In this article, we profile the 30 best online bachelor’s in cyber security degrees at some of the nation’s most affordable institutions.
According to the United States Government Accountability Office, the number of cybersecurity incidents at federal agencies has increased by 780% over the last decade. The rise in attacks has prompted the need for individuals prepared to handle these types of incidents. Online bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity are offered from some of the top institutions in the country. Students take classes in cybercrime forensics and investigations and learn how to prevent cyber terrorism. An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity is needed for certain jobs in the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security.
Methodology
We reviewed approximately 125 accredited colleges and universities that offered online bachelor’s in information systems, cyber security, or related degree programs. We gathered our initial pool of schools from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES College Navigator). From that initial list of schools, we retained only those schools with rankings received from major publications like Forbes magazine, The Princeton Review, and U.S. News and World Report. We then selected the most affordable of these recognized institutions based on recent information published by NCES College Navigator. The most affordable institution is ranked #1 on our list.
Below are the resulting selections from our top 30 best online bachelor’s degrees in cyber security for 2017.
#30 – Robert Morris University
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Forensics and Information Security
Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate tuition: $27,194
Finding an accredited online cyber security degree from a quality institution can be a challenge. Although not the most affordable on our list, Robert Morris University offers a ranked and accredited bachelor’s in cyber forensics that is designed to equip students with the skills needed to become today’s tech professionals. The program is delivered fully online and includes courses like cyber law, digital evidence analysis, IT governance and control assurance, mobile forensics, and network forensics. Robert Morris is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 188th best national university.
#29 – Dallas Baptist University
Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems
Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate tuition: $24,890
Dallas Baptist University offers a bachelor’s degree program that may appeal to those interested in an online bachelor’s in cyber security. The online bachelor’s in management information systems program is offered entirely online and covers a wide range of topics, including security and forensics. All courses are taught by the same university professors who teach on campus. Courses include business telecommunications and networking, current IT trends and emerging technologies, ethical and human side of information technology, IT security and forensics, and strategic IT planning and project management. Dallas Baptist is a nationally ranked university by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #114 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#28 – Indiana Wesleyan University
Online Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems
Marion, Indiana
Undergraduate tuition: $24,728
An alternative to the online bachelor’s in cyber security is a degree in information systems. Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online business information systems bachelor’s degree that is designed to equip students for careers as database administrators, programmer analysts, and systems analysts. All courses are delivered online and include titles such as communication in business, information systems and project management, networking – systems and security, and strategies in marketing management. Indiana Wesleyan is a top-ranked institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 27th best regional university in the Midwest.
#27 – Saint Leo University
Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity
Saint Leo, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $20,830
Saint Leo University offers an accredited online bachelor’s degree in cyber security that is designed for individuals seeking entry-level positions involving network security. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on the Saint Leo campus. A seventy-five credit requirement is needed for the BS in cybersecurity. Students take courses in computer architecture, computer forensics, management of information security, and systems security. Internship opportunities are also available. Saint Leo is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school #62 among the best regional universities in the South and the 26th best value school. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #43 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#26 – Concordia University
Online Bachelor’s in Information and Technology Management
St. Paul, Minnesota
Undergraduate tuition: $20,750
For those interested in online cyber security degree programs, Concordia University offers an online bachelor’s in information and technology management program that prepares students for work as security architects and operations managers. The program is offered entirely online with seven-week course lengths. Courses include analytics and technology, business-driven information systems and security, marketing in the global environment, principles of ethical management, and strategic project management for IT. Concordia is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 103rd best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks Concordia’s online bachelor’s programs #79 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#25 – Post University
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
Waterbury, Connecticut
Undergraduate tuition: $16,510
Post University offers a bachelor’s in computer information systems that is designed for those interested in earning an accredited online cybersecurity degree. In fact, students may choose cybersecurity as their concentration, tailoring their studies to fit their career goals and personal interests. Courses are delivered online and require 12 credits in cybersecurity for the concentration. Cybersecurity courses include cloud computing and virtualization, enterprise risk management, network security, and security quality management. Post University is an accredited institution that has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report in recent years as a best regional university in the North.
