- Associate degrees
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Cybersecurity certifications
- Minnesota Cybersecurity initiatives
- FAQs
Cybersecurity students need more than a school list — they need clear, verified pathways connected to real industry demand.
Those researching cybersecurity schools in Minnesota will find a range of college options aligned with employer needs in finance, defense contracting, insurance, and healthcare.
This page focuses on academic pathways and school-based opportunities, mentioning institutions only when they offer distinctive workforce connections, research initiatives, or training programs that go beyond a standard degree listing.
How we keep this page current
We review this page using data and program verification from CyberSeek, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, Minnesota’s official projections published by DEED Labor Market Information, Minnesota’s statewide cybersecurity work led by Minnesota IT Services (MNIT), and the federal CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service (SFS) participating-institutions directory.
Any program or initiative claims are verified against official institutional or state pages, and time-sensitive claims are updated or removed during periodic reviews.
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Featured Cybersecurity Degree Programs
| School Name | Program | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Purdue Global | Online BS in Cybersecurity | website |
| Grand Canyon University | Online BS in Cybersecurity or Online MS in Cybersecurity | website |
| Herzing University | Online BS in Cybersecurity | website |
| Arizona State University | Online MA in Global Security - Cybersecurity | website |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online BS in Cybersecurity or Online MS in Cybersecurity | website |
Cybersecurity workforce demand in Minnesota
Cybersecurity demand in Minnesota is influenced by healthcare systems, financial services, large enterprise employers, critical infrastructure, and state/local government operations.
CyberSeek’s heat map provides a state snapshot of cybersecurity job-posting activity and supply/demand indicators for Minnesota. Because CyberSeek metrics are primarily presented in an interactive dashboard, this page uses CyberSeek as a directional demand signal unless a specific Minnesota number can be verified directly from a stable, citable view.
Minnesota’s DEED occupational projections (2022–2032) report Information Security Analysts growing from 2,913 (2022) to 3,729 (2032), with 2,760 total openings (which DEED breaks out into growth/exit/transfer components) over the 2022–2032 period.
For employment and wages, the BLS OEWS state estimates report that Minnesota employs about 2,900 Information Security Analysts with an annual mean wage of $123,260 (May 2023). As a cyber-adjacent benchmark, Minnesota employs about 2,650 Computer Network Architects with an annual mean wage of $132,740 (May 2023).
What these metrics do and do not mean: job postings reflect hiring activity and may include reposts; employment/wage estimates measure the existing workforce; projections/openings estimate future demand from growth and replacement over a defined time window.
Related resources
Cybersecurity degree pathways in Minnesota
Minnesota students can enter cybersecurity through several educational routes. The key is choosing a pathway that matches your starting point (new to IT vs. experienced) and target roles (security operations, engineering, GRC, forensics, etc.).
Associate degrees
Associate degrees are a common on-ramp into IT and security-adjacent roles (network support, systems administration) and can be a cost-effective way to build foundational skills before transferring to a bachelor’s program.
What to look for:
- Curriculum that explicitly includes security fundamentals and applied practice
- Strong networking + operating systems fundamentals
- Structured labs (in-person or virtual)
- Clear transfer pathways into a four-year program
Campus-based associate’s degrees
Eight colleges provide paths to cybersecurity associate degrees through on-campus formats.
An example is an AAS in Cybersecurity and Forensics from Century College. For additional details about the schools, see below.
Minnesota State College Southeast
Winona, Minnesota
Program: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Cyber and Information Security
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $207
Delivery Method: Campus
Program highlights:- Diverse Skills: This program teaches networking, cyber security, forensics, and law basics, giving students a range of useful abilities.
- Real-Life Ready: The program teaches what's used in the industry, getting students ready for real challenges.
- Various Jobs: It's good for those interested in cyber security in law enforcement or current network administrators aiming to boost security.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Fergus Falls, MinnesotaProgram: Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $181
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Guidance from Experts: Industry experts guide what students learn, so they study what's needed for jobs today.
- Hands-On Practice: Students won't just read – they'll build safe digital spaces and learn by doing.
- Get Recognized: Earn important industry certificates that show student's skills.
