Cyber Degrees – Before We Get Into The Topic, let’s Learn Some Basic Of This Topic
Best Guide For Cybersecurity Degrees
You can search our directory of on-campus and online Cyber Security degrees at Cyber Security Degrees.org. We’ve compiled a database from a variety of sources to keep track of cybersecurity degrees by the state on one website.
We looked at job openings in the Cyber Security, network, forensics, and technology fields, as well as several Cyber Security programs and the skills you’ll need to get started in this field.
Businesses, enterprises, organizations, and governments are putting more importance and effort into securing their electronic infrastructure, which is a growing field. Continue reading to learn more about Cyber Security, including accessible programs, the ideal designation for organizations, and career opportunities in the field.
NSA / DHS: CAE Designated Cyber Security Programs
The National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have accredited and designated colleges as Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) in our database (DHS). Based on the CAE-designated cybersecurity initiatives by the NSA and DHS, we have almost 400 Cyber Security programs in our database. By selecting your state from the drop-down menu, you can look for campus sites in your area.
What Are CAE Designations for Cyber Security Programs?
The National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) and Cyber Operations are the two main categories of NSA/DHS CAE certification (CAE-CO). The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), which is part of the Intelligence Committee, is also supported by the accreditation (IC). The DIA, which is not the same as the CIA, collects information and analyses foreign governments for a range of objectives, not all of which entail combat.
We utilize a variety of acronyms to “label” universities and degree programs throughout the site. These are based on the NSA and DHS’s CAE designations (both of these agencies use many acronyms interchangeably):
- CAE-C stands for Cybersecurity Academic Excellence Centers.
- CAE-CD: National Security Agency/Department of Homeland Security National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
- CAE-CDE stands for National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, which is run by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security (Associate, Bachelor, Masters, Doctoral)
- CAE-R stands for the National Security Agency/Department of Homeland Security’s National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research.
- National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) is an acronym for “National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Security Agency (NSA) share ownership of the largest cybersecurity accreditation organization. The National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) and Cyber Operations are the two categories (CAE-CO). The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), which is part of the Intelligence Committee, is also supported by the accreditation (IC). The DIA, which is not the same as the CIA, collects information and analyses foreign governments for a range of objectives, not all of which entail combat.
What is the CAE in Cyber Defense?
Universities that meet the government requirements for securing cyber networks are given this designation. This benefits the institution that offers the program by allowing its curriculum to be certified, as well as better preparing future cybersecurity professionals. There are two distinct designations for post-graduate education: two years (CAE-2Y) or four years (CAE-CDE), as well as research (CAE-R). Some programs will have specialization areas, such as Digital Forensics, which is the investigation of tampered with information within storage data, and Network Security Administration, which prepares graduates to create and monitor security systems such as anti-virus programs and firewalls to prevent intrusions. Syracuse University, the University of California-Davis, and the University of Texas-San Antonio are among the universities that have both education and research classifications.
What is the CAE in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO)
Four-year undergraduate and graduate schools with a curriculum addressing the development and execution of cybersecurity in an organization are accorded this certification. These will either be distinct programs, such as the University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations, or a specialty or graduate degree, such as Mississippi State University’s Master of Science in Computer Science with a Cyber Operations Certificate. Because this is a highly technical emphasis, it will most likely be found in the computer science and computer engineering disciplines, and it may necessitate a mix of schools within the university. The CAE evaluates a program based on two distinct criteria: core education and a more advanced form that focuses on the depth of its contents.
Requirements For CAE Designation
To be approved by the CAE, a program must meet many precise and stringent requirements. The curriculum must reflect the most recent advances in cybersecurity as well as attempts to prevent intrusions and susceptible data. Schools must conduct regular reviews of their courses and staff and demonstrate various improvements, as well as providing students with specialized resources, scholarships, and proof of professional growth.
- Schools interested in Cyber Defense accreditation must submit their information along with an application to the CAE. These programs will be evaluated, and recommendations will be made based on whether they require additional development or if a mentor will eventually support them. New universities will be subjected to three independent evaluations, whereas renewals will be subjected to two independent reviews.
- A letter of intent from the school demonstrating how their cybersecurity program will change the landscape and their successes thus far is one of the criteria for Cyber Defense. The program must be developed, and students must have a high rate of success in completing it and being prepared for employment when they graduate. The curriculum must include sufficient basic coursework and a concentration on cyber protection, as well as a degree that is clearly designated and a thesis or dissertation that concludes the program.
