

One interesting facet of the cybersecurity field is trying to predict what future cybersecurity threats might look like and then develop tools and systems to protect against those threats.

As new technologies and services are developed and as more of the global population begins using internet services for everything from healthcare to banking — new ways of protecting those services will be required. Often, it’s up to academic researchers to think ahead and examine various threats and opportunities to insulate against those threats.

Another key trend coming out of academic circles is that cybersecurity students are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary.

As cybersecurity hacks impact more parts of people’s everyday lives, so too do the academic programs that are designed to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This emerging trend creates an enormous amount of opportunity for students that have a variety of interests and who are looking to create a non-traditional career path.

The best cybersecurity PhD programs for 2024

1. Georgia Institute of Technology

   Atlanta, Georgia

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science - Cybersecurity & Privacy
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Credits: 30
   Cost per credit: $586
   Total tuition: $17,580
   Delivery method: Campus
   GRE/GMAT Required: Optional
   Learn more: Program details

2. Northeastern University

   Boston, Massachusetts

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Credits: 48
   Cost per credit: $1,625
   Total tuition: $78,000
   Delivery method: Campus
   GRE/GMAT Required: Optional
   Learn more: Program details

3. Marymount University, School of Technology and Innovation

   Arlington, Virginia

   
   Program: D.Sc. in Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Credits: 36
   Cost per credit: $1,190
   Total tuition: $42,840
   Delivery method: Campus, Hybrid, Online
   GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
   Learn more: Program details

4. Nova Southeastern University, College of Computing & Engineering

   Fort Lauderdale, Florida

   
   Program: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Cybersecurity Management
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Credits: 51-66
   Cost per credit: $969
   Total tuition: $63,954
   Delivery method: Campus, Online
   GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
   Learn more: Program details

5. Purdue University

   West Lafayette, Indiana

   
   Program: Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Information Security
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Credits: 90
   Cost per credit: $1,175
   Total tuition: $105,750
   Delivery method: Campus
   GRE/GMAT Required: Required
   Learn more: Program details

6. Stevens Institute of Technology

   Hoboken, New Jersey

   
   Program: Ph.D. program in Computer Science – Computer Security and Cryptography
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
   Credits: 84
   Cost per credit: $1,724
   Total tuition: $144,816
   Delivery method: Campus
   GRE/GMAT Required: Required
   Learn more: Program details

7. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

   Worcester, Massachusetts

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Cybersecurity Focus
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Credits: 60
   Cost per credit: $1,610
   Total tuition: $96,600
   Delivery method: Campus
   GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
   Learn more: Program details

8. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

   Champaign, Illinois

   
   Program: Juris Doctor Degree – Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
   Learn more: Program details

9. Mississippi State University

   Mississippi State, Mississippi

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

10. New York Institute of Technology

    New York

    
    Program: Computer Science, Ph.D. - Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 66
    Cost per credit: $1,540
    Total tuition: $101,640
    Delivery method: Campus
    GRE/GMAT Required: Required
    Learn more: Program details

What is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity?

Good news first: Obtaining a PhD in a field related to cybersecurity will likely create tremendous employment opportunities and lead to interesting and dynamic career options.

Bad news: Getting a PhD requires a lot of investment of time and energy, and comes with a big opportunity cost (meaning you have to invest four to five years, or longer, or pursuing other opportunities to obtain a doctoral degree. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity. Of course, specific degree requirements will vary by program. One growing trend in the field is that students can now obtain degrees in a variety of formats, including traditional on-campus programs, online degree programs, and hybrid graduate degree programs that combine both on-campus learning with online learning. 

Related resources

• Online Ph.D. in cybersecurity – A guide to finding the right program
• Cybersecurity degree programs
• Podcast episodes and expert interviews

Preparing for a cybersecurity doctorate program

Cybersecurity is a relatively new formalized technology field, nonetheless, there are a number of ways that students or prospective PhD candidates can get involved or explore the field before and during a graduate school program. A few examples of ways to start networking and finding opportunities include: 

Join cybersecurity organizations with professional networks

Specialized professional organizations are a good place to find the latest in career advice and guidance. Often they publish newsletters or other kinds of information that provides insights into the emerging trends and issues facing cybersecurity professionals. A couple of examples include:

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) is a non-profit dedicated to training cybersecurity professionals and fostering a sense of collaboration. The organization also publishes information and analysis of the latest cybersecurity threats and issues facing the professional community.

