15 Best Online Colleges with Online Degrees in Internet Security
Find your perfect college degree
Recent US Internet Crime Complaint Center data show that approximately 300,000 people fell victim to cyber phishing. Similarly, small businesses have reported losing nearly $7 billion to cyberattacks and malicious cyber activity!
Consequently, the number of opportunities for cybersecurity specialists is at record growth! The Labor Statistics Bureau sees a 33% increase in the demand for security analysts in the coming decade.
Cybersecurity essentially pertains to protecting computers, networks, programs, and data from cyber attacks of all types, which are becoming more common as digital technologies become more accessible to everyone.
As an internet security specialist, you’ll use tech-driven prevention measures to tackle antivirus, firewalls, antivirus, encryption technology, and other cybercrimes.
Do you want to work in this specialized field? Start by equipping yourself with an online Bachelor’s degree in Internet Security!
The Lowdown
To strengthen data security and prevent theft or loss of data, organizations must implement a strong cybersecurity system. They must employ up-to-date technologies and techniques to address increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. Tapping skilled specialists with an online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity is just as important!
Methodology
The increasing need and demand for cyber security specialists have resulted in numerous online bachelor’s degree offerings from the top schools everywhere in the United States. The plethora of cybersecurity programs can make the selection challenging for prospective students!
We make the journey easier for you! Using a random selection process, we developed a list of the best online schools that offer quality education online for Cybersecurity. We have factored in the following criteria for each of the undergraduate online programs and schools that we picked:
- Offers 100% online or hybrid learning options, allowing students to learn at their own pace,
- Features Internet Security coursework that covers the latest in cyber security and the related fields, such that graduates become highly equipped with the skills required for positions such as cyber security specialists, computer programmers, network administrators, or information security specialists,
- Readies students for a master’s degree program, should they choose to specialize further in the Internet Security discipline,
- Taught by professors and instructors who are tenured and experts in the field of cyber security,
- Offers internship opportunities to prepare students for hands-on work in the complex field of Internet Security,
- Transfer credit programs may be available for some of the schools,
- Offers financial aid like grants, scholarships, military discounts, and tuition waivers, as well as transfer credit programs,
- Accredited regionally, ensuring topnotch instruction that adheres to academic standards,
- Recognized by, or affiliated with, agencies and certification bodies that advance the cybersecurity field and profession.
Take a look at our Methodology for more information.
Best Online Degrees in Internet Security from Today’s Top Colleges
Franklin University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
Franklin University offers a web-based Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security program that is transferred credits-friendly. A total of 124 semester hours are required for this online program, which prepares students for careers in corporate settings, diverse industries, and even the public sector.
It covers the latest unauthorized disclosure, modification, or loss of information and other security breach countermeasures, as well as prevention measures against compromises, exposures, or exploits of data networks and computer systems affecting customers and business entities.
Earning a Cybersecurity degree from Franklin University prepares you to protect valuable data from hackers and other security threats.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Franklin’s online BS in Cybersecurity is thoroughly checked by the National Security Agency. As a result of reviewing its cybersecurity curriculum, faculty credentials, research competence, and student involvement in cybersecurity activities, the University earned the designation.
It is an online Cybersecurity education and training program that features the latest industry cybersecurity research for communities and individuals.
Did You Know?
You will be job-ready with Franklin’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program from day one! Franklin’s curriculum is designed for working adults and offers computer architecture, information technology, policy, management, computer programming, and database management systems training.
Regent University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Regent University’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Program will prepare you for public, private, military, and non-profit careers. Protect your employer’s data resources by developing and implementing a digital security strategy.
By 2025, Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs will be unfilled worldwide. Aside from this degree being offered online, you also have the option to take classes at their Virginia Beach campus.
BS in Cybersecurity students take introductory courses to understand the field better. Programming and information systems are included in this course. As part of the program, students can also take courses such as Digital Forensics and Systems Security, which focuses on recovering evidence.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Those who hold valid industry certifications through CompTIA or EC Council may be eligible to receive nine free academic credits through Regent University’s Cybersecurity program. The BS in Cybersecurity program must be relevant to receive academic credit.
Did You Know?
Regent University has been acknowledged to provide Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security. As a national university, Regent ranked among the top universities in 2019, 2020, and 2022 by US News and World Report.
Mercy University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
With a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity online at Mercy University, students can test, implement, configure, and use new security software and technologies, implement sound security policies daily, and protect business systems and recover from disasters. People live in a society that is driven by information.
