With the ever-increasing integration of technology into our lives—including mobile networks, Wi-Fi and cloud computing applications—there is more need to make sure that those technologies are secured from criminals. As a result, the field of cyber security is growing at a rapid pace. If you are considering a career in computer science, take a look at programs that offer a bachelor’s degree in cyber security. With the rise in cyber attacks and increasingly complex cyber threats, a bachelor’s degree in cyber security provides a strong foundation to be prepared for one of the many jobs available in the field.
cyber security degree programs offer students coursework on theories, techniques, and tools to identify, address, and prevent cyber threats and attacks, creating proactive critical-thinkers that keep information safe. Students that want to enter the field of cyber security or individuals already working in the industry study topics like network security, cybercrime, digital forensics, and software development in anticipation of combating current and potential risks.
Most full-time students can complete the online master’s in cyber security in two years. Online master’s in cyber security programs generally require 30 to 36 credits of coursework. The job outlook for cyber security specialists is strong, with an expected job growth of 18% between 2014 and 2024; that’s roughly three to five times the national average job growth in other fields. Applicants for these positons typically hold a bachelor’s degree, and the median salary is about $90,000 a year. Though cyber security specialists can hold a number of diverse positions, some common careers include security analyst, network security engineer, information security manager and security administrator.
So how do you go about choosing a program? Most importantly, you want an interdisciplinary degree that’s going to provide you with solid computing skills – fundamentals like programming, statistics, system administration, etc. The following school ranking should serve as a helpful starting point in your search for the best online cyber security programs in the United States. If you want to pursue a degree in cyber security, and you value the opportunity to study online, read on to learn more about the top online cyber security programs in the country.
1.Western Governors University
WGU’s BS in information technology — security is an online security program consisting of five areas of study: systems and services, networking and security, data management, scripting and programming, and the IT business. Students pursuing the security emphasis must also demonstrate competencies by passing certification exams. At the end of this cyber security online degree, students complete a capstone project and develop a portfolio.
2.Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University’s online bachelor of science in cyber security degree prepares students for careers in information security, software development, and security analysis through a comprehensive 120-credit hour program. Students learn techniques and tools applicable to real-world scenarios as they develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. SNHU’s cyber security degree includes coursework on application security, network defense, and incident response and investigation for students to learn about the vast and expanding field of information security. Learners can specialize in secure programming, focusing on developing software and assessing information systems to prevent and solve security risks and problems.
3.Wilmington University
Students in this online cyber security degree program specialize in digital information security, information assurance, and computer forensics. The coursework includes study in cyberlaw, networks and communications, and web and data security. Graduates are prepared for positions as security technicians, security analysts, and security auditors.
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Arya Williams