#24 – Davenport University
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Defense
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Undergraduate tuition: $15,952
Davenport University offers a degree in cyber defense that is similar to many online bachelor’s in cyber security programs. The program prepares students with specialized skills to create systems checks and protect data from outside threats. Three specialties are offered: Healthcare information and assurance, information assurance, and math modeling. All classes are delivered online and include database design, information security and assurance, legal and ethical issues in information assurance, MS implement network infrastructure, PC operating systems, and security foundations or implementing network security. The institution is accredited and nationally recognized. In fact, the Committee on National Security Systems and the National Security Agency (NSA) have announced the designation of Davenport as a nationally recognized institution in information assurance education.
#23 – Virginia College
Online Bachelor’s in Network Management
Birmingham, Alabama
Undergraduate tuition: $13,932
Virginia College offers a general degree program in network management that may appeal to those interested in online cyber security degree programs. This broad-based degree prepares students with the skills needed to work in diverse areas of computer service, network engineering, and network security. In fact, students may select network security as a concentration, then tailor their courses to fit career goals and interests in cyber defense and cyber security. Several network management certifications are also available, including security-plus. Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools and nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
#22 – University of the Potomac
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security and Policy
Washington, DC
Undergraduate tuition: $13,884
University of Potomac offers an affordable online bachelor’s degree in cyber security and policy program that allows students to earn their degree without having to attend traditional on-campus classes. All courses are taught by digital forensics professionals who regularly teach at the Washington, DC or Virginia campuses. All courses are online and include computer systems technology, cyber law, foundations of cyber security, introduction to data communication and networking, network security management, security administration, and security policies and procedures. Five concentration areas are also available, including government contact management, healthcare management, information management, international business, and management.
#21 – National University
Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Management
La Jolla, California
Undergraduate tuition: $12,744
National University offers an undergraduate degree that is designed to prepare students who are interested in pursuing graduate online cyber security degree programs. The online bachelor’s in information technology management (BSITM) program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to transition into a master’s in cyber security and information assurance program. All courses are delivered online and include computer network overview, information security management, role of programming in IT, wide area networks, and wireless LAN security. Students must maintain at least a 3.00 GPA to be eligible for admission into the master’s program. National University is a ranked and accredited institution. In fact, the school has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as among the best regional universities in the West.
#20 – Linfield College
Online Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems
McMinnville, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $12,555
For those interested in an online cyber security degree, Linfield College offers a ranked and accredited program. Students may major in business information systems and complete their entire degree online. The program requires a significant computer science component that includes several cyber security courses. Online courses include applied software development, database program development, management information systems, networks and web application development, and software engineering. Linfield is a top-ranked liberal arts college. In fact, major publications like Forbes magazine, The Princeton Review, and U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the top national liberal arts institution. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #63 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#19 – Florida Institute of Technology
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
Melbourne, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $12,240
Florida Institute of Technology offers an accredited program designed for those interested in an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security. While students major in computer information systems, network security and systems analysis courses are taken. Students gain exposure to various challenges and problems faced in network design and security. All courses are delivered online and include database concepts and programming, decision support systems, information resource management, information technology and project management, network theory and design, and systems analysis and design. Florida Tech is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #92 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#18 – Washington State University
Online Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems
Pullman, Washington
Undergraduate tuition: $11,967
For those interested in a more broad-based online cyber security degree program, Washington State University offers an online bachelor’s in management information systems. The program requires a business component with an MIS core. This means that students take courses in both business and management information systems to gain an understanding of how both disciplines work together in real-world settings. MIS courses include data management, enterprise business development, and systems analysis and design. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on the Pullman campus. The program is available on a part-time or full-time basis. WSU is nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s degree programs rank #34 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#17 – University of Minnesota
Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Management
Crookston, Minnesota
Undergraduate tuition: $11,646
University of Minnesota offers an online information technology management bachelor’s degree program that may appeal to those interested in an online bachelor’s in cyber security. Information technology is a broad-based degree program that prepares students to solve complex technology problems. All courses are taken online and taught by the same university professors who teach on the Crookston campus. Courses include analysis and design of information systems, database management systems, information assurance and systems security, microcomputer systems architecture, and networking standards and protocols. The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional college in the Midwest. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #63 out of 1,200 in the most recent edition of Best Colleges.
#16 – Franklin University
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security
Columbus, Ohio
Undergraduate tuition: $11,641
One of the more affordable online cyber security degree programs on our list is found at Franklin University. The program is offered 100% online and designed to prepare students for work in government agencies and other industries in need of protection against security threats and hackers. Courses include application security, business continuity and operations security, information systems architecture and technology, network security, risk management and compliance, and security architecture and controls. Franklin University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #106 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#15 – University of Illinois
Online Bachelor’s in Information Systems Security
Springfield, Illinois
Undergraduate tuition: $11,413
The Department of Computer Science at University of Illinois offers online cyber security degree programs for undergraduates. Students interested in network security and information technology may earn an online bachelor’s in information systems security. This degree program is designed to prepare students with the necessary skills to work in government agencies as network analysts and systems security personnel. All courses are delivered online and include foundations of network security and information assurance, introduction to networks, network security and computer ethics, systems programming languages, and systems security and information assurance. University of Illinois is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 63rd best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #30 out of 1,200 surveyed programs in the most recent edition of Best Colleges.
#14 – Ashford University
Online Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems
San Diego, California
Undergraduate tuition: $11,032
Ashford University offers an IACBE-accredited degree program that may appeal to individuals interested in online cyber security degree programs. This unique program is designed to equip students with a general understanding of the information systems operations and secure information sharing with businesses and organizations. All courses are delivered online and include business systems analysis, database management systems, management for organizations, programming concepts, strategic technology planning for organizations, and telecommunications and networking concepts. Ashford is an accredited and recognized institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report have ranked the institution as a best regional university in the West in recent years.
#13 – Old Dominion University
Online Bachelor’s in Information Systems and Technology
Norfolk, Virginia
Undergraduate tuition: $9,480
An alternative to an online cyber security bachelor’s degree is an information systems and technology degree. Students interested in business and systems analysis at Old Dominion University may earn a bachelor’s in business administration and follow the information systems and technology track. The program is entirely online with classes taught by the same professors who teach on the Norfolk campus. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours in the major and a total of 120 credit hours to satisfy the degree requirements. Old Dominion is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university and top public school. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #49 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#12 – Baker College
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Defense
Flint, Michigan
Undergraduate tuition: $8,640
Baker College offers an online bachelor’s in cyber security program that is designed to prepare individuals for careers as cyber defense and cyber security analysts. All classes are taught by experienced IT professionals. Courses are delivered online and include computer operating systems and maintenance, database fundamentals, designing for security, introduction to network security, legal and ethical issues in information technology, scripting for network administrators, and security policies and auditing. Baker College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is an Academic Quality Improvement Program participant. The school has earned recognition in prior years by major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#11 – Colorado State University
Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition: $8,400
Self-proclaimed techies and those who enjoy analyzing data may find the bachelor’s in formation technology program at Colorado State University beneficial to their interests. The program is designed for those interested in an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security or related IT field. All courses are delivered online and taught by university professors. Courses include basic programming, information systems and security, information technology project management, introduction to computer-based systems, introduction to networks, and network enterprise solutions. There are four specializations available so that students may tailor their degree to suit career interests. For those pursuing a cyber security career, the management information systems and business analytics may be a top specialty choice. Colorado State University is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#10 – Dakota State University
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Operations
Madison, South Dakota
Undergraduate tuition: $7,974
Dakota State University offers an accredited online cyber security bachelor’s degree program that specializes in cyber operations and defense. According to the program website, the National Security Agency has designated Dakota State’s cyber operations degree as one of 13 programs in the nation to receive the Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations recognition. All courses are delivered online and include database management systems, defensive network security, information security fundamentals, structured systems analysis and design, and web software security. The program boasts a 100% job placement for its cyber operations graduates. Dakota State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school ranks #108 among the best regional universities in the Midwest.
#9 – University of Maine
Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity
Augusta, Maine
Undergraduate tuition: $7,448
The University of Maine offers an online cyber security bachelor’s degree program that is designed to prepare students for careers in defense, information assurance, law enforcement, and network security. Required courses may be taken completely online or through a combination of online and in-person classes. All courses are taught by university professors with years of experience in cyber security. The program is considered rigorous with curriculum that has met the academic standards of the NSA/DHS jointly sponsored Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense. University of Maine is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as among the top regional colleges in the North. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #30 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#8 – University of Maryland
Online Bachelor’s in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity
Adelphi, Maryland
Undergraduate tuition: $7,056
One of the most affordable online cyber security degree programs is found at University of Maryland. Students may earn a bachelor’s in computer networks and cybersecurity entirely online. The program also offers three available minors: Computer science, cybersecurity, and information systems management. All courses are taken online and include advanced information systems security, ethical hacking, implementing Cisco IP routing, mobile forensics, network forensics, and network security. Access to industry certification in approximately 16 areas is also available. University of Maryland is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the North.
#7 – Bellevue University
Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity
Bellevue, Nebraska
Undergraduate tuition: $7,050
Bellevue University’s online cyber security bachelor’s degree program has received designation from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for academic excellence. The program is also one of the most affordable on our list. All classes may be completed online and include advanced cybersecurity concepts, cyber investigations and forensics, data and database security, introduction to cyber threats and security, network security, operational security, and securing access control. A total of 127 credits are required to complete the degree program. Bellevue University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #72 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#6 – University of Nebraska
Online Bachelor’s in Information Assurance
Omaha, Nebraska
Undergraduate tuition: $6,898
University of Nebraska’s online cyber security bachelor’s degree program focuses on information assurance and the support of a secure information system. All courses may be taken online and are taught by the same university professors who routinely teach on-campus. Information assurance courses include computer and network forensics, computer security management, host-based vulnerability discovery, network-based vulnerability discovery, number theory and cryptography, and special topics in information assurance. University of Nebraska is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as having the 17th best online bachelor’s program in the country.
#5 – American Public University
Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity
Charles Town, Virginia
Undergraduate tuition: $6,880
One of the most affordable online cyber security degree programs is offered at the American Public University. The program is designed to prepare students with the skills needed to work as effective cyber security and defense analysts and specialists. Courses are delivered entirely online and include database and IT security planning and policy, digital forensics and network intrusion investigation, information assurance and IT security, operating systems hardening and security, and wireless and mobile communication. A general wireless and mobile security concentration is available so that students may further specialize in their field of interest. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the South. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #58 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#4 – Grantham University
Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security
Lenexa, Kansas
Undergraduate tuition: $6,500
Grantham University’s online bachelor’s in cyber security program is designed to prepare students for careers in procedures and technologies that help secure business systems. The program is offered entirely online to provide convenience for busy and working individuals. Online courses are taught by industry professionals and instructors with hands-on experience in cyber security and network defense. Courses include access control systems, computer forensics, database security, information systems project management, introduction to information systems security, risk management, and system analysis and design. Grantham University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
#3 – Western Governors University
Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology–Security
Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate tuition: $6,070
Western Governors University offers an accredited online bachelor’s degree in cyber security program that is designed for IT security managers who need a bachelor’s and certifications to advance their careers. All courses are delivered online and include data management and applications, fundamentals of interconnecting network devices, network and security applications, network and security foundations, operating systems, and web development fundamentals. Several industry-recognized certifications are part of the degree program. Western Governors University has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In recent years, the school has been ranked among the best regional universities in the West.
#2 – Kennesaw State University
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Security and Assurance
Kennesaw, Georgia
Undergraduate tuition: $6,060
For those interested in finding an online bachelor’s in cyber security that combines business with defense and security, Kennesaw State University offers such a program. The BBA-ISA degree program has received recognition from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The program is offered entirely online and designed to equip students with the skills needed to effectively work in government agencies as network analysts and cyber security specialists. Courses include client systems security, cyber defense, management of information security in a global environment, network security, principles of information security, security script programming, and server systems security. Kennesaw is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #143 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#1 – Seminole State College of Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Information Systems Technology
Sanford, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $3,131
Seminole State College of Florida offers the most affordable online cyber security bachelor’s degree on our list. The program is designed to provide students with a flexible and convenient working environment so that they may earn their degree while balancing life obligations. All classes are delivered online and include applied security, discrete computational analysis, information systems analysis and design, information systems operations management, network design and planning, principles of security, and wireless networks and portable devices. Seminole State has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report in recent years and is our #1 pick for the 30 best online bachelor’s degrees in cyber security.
This concludes our ranking of the 30 best online bachelor’s in cyber security degrees at some of the nation’s most affordable institutions.
BDP Staff
January 2017
