WHAT IS A CYBER SECURITY BACHELOR DEGREE?
Cyber security bachelor’s degrees often study cyber crime from all sides. How they happen. And, ways to keep data safe, secure and private. They aim to equip students with the skill set to defend a companies computer operating systems, networks and data from cyber attacks. While part of the learning is theory, cyber security degrees are often technical degrees.
These programs could teach you how to spot design flaws and threats. You may also study protocols and codes that protect systems. Firewalls are one example. In other classes, you may learn about design. For example, how to build strong networks. Or, you may craft apps that check for breaches. Also, many programs may discuss all kinds of cyber attacks. These range from gray ware to viruses. And, may help you predict hacker behavior.
TYPES OF CYBER SECURITY BACHELOR’S DEGREES
Cyber Security bachelors degrees often come in two basic types. There are Bachelor of Arts (BA) and of Sciences (BS). Many schools may award a bachelor of science (BS). BS or BA, there may be many variations on actual degree program names. In some cases, it may also affect the specific core elements of the degree.
For example, some of them may be more technical. They fall under Comp Sci. Or software engineering. Others relate to the business side of cyber defense. So, may help you learn to craft a security policy. Or, manage IT teams and security projects.
Bachelors in Cyber Security (BS)
Schools may offer programs in a variety of ways. Some may offer a general cyber security core that cover courses like cyber principals and database design. Then, may allow the student to choose a track. You may be able to select a general track that covers both offense and defense concepts. Another option may be an offense track that covers more of a focus on hacking. There may also be a defense track that covers things like cloud security and digital forensics.
Business Admin (BBA) – Cyber Security
At the core of this degree are typically basic business concepts meant to help you hone your skills as a leader. Along with business classes, you may take a handful of classes in cyber security. Classes could include how to manage systems and databases. And, how to keep them safe and secure. This may also expose you to trends in software.
Information Systems (BS) – Cyber Security Intelligence
In this program, you often study network systems. You are also likely to learn about cyber defense. This could mean learning how to craft a tactical plan. Then to share it with execs in your company. Often, this takes a deep grasp of national security issues. So, you may also study foreign policy and data privacy laws.
Criminal Justice (BS) – Crime Analysis
A criminal justice often studies laws and how to solve cyber crime. To do this, you may study cyber laws. Plus the ins and outs of ethical hacking.
THE COST OF A BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN CYBER SECURITY
The tuition for a bachelor’s in cyber security varies. For the 2018 school year, NCES found the average cost per year for a bachelor degree was $20,050. This is for an in state, 4 year public college. This cost goes up to $43,139 for private college. These figures are only for tuition and fees. As such, you may have other things to budget for. Like books, supplies, room and board. If you choose an online degree, some of these costs may not be a factor.
CYBER SECURITY BACHELOR’S CURRICULUM
With cyber crime on the rise, now may be the perfect time to consider cyber security bachelor’s degree options. As online data continues to need to be protected, there is a big gap in the skilled work force. In fact, experts say this is a cause for worry. And, according to CPO Magazine it will take 145% more cyber security pros to fill the short fall. While the skills gap may be alarming news, it may also create new jobs!
Like other programs, many cyber security degrees may go both wide and deep with their coursework. So, they may start with intro level 101 classes. Then, move into more complex ones. To give you an idea, here are a few core topics.
Core Curriculum:
- Cyber BasicsThis course may teach you how to put in place and audit the Critical Security Controls as documented by the Council on Cyber Security.
- Basics of Network SecurityThis type of class would teach you ways to keep computer networks safe. Safe from hackers, viruses and other breaches. You may study previous cyber attacks to learn of how to detect and prevent future attacks.
- Digital ForensicsHackers often leave traces behind after a cyber attack. So, this class may hone your detective skills. As such, you may learn how to track and collect this evidence to help catch the bad guys.