Riverland Community College
Austin, MinnesotaProgram: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security
Credits: 63
Cost per credit: $208
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Tech Skills: Learn to use security tools on computers, servers, and networks.
- Stay Updated: Since technology changes quickly, this program teaches students how to keep learning about new cyber security developments.
- Great Job Opportunities: Many cyber security jobs are available, and this program gets students ready for them.
Saint Paul College
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: CyberSecurity Associate of Applied Science Degree
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $183 in-state | $277 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus, Hybrid, Online
Program highlights:- Security Skills: These programs teach students to safeguard computer systems and networks using subjects like computer structure, programming, and security planning.
- Practical Experience: Students practice in modern labs on campus, gaining hands-on skills in a safe setting.
- Certification Focus: A specific 16-credit program concentrates on cybersecurity, helping students earn certifications for related jobs.
Alexandria Technical and Community College
Alexandria, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity, Virtualization, & Networking AAS Degree
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $183
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Programs: Designed to teach students the necessary technical and organizational skills to create computer networks and cybersecurity infrastructure for businesses.
- Support and Resources: The college has an ATCC Center for Cybersecurity, which indicates that they have dedicated resources and support for students enrolled in this program.
- Jobs: It prepares students for global IT opportunities.
Century College
White Bear Lake, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity, Forensics, and Information Assurance, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Track, AAS
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $182
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Learning by Doing: The program focuses on practical experience, letting students work with real cybersecurity tools and practice defending against cyber threats.
- Using the Latest Tech: Students get access to up-to-date industry tools, keeping them informed about new risks and how to stay protected.
- Experienced Teachers: Faculty members have real-world experience in cybersecurity, providing valuable insights and knowledge.
Minnesota State College Southeast
Winona, MinnesotaProgram: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Cyber and Information Security
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $207
Delivery Method: Campus
Program highlights:- Diverse Skills: This program teaches networking, cyber security, forensics, and law basics, giving students a range of useful abilities.
- Real-Life Ready: The program teaches what's used in the industry, getting students ready for real challenges.
- Various Jobs: It's good for those interested in cyber security in law enforcement or current network administrators aiming to boost security.
Pine Technical & Community College
Pine City, MinnesotaProgram: Cyber Security AAS
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $487
Delivery Method: Campus
Program highlights:- Hands-On Practice: Students will get to do real tasks where they build, fix, and take care of different computer networks and systems.
- Fill the Gap: Finishing this program helps fill the gap in computer safety skills that many groups need.
- Get Ready for Work: After finishing, graduates can start working in jobs that protect against online dangers.
Online associate’s degrees
There are currently five options provided by Minnesota learning institutions to acquire associate’s degrees via an online format. These are listed below.
Alexandria Technical and Community College
Alexandria, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity, Virtualization, & Networking AAS Degree
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $183
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Programs: Crafted to equip students with the essential technical and managerial competencies to develop computer networks and establish cybersecurity frameworks for enterprises.
- Support and Resources: The college boasts an ATCC Center for Cybersecurity, signifying dedicated assistance and resources available for students in this program.
- Jobs: It readies students for international IT career prospects.
Century College
White Bear Lake, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity, Forensics, and Information Assurance, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Track, AAS
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $182
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Hands-on Learning: The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage with authentic cybersecurity tools and actively counter cyber threats.
- Leveraging Modern Technology: Students are provided with the latest industry tools, ensuring they are well-versed in emerging threats and their prevention methods.
- Skilled Instructors: The teaching staff brings firsthand cybersecurity experience to the table, offering invaluable expertise and understanding.
Riverland Community College
Austin, MinnesotaProgram: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security
Credits: 63
Cost per credit: $208
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Technical Abilities: Acquire the knowledge to utilize security instruments on PCs, servers, and networking systems.
- Remain Current: Given the rapid evolution of technology, this program instructs students on continuously updating their knowledge on emerging cybersecurity trends.
- Promising Career Prospects: There's a plethora of cybersecurity roles out there, and this program equips students to seize them.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Fergus Falls, MinnesotaProgram: Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $181
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Expert-Led Instruction: The curriculum is shaped by industry professionals, ensuring students are equipped with relevant skills for today's job market.
