What Is a Cybersecurity Analytics Degree?
A Cybersecurity Analytics degree gives students the skills to combat cyber threats using big data approaches.
Specifically, a cybersecurity analytics degree goes beyond traditional cybersecurity coursework by adding statistics, scripting, and machine learning. That way, graduates can analyze massive volumes of log and network data to detect, investigate, and neutralize attacks.
Like with many cybersecurity roles, there’s high demand for trained professionals that know how to use big data to aid cybersecurity operations.
Cybersecurity Analytics Degree Program Structure
Cybersecurity analytics programs combine data analysis, scripting, and threat intelligence into a security framework.
Bachelor’s In Cybersecurity Analytics
Course titles vary by school, but a typical four-year bachelor’s program looks like this:
Year 1: Foundations
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals
- Introduction to Programming (usually Python)
- Computer Systems and Architecture
- Introduction to Networking
- Statistics I (or Precalculus/Calculus I)
- General education requirements (writing, communication, social sciences)
Year 2: Technical Core
- Network Security
- Operating Systems Security (Linux and Windows administration)
- Scripting and Automation for Security
- Database Design and Management
- Introduction to Data Analytics
- Discrete Mathematics (or advanced statistics)
- Cyber Law and Ethics
Year 3: Security Analytics Core
- Cybersecurity Analytics and Intelligence
- SIEM and Log Analysis
- Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
- Digital Forensics
- Cyber Risk and Compliance
- Data Visualization and Communication
- Threat Intelligence (or Malware Analysis)
Year 4: Specialization and Capstone
- Incident Response and Threat Hunting
- Cloud Security
- Applied Machine Learning for Security (offered as an elective at some schools)
- Security Analytics Capstone Project
- Internship or Practicum
- Electives
Many programs map coursework to industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CySA+.
Master’s In Cybersecurity Analytics
Master’s degrees in cybersecurity analytics typically require 30–36 credits to complete. Full-time students finish in 12–18 months; part-time students take about two years. Applicants with a non technical bachelor’s may need bridge courses in programming, networking, and statistics before starting a program.
Year 1
- Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts
- Statistics and Data Science for Security
- Network Security and Threat Detection
- Security Data Engineering
- Cyber Risk Management and Compliance
Year 2
- Applied Machine Learning for Security
- Threat Intelligence and Hunting
- Two electives (e.g., Cloud Security Analytics, Digital Forensics, Adversarial Machine Learning)
- Capstone Project or Thesis
Cybersecurity Analytics vs. Traditional Cybersecurity Degree
Both degrees can prepare students for cybersecurity careers, but they take different approaches to identifying and combating threats. A cybersecurity analytics B.S. is more data-driven, while a traditional online cybersecurity B.S. places more emphasis on hands-on system and network defense.
- Core focus and ideal student: A cybersecurity analytics degree focuses on analyzing cyber data to detect, predict, and respond to threats. It’s generally a good fit for analytical students interested in data, trends, and strategy. A traditional cybersecurity degree takes a wider scope. You’ll learn about securing networks, systems, and applications through hands-on defense. So it better suits students who prefer system and network protection roles.
- Cost: Cybersecurity analytics bachelor’s programs average $52,189 at public universities for in-state students and $136,004 at private universities. By comparison, traditional cybersecurity bachelor’s programs average $36,891 at public universities for in-state students and $122,969 at private universities.
- Curriculum: Cybersecurity analytics programs emphasize data modeling, risk analytics, threat intelligence, and SIEM tools. Traditional cybersecurity programs place more emphasis on networking, cryptography, forensics, penetration testing, and system hardening.
- Programming languages and tools: Analytics-focused students may work with Python, SQL, Splunk, Tableau, R, and other security analytics platforms. Traditional programs more commonly use C/C++, Kali Linux, Wireshark, Cisco tools, and Metasploit.
- Career roles and work environments: Cybersecurity analytics graduates may pursue roles like information security analysts, threat intelligence analysts, SOC analysts, or cyber risk analysts. They often work in SOCs, threat intelligence teams, consulting, or cloud and SIEM operations. Traditional cybersecurity graduates typically become penetration testers, security engineers, forensics analysts, or incident responders. And they usually work within security teams, red and blue teams, enterprise IT departments, and in forensics labs.
- Types of threats: Analytics programs tend to focus on insider threats, advanced persistent threats, behavioral anomalies, and broader threat patterns. Traditional cybersecurity programs focus more directly on malware, phishing, DDoS attacks, zero-day exploits, and privilege escalation.
- Capstone and practicum work: Cybersecurity analytics students may build threat-detection dashboards or analyze breach data. Traditional cybersecurity students are more likely to design secure networks, conduct vulnerability scans, or complete red-team and blue-team labs.
Cybersecurity Analytics Degree Career Path and Job Opportunities
New graduates with a cybersecurity analytics bachelor’s degree typically start their career with roles such as information security analyst, Tier 1 or Tier 2 SOC analyst, threat intelligence analyst, cybersecurity engineer, malware analyst, or cyber risk analyst.
Among all cybersecurity roles, information security analysts are the fastest-growing positions across the entire job market.
Based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, employment of information security analysts is expected to grow 21% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than the average for all occupations.
That works out to about 14,100 openings each year and ranks information security analysts 12th on the BLS list of the 20 fastest-growing occupations in the United States.
The rise in the number of cyber attacks is a primary driver of increased demand for cybersecurity analysts. Microsoft has recently estimated there were 600 million cyberattacks per day globally.
Plus, there’s a global talent shortage in cybersecurity to address this growing demand.
CyberSeek reports that only 74 cybersecurity professionals exist for every 100 job openings. This has changed significantly over the past 15 years.
In 2010, there were 154 cybersecurity professionals for every 100 job openings. That means the demand for qualified cybersecurity talent has increased by 108.1%.
Google Trends data also supports the demand for cybersecurity talent, as interest in “cybersecurity analyst” has steadily risen over the past five years.
In order to acquire the skills needed for many cybersecurity analyst positions, students need a program that prepares them for the job market by teaching in-demand skills.
According to the 2025 Future of Jobs Report by WEF, three of the top 10 fastest-growing skills between 2025 and 2030, including the top two, are AI and Big Data, Networks and Cybersecurity, and Analytical Thinking.
All three of these core skills are heavily covered in most cybersecurity analytics degree programs.
For example, the University of Texas at San Antonio’s B.S. in Applied Cyber Analytics prepares students with hands-on skills in cybersecurity operations, advanced data analysis techniques, and policy-driven decision making.
Its cybersecurity core covers networking, security architecture, and intrusion detection; the analytics sequence includes Cyber Analytics I & II, Cyber Policy Analytics, and Data Science; and students work with data modeling, visualization, Python, AI, and machine learning.
Deloitte is hiring a Cyber Analyst with no prior experience. The position is open to new graduates with a starting salary of $85,000 per year.
Requirements for this position include a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, data analytics, or a related field of study. It also requires strong academic performance with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Similarly, General Dynamics Information Technology is hiring a Cyber Security Analyst with a salary range of $82,300 to $111,300 per year.
Qualified candidates must have a BA or BS in cybersecurity (or a related field) and 1+ years of relevant experience.
Cybersecurity Analytics Degree Career Outlook and Earning Potential
Based on the latest BLS data, the median annual salary for information security analysts is $129,180 per year (May 2025).
Indeed 2026 data also estimates that cybersecurity analysts earn an average annual salary of $99,256 in the United States.
But hiring and salaries vary widely depending on experience and degree type. For instance, 60% of cybersecurity jobs require a 4-year degree or higher.
The earning potential for cybersecurity analytics degree graduates depends on experience. Here’s a look at what graduates can expect as they grow within the cybersecurity field:
Entry-level professionals with 0–2 years of experience can use the $129,180 median salary for information security analysts as one benchmark, based on BLS data. Glassdoor estimates slightly lower salaries for entry-level cybersecurity analysts: approximately $104,000 per year with 0–1 years of experience and $113,000 with 1–3 years of experience.
At the mid level, with 3–5 years of experience, salaries typically climb to $120,000–$150,000, particularly in roles requiring threat intelligence or advanced analytics expertise. With certifications and specialized experience, many professionals reach the high end of this range. For example, Glassdoor estimates that a threat intelligence analyst with 4–6 years of experience earns $150,000 annually.
Advanced roles such as security engineer, architect, or manager typically pay $130,000–$180,000 or more, especially when they include leadership responsibilities or work at a large organization. Senior security managers or CISOs can see total compensation exceed $200,000. According to Glassdoor, senior security managers earn a median annual salary of $213,000 in the United States.
For example, Adobe is hiring a Senior Security Manager with a salary range between $128,100 and $245,300.
The job requires a bachelor’s degree, at least 10 years of related work experience, and 5 years in corporate security management.
Career Trajectory and Earning Potential Example:
- Information Security Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst (Entry-Level): Monitor logs, respond to incidents, and support SOC operations. Salary: $90,000–$125,000.
- Threat Intelligence Specialist / Cyber Risk Analyst (Mid-Level): Analyze threat patterns, contribute to automated detection systems, and manage dashboards. Salary: $110,000–$140,000.
- Security Engineer or Data-Focused Role: Design security solutions, integrate analytics tools, and refine monitoring logic using machine learning. Salary: $120,000–$170,000.
- Cybersecurity Manager / Architect / Senior Analyst: Lead SOC teams, advise on strategic security posture, and design enterprise-wide analytics frameworks. Salary: $140,000–$200,000+, often with bonuses and incentives.
The transition from analyst to engineer or manager can be accelerated by earning certifications (e.g., CISSP, GIAC), demonstrating proficiency in analytics tools (Splunk, SIEM, Tableau), and gaining leadership experience.
Comparing the Cost of Cybersecurity Analytics Degree Programs
The Programs.com team analyzed 25 cybersecurity analytics programs in the United States. Here’s what we found:
- The average total cost for a cybersecurity analytics bachelor’s degree at a public university is approximately $52,189 for in-state students, based on $434 per credit across 120 credits.
- At private universities, the average total tuition is $136,004, based on $1,133 per credit across 120 credits. Most students can complete a four-year cybersecurity analytics degree for under $50,000 at a public university with in-state tuition.
- For a cybersecurity analytics master’s degree, the average total cost is approximately $21,922 at public universities for in-state students, $31,791 at public universities for out-of-state students, and $29,968 at private universities.
Examples of Cybersecurity Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Tuition
| Institution | Institution Type | Program Name | Format | Credits | Total Tuition | CAE-CD? |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | Public | Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor’s Degree | Campus | 120 | $45,904 in-state | $113,272 out-of-state | Yes |
| Virginia Tech | Public | Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major | Campus | 125 | $50,750 in-state | $133,250 out-of-state | Yes |
| Penn State Beaver | Public | Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S) | Hybrid | 120 | $48,120 in-state | $81,960 out-of-state | Yes |
| Penn State Greater Allegheny | Public | Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S) | Hybrid | 120 | $53,040 in-state | $90,480 out-of-state | Yes |
| Penn State Brandywine | Public | Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S) | Hybrid | 120 | $53,640 in-state | $90,840 out-of-state | Yes |
| Anderson University | Private | Cybersecurity & Analytics (BS) | Campus | 121 | $136,004 | Yes |
| Capitol Technology University | Private | BS in AI-Driven Cyber Analytics | Online | 120 | $56,040 | Yes |
| Champlain College | Private | BS in Cybersecurity with Analytics Emphasis | Online | 120 | $40,200 | Yes |
| DePaul University | Private | BS in Cybersecurity with Data Analytics Concentration | Campus | 120 | $66,600 | Yes |
| Utica University | Private | BS in Cybersecurity with Data Analytics Specialization | Online | 120 | $57,000 | Yes |
Examples of Cybersecurity Analytics Master’s Degree Tuition
| Institution | Institution Type | Program Name | Format | Credits | Total Tuition | CAE-CD? |
| University of South Florida | Public | M.S. Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Security | Campus | 33 | $11,484 in-state | $14,223 out-of-state | Yes |
| Western Kentucky University | Public | Master of Science in Cybersecurity Data Analytics | Online | 30 | $18,210 in-state | $27,510 out-of-state | No |
| The University of New Mexico | Public | Master’s in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics | Online | 33 | $26,565 | Yes |
| West Virginia University | Public | Business Cybersecurity Management M.S. | Online | 30 | $28,950 | Yes |
| California State University, San Bernardino | Public | Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics | Online | 30 | $36,000 | Yes |
| Champlain College | Private | Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Analytics | Online | 30 | $17,850 | Yes |
| St Thomas University | Private | Master of Science in Cybersecurity & Analytics | Campus | 30 | $18,750 | No |
| Capitol Technology University | Private | Master of Science in Cyber Analytics | Online | 36 | $22,680 | Yes |
| Webster University | Private | Cybersecurity (MS) with Emphasis in Data Analytics | Online & Campus | 39 | $29,328 | Yes |
| The George Washington University | Private | Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics | Online | 30 | $36,000 | Yes |
Top 10 Cybersecurity Analytics Bachelor’s Degree Programs
1
Anderson University
Anderson, SC
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity & Analytics (campus)
- Estimated tuition: $136,004 ($1,124/credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Credits: 121
- Best for: Campus-based cyber + analytics degree
About the program
Anderson University’s B.S. in Cybersecurity & Analytics integrates cybersecurity with analytics in order to prepare graduates for careers in cyber analysis, security operations, and threat intelligence. The program is CAE-CD-designated, and its curriculum combines cybersecurity theory with hands-on analytics work. This is an approach the university credits with strong placement outcomes in SOC, cyber analyst, and threat intelligence roles. It’s a campus-based degree at a private university in Anderson, South Carolina, and the priciest option on this list at $136,004 for four years.
2
University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX
Program Summary
- B.S. in Applied Cyber Analytics (campus)
- Estimated tuition: $45,904 in-state | $113,272 out-of-state (2026–27 tuition and fees)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Texas residents; triple CAE designation
About the program
UTSA’s B.S. in Applied Cyber Analytics pairs the university’s cybersecurity core with data science courses from the College of AI, Cyber and Computing. UTSA holds CAE-CD, CAE-R, and CAE-CO designations, and the analytics sequence runs through Cyber Analytics I and II. Hands-on experience and interdisciplinary research prepare graduates for cyber analyst, threat intelligence analyst, and security operations roles. Automatic merit scholarships can allow non-resident students to pay in-state rates, and UTSA covers tuition and mandatory fees for eligible low- and middle-income Texas families.
3
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
Program Summary
- B.S. in Business, Cybersecurity Management & Analytics major (campus)
- Estimated tuition: $50,750 in-state | $133,250 out-of-state
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC; AACSB (Pamplin College of Business)
- Credits: 125
- Best for: Business-side security management roles
About the program
Virginia Tech’s Cybersecurity Management and Analytics (CMA) major resides in the Pamplin College of Business’s Business Information Technology department and teaches students how to work in the intersection of cybersecurity, data analytics, and business management. In general, the program focuses on the strategic side of security: risk management, security policy and oversight, and organizational resilience. BIT is the most recruited major on campus, with a 95% placement rate and a median starting salary of $68,000. The CAE-CD-designated program follows a 125-credit curriculum, and a hybrid/online option in Northern Virginia lets community college transfers finish a Virginia Tech degree in the D.C. area.
4
Penn State World Campus
Online (PA)
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (online)
- Estimated tuition: $80,160 ($644–$692/credit, 2026–27)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Fully online learners
About the program
Delivered fully online through Penn State’s College of IST, the B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations program will teach you cyber defense, analytics, visualization, and risk analysis. Specific coursework covers incident handling, network security, cyber forensics, and statistics for security and risk analysis. An internship is built into the major, and students pick an application focus such as law and policy, economics, geopolitics, or health care. The program is CAE-CD-designated, and Penn State World Campus ranks among U.S. News’ Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for 2026. Strong undergrad students can add the master’s through an integrated B.S./M.P.S. path that double-counts up to 12 credits.
5
Capitol Technology University
Laurel, MD
Program Summary
- B.S. in AI-Driven Cyber Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $56,040 ($467/credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: AI-focused cyber analytics near D.C.
About the program
Capitol Technology University’s online B.S. in AI-Driven Cyber Analytics (previously the B.S. in Cyber Analytics) teaches students to use AI and machine learning to identify abnormal behavior across networks, systems, and user activity. As a student in this program you’ll also use log analysis, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, cryptography, digital forensics, and malware analysis. Capitol is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, which keeps class sizes small. They also back graduates with the Capitol Commitment, a pledge that graduates find a job within 90 days of graduation. Its location between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. (dense with defense contractors and government agencies, the exact organizations that tend to hire cybersecurity analytics graduates).
6
Champlain College
Burlington, VT
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity, Analytics emphasis (online)
- Estimated tuition: $40,200 ($335/credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Online learners who want the analytics track
About the program
Champlain College Online’s B.S. in Cybersecurity with an analytics emphasis leans into data analysis, machine learning, and threat detection rather than pure network defense. The program is CAE-CD-designated and delivered entirely online, which helps adult learners continue working while they study. Champlain reports that 93% of graduates are employed in relevant roles, with average salaries above $85,000. At $796 per credit, it’s the most expensive online bachelor’s on this list.
7
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity (campus)
- Estimated tuition: $25,680 in-state | $54,720 out-of-state
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC; ABET (Computing Accreditation Commission)
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Low in-state cost; ABET-accredited program
About the program
Students in the University of South Florida’s B.S. in Cybersecurity learn to defend against cyberattacks, safeguard sensitive data, and anticipate adversaries’ strategies. The program is CAE-CD-designated and accredited by ABET’s Computing Accreditation Commission, and it draws on the resources of the new Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing: hands-on labs, industry and government partnerships, and internships that many students start as early as sophomore year. More than 90% of graduates land roles in cybersecurity intelligence and information security, with average starting salaries above $75,000.
8
Penn State Beaver
Monaca, PA
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (hybrid)
- Estimated tuition: $48,120 in-state | $81,960 out-of-state ($401/$683 per credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Hybrid study near Pittsburgh with internships and co-ops
About the program
Penn State Beaver offers the B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations in a hybrid format that mixes on-campus and online courses. The College of IST curriculum is heavy in topics like cyber defense, analytics, visualization, and risk analysis, and the CAE-CD-designated program pairs interdisciplinary coursework with internships and co-op opportunities. Ninety-two percent of graduates secure relevant roles within six months, with average starting salaries above $82,000 per year.
9
Penn State Brandywine
Media, PA
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (hybrid)
- Estimated tuition: $53,640 in-state | $90,840 out-of-state ($447/$757 per credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Hybrid study with access to Philadelphia employers
About the program
At Penn State Brandywine, the Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations B.S. is built on the same College of IST curriculum used across Penn State’s campuses. The program is CAE-CD-designated and offered in a hybrid format. Brandywine’s location outside Philadelphia puts students close to the city’s tech employers and the broader Penn State network, and recent graduates have moved into roles such as threat intelligence analyst at Comcast and cybersecurity consultant at Deloitte.
10
Penn State Greater Allegheny
McKeesport, PA
Program Summary
- B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (hybrid)
- Estimated tuition: $53,040 in-state | $90,480 out-of-state ($442/$754 per credit)
- Typical length: 4 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 120
- Best for: Hands-on career support and the Pittsburgh job market
About the program
Penn State Greater Allegheny’s hybrid B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations emphasizes analytics, cyber defense, and data visualization while preparing students for industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+. Like the other Penn State campuses, it is CAE-CD-designated and follows the College of IST curriculum. Career support is the differentiator: professional brand development, interview coaching, and access to Pittsburgh’s growing cybersecurity market, which helps more than 90% of graduates secure relevant roles within six months.
Top 10 Cybersecurity Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
1
Penn State World Campus
Online (PA)
Program Summary
- M.P.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (online)
- Estimated tuition: $34,221 ($1,037/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 33
- Best for: Working professionals who want customizable electives
About the program
Penn State World Campus delivers its Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations online, with core courses in IT, cybersecurity, and network management plus a customizable slate of electives. The program is CAE-CD-designated and taught by experienced practitioners; the graduate bulletin lists the full course plan. Flexible pacing lets students finish in one to two years, and related graduate certificates can stack toward the degree. Eighty-six percent of alumni are employed within six months, in roles spanning cybersecurity project management and intelligence.
2
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cybersecurity Data Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $18,210 in-state | $27,510 out-of-state
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: SACSCOC; AACSB (Gordon Ford College of Business)
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Low-cost, data-analytics-heavy online master’s
About the program
Western Kentucky University’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity Data Analytics is one of the least expensive programs on this list at $18,210 for Kentucky residents. Housed in the AACSB-accredited Gordon Ford College of Business, it emphasizes data analytics applied to cybersecurity and closes with a capstone project for applied experience. The online format is designed for professionals balancing coursework with a job, and graduates have moved into cybersecurity data analysis and risk management roles with average salaries above $120,000.
3
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $26,565 ($805/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: HLC; AACSB (Anderson School of Management)
- Credits: 33
- Best for: Business analytics and cybersecurity crossover
About the program
The University of New Mexico’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics is a business-school degree, offered through the AACSB-accredited Anderson School of Management, that integrates cybersecurity with business analytics and puts real-world applications—including AI tools—at the center of the coursework. UNM is CAE-R designated. The 33-credit program can be completed in one to two years, and its online delivery is built around working professionals. More than 90% of graduates are employed in business analytics and cybersecurity management roles, with average salaries above $110,000.
4
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
Program Summary
- M.S. in Business Cybersecurity Management (online)
- Estimated tuition: $28,950 ($965/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: HLC; AACSB (Chambers College of Business and Economics)
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Business-focused cybersecurity management
About the program
West Virginia University’s online M.S. in Business Cybersecurity Management approaches security from the business side, with tracks in policy and analytics, a practicum, and industry partnerships that supply real-world project work. Offered through the AACSB-accredited Chambers College of Business and Economics, the program carries both CAE-CD and CAE-R designations. Placement rates are high in cybersecurity management and threat analysis roles, with average starting salaries above $125,000, and the 30 credits are designed to fit around a full-time job.
5
California State University, San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cybersecurity and Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $36,000 ($1,200/credit)
- Typical length: 18 months
- Accreditation: WSCUC
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Structured 18-month online cohort
About the program
California State University, San Bernardino’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity and Analytics is built as an 18-month program that blends cybersecurity and analytics, with courses in risk management and penetration testing and a capstone project at the end. CSUSB is CAE-CD-designated, and the program combines practical skills with analytical training for information security analyst and threat detection roles, where it cites 32% projected job growth and average salaries above $130,000. At $1,200 per credit, it’s priced at the high end for a public university.
6
Champlain College
Burlington, VT
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $17,850 ($595/credit)
- Typical length: 10 months
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Fastest completion time
About the program
Champlain College Online’s accelerated M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics can be finished in 10 months, the fastest completion time on this list, and at $17,850 it’s also among the cheapest. Coursework emphasizes hands-on experience with industry tools, machine learning, AI, and data visualization, and ends with a capstone project. The program is CAE-CD-designated and offers preferred tuition rates for alumni and military students. Graduates typically target cybersecurity data analyst and threat intelligence specialist roles.
7
St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FL
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cyber Security and Analytics (campus, evening)
- Estimated tuition: $18,750 ($625/credit, inclusive of fees)
- Typical length: 1 year
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Evening study in Miami; STEM OPT for international students
About the program
St. Thomas University’s M.S. in Cyber Security and Analytics is a one-year, 30-credit evening program on STU’s Miami Gardens campus, designed for students who work during the day. The curriculum is aligned with CompTIA and CISSP certifications and builds hands-on skills in cloud security, ethical hacking, malware defense, VPNs, firewalls, and system hardening, with internships and job placement support along the way. The program’s STEM designation qualifies eligible international students for a 24-month OPT extension, and the $18,750 tuition is inclusive of fees, making it one of the most affordable campus-based options in our rankings.
8
Capitol Technology University
Laurel, MD
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cyber Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $22,680 ($630/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 36
- Best for: Technical analytics depth near the D.C. job market
About the program
Capitol Technology University’s online M.S. in Cyber Analytics covers risk management, forensics, penetration testing, and data science for security, with small class sizes and an accelerated path for Capitol bachelor’s graduates. The program is CAE-CD-designated, and the university’s position in the Washington, D.C., tech hub often means excellent job options: average graduate salaries run around $100,000, with cybersecurity specialists earning $92,000 or more. However, the 36-credit course plan is among the longer master’s programs on this list.
9
Webster University
Webster Groves, MO
Program Summary
- M.S. in Cybersecurity, Data Analytics emphasis (online or campus)
- Estimated tuition: $29,328 ($752/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: HLC
- Credits: 39
- Best for: Choice of online or on-campus delivery
About the program
Webster University’s M.S. in Cybersecurity with an Emphasis in Data Analytics is available online or on campus in Webster Groves, Missouri. The program focus is in areas like cybersecurity operations, security policy, or analytics integration. The 39-credit curriculum spans data analytics, security, and policy and includes a practicum project. The program is CAE-CD-designated and paced for working professionals. More than 90% of graduates are employed in cybersecurity and data analytics roles, with average salaries above $125,000.
10
George Washington University
Washington, D.C.
Program Summary
- M.Eng. in Cybersecurity Analytics (online)
- Estimated tuition: $36,000 ($1,200/credit)
- Typical length: 1–2 years
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 30
- Best for: Engineering-focused analytics with D.C. connections
About the program
The George Washington University’s online Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics is the most engineering-focused program on this list, folding policy and analytics into a technical core and drawing on GW’s Washington, D.C., connections. GW is CAE-R designated, and the bulletin lists the 30-credit course sequence. Graduates move into engineering and cybersecurity roles with average salaries above $140,000. Tuition of $1,200 per credit puts it at the top of the range here, but the M.Eng. degree and D.C. network can make that a worthwhile tradeoff.
Admission Requirements for Cybersecurity Analytics Degree Programs
Admission requirements for cybersecurity analytics programs vary based on degree level. That said, most programs look for a strong technical foundation in math, computer science, or data-related subjects.
Bachelor’s programs typically focus on academic readiness from high school or transfer coursework, while master’s in cyber analytics programs emphasize prior technical experience and undergraduate training in a relevant field.
Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements (B.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics or Related)
Educational background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Competitive programs often expect strong performance in math, science, or computer-related coursework. For example, Penn State recommends prior exposure to programming and calculus, while Anderson University recommends a strong math or computer background for its B.S. in Cybersecurity & Analytics.
Minimum GPA: General admission typically requires a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0. More selective programs may expect substantially higher academic performance; for example, Virginia Tech averages 3.7 or higher for admitted students.
Standardized tests: Many programs, including Penn State World Campus and Capitol Technology University, no longer require SAT or ACT scores, especially for transfer or non-traditional students. At selective technology-focused schools where testing is required, such as Virginia Tech, strong applicants typically submit SAT scores of 1200–1400+ or ACT scores of 25–32+.
Math and technical readiness: A strong background in algebra, precalculus, and sometimes calculus is encouraged. Penn State campuses such as Beaver and Brandywine prefer applicants with programming or computer science exposure, and some programs require placement tests or prior computing coursework.
Transfer students: Applicants must submit transcripts from all prior institutions and usually need a GPA of 2.5–3.0 or higher, along with specific coursework in computer science, IT, or math. Penn State World Campus, for example, allows up to 91 transfer credits with a minimum grade of C.
Master’s Degree Admission Requirements (M.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics or Related)
Undergraduate degree: Applicants generally need a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, IT, engineering, or data science. Some programs accept degrees in business, math, or criminal justice when technical prerequisites are met. For example, the University of New Mexico accepts management or IT degrees for its M.S. in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics.
Minimum GPA: Programs typically require a minimum GPA between 2.75 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Top-tier schools may expect a GPA between 3.2 and 3.5 or higher, including Penn State’s graduate cyber programs.
Prerequisite coursework: Most programs expect technical knowledge in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++; networking fundamentals; databases or data analytics; and statistics or discrete math. Bridge courses may be available to students from non-technical backgrounds at schools such as Webster University and Champlain College.
GRE scores: The GRE is often not required, especially for online or professional programs. Penn State and UT Tyler, for example, do not require it.
Work experience: Many programs prefer applicants with one to three or more years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, analytics, or an adjacent field. Penn State recommends two years of experience or professional certifications for its M.P.S. in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations.