Cybersecurity Guide

Embark on a cyber career: Education and training in Ohio

Written by Cybersecurity Guide Contributors – Last updated:
In this guide

Students researching a cybersecurity degree in Ohio, comparing a cybersecurity school in Ohio, or evaluating cybersecurity programs in Ohio will find a broad range of associate, bachelor’s, and graduate pathways aligned with employer demand across the state. This page focuses specifically on degree and school options in Ohio and references institutions only when they offer distinctive workforce, research, or training initiatives that go beyond a standard program listing.

How we keep this page current

This page is updated using data from CyberSeek, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services—Labor Market Information (LMI) office, the State of Ohio Office of Information Technology, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarship for Service (SFS) program.

All institutional references are verified against official university or state pages. Statistical claims are cited inline, and time-sensitive metrics are reviewed periodically and revised or removed as needed.

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Featured Cybersecurity Degree Programs

School NameProgram More Info
Purdue GlobalOnline BS in Cybersecurity website
Southern New Hampshire UniversityOnline BS in Cybersecurity or Online MS in Cybersecurity website
Herzing UniversityOnline BS in Cybersecurity website
UC Berkeley School of InformationMaster’s in Cybersecurity | No GRE/GMAT Required website
University of Maryland Global CampusOnline Bachelor's in Cybersecurity website
Grand Canyon UniversityOnline BS in Cybersecurity or Online MS in Cybersecurity website

Cybersecurity workforce demand in Ohio

Workforce data provides important context for students evaluating cybersecurity programs in Ohio.

According to CyberSeek’s state-level dashboard, Ohio consistently ranks among the states with high cybersecurity employer demand, with thousands of active job postings for cybersecurity-related roles in recent reporting periods. CyberSeek’s data reflects employer job postings and workforce supply-demand ratios.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Labor Market Information office provides long-term projections for computer and mathematical occupations, including roles aligned with information security analysis and cybersecurity. These projections indicate continued expected growth across the decade.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that, as of May 2024, Ohio employs thousands of information security analysts, with a mean annual wage well above the state’s overall average wage level. For comparison, BLS also reports strong employment levels in related occupations such as computer systems analysts in Ohio.

It is important to understand that:

  • CyberSeek job postings measure hiring activity and employer demand signals.
  • BLS employment estimates measure filled positions.

These data sources reflect different aspects of the labor market and should not be interpreted as identical metrics.

Learn more about industries
Listen to this episode of Cybersecurity Guide with Deep Ramanayke, the director of the cybersecurity program at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
In this episode, Dr. Seth Hamman, the Director of the Center for the Advancement of Cybersecurity at Cedarville University in Cedarville.

Related resources

Cybersecurity degree pathways in Ohio

Ohio offers multiple academic entry points into cybersecurity, from two-year technical programs to research-focused graduate degrees. The right pathway depends on prior education, technical background, and career goals.

Associate degrees

Associate degrees in cybersecurity, information assurance, or network security typically require two years of full-time study. Programs often emphasize:

  • Network configuration and defense
  • Secure systems administration
  • Security fundamentals aligned with CompTIA Security+
  • Hands-on labs and simulated network environments

Students considering an associate-level cybersecurity degree in Ohio should verify:

  • Regional accreditation
  • Transfer agreements with four-year institutions
  • Industry certification alignment

Ohio’s public community college system provides technical education pathways that can articulate into bachelor’s programs across the state’s higher education system.

  1. Belmont College

    Saint Clairsville, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security & Computer Forensics
    Credits: 61
    Cost per credit: $126 in state | $230 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Clark State Community College

    Springfield, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity / Information Assurance Technology
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 61
    Cost per credit: $175 in state | $323 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Columbus State Community College

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Computer Science - Cybersecurity Major AAS
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 64-65
    Cost per credit: $178 in state | $364 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Lorain County Community College

    Elyria, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber and Information Security
    Credits: $159 in state | $336 out of state
    Cost per credit: 64-65
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Owens Community College

    Perrysburg, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security
    Credits: 63-65
    Cost per credit: $173 in state | $345 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Sinclair Community College

    Dayton, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Investigation Technology
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 61
    Cost per credit: $136 in state | $339 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  7. South State Community College

    Hillsboro, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology - Networking & Cybersecurity
    Credits: 64
    Cost per credit: $192 in state | $366 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Stark State College

    North Canton, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Science in Cyber Security and Computer Forensics
    Credits: 64
    Cost per credit: $195 in state | $324 out of state
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Terra State Community College

    Fremont, Ohio
    Program: Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems
    Credits: 63.5
    Cost per credit: $194 in state | $388 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  10. University of Northwestern Ohio

    Lima, Ohio
    Program: Assoc. Information technology Network Security
    Credits: 108
    Cost per credit: $224
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

Bachelor’s degrees

A bachelor’s degree is the most common credential for entry-level cybersecurity analyst roles.