- Safety MeasuresWeak systems are easy to hack and attack. As such, this class often looks at systems software design. For instance, how to build secure systems. And scan for flaws. So, other topics also look at safety protocols and tests.
- Cyber LawThis course would cover topics such as information security and policies related to privacy, incident response, computer crime, IP, and recently decided cases.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO EARN A BS IN CYBER SECURITY?
It may take 4 years of full time study to earn a BS in cyber security. And, while many plans entail 120 credits, you may fast track your studies. There may be a few ways to do this. One may be to transfer credits from an associate degree. Another way could be to earn your degree online. Then, take a very full course load and no summer break.
Once you earn your BS, you may want to pursue a certification. CompTIA, or ISACA are a few. Some people also go onto pursue a master’s in cyber security. If you do, it may help you in a few ways. For one, to climb the ladder into a manager role. And, also earn more money.
To this point, one study looked at people with bachelors and masters in comp sci degrees. It then linked each level to their starter salaries to see if there was any wage gap. And there was. People with a BS earned about $68,103 per year according to the NACE. But, those with a master’s often earn $82,275. That’s a jump up of more than $14,000!
What Accreditation Should I Look For?
Accredited programs meet norms for quality. As cyber security falls under Computer Science, a main accrediting agency is ABET. ABET grants CAC approval. CAC approval, in turn, may help you when it comes to pursue a job. Or, take certification exams.
TOP 25 SCHOOLS WITH CYBER SECURITY BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
What make one cyber security bachelor’s degree distinct from another? The reality is, no two schools are the same. As you can see, there is a lot of choice. So, we want to help you nail down some options. To do this, we ranked our top 25 colleges with Cyber security bachelor’s degrees. Our methodologies use data from the NCES based on 2018 graduates from the programs.
BS in Cyber Security
This program prepares students to be able to deal with cyber threats in an organization. It requires 120 credits and approximately four years to complete.
Courses:
- Information Systems Fundamentals
- Cyber Domain
- Foundations of Security
- Fundamentals of Networking
Desired Outcome: To obtain a position in cyber security in any of a number of organizations. Job titles could include IT security analyst, IT specialist or systems analyst.
Purdue University-Main Campus
BS in Cyber Security
This is a four year program that requires the completion of 120 credits to graduate. The program will use many hands on projects in order to prepare the student for the job market.
Courses:
- Database Fundamentals
- UNIX Fundamentals
- Cyber Criminology
- Basic Cyber Forensics
Desired Outcome: To obtain a position as a member of an organization working in cyber security. Desired positions include security analyst, chief technology officer and IT analyst.
Southern New Hampshire University
BS in Cyber Security
This program requires 120 credits and four years of study. The biggest focus of this program is on systems thinking.
Courses:
- Introduction to Scripting
- Intro to Computer Networks
- Cybersecurity Foundations
- Network Security
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to allow students to obtain a position in cyber security upon graduation. There are multiple positions and titles to consider based on the focus of the degree.
American Public University System
BS in Cyber Security
This is a four year program that requires 120 credits to graduate. This program will increase knowledge in cybersecurity resources, laws and tools.
Courses:
- Hardening Operating Systems
- Information Security
- Statistics
- Cryptography Concepts
Desired Outcome: To complete the program and pursue a career in cyber security. Options also include continuing to a master’s program.
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
BS in Information Technology – Security
BS in Computer Science – Cyber Security Engineering
This program requires 184 credits over four years to complete. The goal is to provide education and concentrations for students to provide IT security.
Courses:
- UNIX Fundamentals
- Intro to Computer Security
- Intro to Programming Logic
- Fundamentals of Database Symptoms
Desired Outcome: To have a career in cyber security possibly in the NSA or the Department of Homeland Security. Students can find a career in many different industries while finishing this degree.
BS in Computing Security
A degree that will provide a foundation programming and system security. It is a four year program that requires 126 credits to complete.
Courses:
- Intro to Routing and Switching
- Intro to Cyber Security
- Systems Administration
- Network Services
Desired Outcome: To obtain a position in the field of cyber security as an analyst or network engineer. Other courses of action may include continuing to a master’s degree.
BS in Cyber Security
The program consists of classroom instruction as well as hands on learning to enhance the experience. It is a four year program requiring 120 semester hours to complete.
Courses:
- Introduction to Programming
- Intro to Cloud Services
- Intro to Networking
- Linux Administration
Desired Outcome: To obtain a career in technical support or as an information security analyst. The program prepares a number of careers or possible grad school.
Bachelors in Computer Information Systems with Cyber Security Programming
This is a four year program that will require 124 credits to complete. The program will teach complex problem solving, networking and routing among other skills.
Courses:
- Intro to Programming
- Intro to Digital Devices
- Fundamentals of Information Security
- Database Systems and Programming Fundamentals
Desired Outcome: The goal of the program is to get a career as a computer programmer, forensics expert or other position in the field of cyber security. The program will assist in the finding of positions for you.
BS in Computer Science – Cybersecurity
This program requires 120 credit hours completed and in most cases will take 4 years. The goal is to provide students with the knowledge to succeed in the field of cyber security.
Courses:
- Computing
- Intro to Computer Security
- Discrete Structures
- Logic Design
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to have the knowledge to obtain a career in cyber security in any of a number of positions. There is also the option to continue to a master’s program.
BS in Computer Information Technology
This four year program requires 120-121 credits to complete. The goal is to prepare students for a information technology career.
Courses:
- Intro to Cyber Security
- Operating Systems
- Systems Security
- Web Fundamentals
Desired Outcome: The goal of this course is to prepare students for a career in cyber security in the information technology field. The program provides different courses of study to allow students to choose their path.
BS in Computer Systems – Cyber Security
This program is designed to help students to obtain a career in the computing world. Consists of 120 credits and four years of study.
Courses:
- Systems Administration
- Interconnectivity
- Network Security Fundamentals
- Advanced Security Technologies
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students the necessary tools to get a career in cyber security. The program can also lead to students pursuing a master’s degree.
BS in Information Technology – Computer Forensics and Security Emphasis
The programs is designed to help students manage and maintain computing infrastructure. The program requires 122 credits and about four years to complete.
Courses:
- Computer Programming
- Database Fundamentals
- Computer Networks
- Web Systems Development
Desired Outcome: This program is designed to provide students the opportunity to obtain a career in the field of cyber security. The program also provides the foundation to continue to higher level degree.
BS in Information Technology – Cyber Security
This program consists of 40 11 week courses that will be required to complete it. The goal is to teach students about defensive information technology.
Courses:
- Intro to Networking
- Computer Architecture
- Networking Security Fundamentals
- Web Design and Development
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers is cyber security. The program also prepares students to continue earning certificates and additional degrees in the field.
BS in Game Programming
Students develop problem solving and code writing skills in this program. This is a four year program with a minimum of 120 credit hours completed.
Courses:
- Principles of Computer Science
- Programming for Games
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Programming Game Engines
Desired Outcome: This program is designed to provide students with the ability to get and have a career in game programming. The program provides the knowledge to give students the ability to work in the gaming industry.
Utah State University
BS in Computer Science
This program is a four year program and consists of 120 semester hours. The program provides students with the foundations for computing and applying those techniques while using critical thinking.
Courses:
- Intro to Computer Science
- Algorithms and Data Structures
- Methods in Computer Science
- Operating Systems and Concurrency
Desired Outcome: To obtain a position in the field of computer science. The student’s goal is to work and have a career in information technology on some level.
BA in Business Administration – Information Systems
This program provides cyber security students with a business degree with a concentration in running operating systems. This is a 4 year program that requires 132 credits.
Courses:
- Economics
- Statistics
- Finances
- SQL
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students with the ability to start a career as an IT director for a business. The program prepares students for careers in multiple fields.
