Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Online

What is an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree? 

An accelerated cyber security degree online program is designed to be earned in less time. It is a bachelor’s degree program for motivated students. These students often want to kick-start their career in cyber sec. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there is more demand for cyber security professionals. Between 2017 and 2018, there were more than 313,000 cyber security job postings. The unemployment rate in the cyber sec industry is very low. Universities across the country have noticed this need. Now, there are more accelerated cyber sec degree online programs than ever.

How Do These Programs Work?

Accelerated online degree programs could allow students to take control of their education. In an accelerated program, students may study at their own pace. Also, they know that they may be able to pursue their cyber security career as soon as possible. A student who enrolls in an in-person program may have to spend more time and money earning their degree. Accelerated degree online programs are perfect for students excited to jump start their careers. These programs typically work well for working professionals and part time students.

For working adults in the United States, this type of online cyber security bachelor’s degree may work well. Using resource guides here and a solid school search could help. Students may find the perfect opportunity for their needs with these. Full time is one route. Some students may wish to attend part time. Higher education here is flexible in most cases. Interested in the field of cybersecurity? Consider what this independent information could provide.

Western Governors University

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Who May Benefit from an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Online Program?

Anyone interested in a cyber sec career may want to pursue this degree. These are some people who may be a good fit for an accelerated cyber sec degree online program. For example, people:

  • Looking for a career change.
  • With outside responsibilities.
  • Who started a degree program but have not finished.
  • Who are motivated.
  • And, who are independent.

Is an Online Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Program Perfect for You?

There may be many job openings in the cyber sec field. Students may find that there are various positions that fit their interests. These are a few ways that you might know if an accelerated cyber security degree online program is for you:

  • You typically  like to solve problems. Critical thinking skills are needed in the cyber sec field. Analyzing data and finding solutions could be a large part of any job in this field.
  • You are curious. Research is a key part of the cyber sec industry. Searching for info and discovering answers is key.
  • You are passionate. In the cyber sec industry, you need to protect online users. You also need to provide info to vulnerable people and companies. You likely need to have an interest in all topics related to cyber sec.

If you have an interest in a cyber sec career, you may want to go for an online degree. There are some people who may be a good fit for an accelerated cyber sec degree online program. It might be good for you if you:

  • Are looking for a career change.
  • Have outside obligations.
  • Have started a degree program but have not finished.
  • Are motivated.
  • If you are independent.

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Take advantage of some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, while earning a degree from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access.
  • Cyber Programs Include:
    BS in Cybersecurity – General Track, Data Analytics or Project Management Track
    MS Cybersecurity – General Track or IT Management

Pros of an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Program

There may be potential benefits of enrolling in an accelerated cyber sec degree online program. Some of those benefits may include:

  • Earning your degree quickly. Accelerated programs may allow you to earn your degree in a shorter amount of time. Traditional degree programs may take years. An accelerated program may only take months.
  • Finishing your course work on your own schedule. You may have the freedom to complete your work when it is best for you. You could balance your class load with existing responsibilities.
  • Earning your degree from a respected institution. Many of the top universities offer an accelerated cyber sec online degree program. Many of which are accredited.
  • Getting the experience you likely need to succeed. Accelerated online degree programs may help teach you the knowledge and skills for your new career.
  • You may qualify for a job in an advanced field. This may include a national security agency. Some programs could help you prep for a career with the Department of Homeland Security.
  • An accredited institution may provide advanced training in electives you are interested in. You may be able to follow a career you are passionate about.

Cons of an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Program

There may be some cons of an accelerated cyber sec degree online program. Consider them. These could be that you may have to:

  • Deal with the pressure of a accelerated schedule. You may need to stay organized to complete your work on time.
  • Balance your obligations along with online courses. You may need to adjust to the online structure.
  • Making a financial investment in your degree. You should be aware, but, there may be financial assistance available. Scholarships and financial aid may be applied to online degree programs. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to those who qualify.
  • Waiting to pursue your new career. Many online students are excited about getting into the cyber sec industry. It may be difficult to be patient during this exciting time.

How Long Could it Take to Earn an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree?

The amount of time it takes to earn an accelerated cyber security degree online varies. It typically depends on the amount of credit hours required by the program. It may also depend on how many credits may be transferred and applied to the program. Many accelerated cyber sec degree programs could be done in two years or less.

Some schools may use other programs to shorten the length of time it takes to complete, such as:

  • Credit for Prior Learning
  • Credit for Military Experience
  • 3+1 Accelerated Degrees
  • Law Enforcement Advanced Standing Bachelor’s Programs

And, there may be some steps that may shorten or add time to your degree program, such as:

  • Competency Based Learning

Some students may need to complete competency based learning. They may find that there are options available. These are schools that typically speed up that process:

  • Capella’s FlexPath. With no set semester or quarter system, you learn on your schedule. Finish a class and move on to the next one without having to wait. Or, take the extra time you need on a new topic.
  • Purdue’s Excel Path. Again, you control the pace, deadlines and class load.
  • Colorado Technical University’s FastTrack. A series of exams tests your knowledge of key course goals. This provides an opportunity to earn college credit for what you already know. Apart from earning your degree faster, you might save up to 30% on tuition.

How Quickly Could You Learn in an Online Accelerated Cyber Security Degree?

Each degree program has its own timetable. These schools highlight how you might earn an online degree in cyber sec:

SchoolProgramTime to Complete
Liberty UniversityBS in Computer Science Security42 months 
Lindenwood University’s School of Accelerated Degree ProgramsBS in Cyber Security18 months
Old Dominion UniversityBS in Cyber Security24 months
 Southern New Hampshire UniversityBS in Cyber Security24 months

How Much Does an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Typically Cost?

The cost of an accelerated cyber security degree online program may vary. There are several factors for students to consider when choosing a school. Some programs may need more credit hours. This could lead to a higher total cost. Other schools may offer more discounts for military members. Other groups of students may qualify for a discount.

These examples could provide some insight as to how much the program may cost: 

School# of Credits Required Cost Per Credit
Bellevue University – BS in Cyber Security127$425
Franklin University – BS in Cyber Security 124$398 
Grand Canyon University – BS in Cyber Security 120$449 
Wilmington University – BS in Computer and Network Security40 courses$1,143 per course

Accreditation for Online Accelerated Cyber Security Degree Programs

Many universities across the country may offer online degree programs in cyber sec. It is recommended that students choose to enroll in an accredited program. Accredited universities have met standards established by a third party. These standards are designed to assure students they are learning. What they learn is valuable, accurate, and useful. Accredited schools may also have qualified faculty members. Accredited programs may also have to follow a curriculum consistent with best industry practices.

The National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense provides schools with accreditation in cyber sec. The requirements for this include:

  • Having a program for Info Assurance and Cyber Defense.
  • Encouraging research in Info Assurance and Cyber Defense.
  • Including a scientific, multi disciplinary approach into the program.

And, these topics are typically be part of the program:

  • Cyber Threats
  • Data Analysis
  • Computer Systems
  • Cybercrime
  • Info Assurance Fundamentals
  • IT Systems
  • Policy, Ethics, Law and Compliance
  • Cyber Defense
  • Intro to Cryptography
  • Ethical Hacking
  • General Computer Security

Accredited schools receive a designation that  typically lasts for five years. The designations are:

  • CAE2Y — A designation for two year schools with an associate’s degree in cyber sec.
  • CAE-CDE — A designation for four year schools with a bachelor’s or grad level degree in cyber sec.
  • CAE-R — A designation for schools with a doctoral research program in cyber sec.
  • CAE-CO — A designation for four year schools that offer bachelor’s and grad level degrees in cyber ops.

10 Schools for Accelerated Cyber Security Online Degree Programs

1

Purdue University Global

9000 Keystone Crossing, Suite 800, Indianapolis, IN 46240

PG offers a bachelor’s in online cyber sec. Students may spend about 18 hours per week on course work. Students typically use the ExcelTrack program to customize their program. It may help them earn their degree faster. There are 180 credit hours required to complete the program.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $14,358
Grad: $9,768

2

Western Governors University

4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, UT 84107

WGU has an online bachelor’s in cyber sec and information assurance. Students may move through course work at their own pace. The customized program has a design to allow students to move past info they already know. Systems security is one path. Others may choose the information security analyst path. The majority of students typically graduate in 18 months.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $6,670
Grad: $7,500

3

University of Maryland Global Campus

3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, MD 20783

The U of Maryland offers many online cyber security degree programs and certificates. The bachelor’s degree programs that it offers include computer networks and cyber sec, cyber security management and policy, and software development and security. Students may be eligible to transfer up to 90 credits. All three degree level programs typically require 120 credits.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $12,336
Grad: $33,616

4

Capella University

225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Capella University offers an online bachelor’s degree in info assurance and cyber sec. This program features a competency based curriculum. FlexPath may help students complete the course work as soon as possible. Students must complete 180 credits to graduate, but 135 credits could be transferred.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $14,450
Grad: $14,767

5

Southern New Hampshire University

2500 North River Road, Manchester, NH 03106

SNHU offers an online bachelor’s degree in cyber sec. This program typically uses open-source software and course materials to help reduce the total cost of the degree. Students may transfer up to 90 credits to earn their degree as quickly as possible. The program generally requires 120 credits to graduate.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $31,136
Grad: $18,810

6

Arizona State University Online

411 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004

ASU offers an online master’s degree program in cyber sec. The program requires 30 credit hours. There are 10 total classes that students typically have to complete in order to earn their degree.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $29,428
Grad: $48,953

7

Mercy College

555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522

Mercy College offers an online master’s degree program in cyber sec. Students may transfer credits to speed up the program. This master’s degree requires 30 credits.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $19,594
Grad: $16,146

8

Colorado Tech

4435 N Chestnut Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80907

CTU offers an accelerated online degree program in cyber sec engineering. Students could use its CTU Fast Track tool to take exams and earn their degree faster. This tool typically helps prevent students from taking redundant courses. In addition, students may transfer credits to this program. This program typically requires 183 credits to graduate.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $12,529
Grad: $13,710

9

Drexel University

3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Drexel U offers an online bachelor’s degree program in computing and security technology. Students could complete this program faster by transferring credits. They may also have the opportunity to earn additional credits if they have completed relevant industry certifications. The program typically lasts for four, 10-week quarters.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $54,516
Grad: $35,181

10

Dakota State University

820 N Washington Ave, Madison, SD 57042

DSU offers an online bachelor’s degree program in cyber operations. Students who may want to complete an accelerated program could enroll in the 4+1 program to complete a bachelor’s and master’s in five years. The bachelor’s degree program typically requires students to complete 120 credit hours. Tuition costs are likely between $250 and $350 per credit hour.

Tuition & Fees

Undergrad: $12,606
Grad: $26,761

The demand for experienced cyber security professionals is high. Students who are passionate about this field may find that there are many accelerated cyber sec degree online program options available. Those who are thinking about pursuing this career path might want to consider their current schedule and their career goals when they choose a program. Many students could find a flexible program that may help them earn their degree.

If you are thinking about this career path, consider your current schedule. Also, look at your career goals when you choose a program. Most students may be able to find a flexible program. One that may help them finish their degree as fast as possible.

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