Cyber Security Degrees in Florida | Don't Miss This List!

Cyber Security Degrees in FL

A cyber security degree provides the education necessary to work in security and tech across a variety of industries. Not all schools offer this field. The US Department of Ed’s College Scorecard shows only 22 schools offer a cyber security degree in Florida. Of those programs, the following schools had the highest number of students graduate with a degree in cyber technology:

Saint Leo University – 41 graduates
St. Petersburg College – 41 graduates
Florida State University – 35 graduates
Keiser University – Ft. Lauderdale – 31 graduates
The University of Tampa – 25 graduates
Pensacola State College – 24 graduates
Florida International University – 20 graduates
Nova Southeastern University – 14 graduates
Broward College – 9 graduates
Hodges University – 9 graduates

Online Cyber Security Degree Programs in FL

Online cyber security degree programs focus on computer and mobile connectivity, which is why many programs are available online. These programs allow students to work full time or meet at-home obligations while attending school. The cyber security schools offering flexibility through online cyber degree programs include:

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University offers an online cyber security degree program that is fully available online. This is a B.S. in Cyber Security. It is taught in a virtual lab environment allowing students to immerse themselves in a mock IT infrastructure that teaches them to use software tools and technologies in real world scenarios. The program aims to create a realistic view of what happens in these jobs.

Keiser University – Ft Lauderdale

Keiser University – Ft Lauderdale offers a fully online and on campus program of study. This includes a B.S. in Cybersecurity. This program is available fully online to teach students more comprehensive areas of study after earning an associates degree in any computer-related field. It teaches security tools and forensic techniques that many organizations need. It also teaches detection and assessment of system weaknesses.

Florida International University

Florida International University offers a range of computer-based educational programs, including cyber security. The school’s B.A. in Computer Science is an online-based program that prepares students in areas of computer organization and architecture, algorithms, program languages, and cyber security. In addition, it offers an B.S. in Information Technology that focuses on automation, IT troubleshooting, and data communications.

Broward College

Broward College offers several degree programs for cyber security, including those available in fully online formats. One option is the Associate of Science in Computer and Network Security. This program, which offers flexible course selection, prepares students to become Information Security Analysts, Computer Network Architects, and Information Systems Managers. A Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology is also available from Broward College. It teaches computer software engineering, administration of complex databases, and network systems administrator insights.

Hodges University

Hodges University offers both online and in-person opportunities for cyber security including both an A.S. and a B.S. in Computer Information Technology. These programs teach computer languages, data management, infrastructure planning, and cyber risk in a real-world environment.

Hybrid Cyber Security Degrees in FL

Some schools also offer a hybrid learning opportunity which combines both in-classroom and online learning courses. These types of courses can be beneficial to those that want a more advanced degree but want to do some learning at home.

Keiser University – Ft Lauderdale

This school offers two programs as hybrid learning opportunities. That includes the Information Technology and Programming degree, which is an Associates of Science Degree. It teaches skills to help employees adapt to ever-changing workplace challenges. A second program, the Information Security MS is also available as a hybrid course. It teaches practical knowledge of security concepts including secure application development, cryptography, and telecommunications.

Cyber Scholarships in FL

Many students pursuing a degree in cyber security in Florida will qualify for scholarships or other types of financial aid. Financial ad may be available to those who qualify. Some specific cyber security scholarship opportunities include:

AFCEA Cyber Studies & Intelligence Scholarship

The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), in partnership with Lockheed Martin and Powertek, offers a $5,000 scholarship to undergraduate students pursuing academic studies in the field. Studies can include computer science, cyber security, cyber attacks, and intelligence. Students must be in a two- or four-year college with an overall GPA of 3.0 to qualify. Other qualifications exist.

DigiCert Internet Security Scholarship

The DigiCert Internet Security Scholarship is awarded to college-bound high school seniors studying internet security. It provides $1,000 annually for education in the field for those who qualify with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and enrolling in a qualified accredited college.

Harold F. Tipton Memorial Scholarship

The International Information System Security Certification Consortium awards the Harold F. Tipton Memorial Scholarship to students enrolled in a cyber or information security profession. The award is $5,000 and is available to undergraduate studies for those enrolled in a four-year accredited undergraduate program with an overall GPA minimum of 3.5.

Microsoft Cybersecurity Essay Scholarship

The Microsoft Cybersecurity Essay Scholarship awards $2,000, $3,000, or $5,000 scholarships to three students enrolled in an accredited college in the U.S. who are pursuing a degree program in internet security. A long-form essay is a requirement for this program.

Cyber Workshops and Conferences in Florida

These annual events provide cyber security professionals to build their networks and gain ongoing insight into the field. Key workshops and conferences in Florida include:

FutureCon Tampa Cyber Security Conference

Taking place each year, this event is specific for CXO Level Professionals looking to advance their skills. It’s focus is on the advancing of cyber threats and what security leaders need to know to remain on top of these risks.

Florida Cyber Conference

The Florida Cyber Conference focuses on presentations and speakers from industry leaders. The 2020 event will be held in Orlando (this can change year-to-year). Topics include cybersecurity, C-Suite security, social engineering, and emergency trends and technology.

InfoSec World Conference & Expo

This digital format security conference is designed to provide individuals with refined experts and continuing knowledge on cyber security and disruptive technologies. It also focuses on tools for prevention and skill enhancement.

Data Connectors Jacksonville Tech-Security

The Data Connectors Conference provides hands-on education and training for senior executives and practitioners. It’s lineup changes each year to include the latest trends and threats.

Acronis Cyber Summit

This annual event brings industry leaders and lecturers together to discuss data protection strategies and opportunities for the digital world. Speakers discuss new solutions and industry insights for business leaders and practitioners.

Executive Alliance’s National Security Leaders Symposium

An annual event and webinar, this event focuses on critical security challenges putting companies at risk today. It also works to expand future-forward technology solutions through speakers and interactive groups.

Cyber Security Jobs in Florida

In Florida, the mean annual wage for cyber security careers in 2018 was $91,950, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Numerous companies offer cyber industry jobs in Florida. Some companies to consider looking for a cyber security job include:

Raytheon Technologies

Located in Pensacola, this company is a federal contractor. Raytheon Technology is recognized in the area of intelligence and space. It holds contracts with state and federal agencies including those related to national defense, supply chains, and deep space research.

General Dynamics Information Technology

A federal contractor located in Tampa, aims to be at the frontline of emergency technology. It offers a range of IT jobs including cyber security solution development positions. It is one of the largest aerospace and defense companies in the world.

SAIC

A federal contractor operating throughout the state including at MacDill Air Force Base, provides government services in information technology support. This includes jobs in information technology, program management, analytics, mission-specific tasks, and engineering.

Deloitte

An international company, Deloitte is a federal contractor operating out of Lake Mary and Tampa. Deloitte develops cyber security and offers consulting work for companies, states, and federal governments. The company also works in areas of tax, enterprise risk management, financial risk assessment, and data computing solutions.

Lockheed Martin

This company, a federal contractor, operates out of Orlando. It offers a range of IT jobs in fields such as defense, aerospace, and security. Lockheed Martin is a tech-focused organization.

Cyber Security Degrees in Florida by College

Where a person goes to school matters. When choosing a cyber security degree program in FL, it is important to choose one that has a proven track record of helping students excellent. Here are the top 15 schools based on the number of students graduating in 2018.