Online cyber security degree – All you need to know

Key takeaways

In the post-pandemic education landscape, the demand for an online cyber security degree has grown as an increasing number of students take at least one online class.
Some of the benefits of getting a cyber security online degree include lower cost, a flexible learning schedule, improved learning experience, and more.
Students enrolled in cyber security programs online can pursue formal full-time or part-time employment to gain practical work experience and strengthen their resumes.
Online learning environments can provide a more personalized and focused learning experience where students have more control over their learning pace and can access materials repeatedly.
Online degrees break down geographical barriers, allowing students to access top-tier programs from anywhere with an internet connection.
Technical Issues, distractions, and lack of social interaction are just some disadvantages of pursuing an online cybersecurity degree.
Some reputable cyber security schools online offering distance learning opportunities, include Bellevue University, Baker College, City University of Seattle, and Kennesaw State University.
Evaluate your suitability for a cybersecurity career before enrolling by considering factors like program cost, curriculum, faculty expertise, and accreditation when selecting a program.

As per an article published by Forbes, approximately 1.1 million college students are enrolled in online colleges. And nearly 10 million students took at least one online class in 2022. While these statistics are lower than those of 2020, during COVID-19, they are quite significant.

These numbers indicate that an increasing number of students are opting for online degrees. In fact, the online learning market is expected to grow by 20.5% between 2022 and 2030. Post-pandemic, an increasing number of students chose to pursue online or hybrid education.

Thus, colleges and universities transformed their education model to include remote and hybrid learning opportunities. From computer science degrees online to digital photography online degrees, the choices are endless. So, if you are thinking of pursuing an online cybersecurity degree, you can do so confidently. Colleges are fully equipped to provide the highest quality of education via online degree programs.

Plus, getting a cyber security online degree might be the best option for many individuals out there. Here is all you need to know about getting an online cybersecurity degree. However, if you feel a traditional option is ideal for you, refer to our in-depth guide ‘Finding colleges with cybersecurity majors in the USA’ for more information.

Benefits of getting an online cyber security degree

Get an online cyber security degree

Even before the pandemic, the online learning model existed across several colleges worldwide. However, not many students preferred it over traditional on-campus learning. But since the pandemic, and the benefits of online learning came to light, the trend has changed completely.

In 2012, only 12.4% of college students opted for a completely online degree as per a report by Forbes. However, in 2022, more than half of college students took online classes and only 26.6% chose a completely on-campus degree.

Here are some advantages that are pushing people towards online learning.

Lower cost

An online cybersecurity degree is bound to be more affordable than an on-campus one. Some colleges offer lower per-credit rates for those opting for online learning. So, if you are hoping to join a private, for-profit college an online degree might be a more affordable option.

Additionally, out-of-state students attending a public college can also enjoy lower costs by pursuing cybersecurity programs online. Moreover, online students save a significant amount of money spent on commuting and accommodation.

The lower cost of online degrees makes them accessible to a wider range of students from varying socio-economic backgrounds. In fact, Forbes also reports that black students make up more than 23% of all students pursuing a completely online degree.

Flexible scheduling

Another major benefit of attending cyber security schools online is that students no longer need to devise their entire schedule around their college classes. With asynchronous online degrees, they can take their classes at any time and are not bound by the college’s schedule.

In an asynchronous college degree, students don’t have to participate in college classes in real time. They can even choose to take multiple classes in one sitting, accelerating their learning process.

It is important to note that an online degree program features the same curriculum as that of a traditional one. Students will have to complete projects, assignments, and more. Thus, realistically speaking, covering an entire week’s worth of classes in one day is not possible. However, the lack of time constraints does offer substantial flexibility.

Gain practical experience

Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in cyber security must complete a mandatory internship and gain some professional experience. The more professional experience you have the better your chances of getting employment.

In an online cyber security degree, they can pursue full or part-time employment alongside their education. Additionally, cyber security students employed in the NSA can also use their work experience to earn extra credits in their online bachelor’s cyber security degree from the University of Arizona.

The ability to gain practical experience while studying benefits not only cyber security students but also students enrolled in other disciplines. For example, those pursuing an online entrepreneurship degree, or an online human resources degree can gain significant benefit by pursuing employment alongside their education.

Additionally, students pursuing an online digital photography degree can simultaneously build their practical portfolio. Not only will it strengthen their CV but improve their overall learning experience and enhance their eligibility for a variety of roles in the corporate world after graduation.

Improved learning experience

In the US, there were nearly 13.5 million students enrolled in public colleges and 5.9 million in private colleges in 2022. We can only speculate as to the number of students in each class at the college level. Especially because compulsory courses have a higher enrolment count and that can go up to nearly 100 students in each class.

However, there are fewer students in elective courses as not every student enrolled in a cybersecurity degree will want to specialize in penetration testing. Some students may sway towards information security analyses.

Regardless, in a traditional setting, if a student is unclear on a concept, they are less likely to stop the lecture in the middle to clear their query or ask the professor to repeat themselves. Whereas in an online class, a student can pause and rewind the lecture and re-listen to the same point as many times as needed.

Then if further clarification is still needed, they can reach out to the professor and clear their queries. Thus, enhancing their learning experience.

No geographical limitations

As long as you have an internet connection and access to a PC, you can enroll in an online cyber security degree at some of the best colleges for online cyber security bachelor’s in the US. The aim of the best online colleges for cybersecurity is to equip even remote learners with the resources and skills needed to excel in their academic and professional careers.

Whether you are in a different state, or in a different country altogether, cyber security programs online can help you be the best cyber security professional possible. However, international students may be required to provide language testing scores alongside their college application, and other requirements.

What are the disadvantages of getting an online cybersecurity degree?