There are 120 credits available in this 100% online program, and online students should take the following courses:
- Statistics
- Cloud Computing
- Discrete Structures
- Cyber Security
- Program Administration
What Makes this Program Unique:
In the BS program, students can apply for the BS/MS dual degree before their senior year. A dual degree benefits students with an open elective schedule who wish to take as many graduate courses as possible. In the dual degree program, graduate credits can be transferred up to twelve undergraduate credits.
Did You Know?
Course choice, course sequencing, and internship and cooperative education opportunities are always available to faculty members. As well as monitoring security systems, graduates can prepare for the CISSP exam and develop, implement, and oversee security policies.
Assumption University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Assumption University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program for their summer semesters. This offers a digital information-age education based on computer engineering, computing, information science, and technology management methods.
Individuals, organizations, and national and international entities are all connected through the cyberspace ecosystem, which is dynamic and evolving. Even as cyberspace expands, its weaknesses are being exploited, exposing it to many cybercrimes.
As technology has evolved and connectedness has grown, cyber threats and vulnerabilities have dramatically increased. Cyber threats and vulnerabilities also threaten the national security of many businesses, organizations, and individuals.
The faculty and staff at Assumption will draw on their diverse expertise to assist students in dealing with emerging global cyber threats. With a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity from Assumption, you will become the next generation of cybersecurity leaders and architects.
What Makes this Program Unique:
With the Cybersecurity program at Assumption University, graduates can design and develop effective cybersecurity solutions within a range of computing platforms using software development and security analysis tools.
You’ll learn to identify, analyze, and synthesize information from scholarly and professional journals related to information security to solve specific problems and stay updated with security changes.
Did You Know?
The Program of Study at Assumption University’s cybersecurity program has been validated by reputable agencies in the education sector. In recognition of this achievement, the University was awarded validation by the National Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program.
Institutions provide a platform for students, faculty, administrators, professionals, and practitioners to interact, share, and collaborate on Cybersecurity.
Maryville University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Today, every public, private, and non-profit organization needs cybersecurity professionals. You can begin your career in this technical but exciting field at Maryville University as you enroll in their Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Degree Online.
They come with a cyber training center and cutting-edge curriculum designed by cybersecurity experts to provide you with state-of-the-art teaching, tools, and hands-on training to launch a successful career.
Maryville’s online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program provides the following courses:
- Cyber law
- Digital forensics
- Programming
- Database design
A Cybersecurity degree program focusing on the general track will prepare you for various careers. But you can focus your education even further by choosing a specialization.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees can prepare you for retail, finance, government, and healthcare careers. Combining your analytical, problem-solving, creative, and technological skills will enable you to safeguard computer systems daily from threats.
Maryville offers a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity online, which can also be used to proceed to a graduate degree.
Did You Know?
If you enjoy the fast-paced world of technology, Cybersecurity is an excellent career choice. An information security professional protects an organization’s most sensitive information, monitors its existing security infrastructure, and stays current on emerging threats. Professionals in this field can earn a high salary.
Bellevue University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (Hybrid)
You can have more convenience and flexibility when you earn your Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity at Bellevue University. This can be taken entirely online or in person.
Several Bellevue University faculty members have worked for some of the world’s most highly regarded intelligence and security organizations so that they can share realistic advice and teachings.
Get the degree to counter national security threats, not just a one-time professional certification. The courses in this path can be taken in any order so that you can take as many courses as possible. Their curriculum accepts complete beginners, so there is no need to worry about prerequisites.
What Makes this Program Unique:
With the advancement of technology, cybersecurity bachelor’s degree graduates have a range of career options. Upon completing the program, you will be prepared for various careers in government, public service, and private sector companies dealing with consumer data.
Did You Know?
Through their flexible online courses, you can learn on your schedule and collaborate with peers nationwide. From the moment you begin your studies until you graduate, you will receive support from your Student Coach.
Roger Williams University
(Online) Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security & Networking
The Roger Williams Online Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security & Networking program is available at Roger Williams University. Faculty and industry professionals teach you both basic networking skills and technology security during first-year students to junior years and then allow you to specialize.
Pursuing various careers relating to technology and security is possible by focusing on this area.
A variety of programming languages will be covered in this course, including Java, HTML, C++, and Python. Modern corporations require network safety training, which you will receive through this training. You gain knowledge about technology, security, and networking by taking courses taught by industry professionals.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Roger Williams University supports you along your unique path. They can assist you throughout your journey, whether you are just getting started or picking up where you left off. Each step of the way, your advisor will provide you with one-on-one guidance.
