What Is a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate?
A cybersecurity graduate certificate is a post-graduate credential designed to quickly get you up to speed on a set of cybersecurity skills.
- Cybersecurity graduate certificate programs are designed to be finished quickly (especially compared to a master’s). They typically only take 6–18 months to complete total. That’s around 9–18 credit hours.
- Programs range from $2,000 for online or in-state tuition to $20,000+ for out-of-state tuition.
- Credits can sometimes be transferred towards a post-graduate cybersecurity degree.
Note that “cybersecurity graduate certificates” and “cybersecurity certifications” are very different things. Certifications are specialized tests that show proficiency in an area of cybersecurity (like ethical hacking). They’re designed to show employers that you have a particular skill set. Common certs you may have come across include CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH.
Cybersecurity graduate certificates are designed to help you build skills in an academic setting. But unlike a master’s degree, the credit load is limited, which helps speed things up.
Our 2026 rankings of the top the top 25 certificate programs in cybersecurity are designed to help you a) figure out if a certificate is the right option for you and b) if so, find the best program for your career goals.
Types of Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Programs
Different programs have very different areas of concentration. So it’s worth reviewing course curriculum to make sure the material aligns with your specific career goals.
Technical Focus
If you want to get into the technical weeds in cybersecurity (systems, network security etc.), there are plenty of certificate programs that will help you excel in that area.
Examples from our rankings include:
- Johns Hopkins’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
- Stanford’s Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate
- NC State’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
These certificates typically feature four courses: 1–2 core courses in computer and network security, plus 2–3 electives in areas like cryptography, software security, or privacy
Master’s Degree Pathways: Master of Science in Cybersecurity; Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) with a Security concentration; Master of Science in Security Informatics.
Engineering Focus
Sometimes referred to as “cybersecurity engineering” programs, these tend to help you learn how to secure real-world systems (like self-driving cars or IoT devices).
- UMD’s Online Graduate Certificate in Engineering – Cybersecurity
- Texas A&M’s Cybersecurity Engineering Certificate
- Colorado State’s Online Graduate Certificate in Systems Security
Schools with engineering-focused graduate certificates generally want you to hold a bachelor’s in engineering or computer science. Or at least have relevant experience. For example, UMD recommends that applicants without an engineering or CS degree hold an industry security certification
Master’s Degree Pathways: Master of Engineering (MEng) in Cybersecurity; Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering; Master of Science in Systems Engineering
Information Sciences & Technology Foundations
A large number of cybersecurity certificates come from Colleges of Information Sciences & Technology. These programs focus on applied cybersecurity skills, like identity & access management and incident response. Notably, they tend to admit students with non-technical undergraduate degrees.
- Penn State’s Online Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Cybersecurity
- Boston University’s Online Graduate Certificate in Information Security
- Harvard Extension’s Cybersecurity Engineering and Ethical Hacking Graduate Certificate
Master’s Degree Pathways: Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations; Master of Science in Computer Information Systems (Cybersecurity concentration); Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Cybersecurity
Management Focus
Are you looking for a certificate that’s less technical? Well, there are a number of certificates that focus more on applying cybersecurity in the business, non-profit or government environment. These tend to be geared towards executives and compliance folks vs. those that want to get their hands dirty spotting security threats.
- Georgetown’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- Harvard Extension’s Cybersecurity Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Graduate Certificate
- UMass Boston’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management
Master’s Degree Pathways: Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Cybersecurity Risk Management; Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management; Master of Science in Information Systems; MBA with a cybersecurity concentration
Coursework for AI Graduate Certificate Programs
Prerequisites
Admission requirements for cybersecurity graduate certificate programs vary by institution. In general, the requirements are usually a lot more lenient than full-length master’s programs.
All graduate certificate programs require a completed bachelor’s degree.
More technical-oriented programs (e.g., University of Maryland, RIT) often require a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related STEM field.
While more broad programs (e.g., Marymount, American Public University) may accept an undergrad degree in any field, assuming you have relevant IT experience or certifications.
Core Coursework
The exact courses you’ll take will differ quite a bit depending on the program you enroll in. That said, most of them will cover these core courses:
- Cybersecurity fundamentals
- Network Security
- Incident Response
- Risk Management
- Cryptography
- Cloud Security
- Penetration Testing
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Management
Electives
Some cybersecurity graduate certificates let you choose electives to get more experience in areas you’re particularly interested in.
- NC State’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity combines two required courses (Computer and Network Security and a Cybersecurity Practicum) with two electives (cryptography, software security, privacy, systems attacks and defenses, operating systems security, and advanced network security).
- Georgetown’s Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Risk Management actually has no fixed core set of classes. Instead, you pick from a “menu” of four courses, including cybersecurity governance frameworks, information assurance and risk management, security architecture, and ethics in cybersecurity.
How to Choose a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Program
According to our internal database, there are over 70 active graduate certificate programs in cybersecurity. Here are some factors to consider as you decide on a program for you.
1. CAE Designation and Accreditation
Look for programs with Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-CD) designation, jointly sponsored by the NSA and DHS. This designation ensures alignment with national standards and reduces vulnerabilities in information infrastructure.
For instance, George Washington University is a CAE-CD school. Graduating from the program allows students to transfer the credits to a full master’s program at other CAE-CD schools.
2. Curriculum and Included Certifications
Aspiring cybersecurity professionals should choose programs that prepare them for top certifications, such as Security+, CISSP, CEH, or CISM.
For example, the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security program includes prep for CompTIA Security+ and Network+ certifications, with a focus on preparing students with a non-technical background for their careers.
Notably, a large number of open cybersecurity jobs require at least one certification.
According to Cyberseek data, the most in-demand certification is CISSP (82,494 open jobs), followed by CompTIA Security+ (70,019 open jobs).
3. Delivery Format
For many students, online program formats offer more flexibility and cheaper tuition costs. In some cases, they may even provide a self-paced learning curriculum.
However, in-person options excel in hands-on labs, with studies indicating that hybrid programs improve retention and practical skills.
Examples:
- Boise State University has an online-only graduate certificate option focused on cryptology and cybersecurity operations, making it ideal for working professionals seeking flexible, remote study options.
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)‘s cybersecurity certificate exclusively on campus, with a strong emphasis on penetration testing and advanced cyber labs, designed for students seeking an immersive, hands-on experience.
- Webster University offers a hybrid certificate program, allowing students to choose between online coursework and on-campus sessions while still benefiting from a CAE-CD-aligned curriculum and strong St. Louis job placement pipelines.
Career Opportunities
Cybersecurity graduate certificate programs are designed for professionals who want to transition into cybersecurity without committing to a full master’s degree.
According to Harvard, cybersecurity certificate graduates are qualified for jobs across various domains, such as:
Application Development Security
Positions include software developer, network administrator, security software engineer, or junior application security specialist.
Cloud Security
Roles such as cloud security engineer, cloud security analyst, and cloud security architect are in high demand, especially among companies transitioning their infrastructure to AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Incident Response & Security Operations:
Certificate holders often secure roles as SOC analysts, computer security incident response team (CSIRT) engineers, or incident response specialists.
Threat Intelligence & Offensive Security:
Titles include threat analyst, penetration tester, and ethical hacker. Some programs, such as UMGC’s online graduate certificate in cybersecurity technology, emphasize red team/blue team methodologies.
Cyber Risk & Compliance:
Information security risk analysts, policy advisors, and cybersecurity compliance leads are in high demand compared to other tech roles.
How Much Does a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Program Cost?
We analyzed 70+ cybersecurity graduate certificate programs across the United States to collect the most recent cost and tuition information. We found the the average cost for a cybersecurity graduate certificate was $10,521.
However, there’s quite a cost difference depending on location and delivery format:
- Cost for in-state students at public universities: $7,500 average total tuition (range of $2,268–$16,272). For example, University of Central Florida’s 12-credit graduate certificate in cybersecurity program is quite affordable at $3,456.
- Cost for out-of-state students or private institutions: $16,700 average total tuition (range of $6,780–$28,125). The University of Pittsburgh’s Cybersecurity, Policy, and Law Certificate costs over $46,000 for out-of-state students.
- Cost for fully online programs (U.S. or international): $8,400 average total tuition (range of $3,000–$14,300). For instance, Portland State University’s Graduate Certificate in Computer Security is only around $14k for out-of-state students (and under $10k for in-state).
