Cybersecurity Degree Online | SNHU

Cybersecurity Degree Online | SNHU
Cybersecurity Degree Online
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Cost per credit
$342
Total courses
40
Term length
8 weeks
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Program Overview
Why get a cybersecurity degree online?
Learn how to build secure systems, protect information assets, manage risk and develop a strong “security mindset" with a
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity
online degree from Southern New Hampshire University. The National Security Agency designated SNHU as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, and we proudly offer this program in alignment with recognized standards like the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and Cybersecurity Education Consortium.
Skills you'll learn:
Applications of security principles
Risk analysis and evaluation strategies
How to define computing requirements
Effective communication methods
Legal and ethical judgment techniques
Courses & Curriculum
One Cybersecurity degree. Two problem solving approaches.
Systems thinking:
you'll learn to take a holistic view of how complex systems relate, influence and interact with each other.
Adversarial thinking:
gain a deep understanding of hacker tradecraft and adaptive incident response tactics.
Armed with these perspectives, you'll learn to make decisions under conditions of uncertainty and apply proven security principles to solve problems at the critical intersection of people, process and technology.
Cybersecurity degree online concentrations
As a student of this program, you'll have the option to stick with a general cybersecurity degree or add a career-focused concentration.
Data Analytics Fundamentals
The
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Data Analytics Fundamentals
provides an introduction to the role of data analysis within an organization.
You'll gain hands-on experience solving real-world problems using advanced data technologies, methods and tools, enabling you to present your findings in actionable ways.
By incorporating data analysis courses into your cybersecurity bachelor's degree program, you'll develop a better understanding of:
The importance of high-quality data
Gathering data for analysis
Using data to solve organizational challenges
Career outlook:
Through 2032, job openings for database administrators are projected to grow 7% – faster than the rate of growth for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
In May 2023, the median annual salary for this role was $101,510, according to the BLS.
According to CyberSeek, entry-level roles in the field include:
Cybercrime analyst
Cybersecurity specialist
Incident and intrusion analyst
IT auditor
Courses may include:
Role of Data Analysis in Organizations
Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning
Gathering Requirements and Collecting Data
Interested in a career that focuses solely on data analysis? Check out our full online
data analytics degree
Generative AI
AI is reshaping every industry — and fast. Gain the in-demand skills employers are looking for when you earn a
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Generative AI
This concentration is designed to help you build the digital literacy and hands-on skills needed to incorporate generative AI into your career — no matter your industry. You'll also study the evolving nature of responsible AI use, employing best practices to ensure the future of AI is grounded in ethics.
Career outlook:
With a degree in cybersecurity and a focus on generative AI, you may be able to land a role as an information security analyst in fields like computer systems design, finance, insurance and more.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for this role will grow by 29% through 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations.
They also reported that as of May 2024, the median annual salary for an information security analyst was $124,910.
Courses may include:
Introduction to AI Literacy
Introduction to Responsible AI
AI in Practice
Learn more about our
generative AI concentration
Project Management Fundamentals
Learn about the essential methods and tools necessary to lead successful projects when you earn a
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Project Management Fundamentals
You'll create project plans based on authentic scenarios and learn to work within the triple constraints of time, cost and scope. Plus, you'll explore the concepts of estimation, scheduling, contracting and procurement.
Career outlook:
Pairing project management courses with your cybersecurity studies and gaining hands-on experience can help you stand out in a competitive entry-level job market.
The BLS projects a 29% job growth for information security analysts through 2034 – far outpacing the average for all occupations.
As of May 2024, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $124,910, with the highest 10% earning more than $186,420.
Courses may include:
Project Management for CAPM Certification
Project Contracting and Procurement
Resource Estimating and Scheduling
As part of this concentration, you are eligible to take our Project Management for CAPM® Certification course, which can help prepare you to take the PMI® Certified Associate in Project Management exam.
If you're seeking a more business-focused education, you may be interested in the
online project management degree
concentration.
Degree Courses
Cybersecurity degree online courses
Our bachelor’s in cybersecurity program provides hands-on learning with the most current tools and places a strong focus on skill development environments. You'll engage with industry-standard operating systems, computer networking devices and simulation tools, programming and scripting languages, and security software.
Courses may include:
Introduction to Scripting
Course ID:
IT 140
Students will learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions and file handling. By developing simple scripts, students will understand how to use common scripting language constructs including lists, literals, and regular expressions to build useful applications.
Foundation in Application Development
Course ID:
IT 145
Students will use programming as a problem-solving technique in business and engineering applications. In writing computer code in a logical, structured, and organized manner, students will learn how to incorporate the key concepts of object orientation into their programming. Additionally, students will learn to write, review, and document interactive applications and work with Software Development Kits and Integrated Development Environment tools.