As well as assessing your prior learning and applying for transfer credits, they can train you in self-taught skills and assess your military experience and work experience.
Did You Know?
This degree is an investment in your future, with employment in Cybersecurity and Networking or Information Security projected to grow 32% in the next decade.
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Program at SUNY Canton is aimed at working professionals and students with information security or computer science education. This degree is also fit for applicants with associate degrees in related fields.
A SUNY online admissions coach assists students in applying for associate’s degrees in computer science and security studies to qualify for admission to Canton’s cybersecurity program online.
Full-time students will be able to complete their bachelor’s degree in four semesters once accepted to the online completion program in Cybersecurity.
Courses like the following are included in this online degree:
- Digital Forensics
- Networking
- Ethical hacking
- Programming
- Contingency Planning
- Cybersecurity Defense
- Cryptology
What Makes this Program Unique:
One of the highlights of this program is that it is designed for success. Whether you learn online or in person, you’ll get the same quality of academics. There are also tutoring services and a 24-hour help desk available.
Student Success Coaches provide experiential learning opportunities, and each student has a Success Coach assigned to them. This online program focuses on filling job gaps in high-demand fields using industry-leading methodologies.
Did You Know?
SUNY Canton graduates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and information technology are excellent candidates for master’s degree programs.
Western Governors University
Online Bachelor of Science – Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
Western Governors University offers an Online BS Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Degree program. This curriculum has been approved by the Department of Homeland Security and is considered one of the schools that offer academic excellence in Cybersecurity.
New computer viruses, malware, and scams are launched every day by cybercriminals to compromise the data of society. You can outsmart cybercriminals and support a wide range of government and business organizations with WGU’s online cybersecurity degree.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Upon earning a cybersecurity certification from WGU, you’ll add value to your resume, and they do not require additional time or expense.
Did You Know?
Your IT skills can be enhanced with this cyber security degree, designed by industry experts. With the help of their Information Technology Program Council, tech graduates can earn an online Cybersecurity degree tailored to their career goals.
It is designed and regularly updated with the input of cybersecurity professionals. Their Internet security degree will cover system and service management and implementation of information security.
Norwich University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Norwich University’s BS in Cybersecurity Program is one of the most highly recognized Cybersecurity degrees delivered online. It requires 120 credits in total.
Working adults can benefit from the Cybersecurity curricula that combine core cybersecurity principles with electives and project-based courses. Students explore topics more deeply and improve their research, communication, and critical thinking abilities.
This online degree’s concentration options include the following:
- Computer Forensics
- Security Management
- Information Warfare
What Makes this Program Unique:
The university’s academic model has always been to empower faculty members to think and act. Academic credentials and real-world experience are combined by faculty members at the Virtual Learning Institute.
A broad range of nationally renowned experts, authors, published researchers, and retired military officers participate in the forum.
Did You Know?
With elective courses, you can customize your studies to suit your interests. A cyber security degree can be earned in less than two years if you transfer up to 90 semester credits. The program is open all year, so you can enroll whenever it is convenient.
Penn State World Campus
Online Bachelor of Science – Cyber Security & Risk Analysis
Penn State World Campus understands that phishing, malware, and data breaches are becoming more prevalent everywhere. Its online BS in Cyber Security and Risk Analysis program exposes you to multidisciplinary theories and general frameworks associated with security and risk management and analysis.
Ensuring privacy is maintained for individuals, businesses, governments, and other organizations. Students pursuing this bachelor’s degree program will learn about security and integrity challenges and gain the important skill of assessing and mitigating the risks involved.
Courses include:
- Cyber Threat Defense
- Infrastructure Protection
- Information Warfare
What Makes this Program Unique:
In an interdisciplinary curriculum, Cyber Security majors at Penn State World Campus study cyber forensics, intelligence analysis, and information assurance. Through this program, those interested in information and data security or cybercrime prevention can explore various career options.
Did You Know?
Penn State World Campus has provided distance learning options for over 20 years. The quality of online education is at par with the instruction that residential students get. The Penn State diploma is the same for graduates, too!
Grand Canyon University
Online Bachelor of Science in Internet Security
Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program features guidance from industry professionals to produce the best internet security professionals.
Grand Canyon understands that the US faces a growing number of cyberattacks. Hence, almost all agencies and sectors that deal with data need cybersecurity professionals.