In Ohio, students should evaluate bachelor’s programs based on:

  • Dedicated cybersecurity coursework (secure coding, digital forensics, cloud security)
  • Internship pipelines with government or private employers
  • Participation in federally recognized cybersecurity education programs

Several Ohio institutions hold designation as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through the NSA and DHS. Students should verify their current CAE status using the official CAE directory.

Ohio also has distinctive university-led cybersecurity initiatives:

When evaluating cybersecurity schools in Ohio, students should prioritize programs with lab-based instruction, employer engagement, and applied learning.

  1. Ashland University

    Ashland, Ohio
    Program: Cybersecurity, B.S.
    Credits: 120
    Cost per credit: $924 in-state | $924 out-of-state
    Delivery method: On-campus & online
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Cedarville University

    Cedarville, Ohio
    Program: BS in Cyber Operations
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-CO
    Credits: 128
    Cost per credit: $280
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Franklin University

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Bachelors in Cyber Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 128
    Cost per credit: 398
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Valley College

    Cleveland, Ohio
    Program: Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree
    Credits: 120
    Cost per credit: $503
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

Master’s degrees

Graduate cybersecurity programs in Ohio are designed for:

  • IT professionals advancing into security leadership roles
  • Engineers transitioning into security architecture
  • Students pursuing research or public-sector cybersecurity roles

Master’s programs may include:

  • Advanced network defense
  • Risk management and governance
  • Cyber law and policy
  • Digital forensics
  • Applied capstone or research projects

Students should verify whether programs include employer partnerships, cyber range access, or funded research centers.

Campus-based master’s degrees

  1. Air Force Institute of Technology

    Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio
    Program: Master of Science degree with a major in Cyber Operations
    CAE designation: CAE-R
    Credits: 48
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  2. University of Toledo

    Toledo, Ohio
    Program: Master’s Programs in Cyber Security
    Credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $627 in-state | $1,101 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Wright State University

    Dayton, Ohio
    Program: Master of Science in Cyber Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $660 in-state | $1,125 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus & online
    Learn more: Program details

Online master’s degrees

  1. Franklin University

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: M.S. in Cybersecurity
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 36
    Cost per credit: $670
    Delivery method: Online
    GRE requirement: Not required
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Tiffin University

    Tiffin, Ohio
    Program: Master of Science Cyber Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $700
    Delivery method: Online
    GRE requirement: Not required
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Wright State University

    Celina, Ohio
    Program: Master of Science in Cyber Security
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 30
    Cost per credit: $660 in-state | $1,125 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus & online
    GRE requirement: Required
    Learn more: Program details

Certifications and workforce programs

Ohio supports workforce development through both academic and state-led initiatives.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services provides information on in-demand occupations and training pathways. Students exploring short-term programs should confirm:

  • Alignment with industry certifications
  • Employer recognition
  • Placement outcomes

Programs connected to cyber ranges or state workforce initiatives often provide more applied experience than classroom-only certificate programs.

Campus-based cybersecurity certifications

  1. Belmont College

    Saint Clairsville, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Security Certificate
    Credits: 32
    Cost per credit: $126 in state | $230 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Columbus State Community College

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: IT Security Stackable Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 24
    Cost per credit: $178 in state | $364 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Kent State University at Ashtabula

    Ashtabula, Ohio
    Program: Computer Forensics and Information Security Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 23
    Cost per credit: $881 in state | $$1670 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Kent State University at East Liverpool

    East Liverpool, Ohio
    Program: Computer Forensics and Information Security Undergraduate Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 23
    Cost per credit: $714 in state | $1240 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Kent State University at Tuscarawas

    New Philadelphia, Ohio
    Program: Computer Forensics and Information Security Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 23
    Cost per credit: $714 in state | $1240 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  6. Lorain County Community College

    Elyria, Ohio
    Program: Digital Forensics and CompTIA+ Security Certification Preparation Certificate
    Credits: 8
    Cost per credit: $159 in state | $336 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  7. North Central State College

    Mansfield, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Security Fundamentals Certificate
    Credits: 10
    Cost per credit: $187 in state | $373 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Owens Community College

    Perrysburg, Ohio
    Program: Security Tech Certificate
    Credits: 27-28
    Cost per credit: $173 in state | $345 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  9. University of Akron Main Campus

