Key takeaways
- There are several good colleges in Maryland offering cybersecurity programs, making it a prime destination for aspiring professionals in this field.
- Maryland’s proximity to federal agencies like the NSA and DISA, coupled with its focus on innovation and research, provides a robust environment for cybersecurity education and career development.
- Maryland has made significant investments in cybersecurity education and infrastructure, fostering a favorable environment for tech startups and job growth.
- With a growing demand for cybersecurity experts, Maryland offers a wide range of career paths in both the public and private sectors.
- Cybersecurity professionals in Maryland enjoy higher-than-average salaries compared to the national average.
- Maryland’s cybersecurity programs are recognized for their high standards, with many institutions designated as Centers of Academic Excellence by the NSA.
- Students in Maryland’s cybersecurity programs benefit from hands-on experience, internships, and opportunities to connect with industry professionals, enhancing their career prospects.
- Suggested Universities in Maryland for Cybersecurity include Capitol Technology University, the University of Maryland Global Campus, Stevenson University, and the United States Naval Academy.
The state of cybersecurity is critical across the US. The rising cyberattacks on critical infrastructure hinder day-to-day operations and put sensitive databases at risk. The state of Maryland, recognizing the need for cybersecurity specialists, invests heavily in cybersecurity education. Pursuing a bachelor’s in cyber security at one of the good colleges in Maryland can prepare you for a successful career in the field.
However, the sheer number of available colleges can make college planning incredibly difficult. Thus, in this article, we provide a list of suggestions for good colleges in Maryland for a bachelor’s in cybersecurity. We also discuss in detail what makes Maryland an excellent place for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
Explore the list of good colleges in Maryland for a bachelor’s in cybersecurity
To excel in the cybersecurity field, students must have access to a secure and well-established cybersecurity infrastructure, providing opportunities to develop professional expertise. Thus, Maryland colleges are ideal for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
Below are some of our recommendations, including private and public colleges in Maryland where students can access academic excellence in cyber defense. However, before filing your application, acquaint yourself with the 5 important things to know about cybersecurity bachelor, including the admission requirements.
Capitol Technology University
If you want to study at one of the best cybersecurity colleges, Capitol Technology University is ideal for you. The university’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity provides a well-rounded education, industry connections, and practical skills that prepare students for a successful career in the cybersecurity field.
The Center for Cybersecurity Research and Analysis (CCRA) is the university’s focal point for cybersecurity education, research, and development. It provides students the opportunity to develop practical skills through simulated cyberattacks, internships, and a student-run Security Operations Center (SOC).
Moreover, the program holds the title of a dedicated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense from the NSA and Department of Homeland Security. It is also accredited by ABET, a prestigious engineering and technology accreditation board.
Additionally, Capitol Tech is situated near Baltimore and Washington, D.C., a hub for high-tech companies, defense contractors, and government agencies. This provides access to potential employers and industry experts.
| Location | Minimum GPA | Acceptance rate | Tuition |
| South Laurel, Maryland | 2.2 | 64.3% | $27,004 |
University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus’s online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity technology offers a comprehensive and flexible education designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in this high-demand field. The program’s emphasis on developing practical skills and knowledge makes it one of the best online colleges in Maryland for cybersecurity.
Additionally, its rigorous curriculum prepares students for in-demand cybersecurity roles like security engineer, systems administrator, and information security analyst. At UMGC, students can learn from experienced cybersecurity professionals who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.
Moreover, the online program enables students to study at their own pace and balance education with work and personal commitments. You can also benefit from generous transfer credit policies and scholarship opportunities to make your degree more affordable.
Learn from an institution designated as a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence. It is one of the best public colleges in Maryland for those wishing to specialize in digital forensics.
| Location | Minimum GPA | Acceptance rate | Tuition |
| Largo, Maryland | 2.0 | 52% | $7,848 (in-state)
$12,336 (out-of-state) |
Stevenson University
Stevenson University’s online cybersecurity and digital forensics program offers a unique opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to combat the growing threat of cybercrime. The university provides students with a rigorous curriculum and hands-on experience that prepares them for in-demand careers in cybersecurity.