Get an online cyber security degree

The benefits of pursuing a cyber security degree online are nearly endless. Students become more self-reliant and motivated, enjoy greater flexibility and freedom, become more disciplined, and develop excellent time management skills.

However, there are also some disadvantages of online learning. Compared to the pros, the cons are few, but they exist, nonetheless.

Technological issues

Students may experience technical difficulties while undertaking an online degree. These can include issues with the computer systems, internet connectivity issues, power outages, and more. Moreover, they will not have access to the college’s technical support staff and will have to resolve issues themselves.

Distractions

Learning at home, or in a café, comes with significant distractions. People coming in and going out, or noises from the streets and neighborhood can all prove very distracting. Students must find a quiet spot to take classes in or else they may not be able to absorb the lecture effectively.

Lack of interaction

If you are a social butterfly, a remote learning program can be very isolating for you. Your interaction with classmates will be limited to orientation, graduation, or special occasions and seminars. Students must make an active effort to engage in online discussions so as to build a network of peers as it can prove beneficial in the professional field.

Limited access to college facilities and labs

In an online cyber security degree, students will not be able to benefit from labs and equipment present on campus. This drawback affects out-of-state students the most. However, most colleges do offer significant online support and resources to students.

Tech-forward institutes such as Maryville University at Saint Louise and the University of North Dakota all ensure the availability of resources to enhance students’ learning experience.

A complete list of colleges offering online cybersecurity degrees

Enroll in an online cyber security degree

Before you enroll in a cyber security degree online, make sure to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for a career in cyber security or not. There are certain signs that indicate you are ideal for a cyber security career.

If you find that a cyber security degree does not seem ideal for you, explore alternate career paths. Computer science degrees online offer a similar learning experience without the focus on cybersecurity. Here are a few other options you can explore:

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity – Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity degree that caters to their unique learning needs. Students can choose between the traditional path, which allows them to register for courses in any sequence and at their own pace, or the accelerated cohort format for faster completion.

A cybersecurity degree from Bellevue University prepares students for a variety of career paths. Graduates can seek employment in government agencies, private sector businesses, and national security organizations.

The rise in cybercrimes has exponentially increased the demand for cybersecurity experts and Bellevue University’s BS in Cybersecurity produces just that. The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security termed Bellevue University as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).

The recognition highlights our commitment to providing top-tier cybersecurity education. Students can benefit from expert faculty members boasting extensive experience in the field, having worked at prestigious organizations such as the USAF, DoD, and NASA. They offer students real-world insights and unrivaled professional expertise gained through extensive experience in cybersecurity.

Bellevue’s cybersecurity program covers a wide range of essential skills, including programming, governance, risk, compliance, security controls, web and database security, and penetration testing.

Location	Min GPA	Acceptance rate	Tuition
Bellevue, Nebraska	2.0	72%	$449 per credit for online programs

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cybersecurity – Baker College

Baker College is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, a designation awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA). This recognition signifies the program’s high quality and commitment to preparing students for cybersecurity careers.

The demand for cybersecurity professionals is high due to the increasing value of digital information. A degree in Information Technology and Cybersecurity prepares graduates for careers in network and computer systems administration, computer user support, risk management, and cyber defense.

The program includes coursework in computer operating systems, programming, networking, information security, ethical hacking, computer forensics, incident response, and more. Students also gain practical experience through a senior project and co-op work experience.

Location	Min GPA	Acceptance rate	Tuition
Flint, Michigan	3.36	37%	$450 per credit hour

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity – City University of Seattle

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program at City University of Seattle prepares students for a rewarding career in the growing field of cybersecurity. The program equips students with the necessary skills needed to assess, investigate, and protect information systems from various threats.

Students can choose from on-site or online courses to fit their schedule. They can also opt for the accelerated learning program to complete the program in two years. However, they must have some prior transferable credits.

The City University of Seattle is another National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, as recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.

Students benefit from an industry-relevant curriculum. The program is designed with input from data security leaders and focuses on governance, risk, and compliance skills. These are better known in the industry as GRC skills and are essential for cybersecurity professionals.

Throughout the four-year programs, students learn about networking protocols, computer security, data systems, internet technology, information systems, security tools and techniques, and programming.

With a bachelor’s degree in cyber security from the City University of Seattle, students gain the skills and knowledge to address corporate risks and become cybersecurity specialists.

Location	Min GPA	Acceptance rate	Tuition
Seattle, Washington	2.0	100%	$415 per credit hour

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity – Kennesaw State University

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (BS-CYBR) program at Kennesaw State University equips students with the technical skills and business acumen needed to protect computerized information systems from various threats.

The bachelor in cybersecurity program at Kennesaw draws from several existing programs. These include Information Security and Assurance, Information Technology, and Criminal Justice. The aim is to offer a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum.

It combines advanced technological skills with a strong understanding of business, managerial, and administrative aspects of cybersecurity. Through the program, students learn to effectively manage cybersecurity risks and address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals.

The BS-CYBR program is entirely online, providing students the convenience and flexibility to learn at their own pace. It allows students to balance their education with work and other commitments.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity from Kennesaw State University will be well-prepared for a variety of cybersecurity careers. They can gain employment in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government.

Location	Min GPA	Acceptance rate	Tuition
Kennesaw, Georgia	3.5	67.8%	$5,700/yr for online undergraduate programs

Enroll in an online cybersecurity degree today!

study at home in an online cyber security degree

College planning is not an easy task. We have tried to make the process easier for those hoping to pursue a cybersecurity degree online. However, if you are still on the fence about which degree to take at an undergraduate level, make sure to read through comprehensive degree advice and available resources before making the decision.