Why This Matters

  • 23% HAVE POST-BACCALAUREATE EDUCATION

    For those who are employed as information security analysts, O*NET reports that 53% have a bachelor’s degree and 23% have advanced certifications, meaning those with a master’s degree in the field will be very competitive.

  • BY 2029, THE INDUSTRY WILL NEED OVER 40,000 MORE INFORMATION SECURITY PROFESSIONALS

    The job outlook for information security professionals is rising at a rate of 31%, which is much faster than average.

  • EARN OVER $90,000 IN BONUSES AND PROFIT-SHARING

    High-level positions, such as Chief Information Security Officer, come with bonuses of over $60,000 plus profit-sharing benefits of over $30,000 on top of your six-figure base salary.

Our Research

Our list looks at master’s programs in information systems, cybersecurity, and IT. The number of credits required ranges from 30 to 60, and all degrees are available online.

Any school you choose must be accredited. Established in 1895, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits postsecondary schools in 19 states, ensuring that each institution is dedicated to student learning and continuous improvement. In addition to HLC-accredited universities, our list also includes regionally-accredited colleges and universities.

  • 75 hours to write this article
  • 90 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 178 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Master’s in Information Systems Security Programs

Best Online Master's in Information Systems Security Programs Badge
01
Intelligent Pick
James Madison University
01
Best Private Institution
Mississippi College
01
Best for Critical Thinking Skills
Florida Institute of Technology
01
Best Analytics Focus
Penn State World Campus
01
Best Asynchronous Program
University of Denver
01
Best Public Institution
Sam Houston State University
01
Best Database Management Focus
Dakota State University
01
Best NSA/DHS Certification
Nova Southeastern University
01
Best in the Midwest
Iowa State University - Engineering Online
01
Best Two-Year Program
Western Governors University
01
Best for Veterans
National University
01
Most Recognized Faculty
George Washington University
01
Best for Doctoral Preparation
University of Southern California
01
Best Part-Time Program
Brandeis University
01
Best for Research
Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals
01
Best in the Mid-Atlantic Region
Columbia University
01
Best Capstone Experience
DePaul University
01
Best for Military Students
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
01
Best for Working Professionals
Northeastern University
01
Best Catholic Institution
Regis University
01
Best for International Students
Davenport University
01
Best Certificate Option
University of Arizona
01
Best for Career Changers
Colorado State University
01
Best Cyber Law Concentration
Norwich University
01
Best Public Research Institution
OSU Online
01
Best Student Services
Mississippi State University
01
Best Online Technology
NYU Tandon School of Engineering
01
Best for Full-Time Students
University of Colorado Boulder
01
Best for Transfers
Liberty University
01
Best One-Year Program
Kennesaw State University
01
Best for CISSP Exam Preparation
University of Dallas
01
Most Interdisciplinary Program
Wilmington University
01
Best Hybrid Program
University of Arkansas
01
Best Faculty
University of Delaware
01
Best In-State Tuition Rate
University of Maine
01
Best Leadership Training
New Jersey Institute of Technology
01
Most Flexible Program
Robert Morris University
01
Best Cybersecurity Track
Bellevue University
01
Best Financial Aid
Excelsior University
01
Best in the Pacific Northwest
City University of Seattle
01
Best Business Intelligence Focus
Ferris State University
01
Best Focus on Communication
University of New Haven
01
Best Career Services
University of the Cumberlands
01
Best Scholarships
Colorado Technical University

What You Should Know About This Degree

When pursuing an online master’s degree in information systems security, it’s important for you to confirm that the institution and program are accredited by the Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This information should be listed on the site.

Some may wonder about the difference between a master’s in information systems and a master’s in information technology. While they are similar, information systems focuses on the methods that ensure the overall security of an organization’s data, while an IT master’s degree deals with the management of a network, including information systems.

The job outlook is excellent because a master’s opens the door to higher management roles, including c-suite opportunities with six-figure earning potential. Experience and a higher degree will take you far, but consider adding industry-specific certifications to your resume as well. CompTIA Security+ and the CISSP are just a couple of top certifications that can help you stand out as a worthy candidate who’s ready for more responsibilities.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online master’s in information systems security programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? A bachelor’s degree in related fields, such as engineering or technology, is usually required. There may also be a minimum undergraduate GPA requirement. Some programs also prefer candidates with a minimum level of work experience, as there may be a capstone project that requires practical knowledge of the industry.
  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? For full-time students, this degree takes about one to two years to complete. Students who go part-time can expect to graduate in about three years.

When researching programs, it’s a good idea to keep a spreadsheet of vital information, such as admission requirements, application deadlines, and department contact information.

Along with federal loans, a number of scholarships are available for those with financial need. In some cases, employers may offer tuition reimbursement. Ask your HR department for more information.