    Akron, Ohio
    Program: Computer Security, Certificate
    Credits: 21
    Cost per credit: $800 in-state | $1,077 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  10. University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Operations Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-CO
    Credits: 18-20
    Cost per credit: $746 in-state | $1,333 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Wright State University-Main Campus

    Dayton, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Security Analytics Undergraduate Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 12-16
    Cost per credit: $464 in-state | $857 out of state
    Delivery method: Campus
    Learn more: Program details

Online cybersecurity certifications

  1. Columbus State Community College

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Cybersecurity Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Duration: 31 weeks
    Cost: $4,455
    Delivery method: Online & Hybrid
    Learn more: Program details

  2. MyComputerCareer.edu-Columbus

    Westerville, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Security Specialist (CSS)
    Duration: 30-42 weeks
    Cost: $587
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Ohio State University

    Columbus, Ohio
    Program: Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Offense and Defense
    Credits: 12
    Cost per credit: $756
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Sinclair Community College

    Dayton, Ohio
    Program: Cyber Investigation Certificate
    CAE designation: CAE-CD
    Credits: 33-34
    Cost per credit: $136 in state | $339 out of state
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Zane State College

    Zanesville, Ohio
    Program: Cybersecurity Technician
    Credits: 18
    Cost per credit: $194 in-state | $381 out of state
    Delivery method: Online
    Learn more: Program details

Scholarship for Service (SFS)

The National Science Foundation’s CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) program funds cybersecurity education in exchange for post-graduation service in federal, state, or local government roles.

Ohio institutions periodically participate in SFS funding cycles. Students should verify current participating institutions through the official NSF SFS site, as participation status may change by award period.

Find out the latest about cybersecurity scholarships

Unique state cybersecurity initiatives

Ohio maintains statewide IT and cybersecurity governance through the State of Ohio Office of Information Technology (OIT), which oversees cybersecurity policy, enterprise IT security, and statewide cyber risk management.

In addition:

  • The Ohio Cyber Range Institute (OCRI) provides shared cyber range infrastructure for K–12, higher education, and workforce partners across the state.
  • State-supported cybersecurity competitions and workforce pipeline efforts are coordinated in partnership with public universities and regional employers.

These initiatives create structured pathways from education into government and private-sector cybersecurity roles.

Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity degrees in Ohio

How many cybersecurity jobs are in Ohio?

CyberSeek reports thousands of active cybersecurity job postings in Ohio and provides a supply-demand ratio for the state workforce. For official employment counts, refer to the BLS state employment estimates for information security analysts.

What is the average cybersecurity salary in Ohio?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts in Ohio earn a mean annual wage significantly above the statewide average wage. Students should consult the latest BLS release for updated figures.

What is the best cybersecurity degree in Ohio?

There is no single “best” cybersecurity degree in Ohio. Students should prioritize:
– Accredited programs
– Hands-on labs or cyber range access
– Internship or employer engagement
– Alignment with CAE designation

Are there online cybersecurity programs in Ohio?

Many institutions serving Ohio residents offer online or hybrid cybersecurity programs. Students should confirm modality, accreditation, and residency requirements directly with the institution.

Does Ohio have cybersecurity bootcamps or short-term training?

Yes. Workforce-oriented certificate programs and technical training pathways are available. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services provides guidance on in-demand occupations and approved training providers.

What certifications are most requested in Ohio?

CyberSeek job posting data indicates common employer requests for certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CEH in Ohio.

Is cybersecurity in demand in Ohio?

Yes. CyberSeek demand signals and BLS employment data both indicate sustained demand for cybersecurity professionals in Ohio.

Can I start with an associate degree?

Yes. An associate degree can prepare students for entry-level IT and security roles and may transfer into a bachelor’s program within Ohio’s public university system.

How long does a cybersecurity degree take?

Associate degree: about 2 years, Bachelor’s degree: about 4 years, and Master’s degree: typically 1–2 years

Does Ohio participate in Scholarship for Service?

Ohio institutions have participated in NSF’s Scholarship for Service program. Students should verify current participation through the official NSF SFS directory.

What industries in Ohio hire cybersecurity graduates?

Cybersecurity graduates in Ohio work in:
– State and local government
– Healthcare systems
– Financial services
– Manufacturing
– Defense and aerospace
Public-sector cybersecurity coordination is overseen by the Ohio Office of Information Technology.

Are there entry-level cybersecurity roles in Ohio?

Yes. Entry-level roles such as SOC analyst, security analyst I, and IT security specialist appear regularly in CyberSeek job postings for Ohio.

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