- For best student growth, courses will need to adhere to tight requirements. Providing syllabi for these courses that clearly identify specific coursework, tests, and lab exercises, as well as the resources available to these students and other organizations that are assisting or partnering with the program, are just a few examples. These colleges and institutions must construct cybersecurity and cyber defense center, either physically or online. Faculty must demonstrate that they are working professionals in the sector and that they have made contributions, such as writing for academic journals.
- These programs must be updated and presented every 18 months to maintain accreditation in Cyber Operations. Students must be able to apply for assistantships that offer research projects in the subject of cyber operations, certain cybersecurity courses require students to write research papers, and they must attend or discuss their findings at a conference focused on cybersecurity challenges. Regardless of their educational level, students must be required to participate in activities and exercises to obtain hands-on experience and a better understanding of the field they wish to follow.
- Cyber Defense and Cyber Operations cannot be considered separate specializations. Computer science, engineering, and business are just a few of the fields that could benefit from these subjects. A complete list of courses provided must include the most recent time they were taught, and all academic materials must be updated regularly to reflect the most recent content and technology improvements. Within Cyber Operations, the faculty must have at least two full-time professionals who are well-versed in the field and actively conducting research. Teaching at least three cybersecurity courses is required for full-time status.
Why Should You Care About Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is one of the hottest topics in a variety of tech fields, including IT, infrastructure, programming, and computer engineering. Because so many businesses and governments are digitally based, and because people and infrastructure are so reliant on technology, cybersecurity is swiftly becoming one of the most crucial parts of any company or country.
| School | Level | Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|---|
Utica College |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cybersecurity | Website |
Aurora University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cybersecurity | Website |
University of West Florida |
Master | Online Cybersecurity, M.S. | Website |
Norwich University |
Bachelor | Online BS in Cyber Security | Website |
Fairleigh Dickinson University |
Master | Master of Science in Cyber and Homeland Security | Website |
Why Consider Cyber Security?
Many business and computer-related courses will be required of students pursuing a cybersecurity degree. Cybercrime law and investigations, cybersecurity, introduction to criminal justice, the threat of terrorism and crime, computer and network security, discrete mathematics, computer science, cyber law and ethics, information systems design, applied statistics, and information technology are just a few of the topics covered in these courses.
What You Could Study with Cyber Security?
Many cybersecurity schools require students to perform an internship at a company to gain hands-on experience and real-world training. Master’s degree candidates may be expected to complete thesis projects and engage in research initiatives.
There Are Multiple Cyber Security Degree Levels
Applicants to cybersecurity programs must meet certain entrance standards, including letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and transcripts from previous colleges. They may also need to have an associate or bachelor’s degree, depending on the program or degree they choose.
What You Should Know Before Applying?
In its broadest sense, cybersecurity is the field of safeguarding digital systems, software, and databases against undesired or hostile criminal activity.
Cybercriminals try to gain access to digital information, which can result in irreversible damage to individuals and businesses. Network security engineers must prepare to confront cyber thieves by eliminating flaws, hooks, and exploits that criminals employ to gain access to any network. To secure networks, cybersecurity engineers take precautionary steps.
| School | Level | Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|---|
University of Delaware |
Master | Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity | Website |
St. Ambrose University |
Bachelor | Bachelor of Business Administration – Cybersecurity Management | Website |
Bethel University |
Bachelor | Online B.S. Cyber Security | Website |
Lindenwood University |
Bachelor | Online BA Cybersecurity | Website |
Point University |
Bachelor | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in Information Systems Security | Website |
Reasons For Expectations For An Increase In Cyber Security
large corporations like Sony, Target, and Home Depot, cybersecurity is unquestionably a hot topic — and rightfully so. It’s good news for the sector, as more businesses are looking for cybersecurity specialists to help protect their data and networks.
According to Forbes, the US government (which is tripling its cybersecurity employees in government posts) has put in place a variety of scholarship programs that are only open to US nationals. Cyber Cops is one such program, however, it has been largely ineffective, owing to the requirement that individuals receiving scholarships be US citizens.
Approximately 70% of all Master’s level computer science graduates are foreigners, and hence do not qualify.
In a nutshell, the United States government is in critical need of cybersecurity experts. As a result, there has never been a better moment to pursue a career in cybersecurity, network security, or a related discipline of digital security.
How To Become A Cyber Security Engineer?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, becoming a cybersecurity specialist/engineer typically requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in this or a related discipline (BLS). Although a person with only a post-secondary diploma can be hired, a bachelor’s degree is the most typical requirement for this job.
A bachelor’s degree may usually be completed in four years, while a master’s degree can take anywhere from one to two years longer. This may differ if the student has prior experience in the field of study. A post-secondary certificate can be earned in roughly a year, but the candidate must already have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a relevant discipline like computer science or programming.
Regardless of whether they pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree, students must finish general education courses. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus in Cyber Security, or Internet Security, is a common choice for this field.
U.S. Government Initiatives For Cyber Security Education
Cyber Security has a lot of support from current and prior presidential administrations, and it cuts across party lines.
The National Cyber Plan, issued by President Trump, is the first fully articulated cyber strategy for the United States since 2003. According to the order, cybersecurity is “…one of the most critical economic and national security issues we have as a society, but one that we as a government or as a country are not fully prepared to counter…”, as stated by former President Barack Obama.
Former President Barack Obama outlined his goals for cybersecurity reform in his Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative, which included information sharing, counterintelligence, and expanding cybersecurity education, particularly within the federal government, in one of his State of the Union addresses.
The cybersecurity industry is likely to grow at a quick pace, thanks to the federal government’s support. According to market analysts, the cybersecurity industry’s market capitalization (source) is expected to increase from roughly $65 billion in 2015 to around $150 billion by 2020. (source).
Online Cyber Security Degrees
Students studying cybersecurity can pick from a variety of concentrations, such as a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity with a focus on cybercrime investigations and forensics or a focus on information assurance.
Despite their similarities, the cybercrime investigations and forensics specialization focuses on teaching students how to obtain evidence to aid in the prosecution of cybercriminals in crimes such as credit card theft, hacking, and terrorism.
On the other side, the information assurance concentration focuses on ways to avoid network intrusions and identify potential security breaches. A forensic focus can also help students prepare for law enforcement employment.
Master’s In Cyber Security Degrees
While all programs will aim to prepare students for employment in cybercrime, master’s degrees will be referred to by different names depending on the school. The key distinction between the undergraduate and graduate programs is that the latter trains students for careers as forensics experts and security administrators. Here are a few samples of program titles that students can encounter when looking for cybersecurity coursework:
- Business Administration Master’s Degree
- Cybersecurity Master of Engineering
- Information and Cyber Security Master’s Degree
- Computer Science Master’s Degree
- Cyber Security Master’s Degree
- Information Assistance Master’s Degree
- Management Information Systems Master’s Degree
Some are basic, while others, such as the MBA and MS-MIS degrees, can include a Cyber Security or Cyber Operations concentration. Digital Forensics, Cyber Investigations, Network Security Administration, and Secure Software Development are some of the other areas to look at for more specialized cybersecurity programs (all of these may have slightly alternative wording in various programs).
Types Of Cyber Security Degrees
Cybercrime and attacks will continue to be a major concern in the world as Internet use develops and computers become an increasingly vital element of life. Because of this expanding concern, cybersecurity is critical.
Individuals interested in pursuing employment in these demanding fields can choose from a variety of cybersecurity degrees. Learn what it takes to get a cybersecurity degree and what kinds of jobs you might be able to get with one.
Online Cyber Security Degrees
Online cybersecurity programs offer students the opportunity to earn their degrees while continuing to work and meet their other obligations. An accelerated cybersecurity baccalaureate program is an online program available for students who hold an associate degree. Specific coursework typically includes security principles, network security, introduction to Unix/Linux operating system and human factors in cybersecurity.
Bachelors in Cyber Security Degrees
Students pursuing the undergraduate program will typically study how to implement and maintain network security, identifying any potential risks that it may have, holding criminal investigations when breaches or attacks take place, and how to perform recovery efforts when damage has been done. Potential career roles include cybersecurity analyst and information system officer.
Master’s in Cyber Security Degrees
Offers further education in developing a secure network for an organization, maintaining secure data on complicated systems, and international cybersecurity threats. Entering a Master’s program will typically require an undergraduate degree with at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA and some professional experience in the information technology field.
Doctorate / PhD in Cyber Security Degrees
Provides a path toward executive roles within an organization, like a chief information security officer or information security manager. Subjects can consist of advanced technical theory within cybersecurity, or it can have a more philosophical approach, such as creating policy to regulate security and specializing within a certain segment of cybersecurity.
Cyber Operations
Courses that will mostly focus on the technical aspects within cybersecurity, preparing those who are building and maintaining the infrastructure. The CAE has designated a handful of computer science and computer engineering disciplines within this category.
Cyber Defense
Programs that have been accredited by the CAE that have an emphasis in improving the nationwide infrastructure. Students will have thorough education in preventative measures taken to decrease cyber attacks, creating more awareness on potential threats and attempting to work ahead of hackers with the latest technological innovations.