In this online degree, students will learn how to protect sensitive information and digital infrastructures. You will also learn more about cyber law, defensive Cybersecurity, and internet ethics. Whether you’re looking for a career change or looking to advance your IT career, this degree may be right for you.
A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree emphasizes practical experience, critical thinking, and real-world applications.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Self-confidence, creativity, and adaptability are valuable workplace skills students learn in the program. As part of the program, students are also trained in professional and ethical practices related to Cybersecurity under GCU’s Christian worldview.
- You may be able to graduate earlier if you take summer classes on campus or online. The university strives to accelerate students’ time to complete their degrees to prepare them for the cybersecurity industry or graduate school sooner.
Did You Know?
Students must be imaginative, curious, and creative to succeed in Cybersecurity. Earning a BS in Cybersecurity degree is not hard if you have a passion for learning and are open to new ideas. And if you have prior experience in this sector, enrolling and pursuing a cyber security career is even more ideal.
Drexel University
Online Bachelor of Science – Computing and Security Technology
The Online Bachelor’s in Computing and Security Technology degree program is offered at Drexel University. This online degree enables professionals to obtain critical roles in IT management, cyber security, and government. Hands-on workshops and exposure to fundamental concepts are part of Drexel University’s computing and cyber security program.
This online program is ideal for those with an associate’s degree in Information Technology who want to advance their education.
Whether you seek to work for a small family business or a large conglomerate, this online degree program prepares you for either career path with an innovative, hands-on, practical education designed especially for working adults seeking schedule flexibility.
What Makes this Program Unique:
The impressive and comprehensive cyber security degree program prepares graduates for various careers, including IT security engineers, forensic computer specialists, information security analysts, and network administrators.
Did You Know?
If you’re starting or looking to switch careers, a Drexel online Cybersecurity degree will give you an edge over other applicants or IT experts.
Kennesaw State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Kennesaw State University offers the online BS with a Major in Cybersecurity designed to produce technologically competent, business-savvy cybersecurity professionals with substantial technical skills in information systems.
Cyber Security online majors at Kennesaw State emerge as well-trained professionals who:
- Manage modern information technology risks,
- Demonstrate a thorough understanding of business and management aspects of Cybersecurity, teaching them the basics of project management, cybersecurity management, and business administration,
- Well-versed in the many facets of modern cybercrimes and the strategies to respond to or curb them.
Indeed, the Cyber security program at Kennesaw State University prepares students to lead in a rapidly expanding field. Students do not need previous Cybersecurity education or experience to apply for this multidisciplinary program.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Providing a fully online bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity meets the high demand for professional degrees in this field. You can choose which major specializations and electives to pursue that will match your long-term goals.
Did You Know?
Through Double Owl Pathways, Kennesaw State University students can complete their degrees affordably and combine majors and other degrees. The KSU Pathways is offered to students of various disciplines, helping them expedite their college journey and begin their careers.
University of North Dakota
Online Bachelor of Science in Internet Security (Hybrid)
The Bachelor of Cybersecurity degree at the University of North Dakota allows students—who may enroll fully online or combine it with in-person classes—to take part in cybersecurity research.
The program prepares students for various careers and produces the most well-trained cryptographers, cryptanalysts, cyber security analysts, security architects, and software developers.
The coursework includes the following:
- Emerging Cyber Threats and Defenses
- Advanced Wireless Communications Engineering
- Introduction to Smart Grids
Scholarships are awarded automatically to students who meet the program’s requirements.
What Makes this Program Unique:
UND comes with a senior design sequence required during the senior year. This workshop will present, test, and modify your research plan or project. Business leaders and industry partners support the projects that help fill real-world needs and give you real-world experience before entering the workforce.
Students who graduate from this program will be capable of protecting power supplies against regional threats and combating important national security events.
Did You Know?
UND’s undergraduate Cyber Security addresses the security concerns of businesses of all sizes. The online program produces cyber security specialists well-versed in mission-critical infrastructures, defense technologies, and other vital systems against cyber attacks.
Common Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in Internet Security Program
Information Systems Security
An IT security professional must be ready for security practitioners’ operational demands and responsibilities. The information systems security course will train you for all the daily roles involved in this job.
You’ll learn about performing authentication, creating an incident response, and choosing the best recovery strategies.
By the end of the course, students will have acquired the knowledge, skills, and capabilities they need to mitigate security concerns and avoid malicious activity in IT operations.
Ethical Hacking
Ethical hacking is a cybersecurity course that gives you a structured knowledge base for finding vulnerabilities and making recommendations for improving network security. The purpose of this course is to ensure the security of computer networks by using penetration-testing tools and techniques.