- Practical Experience: Students will not only study but also actively create secure digital environments, emphasizing experiential learning.
- Achieve Recognition: Secure vital industry certifications that validate a student's expertise.
Saint Paul College
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: CyberSecurity Associate of Applied Science Degree
Credits: 60
Cost per credit: $183 in-state | $277 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus, Hybrid, Online
Program highlights:- Protection Expertise: These courses instruct students on how to defend computer systems and networks, covering topics such as computer architecture, coding, and security strategy.
- Real-World Training: Students hone their skills in state-of-the-art campus labs, acquiring hands-on expertise in a secure environment.
- Certification Emphasis: A dedicated 16-credit course zeroes in on cybersecurity, guiding students towards obtaining job-related certifications.
Bachelor’s degrees
Bachelor’s degrees are a frequent baseline requirement for many cybersecurity analyst and engineering roles. Strong bachelor’s programs usually include:
- Secure networking and systems
- Security operations concepts (monitoring, incident response)
- Applied projects (capstone, labs) and internship support
When you’re evaluating Minnesota bachelor’s programs, prioritize evidence of hands-on learning and employer engagement (documented labs, cyber ranges, clinics, or formal partnerships), and verify those claims directly on official program/initiative pages.
Campus-based bachelor’s degrees
There are two campus-based bachelor’s degree programs available in Minnesota that are offered by Metropolitan State University. The specific degree options are listed below.
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $286
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Emphasizes lab-based courses
- In-depth understanding of contemporary technological and societal issues related to cybersecurity
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Operations (Combined BS + MS)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 142
Cost per credit: $286
Delivery Method: Campus
Program highlights:- Allows students to graduate and enter the workforce quicker than the traditional route
- Has a concentrated hardcore focus on both cyber offense and defense strategies
Online bachelor’s degrees
Currently, there is only one option for an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity offered by Metropolitan State University.
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $286
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Focuses on hands-on lab sessions.
- Comprehensive knowledge of modern tech and societal challenges linked to cybersecurity.
Master’s degrees
Master’s degrees are most useful for:
- Specialization (security engineering, forensics, cloud security)
- Career transition from another field
- Advancement into leadership or governance/risk roles
Look for programs that publish clear outcomes (capstones, labs, research groups) and—when available—participation in applied initiatives that connect students to real-world security problems.
Campus-based master’s degrees
Only one Minnesota college currently offers a cybersecurity master’s degree through an on-campus presentation.
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Operations (Combined BS + MS)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 142
Cost per credit: $286
Delivery method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
Online master’s degrees
Three Minnesota colleges currently offer master’s degrees in cybersecurity through online formats. See below for more information and links.
Walden University
Minneapolis, MinnesotaProgram: Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
Credits: 45
Cost per credit: $540
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsCapella University
Minneapolis, MinnesotaProgram: MS in Information Assurance & Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Learn more: Program detailsMetropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Cyber Operations MS
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $491
Delivery Method: Online
GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
Learn more: Program details
Certifications and workforce programs
Certification-focused training can complement degrees, especially for career changers or working professionals who need validated, job-relevant skills.
In Minnesota, workforce-aligned cybersecurity efforts also show up through statewide planning and coordination, including MNIT’s Whole-of-State Cybersecurity Plan (developed with the Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force and funded through federal/state resources), which can influence training priorities and public-sector readiness.
Campus-based cybersecurity certifications
Currently, four colleges offer options for certifications in cybersecurity disciplines.
Century College
White Bear Lake, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Analysis and Techniques Certificate
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 27
Cost per credit: $206
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsLake Superior College
Duluth, MinnesotaProgram: Cyber Security Certificate
Credits: 18
Cost per credit: $167 Campus | $183 Online
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Learn more: Program detailsMetropolitan State University
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Certificate
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 24
Cost per credit: $286
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsSaint Paul College
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: CyberSecurity Certificate
Credits: 24
Cost per credit: $183 in state | $277 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Learn more: Program details
Online cybersecurity certifications
If online certification programs are preferred, there are four available from Minnesota institutions.
All four options are listed below:
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Certificate
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $212
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsLake Superior College
Duluth, MinnesotaProgram: Cyber Security Certificate
Credits: 18
Cost per credit: $167 Campus | $183 Online
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Learn more: Program detailsMinnesota State Community and Technical College
Fergus Falls, MinnesotaProgram: Cybersecurity Certificate
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $181
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsSaint Paul College
Saint Paul, MinnesotaProgram: CyberSecurity Certificate
Credits: 24
Cost per credit: $183 in state | $277 out of state
Delivery Method: Campus, Online
Learn more: Program details
Cybersecurity bootcamps
The cybersecurity bootcamp in Minnesota offers intensive training programs designed to equip participants with the skills needed to combat cyber threats and secure digital infrastructures.
Scholarship for Service
CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) provides scholarships for cybersecurity students in exchange for post-graduation government service.
As of our review date, Minnesota institutions were not listed in the official SFS participating-institutions directory. Because participation can change by award cycle, students should re-check the directory and any Minnesota university pages that announce current SFS awards before relying on this as an available pathway.
Unique Minnesota cybersecurity initiatives
- Whole-of-State Cybersecurity Plan (MNIT): MNIT and the Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force published a Whole-of-State Cybersecurity Plan intended to coordinate statewide cyber efforts and strengthen a “whole-of-state” approach.
- Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force (MNIT): MNIT maintains a public page describing the task force and its relationship to statewide planning, including the Whole-of-State Cybersecurity Plan and SLCGP-related coordination.
- State projections transparency: Minnesota DEED publishes occupational projections and methodology notes that help students interpret demand signals without over-reading them.
Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity degrees in Minnesota
There isn’t one official count for “all cybersecurity jobs” because cybersecurity work is spread across multiple occupations. One concrete benchmark is BLS employment for Information Security Analysts: 2,900 employed in Minnesota (May 2023).
As a benchmark, the BLS reports an annual mean wage of $123,260 for Information Security Analysts in Minnesota.
There isn’t a single “best” degree for everyone. In general, a bachelor’s degree that includes hands-on labs, applied projects, and internship support is a strong baseline. Verify these features on official program or initiative pages before enrolling.
Many Minnesota students use online or hybrid programs (in-state or accredited out-of-state). For any “online” program, confirm accreditation and that the curriculum includes structured labs and a capstone/practicum.
Short-term training options exist through various providers. When evaluating them, prioritize programs that clearly document hands-on labs and outcomes, and align your choice to the roles you want (SOC analyst vs. GRC vs. engineering).
Certification demand changes over time and varies by employer. CyberSeek’s tools are useful for exploring certification mentions in job postings, including Minnesota views.
Yes. DEED projections show Information Security Analysts increasing from 2,913 (2022) to 3,729 (2032) with 2,760 total openings over 2022–2032. CyberSeek also shows ongoing posting activity (postings-based demand signal).
Yes. Many people start with an associate degree to build IT fundamentals, then transfer into a bachelor’s program for deeper security specialization.
– Associate degree: 2 years
– Bachelor’s degree: 4 years
– Master’s degree: 1–2 years beyond a bachelor’s
As of this update, Minnesota institutions were not listed in the official SFS participating-institutions directory, but participation can change by award cycle.
Cybersecurity graduates are commonly hired across healthcare, finance/insurance, manufacturing, retail/ecommerce, and government. For an education-focused benchmark, BLS occupational employment estimates show substantial Minnesota employment in cyber and cyber-adjacent roles such as Information Security Analysts and Computer Network Architects.
Entry-level cybersecurity titles can be limited, and many people enter through feeder roles (network support, systems administration, IT support) before moving into analyst roles. Minnesota’s projections table includes openings for several related occupations, which can help with pathway planning.
Sources
- CyberSeek | Cybersecurity Supply/Demand Heat Map | Accessed March 3, 2026
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics | Accessed March 3, 2026
- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development | Labor Market Information
Projections Results Table | Accessed March 3, 2026 - Minnesota DEED | Employment Outlook Projections | Accessed March 3, 2026
- Minnesota IT Services | Whole-of-State Cybersecurity Plan | Accessed March 3, 2026
- Minnesota IT Services | Cybersecurity Task Force | Accessed March 3, 2026
- U.S. Office of Personnel Management | CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service | Accessed March 3, 2026