Fundamentals of Information Technology
Course ID:
IT 200
Students will learn about the fundamental knowledge and skills required in the information technology (IT) field. While exploring the various roles and functions of IT professionals, students will engage with basic technologies, hardware, software, and a systems thinking approach to solving problems.
Computer Operating Systems
Course ID:
IT 202
Students will explore the different features and components of common operating systems while learning how industry best practices and organizational requirements impact the selection, implementation, and maintenance of their operating systems. Students will also learn how to troubleshoot and solve computing problems common to an organizational environment.
Introduction to Computer Networks
Course ID:
IT 212
Students will learn the basics of interconnectivity of computing systems. With fundamental networking knowledge, students will design a basic and secure computing environment that consists of a network, server, client system, and firewall.
Cybersecurity Foundations
Course ID:
CYB 200
Gain familiarity with foundational cybersecurity concepts and terms. Learn the difference between adversarial and environmental threats and analyze how security practitioners respond to each. Explore legal and human factors and examine how they influence the development of organizational security strategies.
Computer Networking
Course ID:
CYB 210
Learn the basics of computer networking. Examine different network architectures and approaches to network design. Gain practical experience by performing common network implementation and administration tasks.
Network Security
Course ID:
CYB 220
Learn about common network-based attacks and how to defeat them. Explore the use of intrusion detection/prevention technologies and information flow controls to protect networked systems. Analyze security concerns related to virtual systems and networks.
Operating System Security
Course ID:
CYB 230
Learn the techniques and strategies used to protect modern operating systems. Employ best practices to securely provision operating system components and services. Troubleshoot insecure settings to reduce the risk of system compromise.
Cyber Defense
Course ID:
CYB 250
Explore common strategies and tactics employed by security practitioners to protect networks, systems, applications, and data. Learn the principles of cryptography and examine the critical role it plays in protecting information assets. Analyze the impact of emerging technologies and evolving social trends on the field of cybersecurity.
Application Security
Course ID:
CYB 240
Explore the fundamental principles and practices of application security. Identify common software vulnerabilities and develop strategies to reduce their potential impact. Analyze and assess the security posture of multi-tiered web applications.
System and Communication Security
Course ID:
CYB 300
Build upon basic operating system security by securing communication between networked systems. Implement transport layer security (TLS) and a public key infrastructure (PKI). Use a scripting language to automate security-relevant tasks and verify compliance with organizational security standards.
Network Defense
Course ID:
CYB 310
Deploy technologies to detect and defeat network-based attacks. Use common tools to operate at different layers of the network stack, implement information flow controls, and develop reliable methods to identify malicious network traffic.
Incident Response and Investigation
Course ID:
CYB 320
Explore incident analysis and response techniques within the context of an enterprise. Learn basic digital forensic terminology and how incident response activities inform and augment digital investigations.
Security Assessment and Auditing
Course ID:
CYB 400
Learn how to assess and audit information systems using structured approaches. Discover compliance gaps, identify security vulnerabilities, and recommend corrective actions. Learn how to effectively communicate findings and recommendations to organizational stakeholders.
Security Risk Management
Course ID:
CYB 410
Apply the principles of risk management to solve real-world security problems. Learn how risk management influences organizational security programs. Explore how the concepts of threat, impact, relevance, and likelihood are woven together to develop balanced, effective security controls.
Enterprise Security
Course ID:
CYB 420
Create and implement a comprehensive plan to protect an organization's assets from relevant adversarial and environmental threats. Employ basic project management methods to achieve milestones, align resources, and foster collaboration with stakeholders.
Visit the course catalog to view the
full BS in Cybersecurity curriculum
General Education
The Commons: SNHU’s gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take
general education courses
, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Hardware & Software Requirements
Minimum Specifications:
CPU:
Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
GPU:
NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
RAM:
16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
Storage:
512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
Display:
15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
OS:
Windows 11 Home or Pro
Internet/bandwidth:
5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
Laptop or desktop?
Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
Where to purchase:
You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
Mac users:
You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements:
Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
Microsoft Office software:
Office 365
is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
Antivirus software:
This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts:
June 29, 2026 | August 31, 2026
Next term starts:
May 4, 2026
Apply Now
Online Student Experience
What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact,
93.4% of online students would recommend SNHU
according to a 2025 survey with 8,718 respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Faculty Profile
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty members carry with them decades of experience in cybersecurity. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in this ever-evolving field.
Featured Faculty
Jonathan Kamyck
After holding the role of information security officer at SNHU, Jonathan Kamyck moved into academia, leading the development of our first competency-driven undergraduate program in cybersecurity. His additional industry experience includes time spent as an information systems security manager for government defense contractors and a consultant in the IT/cybersecurity space.
Position
Senior Associate Dean
Joined SNHU
2014
Education
MS in Information Assurance from Norwich University
MS in Organizational Leadership and BS in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University
"We want students to be confident and proficient after graduation. We provide our learners with many of the tools, techniques, strategies and methods relevant to a variety of exciting, in-demand cybersecurity jobs."
Read more about Jonathan Kamyck and other
online faculty at SNHU
Online Classrooms
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
Schedule of weekly assignments
Discussion boards
Grades
Instructor announcements
Student Support
What support services are available?
Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors.
Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary.
Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away.
Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7.
Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities.
Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
More about SNHU
Southern New Hampshire University is an accredited, nonprofit institution dedicated to transforming lives by expanding access to education. That means offering high-quality programs, unparalleled support and flexible learning pathways designed to fit the individual needs of our students.
SNHU has been nationally recognized for making education more innovative, affordable and achievable. Some of our recent accolades include:
Awarded the
21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Among U.S. News & World Report’s
“Most Innovative Universities in the North”
nine times, most recently in 2025
Ranked 2022–2023
Top 10 Military Friendly
® School
and consecutively maintained Gold Status from 2023–2025
Named by Military Times as one of the
Best for Vets Colleges
for 2023–2025
Since our founding in 1932
, SNHU has grown from a small accounting school into one of the largest universities in the U.S., now serving more than 200,000 students online and on our campus in Manchester, New Hampshire. We are accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission
Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay.
Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Apply Now
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor:
888.327.SNHU
enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Additionally, SNHU has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA). The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is SNHU’s validated program of study. To learn more about our contributions to the field and connect with our academic leaders, visit our
Cybersecurity Center of Excellence
page.
Tuition Cost & Savings
College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
Cost per credit
$342
Cost per course
$1,026
Cost for 120-credit degree*
$41,040
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
Cost per credit
$250
Cost per course
$750
Cost for 120-credit degree*
$30,000
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$10,260
$15,390
$20,520
$25,650
$30,780
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
45
credits
60
credits
75
credits
90
credits
If
30
of your prior learning credits
($342/credit)
are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost:
$30,780
If
45
of your prior learning credits
($342/credit)
are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost:
$25,650
If
60
of your prior learning credits
($342/credit)
are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost:
$20,520
If
75
of your prior learning credits
($342/credit)
are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost:
$15,390
If
90
of your prior learning credits
($342/credit)
are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost:
$10,260
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Finish faster
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Lower your cost
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Maximize your benefits
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn free money
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Get credit for your work
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
How to get reimbursed
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook
What can I do with a cybersecurity degree?
As cyber threats evolve and move toward the new frontiers of information technology, cybersecurity professionals play a key role in protecting the integrity of computer networks. A bachelor's degree in cybersecurity could be your first step toward this rewarding career.
Occupations
By earning your online degree in cybersecurity, you'll be well positioned for fast-growing careers in the field, including:
Information Security Analyst
Monitor and investigate security breaches, maintain protective software, assess system vulnerabilities, research IT security trends, develop security standards and assists users.
Cybersecurity Specialist
Work with analysts or managers to perform tasks like vulnerability assessments, security configuration tests, system audits, incident support and security awareness training.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Lead, coordinate, and perform technical tasks, in addition to managing projects, responding to cyber incidents, conducting research, suggesting improvements and more.
Cybersecurity Manager
Oversee organizational cybersecurity at the strategic level, recommending policies and controls, assuring compliance, building incident detection/response capabilities and beyond.
Learn more about
roles in the cybersecurity field
29%
Increase in roles for information security analysts through 2034, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
$124,910
Median annual pay for information security analysts as of May 2024, according to the BLS.
Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
I feel the instructors brought a wealth of knowledge into the classroom, because they are all industry professionals. Whenever I had a question about coursework or the industry in general, they always provided great assistance.
Alex Petitto '21
I was able to participate in family events and also continue my education wherever I went. I'm grateful I did it.
Remus Figueroa Orozco '23
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a cybersecurity degree online?
Yes, you can get a cybersecurity degree online.
At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), our BS in Cybersecurity degree program is 100% online. That means you'll have the flexibility of learning at your own pace – all while getting the experience you need to take the next step of your career.
“Our classes are 100% online, but the program is packed with hands-on labs to help you learn how to use industry-standard tools and techniques," said
Jonathan Kamyck
, a senior associate dean at SNHU.
"Some courses even include the main concepts on certification exams, helping you prepare for additional credentials while you earn your degree.”
How much does it cost to get a degree in cybersecurity?
The cost of a degree in cybersecurity will vary depending on the school you choose to attend.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is proud to offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation at just $342 per credit.
As a university built for people, not for profit, we seek any opportunity we can to help make your education more affordable.
For instance, we accept
up to 90 transfer credits
for online bachelor's degree programs, which can be a great time and money saver.
You may also qualify for one of our grants, scholarships or tuition discounts. If, for example, you've served in the military or are the spouse of a service member, you could qualify for tuition discounts to maximize your benefits.
Looking for more ways to save, or just want to learn more about
how to pay for college
? Our admission counselors can help.
What can you do with a bachelor's in cybersecurity?
With a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, you can pursue various roles across multiple industries, as nearly every organization relies on secure digital systems.
"Cybersecurity touches every aspect of our lives," said
Jonathan Kamyck
, senior associate dean of cybersecurity at Southern New Hampshire University. "From the physical locks on our doors to our financial and medical records, our ability to communicate and share information, and essentially function in today’s world. The skills you learn in this program will provide the basis for protecting that information."
Common career paths include information security analyst, responsible for assessing risks, monitoring cyber threats and implementing security measures, and cybersecurity specialist, which involves collaborating with analysts on tasks like vulnerability assessments and security configuration tests.
A BS in Cybersecurity can also lead to opportunities in business, education, healthcare, manufacturing and marketing, as all these fields require professionals who can safeguard sensitive information. Additionally, a cybersecurity background can be useful in roles that support law enforcement by uncovering cybercrimes within businesses or organizations.
Because cybersecurity is a broad and evolving field, professionals often tailor their careers to their interests, whether in risk management, network security or even leadership positions.
Is cybersecurity a good degree?
If you want a career in a fast-growing field with a variety of job opportunities, a cybersecurity degree could be a good fit.
With an online cybersecurity degree from Southern New Hampshire University, you’ll develop a security mindset and be empowered to begin a career building secure systems, protecting information assets and managing technology risks for businesses and organizations.
As technology continues to become more ingrained in our personal and professional lives, cybercrimes like phishing schemes and data breaches have also grown and evolved. Needless to say, jobs in cybersecurity don't seem to be going anywhere.
Which degree is best for cybersecurity?
The kind of cybersecurity degree you need depends on the job you want.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts typically need a bachelor's degree.
If you're not ready to commit to a bachelor's degree but are interested in an accredited college program, you may want to consider a cybersecurity certificate. Southern New Hampshire University's
online cybersecurity certificate
is an 18-credit program that can help you enter the field and can seamlessly transfer into our
associate degree in cybersecurity
and bachelor's degree in cybersecurity programs, should you choose to continue your education.
Does cybersecurity really pay well?
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can prepare you for jobs with strong salaries.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for information security analysts was $124,910 in May 2024, with the highest 10% earning more than $186,420.
Demand for information security analysts is also expected to continue. The BLS projects employment will grow 29% through 2034 — much faster than the national average job growth for all occupations.
How many years is a cybersecurity degree?
If you’ve earned college credit before or have industry certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+ and Linux+, you may be able to transfer credits to your degree program so you can save time and money.
Additionally, attending school full time can really speed up your timeline. At Southern New Hampshire University, taking 2 classes per term is considered full time. This means you could complete our bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in as few as 2 years without the aid of transfer credits.
What is a major in cybersecurity?
As a cybersecurity major, you’ll explore the security risks that organizations and individuals face in today’s technology-driven world.
With courses like Network Security, Application Security, and Incident Response and Investigation, you’ll prepare to solve complex problems, respond to cyber threats, assess risk and apply cutting-edge security techniques.
You’ll have access to real-world learning opportunities through Southern New Hampshire University's (SNHU) virtual labs that simulate actual operating environments, so you can test your skills and gain key hands-on experience.
Additional learning opportunities outside of the classroom (including SNHU’s
Center for Academic Excellence
- Cyber Defense, online student clubs and National Cyber League competitions) will allow you to connect with other students and industry professionals who share your interests. Another benefit? They'll look great on your resume.
Is cybersecurity a difficult major?
Getting started in cybersecurity does require some knowledge of basic IT principles and tools, as well as a strong understanding of mathematics.
But if you’re new to the information technology world, a cybersecurity online bachelor’s degree program can help provide much of this foundational knowledge and experience. You’ll study the fundamentals of programming concepts, learn common scripting language and gain an introduction to computer programs with hands-on activities designed for beginners.
And while coding and mathematics are key to cybersecurity careers, soft skills like communication, critical thinking and problem-solving can be just as valuable.
Is cybersecurity math heavy?
Cybersecurity does involve some math, but it’s not the primary focus. The level of math required depends on the specific role. Fields like cryptography, data analysis and network security may require an understanding of algebra, discrete mathematics and basic statistics to analyze patterns, detect threats and develop security protocols. However, many cybersecurity positions focus more on problem-solving, critical thinking and technical skills rather than complex mathematical concepts.
If you aren’t math-oriented, there are still plenty of cybersecurity career paths that emphasize risk assessment, policy development and security operations, which rely more on analytical reasoning than advanced math.
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Sources & Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
CyberSeek, Cybersecurity Career Pathway, on the internet, at https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html (viewed May 16, 2024)