Exploring the right online PhD program involves several critical factors. For many students, affordability is a key driver in their ultimate choice.
Bearing this in mind, our research team at the Cybersecurity Guide has researched an extensive list that highlights the top online PhD programs. These selections are notable not just for their academic rigor but also for their relative affordability in tuition costs.
Affordability does not equate to a sacrifice in quality or career preparedness.
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Featured PhD Program
| School Name | Program | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| National University | Ph.D. in Cybersecurity | website |
These 5 programs made the cut. To qualify for the 2026 rankings of the most cost-effective online PhD degree, each program on the list is also acknowledged as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE). This ensures that students receive an education that is both financially accessible and academically robust, equipping them with the tools needed for a successful professional journey.
2026 rankings for the most affordable online cybersecurity PhD programs
Dakota State University
Madison, South Dakota
Program: Cyber Defense, Ph.D.
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $44,928
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $508 in-state | $624 out-of-state
Credits: 72
Learn more: Program detailsMarymount University
Arlington, VirginiaProgram: D.Sc. in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $49,968
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,388
Credits: 36
Learn more: Program detailsCapitol Technology University
Laurel, MarylandProgram: Doctorate (DSc) in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $52,650
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $975
Credits: 54
Learn more: Program detailsNational University
San Diego, CaliforniaProgram: Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $62,340
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,039
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program detailsAugusta University
Augusta, GAProgram: PhD in Intelligence, Defense, & Cybersecurity Policy
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-CO
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $73,500
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $475 in-state | $875 out-of-state
Credits: 84
Learn more: Program detailsGeorge Washington University
Washington, DCProgram: Doctor of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics
CAE designation: CAE-R
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $81,600
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,700
Credits: 48
Learn more: Program detailsNova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FloridaProgram: Ph.D. in Cybersecurity Management
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $95,172
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,442
Credits: 66
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Tulsa
Tulsa, OklahomaProgram: Cyber Studies, Ph.D.
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $111,456
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,548
Credits: 72
Learn more: Program detailsSt. John's University
Queens NYProgram: Homeland Security, Doctor of Professional Studies
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $127,920
2025/2026 Cost per credit: $1,640
Credits: 78
Learn more: Program details