BS Computer Science – Network Security
This is a four year program with a minimum of 120 credits needed to graduate. This program will cover a variety of topics to prepare students to enter the field of network security.
Courses:
- Software Engineering
- Operating Systems
- Scripting Languages
- Computer and Network Security
Desired Outcome: The goal for students in this program is to obtain a position in network security in a number of possible positions. Students may also choose to continue towards a higher level degree.
BS in Cyber Security
This program can be completed in 29 months online. You will receive a BS and have a background in network security as well as securing systems and data.
Courses:
- Networking Technologies
- Cloud Networking
- Virtual Computing
- Software Security
Desired Outcome: The goal of this program is to provide students with the ability to have a cyber security career or work in network technology. Positions include systems analyst as well as IT technician.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
BS in Cyber Security Analytics and Operations
This program is a four year program requiring the completion of 126 credits. The program is designed to ready students for careers as cyber security professionals.
Courses:
- Malware Analytics
- Cyber Incident Handling and Response
- Intro to Application Development
- Networking and Telecommunications
Desired Outcome: To obtain a career as a cyber security analyst. This program will allow students to work as a cyber threat advisor, security engineer, and vulnerability assessor among other positions.
BS in Information and Computer Science – Cyber Security
This is a four year program that requires the completion of 120 semester hours. The program will focus on cyber security to prepare students looking to enter that field.
Courses:
- Intro to Programming
- Secure Programming
- Secure Operation
- Computer Operating Systems
Desired Outcome: The goal of the student is to find a career in the IT field upon graduation. Positions such as security analyst as well as IT consultant are some of the options to consider.
BS in Computer Networking and Cyber Security
This is a four year program designed to teach students information about web applications, databases and network security. The program will provide a background in these areas to allow a student to enter the field of cyber security.
Courses:
- Systems Fundamentals
- Python Programming
- Network Protocols
- Network Design
Desired Outcome: This program will allow graduates to seek IT positions in cyber security or security systems upon graduation. The student may also choose to continue on to a higher level degree.
BS in Cyber Leadership and Intelligence
BS in Cyber Operations
These are four year programs that require the completion of 120 credit hours to graduate. The programs will prepare for careers in a multiple of area in the world of cyber security.
Courses:
- Intro to Cyber Leadership
- Computer Science
- Web Application Programming
- Networking
Desired Outcome: The goals of these majors is to provide students with the ability to work in the field of cyber security in a number of different facets. Some careers include digital forensics and security analyst.
Purdue University Global
BS in Cyber Security
This is a four year program that requires 180 credit hours to complete. The program will teach students how to analyze, design and evaluate computing based threats.
Courses:
- Computer Networks
- Ethical Hacking and Network Defense
- Computer Forensics and Investigations
- Database Concepts
Desired Outcome: The goal of this degree program is to provide students the ability to have a career in cyber security. Careers can range from IT analyst to security advisor among others.
BS in Information Technology and Security – Information Assurance and Cyber Security
This is a 120 credit four year undergraduate program for receiving your BS. The program will provide a solid base for securing a variety of systems and platforms.
Courses:
- Intro to Programming
- Python Programming
- Linux
- Security Policies and Auditing
Desired Outcome: To obtain a career in cyber security in a variety of roles. There are options for careers as well as continuing to a higher level degree.
BS in Computer and Network Security
This bachelor’s program is 120 credit hours and is based on a four year plan. The program will provide students with a background in the field allowing them to pursue different careers.
Courses:
- Database Foundations
- Intro to Linux
- Web and Data Security
- Firewalls and Data Security
Desired Outcome: The goal of the graduates of this program are to pursue careers in fields such as ethical hacking, intrusion analysts and penetration tester among others.
WHAT JOBS CAN YOU GET WITH A BACHELOR’S IN CYBER SECURITY?
These are some of the positions attainable and their information according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
IT Auditor:
Median 2019 Annual Salary: $90,920
2019-2029 Growth: 7%
Per the BLS, the IT Auditor or Computer Systems Analyst will assess and manage a company’s computer systems. The goal is to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Cyber Security Engineer:
Median 2019 Annual Salary: $112,690
2019-2029 Growth: 5%
Per the BLS, the Cyber Security Engineer or Computer Network Architect will build and design the network for a business or organization. This includes working with local area networks and wide area networks.
Network Security Administrator:
Median 2019 Annual Salary: $83,510
2019-2029 Growth: 4%
According to the BLS, this career focuses on the day to day operation of the computer networks of an organization.
Information Security Analyst:
Median 2019 Annual Salary: $99,730
2019-2029 Growth: 31%
Per the BLS, this job focuses on analysis. And O-Net reports 53% of people working in this field have a bachelor’s degree. As an information security analyst you are likely to run lots of systems tests. These tests check for risks. So, you will be helping to prevent and deter cyber attacks.
Top Salaries by State for Information Security Analysts in the United States
Per the BLS and O*NET, these are the top salaries by state for Information Security Analysts in the United States for the 2019 year.
Alabama
Median Wage: $81,860
Number of Jobs: 4,330
Growth Rate: 8%
Alaska
Median Wage: $71,810
Number of Jobs: 570
Growth Rate: 11%
Arizona
Median Wage: $89,290
Number of Jobs: 970
Growth Rate: 2%
Arkansas
Median Wage: $70,240
Number of Jobs: 3,650
Growth Rate: 15%
California
Median Wage: $107,550
Number of Jobs: 52,100
Growth Rate: 8%
Colorado
Median Wage: $97,330
Number of Jobs: 9,290
Growth Rate: 20%
Connecticut
Median Wage: $94,430
Number of Jobs: 4,580
Growth Rate: 9%
Delaware
Median Wage: $93,550
Number of Jobs: 4,580
Growth Rate: 9%
Florida
Median Wage: $79,220
Number of Jobs: 26,370
Growth Rate: 17%
Georgia
Median Wage: $88,220
Number of Jobs: 18,160
Growth Rate: 11%
Hawaii
Median Wage: $76,600
Number of Jobs: 1,610
Growth Rate: 5%
Idaho
Median Wage: $79,800
Number of Jobs: 1,590
Growth Rate: 9%
Illinois
Median Wage: $89,530
Number of Jobs: 28,970
Growth Rate: 6%
Indiana
Median Wage: $77,170
Number of Jobs: 10,250
Growth Rate: 13%
Iowa
Median Wage: $83,770
Number of Jobs: 7,010
Growth Rate: 13%
Kansas
Median Wage: $73,220
Number of Jobs: 5,410
Growth Rate: 10%
Kentucky
Median Wage: $69,660
Number of Jobs: 4,510
Growth Rate: 12%
Louisiana
Median Wage: $76,940
Number of Jobs: 2,070
Growth Rate: -1%
Maine
Median Wage: $73,330
Number of Jobs: 2,120
Growth Rate: 1%
Maryland
Median Wage: $95,780
Number of Jobs: 15,170
Growth Rate: 13%
Massachusetts
Median Wage: $93,960
Number of Jobs: 10,460
Growth Rate: 6%
Michigan
Median Wage: $82,880
Number of Jobs: 15,910
Growth Rate: -2%
Minnesota
Median Wage: $92,700
Number of Jobs: 19,210
Growth Rate: 8%
Mississippi
Median Wage: $63,820
Number of Jobs: 1,210
Growth Rate: 3%
Missouri
Median Wage: $81,090
Number of Jobs: 13,300
Growth Rate: 13%
Montana
Median Wage: $71,740
Number of Jobs: 650
Growth Rate: 8%
Nebraska
Median Wage: $79,010
Number of Jobs: 3,930
Growth Rate: 8%
Nevada
Median Wage: $81,290
Number of Jobs: 530
Growth Rate: 19%
New Hampshire
Median Wage: $92,0701
Number of Jobs: 2,630
Growth Rate: 10%
New Jersey
Median Wage: $99,510
Number of Jobs: 14,370
Growth Rate: 3%
New Mexico
Median Wage: $76,530
Number of Jobs: 1,770
Growth Rate: 11%
New York
Median Wage: $100,070
Number of Jobs: 47,610
Growth Rate: 15%
North Carolina
Median Wage: $90,580
Number of Jobs: 27,820
Growth Rate: 13%
North Dakota
Median Wage: $66,270
Number of Jobs: 710
Growth Rate: 11%
Ohio
Median Wage: $84,690
Number of Jobs: 30,220
Growth Rate: 6%
Oklahoma
Median Wage: $75,090
Number of Jobs: 3,610
Growth Rate: 4%
Oregon
Median Wage: $94,110
Number of Jobs: 6,070
Growth Rate: 10%
Pennsylvania
Median Wage: $93,010
Number of Jobs: 23,170
Growth Rate: 6%
Rhode Island
Median Wage: $96,900
Number of Jobs: 1,910
Growth Rate: 8%
South Carolina
Median Wage: $78,540
Number of Jobs: 7,620
Growth Rate: 18%
South Dakota
Median Wage: $73,840
Number of Jobs: 800
Growth Rate: 13%
Tennessee
Median Wage: $76,060
Number of Jobs: 10,270
Growth Rate: 12%
Texas
Median Wage: $92,980
Number of Jobs: 54,100
Growth Rate: 16%
Utah
Median Wage: $74,840
Number of Jobs: 2,710
Growth Rate: 33%
Vermont
Median Wage: $75,330
Number of Jobs: 580
Growth Rate: 7%
Virginia
Median Wage: $102,050
Number of Jobs: 28,330
Growth Rate: 15%
Washington
Median Wage: $97,590
Number of Jobs: 18,360
Growth Rate: 15%
West Virginia
Median Wage: $76,610
Number of Jobs: 1,180
Growth Rate: 13%
Wisconsin
Median Wage: $78,550
Number of Jobs: 15,280
Growth Rate: 8%
Wyoming
Median Wage: $69,170
Number of Jobs: 190
Growth Rate: 16%
THE CERTIFICATION REQUESTS CYBER SECURITY EMPLOYERS MAY MAKE:
Security+
CompTIA offers the Security+ credential. It covers basic skills. Some of these skills relate to spotting risks. While others, to managing threats. Once you have your Security+, you must renew it every 3 years. To do so, you will need at least 50 credit units more.
CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Created by (ISC)2, CISSP focuses on two things, security policy and management. As a result, it is not for the newbie. In fact, to take the exam, you need at least 5 years in the cyber work force. You must also know at least two of these areas.
- Security and how to manage risk
- Asset security
- Security engineering
- Communications and network security
- Manage identity and Access
- Security assessment and testing
- Security operations
- How to develop secure software
As a cert holder, you must also join the (ISC)2. And then re certify every three years. Plus, CISSPs have to do a few things each year. One, pay an $85 fee each year. And two, submit 40 advanced credits.
CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor
CISA is an ISACA® credential that over 140,ooo pros have. To get it, you need to master 5 areas. You also have to recertify every three years.
- How to conduct an audit
- Manage and craft policy
- Buy, develop and put systems into use that meet your business goals
- Operations
- How to protect info systems
As a CISA you also have to pay an annual fee. It’s $45 for ISACA® members, and $85 for non members.
CISM: Certified Information Security Manager
ISACA® also offers the CISM. It is a credential that over 40,000 pros have.
To get it, you need to be able master four content areas.
- Information security laws and protocols
- Manage risk
- Develop an information security plan
Detect and track down incidents