Computer Forensics Degrees
A process of examining digital media on a device and grabbing information or evidence that is analyzed and presented when needed. With the rise of cyber crime, more digital evidence is needed when cases go to trail, and this type of study emphasizes that segment within cybersecurity.
Cyber Forensics
While related to computer forensics, this study focuses more on the investigation and determination of cyber attacks on an organization. They determine why an attack happened, which does involve some device analysis, but less of the technical aspects of building and maintaining a security infrastructure.
https://cybersecuritydegrees.org/programs/cyber-intelligence/”>Cyber Intelligence Degrees
Researching and obtaining intelligence, this degree is heavily focused nowadays on computer science and programming. There are a number of institutions with a cyber intelligence program that is designated by the National Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
Information Security Analysis Degrees
This area of emphasis prepares students to protect their organization’s data by studying the security infrastructure. They can determine what potential issues could take place in the future and they can also figure out how to solve any ongoing hacks or data breaches that may take place.
Security Engineering
Specifically focuses on the creation of securing the network and devices that the organization will use. It is important for engineers to keep on top of the latest innovations so their security procedures will be able to adopt new software and hardware capabilities, and eliminates exploits.
Cryptology
The process of encrypting information through a series of algorithmic scrambling that can only be obtained and reshuffled with authorized access. Areas of emphasis in this topic are usually found in computer engineering and information security degrees.
Network Penetration Testing
Creates an environment where an organization’s networks and information systems are attacked in order to determine any exploits and potential vulnerabilities that can cause actual harm in the future. These findings are analyzed and reported in order to improve the infrastructure.
Network Security Degrees
An overview of the protection within a network and how various hardware and software can help keep this information safe. Studies will mostly focus on the wide variety of security measures used on computers, the cloud, wireless phones, and more.
Cyber Security Training & Certifications
Cybersecurity graduates may choose to get certifications in addition to completing the required coursework and internships. Although certification is not required for employment, it can significantly improve a résumé and expand job options.
Some certifications are available from software providers, while others are offered by schools or other organizations. The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, for example, is offered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, Inc. (ISC)2, and it covers topics such as cryptography, operations security, telecommunications and network security, software development security, and physical security, among others.
CompTIA, Cisco, CERT, Certified Wireless Network Professional, and Global Information Assurance Certification are some of the other organizations that offer certifications.
Careers In Cyber Security
Graduates with a cybersecurity degree have a variety of professional options. Information security analysts, network and computer systems administrators, and cybersecurity software engineers are among the most popular jobs.
Many actions must be completed to implement appropriate cybersecurity in a business. When private data is moving through the system, the basic networking must be secure, which necessitates the hiring of a network security engineer who will act as an architect and manage the hardware and software required to access data.
Working in Cyber Security and Network Security
Anti-virus software and firewalls are developed by security software developers, who can either work for the company or provide third-party support to help them keep their systems safe. Computer systems analysts are one of several roles that will seek for weaknesses in the system, but they will also personally watch how well these connections are functioning and write reports on their findings. They will frequently report to network and security administrators who supervise the entire network and will delegate tasks such as installing preventative measures, neutralizing problems, and performing data recovery in the event of an attack.
Popular States to Work in the U.S.
Washington: Two well-known organizations, Microsoft and Amazon Web Services, have cybersecurity jobs in Washington. In 2015, Microsoft opened the Cyber Defense Operations Center on the Redmond campus, which is staffed 24 hours a day and responds to any cyber threats within the cloud and from their IT department to the end-user. In the process of detection and prevention, there are numerous opportunities, such as patching software that the company distributes, analyzing various threat levels and observing how preventative methods handle attacks and creating and reviewing user feedback to help improve processes based on any issues or problems that may arise.
Massachusetts: Raytheon Cyber and IBM Security have a handful of outstanding jobs in their security centers in Waltham, Massachusetts. The latter focuses on assisting businesses in rethinking cybersecurity rather than relying on a huge number of technologies, as well as assisting them in meeting national compliance criteria to minimize production and cost waste. More federal cybersecurity chances are available in Washington, DC, to protect the country against outside cyber terror assaults by hackers in the United States or other countries.
Cybersecurity opportunities pay an average of $95,329 in the United States, owing to the significance of protecting private data as we continue to rely more on information systems, storage centers, and cloud technology. For entry-level positions with basic analytical skills, this salary can drop to roughly $50,000. Executive roles, such as chief information security officer, can pay anywhere from $196,000 to over $260,000, depending on location, with greater salaries in major cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco.