The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to surge as digital threats evolve. Associate degree programs in cybersecurity equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills to safeguard digital assets. Graduates are poised for diverse roles such as cybersecurity analyst, network administrator, or information security specialist.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts earn an average salary of around $120,360 per year, showcasing the lucrative potential of the field. Typically spanning two years, associate programs provide a comprehensive curriculum covering areas like network security, ethical hacking, and risk management.
The average cost of an associate degree program in cybersecurity at a two-year institution ranges from approximately $4,000 at public institutions to $16,500 at private and for-profit colleges and universities, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best Cybersecurity Associate degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 50 Accredited Cybersecurity Associate Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.53
Award
Rankings
#2 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Grand Rapids, MI
Graduation Rate: 42%
Admission Rate: 99%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$974
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-686-1600
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 98.28
Award
Rankings
#3 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Cresson, PA
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$970
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
814-886-6383
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 98.22
Award
Rankings
#5 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Queens, NY
Graduation Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,714
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
718-990-2000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 98.1
Award
Rankings
#7 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Sacramento, CA
Graduation Rate: 20%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
69-70
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $46Non-Resident: $472
accreditation
Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
916-691-7344
Delivery Format
Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
69-70
intelligent score 93.38
Award
Rankings
#8 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Long Beach, CA
Graduation Rate: 27%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $52Non-Resident: $418
accreditation
Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
562-938-4485
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 92.93
Award
Rankings
#10 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Great Falls, MT
Graduation Rate: 33%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $128Non-Resident: $498
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
406-771-4300
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 90.92
Award
Rankings
#15 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
San Antonio, TX
Graduation Rate: 18%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $109 - $180Non-Resident: $327
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
210-485-0555
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 90.71
Award
Rankings
#17 Cybersecurity Guide#18 Best Value Schools
School Information
Saint Leo, FL
Graduation Rate: 38%
Admission Rate: 80%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$700
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
855-810-1031
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 90.46
Award
Rankings
#18 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
Rockford, IL
Graduation Rate: 28%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $125 - $325Out-of-State: $694
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
815-921-3101
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
intelligent score 89.71
Award
Rankings
#15 Best Value Schools#19 Cybersecurity Guide
School Information
La Plata, MD
Graduation Rate: 26%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $140 - $245Out-of-State: $335
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
301-934-2251
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 89.55
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hillsboro, TX
Graduation Rate: 22%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $97Non-Resident: $297
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
254-659-7500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 87.17
Award
Rankings
School Information
Springfield, OH
Graduation Rate: 27%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $175Non-Resident: $322
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
937-328-6028
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
intelligent score 87
Award
Rankings
School Information
Nampa, ID
Graduation Rate: 22%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $139Non-Resident: $306
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
208-562-3000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63
intelligent score 85.98
Award
Rankings
School Information
Glen Ellyn, IL
Graduation Rate: 24%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $72 - $325Out-of-State: $387 - $395
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
630-942-2626
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
intelligent score 84.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
North East, MD
Graduation Rate: 21%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $135 - $250Out-of-State: $308
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
410-287-1006
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 84.31
Award
Rankings
School Information
Winston-Salem, NC
Graduation Rate: 25%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
84
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $76Out-of-State: $268
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
336-723-0371
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
84
intelligent score 84.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Avondale, AZ
Graduation Rate: 21%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62-77
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $146Non-Resident: $580
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
623-935-8000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62-77
intelligent score 83.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
Raleigh, NC
Graduation Rate: 29%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
69
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $76Out-of-State: $268
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-866-5420
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
69
intelligent score 81.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
Scottsbluff, NE
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $110Non-Resident: $129
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
308-763-2000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 81.14
Award
Rankings
School Information
Davenport, IA
Graduation Rate: 30%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $195Out-of-State: $262
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-336-3907
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 80.21
Award
Rankings
School Information
Oklahoma City, OK
Graduation Rate: 17%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $101Non-Resident: $293
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
405-682-1611
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
intelligent score 79.53
Award
Rankings
School Information
Carterville, IL
Graduation Rate: 34%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
65
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $145 - $210Out-of-State: $242
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
618-985-2828
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
65
intelligent score 78.43
Award
Rankings
School Information
Spartanburg, SC
Graduation Rate: 26%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
70
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $204 - $252Out-of-State: $415
accreditation
Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
864-592-4839
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
70
intelligent score 77.56
Award
Rankings
School Information
Scooba, MS
Graduation Rate: 41%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $165Out-of-State: $265
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
662-476-5000
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 76.93
Award
Rankings
School Information
Carneys Point, NJ
Graduation Rate: 36%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $212 - $246Out-of-State: $342
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
856-299-2100
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
60
intelligent score 75.9
Award
Rankings
School Information
Milledgeville, GA
Graduation Rate: 27%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$169
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
478-387-4900
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63
intelligent score 75.44
Award
Rankings
School Information
Archbold, OH
Graduation Rate: 28%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $192.33
Out-of-State: $378.66
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
419-267-1320
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
61
intelligent score 74.68
Award
Rankings
School Information
Johnstown, PA
Graduation Rate: 31%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63-64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $237 - $318Non-Resident: $445
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
814-262-6446
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63-64
intelligent score 74.68
Award
Rankings
School Information
Johnstown, PA
Graduation Rate: 31%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63-64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $237 - $318Non-Resident: $445
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
814-262-6446
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
63-64
intelligent score 75.34
Award
Rankings
1
School Information
https://www.sdstate.edu/nursing
Graduation Rate: Brookings, SD
Admission Rate: 55%
Urbanicity: Public
School Size: Town
Award
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Undergraduate: 120
accreditation
605-688-5178
more program informationEmail:
On-Campus
Phone:
[email protected]
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
intelligent score 74.92
Award
Rankings
School Information
http://cnh.loyno.edu/nursing/programs-of-study
Graduation Rate: New Orleans, LA
Admission Rate: 61%
Urbanicity: Private Nonprofit
School Size: City
Award
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Certificate: 18Undergraduate: 120Graduate: 48-96
accreditation
504-865-2643
more program informationEmail:
On-Campus, Hybrid
Phone:
[email protected]
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
intelligent score 73.98
Award
Rankings
3
School Information
https://nursing.illinoisstate.edu/academics/
Graduation Rate: Normal, IL
Admission Rate: 72%
Urbanicity: Public
School Size: Suburban
Award
Delivery Format
Large
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Certificate: 26Undergraduate: 120Graduate: 44-78
accreditation
309-438-7400
more program informationEmail:
On-Campus, Hybrid
Phone:
[email protected]
Delivery Format
Large
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
intelligent score 73.24
Award
Rankings
School Information
https://www.stmartin.edu/academics/all-programs/nursing
Graduation Rate: Lacey, WA
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Private Nonprofit
School Size: City
Award
Delivery Format
Small
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Undergraduate: 120
accreditation
360-438-4564
more program informationEmail:
On-Campus
Phone:
[email protected]
Delivery Format
Small
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
intelligent score 73.01
Award
Rankings
5
School Information
https://drexel.edu/cnhp/academics/departments/Nursing-Undergraduate/
Graduation Rate: Philadelphia, PA
Admission Rate: 67%
Urbanicity: Private Nonprofit
School Size: City
Award
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Certificate: 34-39Undergraduate: 121Graduate: 60-84
accreditation
267-359-5555
more program informationEmail:
On-Campus, Online
Phone:
[email protected]
Delivery Format
Medium
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
CCNE
Discover More Options
How to Choose a Cybersecurity Associate Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Assess your interests and strengths to determine which aspect of cybersecurity aligns best with your goals. Options range from network security and digital forensics to cryptography and ethical hacking. Research each specialization’s job market demand, salary potential, and required skills to make an informed decision. Consider pursuing relevant certifications to bolster your credentials in your chosen field. Ultimately, choosing the right area of study ensures that you develop expertise in a niche that both interests you and offers promising career prospects.
Research schools and programs
Begin by identifying accredited institutions offering associate degree programs in cybersecurity. Evaluate factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources like hands-on labs or internship opportunities. Look for schools with strong industry connections and alumni networks to enhance your career prospects post-graduation. Consider factors like location, tuition costs, and financial aid options to make an informed decision. You may want to read student reviews and speak with current students or alumni to gain insights into the program’s quality and student experience.
Prepare for tests and applications
Familiarize yourself with the admission requirements of each program, including standardized tests like the SAT or ACT and any specific prerequisites. Allocate sufficient time to study for these exams and consider enrolling in test prep courses if needed. Gather all necessary application materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, and ensure they are completed accurately and submitted on time. Polish your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences, and consider seeking guidance from mentors or admissions advisors during the application process to maximize your chances of acceptance.
Select your program
Consider factors like program accreditation, faculty expertise, and resources such as state-of-the-art labs or internship opportunities. Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics like network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking that align with your career goals. Look for programs with flexible scheduling options that accommodate your lifestyle and learning preferences. Research each program’s alumni outcomes and job placement rates to gauge its effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Start by researching financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and student loans offered by the institution or external organizations. Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid programs. Explore part-time employment opportunities or employer tuition reimbursement programs if available. Calculate the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, to develop a realistic budget. Consider creating a long-term financial plan to manage debt and minimize financial stress throughout your academic journey.
What Can You Expect From a Cybersecurity Associate Degree Program?
A cybersecurity associate degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for entry-level positions in the field. Expect to learn about network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, incident response, and risk management.
The program typically spans two years of full-time study, though part-time options may be available for those balancing work or other commitments. Prospective students should anticipate completing coursework in computer science, mathematics, and information technology, along with specialized cybersecurity courses. Some programs may also require in-person labs or residencies to provide hands-on experience and practical training in real-world scenarios.
Students may have opportunities to pursue industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to enhance their credentials and employability upon graduation. Overall, expect a rigorous yet rewarding educational experience that prepares you for a career in cybersecurity.
To access higher-paying jobs and management roles, students should consider continuing their education and earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in this field.
Potential courses you’ll take in a cybersecurity associate degree program
- Network Security. Covers principles and practices for securing computer networks against unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks. Students will learn about encryption techniques, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and network monitoring tools to protect information assets and ensure network integrity.
- Ethical Hacking. Students study ethical hacking techniques to identify vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. They learn how to conduct penetration testing, exploit security weaknesses, and recommend remediation measures to strengthen cybersecurity defenses. Practical exercises and simulations allow students to apply ethical hacking methodologies in controlled environments.
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals. Provides an overview of key concepts and principles in cybersecurity, including threat detection, risk assessment, and security controls. Students will explore various types of cyber threats and attacks as well as strategies for mitigating risks and safeguarding digital assets.
- Digital Forensics. Focuses on the principles and practices of digital forensics for investigating cybercrimes and collecting evidence from digital devices. Students will learn forensic techniques for data acquisition, analysis, and preservation as well as legal and ethical considerations in digital investigations.
- Information Security Governance. Examines the principles of information security governance and risk management within organizations. Students will learn about security policies, compliance frameworks, and best practices for establishing and maintaining effective cybersecurity programs. Case studies and discussions explore real-world challenges and strategies for aligning security initiatives with business objectives.
Cybersecurity Associate Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a cybersecurity associate degree program?
Gather required materials such as transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), and letters of recommendation. Complete the application form accurately and submit all necessary documents by the specified deadline. Additionally, schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor to discuss program requirements, prerequisites, and any questions you may have about the application process. Admissions counselors can provide valuable guidance and support to ensure a smooth application experience.
How much does a cybersecurity associate degree cost?
The cost of an associate degree varies depending on factors such as the institution and program format. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition for a two-year program ranges from $4,000 to $16,500 per year. However, additional expenses like textbooks, lab fees, and technology requirements should also be considered. Online programs may offer savings on commuting and accommodation but could still entail technology fees or virtual lab access costs. Detailed cost breakdowns can be found on college or university websites.
How long does it take to earn a cybersecurity associate degree?
Earning a cybersecurity associate degree typically takes around two years of full-time study and comprises approximately 60 credits. However, program length can vary based on factors such as enrollment status and program structure. Part-time enrollment may extend the duration to three or four years. Online programs may offer flexibility in scheduling, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace, which could expedite or prolong completion time depending on individual circumstances. Consider personal commitments and academic goals when choosing between full-time and part-time enrollment options to ensure a manageable workload and timely degree completion.