Network and Security – Applications
In this course, students prepare to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam. This course introduces learners to the skills needed to identify an organization’s threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities.
The course teaches students how to design and implement security solutions in enterprise architectures across hardware, applications, and network services.
Cloud Technologies
Basic cloud technologies can be understood better in this course through hands-on practice. Students will learn more about AWS cloud environments. Students will learn about the global infrastructure for cloud computing during this course.
System Administration and Maintenance
During this course, you will learn how to deploy and maintain modern computer systems, focusing on managing user accounts. Windows and Linux operating systems are covered in the course, as well as basic administrative tasks.
Fundamentals of Database Security
The course provides an understanding of database privileges, data access limitations, and how to apply authentication and access control to your database.
Foundation of Information Technology
The course prepares students to identify, prevent, mitigate, and report safety hazards and accidents in technological environments.
Career Pathways for Bachelor’s in Internet Security Graduates
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts are in charge of analyzing existing cybersecurity protocols and policies as they focus on protecting the digital properties of their organizations.
Based on the analysis results, your employer can follow through with the changes necessary in their cybersecurity infrastructure. These IT professionals also perform cybersecurity measures and control daily.
Incident Response Reporter
The best security efforts can’t prevent security incidents from happening. Response to security incidents involves taking action after an incident occurs. As the incident response reporter, you will monitor your company’s network for vulnerabilities and ensure that everything in the IT infrastructure is error-free.
Cybercrime and digital forensics are also a part of incident response.
Computer Forensic Investigator
The forensic investigator analyzes the causes, studies the incident, and discovers the criminals or suspects following a breach or similar security incident. You must have extensive training and experience in this role and handle both physical and digital evidence accurately.
Communication with law enforcement and legal personnel is also important to cybersecurity forensics.
Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists protect the software and network security systems of the company that you work for. You will be on the lookout for any threats and risks that can compromise their computer and IT systems.
Cybersecurity specialists should regularly audit, inspect, test, and assess all the risks involved during operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an online Cybersecurity degree?
Some students may refer to this degree as internet security, but many universities and colleges prefer Cybersecurity. There are no differences between an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree and an on-campus cybersecurity bachelor’s degree.
After graduation, both formats have excellent career preparation and growth and advancement opportunities.
However, for students who want convenience, flexibility, and affordability, it’s wise to choose an online Cybersecurity degree in opposition to their in-person counterparts.
What is the value of a Cybersecurity degree?
A successful program today must be flexible enough that students can earn their degrees from anywhere they are. Institutions that offer both hands-on training and in-depth coursework offer the best foundations for protecting the infrastructure of systems.
The program prepares students for careers across a range of fields in this field, enabling them to find employment in various settings.
How much does earning a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity cost online?
Students out of state may have to pay higher tuition rates at some colleges and universities. A flat tuition rate is, however, charged by some institutions regardless of residence. But do note that online Cybersecurity degrees sometimes charge technology fees, depending on the institution.
A bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security’s total cost would also depend on the number of credits required. But the average cost per credit is $539, starting from $192 at the low and $1,660 for expensive programs.
Is it possible to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity entirely online?
Responding to the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, many colleges and universities offer online bachelor’s degrees in Cybersecurity. Online Cybersecurity programs are currently available in 57 states.
In deciding whether to enroll in an online bachelor’s program in Cybersecurity, you should check if it will offer real-world defensive and offensive cybersecurity training, as well as cyber ranges and labs.
How trustworthy is an online Cybersecurity degree?
Cybersecurity professionals play a major role in protecting the information of government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and educational institutions. For this reason, if you want to impress employers, ensure that the online Cybersecurity degree programs you select are accredited.
It is important that you pick an online Cybersecurity degree with all the relevant coursework and competency required of cybersecurity professionals.
Also, choose a degree in cyber security that will help you brush up on your critical thinking skills and help you gain technical knowledge. By choosing the best program, you can achieve your goals.
Summary Points
- Cybersecurity professionals work in many industries and sectors, including government, education, finance, information technology, consumer electronics, and law enforcement.
- Online Cybersecurity degree program graduates may pursue an offense or defense cybersecurity career and then take courses and internships aligned with their interests.
- Well-paying entry-level jobs involving software security and information or data security are available for undergraduate Cybersecurity degree holders. Senior positions, however, will require a master’s degree or higher.
Additional Information: