Orlando, Florida, along with the nearby areas of Kissimmee and Sanford, presents a vibrant landscape for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. The region is home to major employers like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris Technologies, which are known for their extensive cybersecurity operations and defense contracts.
Additionally, Orlando boasts prominent educational institutions such as the University of Central Florida (UCF), renowned for its cybersecurity programs and research initiatives, including the UCF Center for Cybersecurity. With a dynamic mix of industry giants and leading academic resources, Orlando offers robust cybersecurity education and career growth opportunities.
Cybersecurity overview
Orlando’s cybersecurity landscape is thriving, driven by a growing demand for skilled professionals in the field. The region hosts a significant number of job openings in cybersecurity, with over 3,000 positions currently available across various industries. The total cybersecurity workforce in the Orlando metro area is estimated to be around 27,000, reflecting the city’s status as a burgeoning hub for cybersecurity talent.
Employers in the Orlando area are particularly interested in candidates with industry-recognized certifications and advanced degrees. The most commonly sought-after certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA Security+.
Additionally, certifications like Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) are highly valued. In terms of academic credentials, degrees in cybersecurity, computer science, and information technology from reputable institutions such as the University of Central Florida (UCF) and Valencia College are highly regarded. UCF, in particular, is noted for its comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum and research opportunities, making its graduates attractive to local employers.
Overall, the combination of a strong job market, leading employers, and top-notch educational institutions makes Orlando a prime location for those pursuing a career in cybersecurity. With a wide range of opportunities and resources available, students and early career professionals can find ample support to advance their skills and secure meaningful employment in this dynamic field.
Cybersecurity program listings in Orlando
College of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Program: Computer Information Technology, A.S.
Cost per credit: $113 in-state | $248 out-of-state
Program : Associate's
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsValencia College
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Associate in Science in Cybersecurity & Network Engineering Technology
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $103 in-state | $391 out of state
Program : Associate's
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsCollege of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Business and Organizational Management - Management Information Systems Specialization, B.A.S.
Cost per credit: $130 in-state | $353 out-of-state
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Cyber Security and Privacy (MS)
Cost per credit: $370 in state | $1,194 out of state
Program : Master's
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsCollege of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Certificate in Network Security
Cost per credit: $113 in-state | $220 out-of-state
Program : Certificate
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsCollege of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Certificate in Data Security
Cost per credit: $129 in-state | $220 out-of-state
Program : Certificate
Credits: 12
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsOrange Technical College-Mid Florida Campus
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Applied Cybersecurity Certificate
Cost per credit: $2,190 total tuition
Program : Certificate
Credits: 750 hours
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Cost per credit: $555 in-state | $1,195 out of state
Program : Certificate
Credits: 12
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Central Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Cyber Defense Professional Certificate
Cost per credit: $18,720
Program : Certificate
Credits: 32 weeks
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Phoenix-Florida
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Advanced Cybersecurity Certificate
Cost per credit: $398
Program : Certificate
Credits: 18
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsValencia College
Orlando, FloridaProgram: Cybersecurity Certificate
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $80 in-state | $315 out of state
Program : Certificate
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
The Orlando metropolitan area offers a rich array of academic programs in cybersecurity and related fields, catering to diverse educational needs and career aspirations. Students can choose from several esteemed institutions, each providing unique opportunities to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the cybersecurity industry.
The College of Central Florida stands out with its comprehensive programs, including a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Organizational Management with a specialization in Management Information Systems, an Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology, and specialized certificates in Data Security and Network Security. These programs are designed to equip students with a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and practical skills.
The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers advanced educational opportunities, including a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Privacy, which dives deeply into cybersecurity’s technical and theoretical aspects. UCF also provides a Cyber Defense Professional Certificate and a Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics, both of which are tailored to enhance professional skills and credentials in specialized areas of cybersecurity.
Valencia College, another key player in the region, offers an Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity and Network Engineering Technology and a Cybersecurity Certificate. These programs focus on hands-on training and practical experience, preparing students to enter the cybersecurity workforce immediately.
Resources
- CSNP Orlando Cybersecurity – a community-driven platform where cybersecurity enthusiasts, professionals, and students gather to share knowledge, discuss industry trends, and network with like-minded individuals.
- UCF Alliance for Cybersecurity – offers detailed information about the cybersecurity programs available at the University of Central Florida. These programs provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the changing demands of cybersecurity.
Source
- Cybersecurity supply/demand information | Source from Cyberseek in February 2025