The SANS Institute runs a number of different kinds of courses for students (including certification programs) as well as ongoing professional cybersecurity education and training for people working in the field. The organization has several options including webinars, online training, and live in-person seminars. Additionally, SANS also publishes newsletters and maintains forums for cybersecurity professionals to interact and share information.

Leverage your social network

Places like LinkedIn and Twitter are a good place to start to find news and information about what is happening in the field, who the main leaders and influencers are, and what kinds of jobs and opportunities are available.

Starting a professional network early is also a great opportunity. Often professionals and members of the industry are willing to provide guidance and help to students that are genuinely interested in the field and looking for career opportunities. 

Cybersecurity competitions 

Cybersecurity competitions are a great way to get hands-on experience working on real cybersecurity problems and issues. As a PhD student or prospective student, cybersecurity competitions that are sponsored by industry groups are a great way to meet other cybersecurity professionals while getting working on projects that will help flesh out a resume or become talking points in later job interviews.

The US Cyber Challenge, for example, is a series of competitions and hackathon-style events hosted by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate and the Center for Internet Security with the goal of preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Internships

Internships also continue to be a tried and true way to gain professional experience. Internships in technical fields like cybersecurity can also pay well. Like the industry itself, cybersecurity internships are available across a wide range of industries and can range from academic research-oriented to more corporate kinds of work. 

Things to consider when choosing a cybersecurity PhD program

There are a number of considerations to evaluate when considering any kind of graduate degree, but proper planning is essential in order to be able to obtain a doctoral degree. It’s also important to note that these are just guidelines and that each graduate program will have specific requirements, so be sure to double-check.

What you will need before applying to a cybersecurity PhD program:

• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• GRE scores
• A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest
• Letters of reference
• Application fee
• Online application
• A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments

What does a cybersecurity PhD program cost?

Obtaining a PhD is a massive investment, both in terms of time and money. Obviously, cybersecurity PhD students are weighing the cost of becoming an expert in the field with the payoff of having interesting and potentially lucrative career opportunities on the other side.

Most traditional, campus-based doctoral programs range between $1,300 and $2,000 per credit hour. Degree requirements are usually satisfied in 60-75 hours, so the cost of a doctoral degree can be well into the six-figure range. 

The good news is that by the time students get to the PhD level there are a lot of funding options — including some graduate programs that are completely funded by the university or academic departments themselves. Check out the cybersecurity scholarship guide for more specifics.

Additionally, funding in the form of research grants and other kinds of scholarships are available for students interested in pursuing cybersecurity studies. 

One example is the CyberCorps: Scholarships for Service program. Administered by the National Science Foundation, PhD students studying cybersecurity are eligible for a $34,000 a year scholarship, along with a professional stipend of $6,000 to attend conferences in exchange for agreeing to work for a government agency in the cybersecurity space after the PhD program. 

A complete listing of cybersecurity PhD programs

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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!

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The following is a list of cybersecurity PhD programs. The listing is intended to work as a high-level index that provides enough basic information to make quick side-by-side comparisons easy. 

You should find basic data about what each school requires (such as a GRE score or prior academic work) as well as the number of credits required, estimated costs, and a link to the program.

1. Arizona State University

   Tempe, Arizona

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Number of credits: 84
   Cost per credit: $295 in state | $816 out of state
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Aim: Equip students with in-depth expertise in cybersecurity.
   • Study Modules: Delve into advanced computer science subjects and specific cybersecurity courses.
   • Research Component: Students undertake groundbreaking research in the cybersecurity domain.

   Learn more: Program details

2. Carnegie Mellon University

   Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

   
   Program: Ph.D in ECE: Mobility Research Center
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
   Number of credits: 60
   Cost per credit: $671
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • CNBC Collaboration: A joint effort between Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh to train students in understanding the brain's role in cognition.
   • Training Program: Students take four main neuroscience courses and participate in seminars and ethics training.
   • Course Integration: Whether students have a B.S. or M.S. degree, they can combine the CNBC and ECE Ph.D. courses without extra workload.

   Learn more: Program details

3. Colorado School of Mines

   Golden, Colorado

   
   Program: Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science – Cyber Security
   CAE designation: CAE-CD
   Number of credits: 72
   Cost per credit: $982 in state | $2201 out of state
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Research Focus: Cybersecurity: Studying online security and privacy.
   • Cost and Financial Aid: Provides details on program costs and available financial support.
   • Current Mines Community: Offers specific information for those already affiliated with Mines.

   Learn more: Program details

4. Indiana University Bloomington

   Bloomington, Indiana

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Informatics – Security Informatics Track
   Number of credits: 90
   Cost per credit: $1960 in state | $2198 out of state
   Delivery method: Not Required
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Focus Areas: Options include Animal Informatics, Bioinformatics, Computer Design, and more.
   • Information Sessions: The university holds events to guide potential students about admissions and study options.
   • Minor Requirement: All Ph.D. students must complete a minor, which can be from within the Luddy School of Informatics or from another approved school at IU Bloomington.

   Learn more: Program details

5. Iowa State University

   Ames, Iowa

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Engineering - Emphasis on Information Systems Security/Networking
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
   Number of credits: 72
   Cost per credit: $322
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Details: The program is open to both domestic and international students.
   • Time to Complete: Ph.D.: About 5.2 years
   • Goals: Students should gain deep knowledge, follow ethics, share their findings, and do advanced research if they're writing a thesis.

   Learn more: Program details

6. Iowa State University

   Ames, Iowa

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science - Emphasis on Systems and Networking
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
   Number of credits: 72
   Cost per credit: $322
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Learning Goals: Master core areas of Computer Science, achieve in-depth knowledge in a chosen subfield, obtain expertise to perform original research, and demonstrate the ability to communicate technical concepts and research results.
   • Duration: Median time to earn the doctorate is 5.8 years.
   • Application Information: The program is open to both domestic and international students.

   Learn more: Program details

7. Mississippi State University

   Mississippi State, Mississippi

   
   Program: Ph.D. Computer Science – Computer Security Concentration
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
   Number of credits: 63
   Cost per credit: $537
   Delivery method: Not Required
   GRE required: Campus, Online
   Program highlights:
   

   • Program's Aim: The Ph.D. program is tailored to produce scholars proficient in leading research initiatives, undertaking rigorous industrial research, or imparting high-level computer science education.
   • Entry Routes: The program welcomes both students holding a B.S. degree for direct admission and those with an M.S. degree.
   • Dissertation's Role: It stands as the pivotal component of the Ph.D. journey. Collaboration between the student, their dissertation director, and the guiding committee is essential.

   Learn more: Program details

8. Naval Postgraduate School

   Monterey, California

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science (may elect Computer Systems and Security specialization)
   CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
   Cost per credit: $6750/quarter
   Delivery method: Required
   GRE required: Campus, Online
   Program highlights:
   

   • Program Essence: The Computer Science Ph.D. is a top-tier academic program in the U.S.
   • Admission Criteria: Open to military officers from the U.S. and abroad, U.S. governmental employees, and staff of foreign governments.
   • Curriculum: Designed to deepen knowledge in computing, with a focus on the needs of the U.S. Department of Defense.

   Learn more: Program details

9. Northeastern University

   Boston, Massachusetts

   
   Program: Ph.D. in Cybersecurity
   CAE designation: CAE-R
   Number of credits: 48
   Cost per credit: $1,625
   Delivery method: Optional
   GRE required: Campus
   Program highlights:
   

   • Emphasis on Research: The college showcases its strength in research through sections dedicated to Research Areas, affiliated Institutes & Centers, ongoing Research Projects, and specialized Labs & Groups.
   • Holistic Student Growth: The college promotes a comprehensive student experience, spotlighting Clubs & Organizations, campus Facilities, and tech Systems.
   • Guidance for Future Students: Provides tailored insights for students considering joining at various academic levels, from Undergraduate to PhD.

   Learn more: Program details

10. Purdue University

    West Lafayette, Indiana

    
    Program: Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Information Security
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Number of credits: 90
    Cost per credit: $607 in state | $1175 out of state
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Broad Learning: The program covers many areas, from software and policy to psychology and ethics, reflecting the wide scope of cybersecurity.
    • Course Design: Students learn foundational security topics first and then dive into specialized areas, like cyber forensics.
    • Successful Alumni: Past students now work in places like NASA, Amazon, and Google.

    Learn more: Program details

11. Purdue University

    West Lafayette, Indiana

    
    Program: Ph.D. in CS with an Info-Security Focus
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Number of credits: 90
    Cost per credit: $607 in state | $1175 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Feature: Students can apply to up to three different campuses and/or majors using a single application and fee payment.
    • Preparing for a Globalized World: Courses such as Global Supply Chain Management equip students for international careers.
    • Tech-Forward Curriculum: Purdue's commitment to advanced technology is evident.

    Learn more: Program details

12. Rochester Institute of Technology

    Rochester, New York

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computing and Information Sciences
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Number of credits: 60
    Cost per credit: $2,370
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Cyberinfrastructure Focus: The program dives deep into how hardware, data, and networks work together to create secure and efficient digital tools.
    • Broad Applications: The program uses computing to solve problems in fields like science, arts, and business.
    • Success Rate: All RIT graduates from this program have found relevant roles, especially in the Internet and Software sectors.

    Learn more: Program details

13. Sam Houston State University

    Huntsville, Texas

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Digital and Cyber Forensic Science
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 85
    Cost per credit: $321 in state | $728 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program's Objective: The course aims to nurture students to be technically adept and also to take on leadership roles in the digital and cyber forensic domain across various industries.
    • Assessments: Students undergo comprehensive tests to evaluate their understanding.
    • Research Paper (Dissertation): Once students reach the doctoral candidacy phase, they must produce and defend a significant research paper or dissertation.

    Learn more: Program details

14. Stevens Institute of Technology

    Hoboken, New Jersey

    
    Program: Ph.D. program in Computer Science – Computer Security and Cryptography
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Number of credits: 84
    Cost per credit: $1,724
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Funding: All Ph.D. students get financial help, so they can start their research right away.
    • Teachers: The program has top experts, including those who've made big discoveries in computer science.
    • Research Areas: Students can study the latest topics like AI, computer vision, and online security.

    Learn more: Program details

15. The University of Tennessee

    Knoxville, Tennessee

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Engineering – Cybersecurity
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $751 in state | $1011 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Study Areas: Options include Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Computer Vision, and more.
    • Tests: You'll have to pass a few exams, including one when you start, one before your final project, and then present your final project.
    • Courses: Some specific courses are needed, and your main professor will help decide which ones.

    Learn more: Program details

16. The University of Tennessee

    Knoxville, Tennessee

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Cybersecurity
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $751 in state | $1011 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Big Exam: Before moving forward, you'll take a detailed exam about your research topic.
    • Final Step: You'll present and defend your research project to experts.
    • Overview: This program is for those with a degree in Computer Science or similar fields. It has special focus areas like Cybersecurity and Machine Learning.

    Learn more: Program details

17. University of Arizona

    Tucson, Arizona

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Management Information Systems
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-O
    Number of credits: 42
    Cost per credit: $1750 in state | $1611 out of state
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Study Plan: Students start with learning research basics and then dive into modern tech topics.
    • Support for Students: All PhD students get funding that covers their studies, a stipend, and health insurance. Money for travel to conferences is also available.
    • After Graduation: Alumni work at top universities and big companies like Google and Microsoft.

    Learn more: Program details

18. University of California-Davis

    Davis, California

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Information Assurance Focus
    Number of credits: 45
    Cost per credit: $647
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • About the Program: Students engage in deep research, ending with a dissertation.
    • Jobs After Graduation: Roles in companies or academic positions.
    • Vibrant Community: Beyond academics, students join a supportive community, enriching their Ph.D. experience.

    Learn more: Program details

19. University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

    Colorado Springs, Colorado

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Engineering – Concentration in Security
    Number of credits: 60
    Cost per credit: $876
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Recognition: UCCS is recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security for excellence in Information Assurance Education.
    • Course Approval: The NSA has approved UCCS's courses as meeting national security training standards.
    • Overview: This program focuses on vital areas like cyber security, physical security, and homeland security.

    Learn more: Program details

20. University of Idaho

    Moscow, Idaho

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Information Assurance
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 78
    Cost per credit: $586 in state | $1655 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Partnership with NSA and DHS: The university is part of a program to boost cyber defense education.
    • Recognition: The University of Idaho is among the institutions recognized as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
    • Objective: To minimize vulnerabilities in the national information infrastructure.

    Learn more: Program details

21. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign, Illinois

    
    Program: Juris Doctor Degree – Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Number of credits: 90
    Cost per credit: $574 in state | $1240 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Overview: This program is meticulously crafted to deliver premier legal education to its students.
    • Courses: Encompasses a balanced mix of traditional legal doctrines, theoretical viewpoints, and hands-on practical experiences.
    • Aim: The primary objective is to equip students with top-notch legal education.

    Learn more: Program details

22. University of Missouri-Columbia

    Columbia, Missouri

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science with a Focus in Information Assurance
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $435 in state | $1192 out of state
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Seminars: PhD students should attend 20 seminars. If they were previously Master's students, their past attendance counts.
    • Timeline Requirements: Comprehensive Exam must be completed within five years of starting the program.
    • Dissertation and Publication: At least one journal paper must be submitted, accepted, or published.

    Learn more: Program details

23. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computing and Information Systems
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $248 in state | $1058 out of state
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Faculty: The faculty members are renowned for their impactful research contributions on a global scale.
    • Curriculum: The curriculum is versatile, catering to individuals aiming for academia as well as those targeting roles in the corporate, commerce, or public sectors.
    • Program: A blend of theoretical and hands-on research is emphasized, offering a well-rounded educational experience.

    Learn more: Program details

24. Virginia Tech

    Blacksburg, Virginia

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science with Cybersecurity Track
    Number of credits: 90
    Cost per credit: $846 in state | $1706 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Seminars and Ethics: Students attend special seminars and complete training on scholarly ethics and diversity.
    • Guidance: Each student gets a faculty advisor. A group of faculty members, called a committee, also guides them.
    • Major Exams: Students go through four main stages: a qualifying process, a preliminary proposal, a research presentation, and a final defense.

    Learn more: Program details

25. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Worcester, Massachusetts

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science – Cybersecurity Focus
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Number of credits: 60
    Cost per credit: $1,610
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Strong Research: WPI's PhD program is recognized for its excellent research contributions.
    • Practical Focus: The program teaches students to tackle real tech challenges.
    • Modern Labs: Students use the latest labs like the Human-Robot Interaction Lab.

    Learn more: Program details

26. Dakota State University

    Madison, South Dakota

    
    Program: Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Defense (PhDCD)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $470 in state | $581 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus, Online
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program Goal: Train students to handle and prevent cyber threats.
    • Awards: The university has received top cybersecurity awards.
    • What You'll Learn: Research skills, cyber defense techniques, and ethical decision-making.

    Learn more: Program details

27. New Jersey City University, College of Professional Studies

    Jersey City, New Jersey

    
    Program: Doctor of Science in Civil Security—Leadership, Management and Policy (CSLMP)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 48
    Cost per credit: $1,184
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • About: Focuses on best practices in areas like national security, cyber defense, and crisis communication.
    • Recognitions: The program has been honored by the National Security Agency since 2009 and was recognized for excellence in intelligence studies.
    • Jobs: Graduates are prepared for top roles in sectors like government and education.

    Learn more: Program details

28. Marymount University, School of Technology and Innovation

    Arlington, Virginia

    
    Program: D.Sc. in Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 36
    Cost per credit: $1,190
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus, Hybrid, Online
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program Content: The course dives deep into modern cybersecurity topics, from new tech and artificial intelligence to specialized research areas.
    • Location Benefits: The university is near many cybersecurity companies and government agencies, giving students unique opportunities.
    • For Working People: It's crafted for professionals, allowing them to experience various cybersecurity roles, from tech firms to government.

    Learn more: Program details

29. Nova Southeastern University, College of Computing & Engineering

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida

    
    Program: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Cybersecurity Management
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 51-66
    Cost per credit: $969
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus, Online
    Program highlights:
    

    • Completion Time: Students have up to ten years from starting to finish their dissertation.
    • Program: Trains students for roles in academia, government, and business.
    • Multidisciplinary Approach: The program combines both technical and managerial aspects of cybersecurity, offering a comprehensive understanding of the field.

    Learn more: Program details

30. The University of Rhode Island

    Kingston, Rhode Island

    
    Program: PhD in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Focus
    Number of credits: 54
    Cost per credit: $856 in state | $1661 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus, Online
    Program highlights:
    

    • Research Focus: The Ph.D. program is centered around a big research project in Computer Science.
    • Qualifying Exams: Students take exams on core topics, but some might get exemptions if they're already skilled in certain areas.
    • Equal Opportunity: The University of Rhode Island is committed to the principles of affirmative action and is an equal opportunity employer.

    Learn more: Program details

31. University of North Texas

    Denton, Texas

    
    Program: Information Science Ph.D. With a Concentration in Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Number of credits: 60-72
    Cost per credit: $764 in state | $1184 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Hybrid
    Program highlights:
    

    • Team Effort: The program is a collaboration between various UNT departments for a well-rounded view of cybersecurity.
    • Goals: The course aims to develop critical thinkers who are passionate about the role of information in our lives and can work across different fields.
    • Skills Gained: Students will learn about research, teaching methods, decision-making, leadership, and analyzing data.

    Learn more: Program details

32. New York University Tandon School of Engineering

    New York

    
    Program: Computer Science, Ph.D. - Cybersecurity
    Number of credits: 75
    Cost per credit: $2,335
    Delivery method: GRE not required if earned a US degree; GRE required for all others
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Scholarships: Many students get scholarships that pay for tuition and give a monthly allowance.
    • Research Interest: Research areas include cybersecurity, computer games, web search, graphics, and more.
    • Experience: Students can also research in NYU's campuses in Shanghai or Abu Dhabi.

    Learn more: Program details

33. Georgia Institute of Technology

    Atlanta, Georgia

    
    Program: Ph.D. in Computer Science - Cybersecurity & Privacy
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Number of credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $586
    Delivery method: Optional
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • One Degree for All: Every student gets the same Ph.D., regardless of their specific area of study.
    • Research Focus: The program emphasizes deep research and prepares students for advanced roles.
    • Major Project: Students work on a big research project, adding new knowledge to the computing world.

    Learn more: Program details

34. New York Institute of Technology

    New York

    
    Program: Computer Science, Ph.D. - Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 66
    Cost per credit: $1,540
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Program: Prepares students for leadership roles in different sectors.
    • Opportunities: Qualified students might get opportunities as Research or Teaching Assistants.
    • Overview: Focuses on advanced research and modern technologies.

    Learn more: Program details

35. Augusta University

    Augusta, Georgia

    
    Program: Ph.D., Computer and Cyber Sciences
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Number of credits: 72
    Cost per credit: $230 in state | $783 out of state
    Delivery method: Not Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Goal: The program prepares students for research roles and to make new discoveries in tech.
    • Benefits: A Ph.D. opens up leadership opportunities in tech sectors.
    • Overview: It focuses on new discoveries in areas like security, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality.

    Learn more: Program details

36. University of Texas at San Antonio

    San Antonio, Texas

    
    Program: Information Technology PhD Program - Cybersecurity Focus
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
    Number of credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $1,052
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Financial Support: Full-time students can get funding, which covers tuition and offers roles like teaching assistants.
    • Job Prospects: UTSA trains students for jobs that are in high demand, using data from official sources.
    • Overview: The program focuses on in-depth research and teaching.

    Learn more: Program details

37. University of Central Florida

    Orlando, Florida

    
    Program: Security Studies (PhD)
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
    Number of credits: 56
    Cost per credit: $370 in state | $1194 out of state
    Delivery method: Required
    GRE required: Campus
    Program highlights:
    

    • Mix of Subjects: Students can take courses from different areas, giving them a broad view of security topics.
    • Many Job Options: Graduates can work in government, big companies, or teach in universities.
    • Hands-on Learning: The program offers research, study projects, and internships for real-world experience.

    Learn more: Program details