- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Cybersecurity certifications
- Cybersecurity initiatives in ND
- FAQs
For students comparing cybersecurity education options, North Dakota includes several college pathways linked to workforce demand in major industries such as finance, defense contracting, insurance, and healthcare.
This page is focused specifically on degree and school pathways, and institutions are referenced only when they offer distinctive research, workforce, or training initiatives.
How we keep this page current
This page is reviewed using North Dakota-focused demand signals from, including CyberSeek, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Job Service North Dakota labor market data, the North Dakota Information Technology Department, and the NSF Scholarship for Service program.
Any program or initiative claims about institutions are verified against official university or state pages. We periodically review this page and remove or revise time-sensitive claims that can’t be re-verified.
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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 |
| UC Berkeley School of Information | Master’s in Cybersecurity | No GRE/GMAT Required | 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 North Dakota
Cybersecurity demand in North Dakota is driven by financial services, energy, healthcare, state government, and defense-related employers.
According to CyberSeek, North Dakota typically reports hundreds of cybersecurity-related job postings annually, reflecting steady employer demand across the state. CyberSeek data represents employer job postings and certification requests rather than total employment.
State-level projections from Job Service North Dakota show continued demand for information security analysts and related IT occupations within the state’s long-term employment outlook. These projections reflect anticipated employment growth rather than current job openings.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts in North Dakota earn a mean annual wage of approximately $103,000. BLS employment estimates measure the number of people currently employed in an occupation, not active job vacancies.
BLS data also shows employment of Network and Computer Systems Administrators in North Dakota with mean annual wages around $86,000, a common pathway into cybersecurity roles (BLS Occupational Employment Statistics).
Together, CyberSeek demand data, state projections, and BLS wage estimates indicate a consistent need for trained cybersecurity professionals in North Dakota.
Related resources
Cybersecurity degree pathways in North Dakota
North Dakota offers several pathways into cybersecurity careers through community colleges, public universities, and workforce development programs.
Associate degrees
Associate degrees provide foundational preparation for entry-level IT and cybersecurity support roles. Coursework often includes:
- Introduction to ethical hacking
- Network fundamentals
- Operating systems
- Cyber defense basics
- Security administration
Students evaluating associate programs should look for:
- Certification-aligned coursework (e.g., Security+)
- Transfer agreements to four-year programs
- Hands-on labs or virtual cyber environments
Associate degrees can provide an affordable entry into cybersecurity education and may transfer into bachelor’s programs.
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, ND
Program: Associate in Applied Science in Cybersecurity & Computer Networks
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 60-64
Cost per credit: $174 in state | $304 out of state
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- What It's About: Teaches students about computer security and how computers talk to each other.
- Study: They use real-life examples to teach, and the program keeps changing to keep up with the world.
- Jobs You Can Get After: After finishing, students can work with computers and computer security for many companies.
Bachelor’s degrees
Bachelor’s degrees are the most common educational credentials for cybersecurity professionals. Programs typically include:
- Network security
- Digital forensics
- Risk management
- Secure systems design
- Incident response
- Cloud security
Students evaluating bachelor’s programs should consider:
- National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation
- Dedicated cybersecurity labs or cyber ranges
- Internship or employer partnerships
The University of North Dakota has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, recognizing its cybersecurity curriculum alignment with federal standards.
The North Dakota State University supports cybersecurity education and research initiatives aligned with workforce needs in the state and region (NDSU Cybersecurity Initiatives).
Programs that integrate applied labs and research opportunities can provide students with practical cybersecurity experience alongside academic coursework.
Campus bachelor’s degree
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, NDProgram: Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Information Technology
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 123-127
Cost per credit: $174 in state | $304 out of state
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- About the Program: Teaches students how to protect and manage digital data.
- Courses: The course content is updated based on feedback from cybersecurity professionals.
- Jobs After Graduation: Jobs include roles like Security Analyst, Network Analyst, and Systems Manager.
Minot State University
Minot, NDProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Operations
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 123
Cost per credit: $354
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- About the Program: This course teaches students how to protect computers and data from online threats.
- Courses: It mixes classroom learning with hands-on experience.
- Job Opportunities: Jobs in this field include roles like Security Architect, Penetration Tester, and Security Engineer.
North Dakota State University
Fargo, NDProgram: B.S. in Computer Science - Cybersecurity Focus
CAE designation: CAE-R
Credits: 121
Cost per credit: $358 in state | $537 out of state
Delivery method: Campus
Program highlights:- Courses: They offer a wide range of subjects, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science.
- Real-world Experience: Students get hands-on experience through internships and a special end-of-year project.
- Job Opportunities: Many graduates find jobs in top tech companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
Rasmussen College-North Dakota
Fargo, NDProgram: Bachelor's Degree in Cyber Security
Credits: 90
Cost per credit: $279
Delivery method: On-campus, Online
Program highlights:- Job Certifications: The program gets students ready for important job tests in cyber security.
- Career Boost: The course helps students get better jobs in computer security.
- Cost and Help: The university has ways to make the course cheaper, like scholarships and credits for what students already know.
University of Mary
Bismarck, NDProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Administration
Credits: 124
Cost per credit: $867
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Quality: The program is internationally recognized for its quality.
- Skills: Learn to build and manage secure IT systems and solve business issues.
- Career Ready: Prepares students for IT jobs in today's digital business world.
Online bachelor’s degree
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, NDProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
Credits: 120
Cost per credit: $449 in state | $503 out of state
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Nature of the Program: It's a blend of tech training with a touch of arts, making students well-rounded.
- Why It's Relevant: There's a big demand for cybersecurity experts. As cyber threats grow, so do job opportunities and salaries in this field.
- Recognition: UND's online version of this degree is known for its quality and affordability.
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, NDProgram: Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Information Technology
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 123-127
Cost per credit: $174 in state | $304 out of state
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Courses: Students learn about firewalls, cloud computing, networking, and data security.
- Jobs After Graduation: Graduates can work in IT, cybersecurity, or in specialized centers for network and security operations.
- Certificates: The program offers specialized training in areas like hacking, networking, and secure programming.
Minot State University
Minot, NDProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Operations
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 123
Cost per credit: $354
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Topics: Students will study topics like hacking for good (ethical hacking), protecting networks, and understanding malware.
- High Demand: Many cybersecurity jobs are available right now.
- Quality Education: The university's program is recognized by the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Mary
Bismarck, NDProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security Administration
Credits: 124
Cost per credit: $480
Delivery method: Campus, Online
Program highlights:- Goal: Train students for IT jobs, from tech giants to small business consultants.
- Jobs After: Roles like Systems Admin, Database Admin, Security Analyst, and more.
- Skills: Learn about computer systems, online labs, cyber defense, and ethical system management.
Rasmussen College
Fargo, NDProgram: Bachelor's Degree in Cyber Security
Credits: 90
Cost per credit: $280
Delivery Method: On-campus, Online
Learn more: Program details
Master’s degrees
Master’s-level cybersecurity programs support career advancement into specialized or leadership roles such as:
- Security architect
- Cybersecurity manager
- Threat analyst
- Security engineer
Campus-based master’s degree
North Dakota State University
Fargo, NDProgram: Master of Science (M.S.) in Software and Security Engineering
CAE designation: CAE-R
Credits: 32
Cost per credit: $421 in state | $632 out of state
GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
Delivery method: Campus
Program highlights:- Complete Learning: The program teaches both software creation and safety.
- For Everyone: It's designed for students and professionals.
- Quality Focus: NDSU emphasizes making high-quality software.
Online master’s degree
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, NDProgram: Online Master of Science in Cyber Security
Credits: 36
Cost per credit: $866
GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
Delivery method: Online
Program highlights:- Flexible Learning: Pick from topics like Ethical Hacking and Computer Forensics.
- Job Ready: The course gets you ready for real-world jobs and certain exams.
- Support: UND provides extra help with studies, including tutoring.
Minot State University
Minot, NDProgram: Master of Science in Information Systems
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 30
Cost per credit: $390
GRE/GMAT Required: Not Required
Delivery method: Online
Program highlights:- Cost: Affordable fees with financial help for some students.
- Time: Finish in as short as two semesters.
- Quality: Recognized by top education groups.
Graduate programs often include advanced coursework in:
- Applied cryptography
- Secure software development
- Incident response
- Security analytics
- Cyber risk management
Students considering graduate programs should evaluate research opportunities, capstone projects, and industry engagement components.
Certifications and workforce programs
Short-term training and certification programs provide additional pathways into cybersecurity careers or advancement opportunities.
Workforce-oriented programs often include:
- Certification preparation
- Hands-on lab environments
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Common certifications requested in cybersecurity job postings include:
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CyberSeek data indicates that Security+ and CISSP are among the most requested cybersecurity certifications nationwide and regionally.
Minot State University
Minot, NDProgram: Graduate Certificate Program: Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 12
Cost per credit: $390
Delivery method: Campus
Program highlights:- Program: Primarily focused on management and special education.
- Courses: Designed as concentrated courses of study that necessitate specific graduate credits.
Minot State University
Minot, NDProgram: Graduate Certificate Program: Cybersecurity Management
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Credits: 9
Cost per credit: $390
Delivery method: Campus
Program highlights:- Focus Areas: Management and special education.
- Program: Intensive courses of study that require specific graduate credits.
North Dakota State College of Science
Wahpeton, NDProgram: Certificate in IT Forensics and Security
Credits: 37
Cost per credit: $156 in state | $273 out of state
Delivery method: Campus, Hybrid
Program highlights:- About the Program: This certificate teaches professionals how to protect information systems from threats and handle IT security incidents.
- Goals: The program offers a comprehensive introduction to IT Forensics and CyberSecurity, emphasizing their ethical and legal aspects.
- Outcome: Successful students get a certificate in IT Forensics and CyberSecurity.
Scholarship for Service
North Dakota institutions have participated in the federal Scholarship for Service (SFS) program, which provides cybersecurity scholarships in exchange for post-graduation service in government roles.
Scholarship for Service programs typically include:
- Tuition coverage
- Living stipends
- Internship placements
- Pathways into federal, state, or local government employment
Students should confirm current participation through the official Scholarship for Service program directory.
Unique North Dakota cybersecurity initiatives
The North Dakota Information Technology Department coordinates statewide cybersecurity strategy and supports workforce initiatives across state agencies.
North Dakota universities designated as National Centers of Academic Excellence align their cybersecurity curriculum with federal standards and workforce competencies.
The state’s collaboration between higher education institutions and public-sector agencies supports applied cybersecurity training and workforce development aligned with state government needs.
All initiatives listed above are verified through official institutional or state agency pages.
Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity degrees in North Dakota
CyberSeek reports hundreds of cybersecurity job postings annually in North Dakota, indicating ongoing employer demand. Job posting data reflects hiring demand rather than total employment.
Information Security Analysts in North Dakota earn a mean annual wage of approximately $103,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A bachelor’s degree covering network security, digital forensics, and risk management is the most common starting point. Programs designated as National Centers of Academic Excellence demonstrate alignment with federal cybersecurity education standards.
Yes. Some North Dakota institutions offer online or hybrid cybersecurity programs. Students should confirm delivery formats directly with institutions.
Yes. Workforce training programs and continuing education divisions offer short-term cybersecurity training and certification preparation.
CyberSeek data shows that certifications such as Security+, CISSP, and CEH frequently appear in cybersecurity job postings.
Yes. CyberSeek job-posting data and state labor projections indicate steady demand for cybersecurity professionals in North Dakota.
Yes. Associate degrees can lead to entry-level IT and cybersecurity support roles and often transfer into bachelor’s degree programs.
– Associate degree: about 2 years
– Bachelor’s degree: about 4 years
– Master’s degree: about 1–2 years
Yes. North Dakota institutions have participated in the federal Scholarship for Service program, which supports cybersecurity education in exchange for government service.
Cybersecurity graduates in North Dakota commonly work in:
– Financial services
– Energy and utilities
– Healthcare
– State government
– Defense-related industries
These sectors require cybersecurity professionals to protect data and infrastructure.
Yes. Entry-level roles may include:
– Security analyst
– SOC analyst
– IT security specialist
– Network security technician
Many entry-level positions require both a degree and foundational certifications.
Sources
- CyberSeek | Cybersecurity Supply/Demand HeatMap | Accessed February 27, 2026
- Bureau of Labor Statistics | Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics | Accessed February 27, 2026
- Bureau of Labor Statistics | Network and Computer Systems Administrators | Accessed February 27, 2026
- Job Service North Dakota | Labor Market Information Portal | Accessed February 26, 2026
- North Dakota Information Technology Department | State Cybersecurity Programs | Accessed February 27, 2026
- CAE Community | National Centers of Academic Excellence Designation Search | Accessed February 27, 2026
- NSF / OPM | CyberCorps Scholarship for Service | Accessed February 27, 2026