Top 25 Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Programs
1
University of Maryland – College Park
College Park, MD
Program Summary
Available online and on campus, the University of Maryland’s cybersecurity program is designed for STEM graduates or certified professionals seeking advanced technical expertise in cybersecurity. The 12-credit program can be completed in approximately 12 months, with tuition ranging from $15,252 (in-person) to $18,804 (online). Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in a STEM field or relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or GIAC GSEC. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and credits may transfer toward UMD’s Master of Engineering (Cybersecurity) also offered through Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering.
What Makes the University of Maryland a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes hands-on virtual labs, projects inspired by real-world problems, and practical experience. Its proximity to the D.C. tech hub and NSA/DHS partners gives students strong pipelines into government, defense, and industry roles, with top student employers including Hewlett Packard Enterprise, HCL Technologies, Ernst & Young, Accenture, and NAVAIR.
2
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY
Program Summary
At Rochester Institute of Technology, computing graduates can complete an on-campus cybersecurity program in 12 months while developing advanced technical expertise. The 12-credit program costs approximately $32,280 in total. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in computing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, a resume, and, if needed, bridge courses for non-computing graduates. The GRE is optional. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and credits may transfer toward RIT’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes RIT a Great Cybersecurity School?
RIT is designated as a CAE-CD and CAE-R school, emphasizing advanced cyber labs, penetration testing, and employer-aligned projects. The program’s strong ties to Rochester’s tech industry provide graduates with excellent job placement opportunities, with approximately 90% securing roles in cybersecurity and related tech fields.
3
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA
Program Summary
Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree can pursue 12 months of hands-on technical training through George Mason University’s on-campus cybersecurity program. The 15-credit program costs approximately $9,150 for in-state students and $23,565 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.75 GPA, with computer science coursework recommended. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward GMU’s MS in Telecommunications.
What Makes George Mason a Great Cybersecurity School?
GMU is designated as a CAE-CD and CAE-R institution, emphasizing NSA/CISA-aligned curriculum, real-world incident response training, and internship opportunities with D.C. federal agencies. Graduates benefit from strong placement pipelines into government and cybersecurity roles, with approximately 80% securing relevant positions.
4
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC
Program Summary
North Carolina State University’s 12-month cybersecurity program is available online and on campus for bachelor’s degree holders seeking technical cybersecurity expertise. The 12-credit program costs approximately $6,564 for in-state students and $20,412 for out-of-state students. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a resume. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward NCSU’s MS in Computer Science.
What Makes NCSU a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program offers asynchronous learning options and strong connections to employers in North Carolina’s Research Triangle tech sector. Graduates benefit from robust regional placement opportunities, with approximately 80% securing cybersecurity or tech-related roles.
5
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO
Program Summary
Bachelor’s degree holders seeking practical, technical training can complete the University of Central Missouri’s on-campus cybersecurity program in 12 months. The 15-credit program costs approximately $6,450 for in-state students and $9,675 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA, with IT coursework recommended. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward UCM’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes UCM a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes hands-on skills and practical cybersecurity applications. Its affordability and regional placement pipelines make it an attractive option for students seeking cost-effective training and career-ready technical expertise, with approximately 75% of graduates securing relevant positions.
6
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
Program Summary
Kennesaw State University’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program focuses on technical training in IT security for bachelor’s degree holders. The 12-credit program costs approximately $3,672 for in-state students and $14,100 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.75 GPA, with IT experience preferred. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward KSU’s MS in Information Technology.
What Makes KSU a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes practical IT security skills and is integrated with KSU’s computing career services. Its low in-state cost and strong Atlanta tech connections provide students with robust placement opportunities, with approximately 75% of graduates securing relevant cybersecurity roles.
7
American Public University System
Charles Town, WV
Program Summary
Designed for bachelor’s degree holders with IT backgrounds or certifications, American Public University System’s cybersecurity program is campus-based and can be completed in 12 months. The 18-credit program costs approximately $8,460 for civilian students and $4,500 for active-duty military personnel. Admission requires transcripts and either an IT degree, two years of IT experience, or an IT certificate. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward APU’s MS in Cybersecurity Studies.
What Makes APU a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes information assurance and government security standards (NIST, FISMA) while providing military-friendly tuition and pathways. Graduates benefit from military and civilian cybersecurity pipelines, with approximately 70% securing roles in government, defense, or industry.
8
Boise State University
Boise, ID
Program Summary
Available online and on campus, Boise State University’s 12-month cybersecurity program serves bachelor’s degree holders seeking advanced technical training. The 12-credit program costs approximately $6,312 for in-state students and $11,640 for out-of-state students. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, and a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a math or IT background preferred. The program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and credits may transfer toward Boise State’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Boise State a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes cryptology and provides flexible online learning options, along with pathways into the university’s master’s program. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 80% securing roles in cybersecurity and related tech fields.
9
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID
Program Summary
At Idaho State University, bachelor’s degree holders can pursue a 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program focused on building technical expertise in secure cyber operations. The 12-credit program costs approximately $6,012 for in-state students and $18,756 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and technical coursework is recommended. The program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and credits may transfer toward ISU’s MS in Computer Science.
What Makes ISU a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes secure cyber operations and practical skills. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing cybersecurity or IT security roles in government and industry.
10
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
Program Summary
The University of Central Florida’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program centers on technical training in digital forensics for bachelor’s degree holders. The 12-credit program costs approximately $3,456 for in-state students and $13,824 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a computer science background is recommended. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward UCF’s MS in Digital Forensics.
What Makes UCF a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes computer forensics and provides affordable in-state tuition with strong connections to Orlando-area security employers. Graduates benefit from robust placement pipelines, with approximately 80% securing cybersecurity or digital forensics roles.
11
Marymount University
Arlington, VA
Program Summary
Bachelor’s degree holders seeking practical technical training can complete Marymount University’s on-campus cybersecurity program in 12 months. The 12-credit program costs approximately $17,232 in total. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and IT experience is preferred. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward Marymount’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Marymount a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes practical cybersecurity skills and provides strong placement opportunities in the D.C. metro area, with approximately 80% of graduates securing relevant cybersecurity roles.
12
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Program Summary
Northeastern University’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program is intended for bachelor’s degree holders seeking advanced technical and managerial expertise. The 12-credit program costs approximately $15,912 in total. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a resume, and a personal statement. The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), and credits may transfer toward Northeastern’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Northeastern University a Great Cybersecurity School?
Designated as CAE-R and CAE-CO, the program emphasizes information security management and maintains strong industry connections in Boston. Graduates benefit from robust placement opportunities, with approximately 85% securing cybersecurity roles in technology, management, and risk assessment.
13
Pace University
New York, NY
Program Summary
Students can complete Pace University’s 18-month cybersecurity program online or on campus while pursuing advanced technical training in secure software engineering. The 18-credit program costs approximately $23,670 in total. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a resume. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and credits may transfer toward Pace’s MS in Information Technology.
What Makes Pace a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes secure software engineering, flexible hybrid delivery, and strong partnerships with New York City employers. Graduates benefit from robust placement opportunities, with approximately 80% securing roles in cybersecurity and software security.
14
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
Program Summary
At the University at Buffalo, bachelor’s degree holders can complete a 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program designed to develop technical expertise in information assurance. The 14-credit program costs approximately $5,642 for in-state students and $12,502 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and IT coursework is recommended. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and credits may transfer toward UB’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes UB a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes information assurance and offers affordable in-state tuition. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 80% securing roles in cybersecurity, IT security, or related fields.
15
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI
Program Summary
Central Michigan University’s 12-month cybersecurity program is available online and on campus for bachelor’s degree holders seeking technical training in cybersecurity governance. The 15-credit program costs approximately $12,930 in total. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and computer science coursework is preferred. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward CMU’s MS in Information Systems.
What Makes CMU a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes cybersecurity governance and offers flexible online delivery for working professionals. Graduates benefit from regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing cybersecurity or IT security roles.
16
Sacred Heart University
Fairfield, CT
Program Summary
Sacred Heart University’s 18-month, on-campus cybersecurity program balances policy and technical training for bachelor’s degree holders. The 18-credit program costs approximately $17,370 in total. Admission requires transcripts, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and a resume. The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), and credits may transfer toward Sacred Heart’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Sacred Heart a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program emphasizes both technical skills and policy understanding. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines in Connecticut, with approximately 80% securing cybersecurity or IT security roles, and enjoy small class sizes for personalized instruction.
17
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
Program Summary
At the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, bachelor’s degree holders can complete a 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program focused on foundational technical training. The 12-credit program costs approximately $4,599 for in-state students and $9,660 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.75 GPA. The program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and credits may transfer toward UNLV’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes UNLV a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program provides an affordable in-state option and serves as an introductory pathway into the full graduate program. Graduates benefit from regional placement opportunities, particularly in Las Vegas’ gaming and casino cybersecurity sectors, with approximately 75% securing relevant roles.
18
Binghamton University (SUNY)
Binghamton, NY
Program Summary
Binghamton University’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program serves bachelor’s degree holders in computer science or related fields who want advanced technical training. The 15-credit program costs approximately $5,655 for in-state students and $13,565 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and graduate student status. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and credits may transfer toward Binghamton’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Binghamton University a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes advanced cybersecurity skills and offers affordable in-state tuition. Graduates benefit from strong SUNY tech pipelines, with approximately 80% securing roles in cybersecurity, IT security, or related technical fields.
19
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA
Program Summary
At Louisiana Tech University, bachelor’s degree holders can complete a 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program focused on foundational technical training in information assurance. The 12-credit program costs approximately $8,568 in total. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward Louisiana Tech’s MS in Computer Science.
What Makes Louisiana Tech a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes information assurance while maintaining affordable tuition. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 70% securing cybersecurity or IT security roles.
20
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
Program Summary
Mississippi College’s 12-month cybersecurity program is available online and on campus for bachelor’s degree holders seeking training in information assurance. The 18-credit program costs approximately $15,750 in total. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward Mississippi College’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Mississippi College a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes practical information assurance skills and offers flexible online delivery for working professionals. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing roles in cybersecurity, IT security, or related technical fields. The program also integrates a faith-based applied focus for ethical and mission-driven cybersecurity practice.
21
St. Mary’s University
San Antonio, TX
Program Summary
St. Mary’s University’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program focuses on advanced training in cybersecurity management for bachelor’s degree holders. The 12-credit program costs approximately $14,412 in total. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.75 GPA. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and credits may transfer toward St. Mary’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes St. Mary’s a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes cybersecurity management skills and is closely connected to the San Antonio tech and defense job market. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing roles in cybersecurity, IT security, or management-focused positions.
22
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
Program Summary
The University of Arkansas’s 12-month, on-campus cybersecurity program provides foundational training in cybersecurity operations for bachelor’s degree holders. The 12-credit program costs approximately $6,240 for in-state students and $15,444 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward the University of Arkansas MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes the University of Arkansas a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program emphasizes practical cybersecurity operations and provides an affordable in-state tuition option. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing cybersecurity or IT security roles.
23
Webster University
St. Louis, MO
Program Summary
Available online and on campus, Webster University’s 18-month cybersecurity program serves bachelor’s degree holders seeking training in cybersecurity operations. The 18-credit program costs approximately $14,400 in total. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward Webster’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes Webster University a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program provides flexible online options for working professionals and emphasizes practical cybersecurity skills. Graduates benefit from strong St. Louis regional placement pipelines, with approximately 75% securing roles in cybersecurity or IT security.
24
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO
Program Summary
Metropolitan State University of Denver’s accelerated, on-campus cybersecurity program can be completed in 9 months by bachelor’s degree holders. The 9-credit program costs approximately $3,600 for in-state students and $4,050 for out-of-state students. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and credits may transfer toward MSU Denver’s MS in Cybersecurity.
What Makes MSU Denver a Great Cybersecurity School?
Aligned with the CAE-CD designation, the program offers a rapid 9-month completion, making it ideal for career switchers. Graduates benefit from strong regional placement pipelines, particularly in the Denver-area tech industry, with approximately 70% securing roles in cybersecurity or IT security.
25
California State University–Sacramento
Sacramento, CA
Program Summary
California State University–Sacramento’s 9-month, on-campus cybersecurity program provides foundational training in information assurance for bachelor’s degree holders. The 9-credit program costs approximately $3,720 in total. Admission requires transcripts and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and credits may transfer toward CSU Sacramento’s MS in Computer Science.
What Makes CSU Sacramento a Great Cybersecurity School?
The program is highly affordable and delivers a compact, focused information assurance curriculum. Graduates benefit from strong California regional placement pipelines, with approximately 70% securing roles in cybersecurity or IT security. Faculty bring practical state-level cybersecurity experience to the program.