Moreover, it is a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence, making it one of the best cybersecurity colleges in Maryland. Throughout the program, graduates benefit from the opportunity to earn valuable certifications that demonstrate their expertise in digital forensics.
Graduates from Stevenson University’s online cybersecurity and digital forensics programs are highly sought-after by businesses and government agencies seeking to protect their networks and data from cyberattacks.
| Location | Minimum GPA | Acceptance rate | Tuition |
| Owing Mills, Maryland | 3.0 | 84.1% | $38,738 |
United States Naval Academy
The United States Naval Academy’s Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations program stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, the prestigious National Security Agency designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations has been granted, signifying that the program prepares graduates for the highest levels of cybersecurity expertise.
The program is also accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The accreditation ensures a strong foundation in computer science and related fields. It also makes it one of the best colleges in Maryland. The comprehensive curriculum focuses on technical aspects, policy, law, ethics, and social engineering to provide an in-depth understanding of the complex cyber domain.
Students gain practical experience through hands-on cyber operations exercises starting in their third year, culminating in immersive simulations during their senior year. Furthermore, the United States Naval Academy provides opportunities for students to participate in independent studies or internships with leading national security agencies.
These experiences further enhance their skills and prepare them for successful careers in the ever-growing cybersecurity field. Graduates are eligible for highly sought-after positions within the Navy and Marine Corps, government, or private sector, making this degree a valuable investment in a promising future.
| Location | Minimum GPA | Acceptance rate | Tuition |
| Annapolis, Maryland | 3.75 | 10.8% | N/A |
Why study at one of the good colleges in Maryland?
Maryland is a state renowned for its technological advancements. Here aspiring cybersecurity students can benefit from a wealth of opportunities enabling them to build a strong foundation in the field. Several colleges specializing in cybersecurity strive to provide aspiring professionals with the ideal environment to nurture their skills and knowledge.
Moreover, students benefit from the heavy investment Maryland’s government is making in the cybersecurity workforce. Combined with the wealth of employment opportunities available to graduates, Maryland has become a prominent hub for cybersecurity.
Here are just some reasons why you should consider applying to one of the good colleges in Maryland. But before you apply to a cybersecurity program, make sure that it is the right degree choice for you as it is a technical field. However, if you feel the need to, you can also explore alternative degrees that can lead to a career in cybersecurity.
Proximity to federal agencies
Federal agencies such as US Cyber Command, National Security Agency (NSA), Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are headquartered in Maryland.
These government agencies offer apprenticeships to students, allowing them to build technical expertise during their degree. Moreover, the proximity to such federal agencies means access to specialized professionals with a wealth of experience. After retirement, these experts take their expertise to the private sector or invest in their own startups, such as Dragos.
Regardless of what career path they take, the presence of such specialized security professionals and federal agencies is a strong indication of a well-established security infrastructure in need of fresh talent.
Academic excellence guaranteed
Educational institutions across Maryland are striving to become one of the best colleges in Maryland for cybersecurity education. Thus, there are over 20 Centers of Academic Excellence as designated by the National Security Agency. These include community, private, and public Maryland colleges.
Research opportunities and government collaborations put Maryland colleges at the center of innovation and research in cybersecurity. The Maryland Cybersecurity Center at the University of Maryland and the Center for Cybersecurity Research and Analysis at Capitol Technology University are just two of the initiatives providing students the opportunity to contribute to the ever-evolving field.
Additionally, students benefit from guest lectures and workshops from industry professionals, providing them with industry insights. Whether you are looking for online colleges in Maryland or an on-campus cybersecurity bachelor, Maryland has an array of excellent options.
Center of innovation
Maryland’s commitment to AI is unwavering, evidenced by its federal tech hub status, robust academic initiatives, and Governor’s support for the latest technological advancements. In June 2024, Maryland’s government allocated $9 million for the state’s Build Our Future Grant Program.
The Build Our Future Grant program is part of the governor’s Economy Innovation Infrastructure Act of 2023. The goal of the program is to enable the growth of innovation infrastructure in eligible technology sectors. In fact, a total of 11 projects received funding through the program in 2024.
U.S. News & World Report draws parallels between the start of Silicon Valley and that of Cybersecurity in Maryland. The wealth of investment and abundance of engineering talent graduating from the top Universities in California contributed greatly to the establishment and success of Silicon Valley.
Today, Maryland paints a similar picture. State investment in Cybersecurity education has resulted in establishing Maryland at the forefront of innovation and advancements in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Investment Initiatives
Maryland is continuously pouring in heavy investment in cybersecurity education, and infrastructure. In fact, the state has the most well-equipped landscape and favorable policies for tech startups.
Toward the end of August 2024, Maryland dedicated $2 million to train cybersecurity specialists. Mentioned below are some other initiatives that are driving growth and investment in the cybersecurity sector in Maryland.
Maryland Innovation Investment Tax Credit
Maryland has launched a new tax credit program to encourage investment in early-stage tech startups. The program offers investors a 33% tax credit for investing in qualifying companies. Companies in sectors like cybersecurity, aerospace, blue technology, and robotics are eligible to apply.
DataTribe
DataTribe is a cybersecurity startup accelerator in Fulton, Maryland. It provides capital, workspace, and mentorship to early-stage cybersecurity companies. The company partners with and develops leading cybersecurity companies that are revolutionizing the industry.
Maryland Technology Development Corporation
TEDCO is a Maryland-based organization that invests in and helps develop early-stage technology companies, including those in the cybersecurity sector. Its goal is to support the growth of Maryland’s startup ecosystem by providing resources and funding, such as the Cybersecurity Investment Fund and Technology Commercialization Fund.
Incubators
The bwtech@UMBC Cyber Incubator is a cybersecurity startup hub located near UMBC. It is situated in a strategic location with easy access to the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command. Students can also locate additional incubators through the Maryland Entrepreneur Hub, a state-owned information resource.
Positive career outlook
Maryland has an 80% demand and supply ratio, better than that of economic hubs such as New York at 98% and California at 94%. It is also lower than the national average of 85%, indicating the state has a more specialized cybersecurity workforce than most others in the US, according to Cyber Seek.
However, the demand for cyber security experts is still higher than the supply. Plus, the heavy investments in cyber security and tech startups are bound to create more job opportunities in the future. Additionally, Maryland borders Washington, DC which provides a wealth of job opportunities for cybersecurity graduates.
Cybersecurity professionals employed in Maryland enjoy higher pay than the national average according to Robert Half’s 2025 Salary Guide.
| Job title | Maryland average | National average |
| Systems Security Manager | $178,360 | $171,500 |
| Security Architect | $161,200 | $155,000 |
| Cybersecurity Engineer | $144,040 | $138,500 |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $126,360 | $121,500 |
What can you do with a cybersecurity degree?
A bachelor’s in cybersecurity prepares you for a fulfilling career in the ever-evolving and in-demand field. However, it is a specialized field with a heavy focus on technicalities in the computer and IT field. The career options available to you will depend on your area of specialization.
For example, a BS in Cybersecurity Engineering degree is essential for the position of a Cybersecurity Engineer. For more information, refer to our article on what can you do with a cybersecurity degree.
Are criminal justice and cybersecurity degrees related?
Even though the two degrees differ greatly in their inherent nature, there are some similarities between the two. These lie primarily in the forensics branch in both degrees. Cybersecurity professionals specializing in digital forensics have most in common with those pursuing a criminal justice degree.
For a detailed comparison, read our article detailing how are criminal justice and cyber security related.
Study at good colleges in Maryland to fight against cybercrime!
Cybersecurity colleges in Maryland feature some of the best cybersecurity programs in the nation. Those wishing to become part of the specialized workforce should explore colleges in Maryland offering cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees.
Make sure you choose the ones designated as the Center of Academic Excellence. They are the best cybersecurity colleges in the state.