Have you ever considered going into the field of cybersecurity? This is an excellent field if you are interested in pursuing a career path that is not in danger of collapse as a result of COVID-19 or otherwise. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is projected that careers in cybersecurity are growing at a rate much higher than average. Job prospects in this field are projected to grow by 31 percent by the year 2029. A great way to get started on this life-changing journey is to embark on an associate’s degree in cybersecurity online. There is a myriad of best online associate cybersecurity degrees on this list that will offer an opportunity to get your feet wet in the discipline.
Many of the online programs listed below offer the flexibility that will allow students to continue working full time and attending to their other life commitments while achieving their education. Most programs can be completed in a two year period and many have easy transfer access to bachelors degree options. Many programs emphasize coursework that includes topics such as: cyber warfare, digital forensics, cryptography, and cyberbullying. We have ranked the best online associates cybersecurity degrees according to the following metric:
- Cost
- Reputation
- Student Success Rate
LeTourneau University offers an associate of science in cybersecurity that can lead to a bachelor’s in cybersecurity or to a career in one of the fast-growing industries. Cybersecurity offers a promising opportunity for students of this highly technical position. The program is given 100% online, the entire 64 credit hours are delivered to students in a flexible online format. The coursework is split between 25 credit hours of general education, 33 hours of core coursework, and 6 credits hours dedicated to biblical literature and theology. LeTourneau University goes beyond the classroom to offer students of any cybersecurity program a chance to earn up to two certifications in Certified Ethical Hacker or/and Computer Hacker: Forensic Investigator. When deciding on the best online associate’s cybersecurity degree extra opportunities are a way for programs to stand out. This school is top-ranked on our list for that reason, it stands out. The mission of this program is to show students how Christian ethics can be married with a practical hands-on service like cybersecurity.
Degree: AS in Cybersecurity
2
Northwest Vista College
Northwest Vista College has an associate of applied science in information assurance & cyber security. Asking what are the best online associates cybersecurity degrees? Is the first step in finding a program that works for you. Northwest Vista College is a part of the Alamo College district in San Antonio, Texas. Don’t put on your cowboy boots yet, because this program is delivered in a convenient online format. Students will have the flexibility to work and go to school online. The entire coursework for this program is 60 credit hours. Students can complete the required coursework in 24 months. Discovering skills is the goal of this program, using the curriculum to educate future cybersecurity professionals. There are additional opportunities to excel, through achieving related certifications, Northwest Vista College offers several online. Learning the basics is the approach to this program, students are expected to know how to monitor, protect and thwart cyberattacks on secure computer networks. They are also prepared to design security software and to collect data to use against future attacks.
Degree: AAS in Information Assurance & Cyber Security
The University of St. Thomas – Houston offers an associate of applied science in cybersecurity. This program is delivered 100 percent online. The program is delivered from Houston, TX, a growing hub for the tech industry. You can find it on many of the top ten lists for cities when it comes to computer architecture jobs. The entire course of study consists of 60 credit hours that can be completed in two-years. The study of cybersecurity is a comprehensive study of the basics of computer hardware, networking, written communication, and client-server theory. Students that complete this degree have several opportunities. They can transfer to an advanced degree in cybersecurity or join the workforce. With an associate in cybersecurity, graduates can work as cloud administrators, network administrators, network designers, and several other positions. This program is facilitated in the number one city for technology job salaries, so graduates of this program will enter into the workforce in a community you are already familiar with.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
MidAmerica Nazarene University offers an associate of applied science in cybersecurity program. This best online associate in cybersecurity degree offers their students a well-rounded cohesive course of study. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals rises each year, offering an online option has become paramount. The entire 60 credit hour program is delivered online and can be completed in two years. Flexibility and convenience are the names of the game in this offering. This college is situated in, what is known as, the silicon prairie and maintains connections with the industry leaders of T-mobile, Nokia, Cerner, and Garmin. The price for attendance is accessible and competitively priced, so as to not make going back to school out of reach to students. MidAmerica Nazarene University partners with local educational institutions and organizations to offer a family discount on tuition. They also offer a military discount for active military, veterans, and their spouses. This financial initiative is what families need to grow and support a thriving community.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
Bismarck state college offers an associate of applied science in cybersecurity & computer networks. This program is on the best online associates in cybersecurity degree list with key features that are exceptional for prospective students to consider. Bismarck State College has delivered an entirely online program with the working student in mind. Classes focus on practice as a pivotal foundation of learning. The coursework incorporates many pertinent topics including system administration fundamentals and cybersecurity concepts. They require 60 credit hours of required coursework to complete the degree. All of which may be completed in a two or three-year degree plan. Students will need a modern laptop to participate in the program and the detailed specifications can be found on the school website. Online students have the choice of participating in live online classes with the on-campus student where they may interact with students in real-time. There is also a learn-at-your-own-pace asynchronous option in which students watch recorded sessions on their own time.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity & Computer Networks
6
Waukesha County Technical College
Waukesha County Technical College’s associate of applied science in cybersecurity specialists degree is offered in multiple formats including on-campus, online, or a mixed format of online and on campus. This program comes from one of the first institutions in Wisconsin to be sponsored by both the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a center of academic excellence. This distinction is proudly held and becomes a highlight for graduates of the program to mention on portfolios and resumes. The entire course of study is made up of 63 credit hours. It can be completed in just two years’ time. There are three start dates for this course of study, which allows for flexible start times in August, January, and June. Stand-out facts about this program include the ability to learn skills through service initiative, a focus on global business technology, and the travel opportunities available to students. They also uniquely offer dual enrollment to high school students who want to get a headstart on their careers in IT. Alongside the prior learning credit, potential students can transfer in to accelerate the program.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity specialists
Saint Leo University offers an associate of arts in cybersecurity that is delivered entirely online. All of the coursework in this program makes up a total of 60 credit hours. The foundations of this program will provide students with the knowledge to manage and oversee the technical aspect of cybersecurity systems. This program is an introduction to the essential aspects of the world of cybersecurity. Some core classes that make up the coursework include programming logic and design, ethical hacking and countermeasures, business law, and system administration. While it can be difficult to imagine working and going to school, this best online associate in cybersecurity degree has a plan. That will allow adult learners to simultaneously work and go to school from the comfort of home. Graduates of this program may go on to become security engineers, security analysts, network administrators, and security administrators.
Degree: AA in Cybersecurity
8
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Minnesota State Community and Technical College offer an associate of applied science in cybersecurity. This course of study is offered at several campuses within the Minnesota State system, including the option of online delivery for students that can not attend in person. The program boasts mainly about their on-campus services, yet that shouldn’t scare students away as their online capabilities, as they are clearly up to the task of teaching students the ins and outs of cybersecurity. The entire program is made up of 60 credit hours that can be completed in two years’ time. As the tech industry is advancing rapidly, Minnesota state has an advisory board to oversee the class curriculum for cybersecurity and IT programs. This ensures that there are skills students are learning which represent the needs of the industry. This program is one of the best online associates in cybersecurity degrees with a focus on teaching students how to protect data and networks from cyber threats.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
9
Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College has an associate of applied science in cybersecurity that is delivered online. They have a designation as a center of academic excellence. The curriculum guidelines that they follow are set by the National Security Agency and the Department of homeland security. While Northern Virginia Community College has several campuses they deliver this program online. NVCC has created partnerships with senior institutions for a seamless transfer for graduates of the associate’s program to an advanced degree. Why do students seek out the best online associate’s cybersecurity degree? Having the best educational training is an important step to building a future in cybersecurity. Students in this program will take major courses from the first semester throughout their matriculation. The entire degree consists of 65 credit hours and can be completed in two years if attending full-time. Common coursework will be in microcomputer operating systems, software design, network security basics, along with several elective and general education courses.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
Franklin University’s associate of science in cybersecurity is on the best online associate cybersecurity degree list for its unique and diverse learning methodology. This online degree is curated to appeal to adult learners seeking to advance their skills as IT professionals. Franklin university teaches using a 360 perspective. This approach is intended to give students a whole view of their skills set, by examining multiple aspects of the skill application students will develop. This includes skills that can diversify their career opportunities. The degree consists of 60 credit hours, split between 36 credit hours of general education courses and 24 credit hours in major core subject study. Upon completion students will be able to identify and analyze security risks, develop a structure to minimize risk, and communicate effectively to a range of audiences from a range of perspectives. As the tech industry grows, so must the skills and personnel needed to maintain and manage the growing demand.
Degree: AS in Cybersecurity
11
Community College of Rhode Island
The Community College of Rhode Island offers an associate of science in computer studies and information processing. Calling this a best online associate cybersecurity degree is an understatement. This course of study is delivered entirely online on four different campuses. The complete course of study can be accomplished in two years. Students must complete all the required 61 credit hours divided between general education courses and major course requirements. This program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of cybersecurity and the core major classes dive deeply into the tools and methodology of navigating security measures between a variety of networks and settings. While several opportunities are available to graduates of this program, CCRI has built a program with the core content used at the NSA and department of homeland security to guide students that are interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in this field. The rigor of this course of study mandates a C or better grade in all computer courses.
Degree: AS in Computer Studies and Information processing
12
Delta College
Delta College delivers an associate of applied science in cybersecurity online to offer flexibility to adult learners that are holding down jobs of IT professionals interested in advancing their careers. This program has received acknowledgment from the NSA and the DHS and labeled a center for academic excellence. Delta College’s cybersecurity center is equipped with a state-of-the-art simulation lab that can be assessed by online students from home. This kind of high-tech distance learning technology is exactly why this program is one of the best online associate cybersecurity degrees. This program is a rigorous degree that is formatted to train students to protect and retrieve data from cyber attacks. Students begin undergoing core courses in the first semester of their first year of this 68 credit hour two-year program. They have broken the coursework into three semesters per year for two years. Students will participate in Fall, Winter, and spring semesters. They will have online learning options, while they may attend classes and labs synchronously. Although, this is only an option for some courses in the program. Otherwise, online classes are delivered through their online portal.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
13
Lake Superior College
Lake Superior College offers an associate of applied science in network administration and cybersecurity. This program has an excellent track record when it comes to the accomplishments of its graduates. The coursework is solid and dependable for a number of reasons. In two years students can graduate and immediately become cybersecurity professionals. The entire pathway is 72 credit hours in length. Anyone who undergoes this degree offering will be prepared to achieve certifications upon completion. The classes offered include: CompTIA, Microsoft MCP, Cisco CCENT, and EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker certifications, which is a huge advantage when entering into a highly technical and competitive field. What makes this online associate cybersecurity degree one of the best of its kind are the comparable tuition fees. Students living in Minnesota will be charged the same as non-residents. There are no out-of-state fees associated with this program. The learning methods include close intimate learning environments. Students will become a part of a small tight-knit classroom community that offers extensive personal support.
Degree: AAS in Network Administrator & Cybersecurity
14
North Central Texas College
North Central Texas College offers an associate of applied science in cybersecurity that is delivered online. Learning useful skills to be a successful cybersecurity professional requires choosing the best online associate’s cybersecurity degree for you. North Central Texas College delivers this program in 8-week terms that will take up to two years to complete. The entire course of study consists of 60 credit hours. Courses are split between major core courses and general education courses. The comprehensive study of the fundamentals of cybersecurity will be delivered entirely online so that students can complete the program from the comfort of their homes. This format supports working students, as they pursue careers in cybersecurity. This academic pathway is a great first step for those interested in transferring to a four-year institution.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
Tacoma Community College has an associate of applied science in network and cyber security that is delivered in a hybrid format. This mode is a mixture of in-person hands-on classes and online courses. To meet the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals Tacoma Community College offers a rigorous program. The entire course of study is 98 credit hours, which includes additional coursework in wireless networking, security, business, project management, and communication. This program will further prepare students to sit for stand-alone certifications, as well as the associate’s degree. What makes a program with the best online associate cybersecurity degree? Tacoma’s program focuses on a curriculum that caters to a wide range of interests. Students will become well versed in data management, cybersecurity, and network support. Becoming proficient in several industry certifications is an available opportunity for potential students. The goal of cybersecurity is to provide a protective shield for the economy, businesses, government, and private information.
Degree: AAS in Network & Cyber Security
Georgia Military College offers an associate of science in cyber security that is delivered entirely online. This course of study offers a comprehensive framework of basic programming, networking, and information security skills. The entire program is made up of 95 credit hours that can be completed in two years with full-time status. The coursework will train students to join the cybersecurity workforce, as well as transfer to a 4-year institution for the completion of a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity if that is their goal. One notable aspect of this option is the fact that it is competitively priced to appeal to the working student. As the need for cybersecurity professionals grows each year, so does the number of programs available. Choosing the best online associate cybersecurity degree takes time. Students intent on becoming a successful part of the industry will benefit from this program, as it will provide them with the knowledge to perform desktop programming, networking, data structures, and cyber information security.
Degree: AS in Cyber Security
17
SUNY Broome Community College
The associate of applied science in computer security and forensics is offered through SUNY Broome Community college. This program has the option of 100% online format to students that require a flexible learning format to be successful. As a way to join the solution, Broome Community College is creating future cyber warriors intent on making the digital landscape a safe place. The program can be completed in two years. The completion of 64 credit hours is required to achieve this degree. Each student will need to have a laptop or desktop computer with certain specifications. Such requirements are listed in great detail on the school’s website. Through the in-depth and diverse learning platform, students will become familiar with the hardware, software, networking, remote access, and cryptographic systems. Students will learn within an intimate classroom setting so as to become equipped with analytic and investigative tools. It is the intention of this program to teach students how to perform forensic analysis, identify and prevent cyberattacks on weaknesses present in network configurations.
Degree: AAS in Computer Security and Forensics
18
Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College offers both an associate of science and an associate of applied science in Cyber Security. Each of these programs are delivered online and accredited by the NSA and DHS. This makes Ivy Tech Community College a center of academic excellence in cyber defense education. To achieve this designation the college must meet precise academic criteria and display the endurance of their cybersecurity education and training. Students planning to continue their education will benefit from the transfer partnerships, and students will have access to a transfer advocate. The entire course of study is 60 credit hours that can be completed in 2 years. The focus of the program is to teach students to be on the level of the national security agency as they get to the bottom of complex security issues. Every day businesses and organizations are susceptible to cyber attacks resulting in losses ranging from the thousand to the millions. Eradicating that threat is why the best online associates in cybersecurity degrees are ensuring their programs are accessible.
Degree: AS/AAS in Cyber Security
19
Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology
Cambridge College of Healthcare and Technology offers an associate of science in cyber and network security entirely online. This rigorous program prepares students to be diverse professionals in a highly technical position. Not only will students learn core technical skills, but a variety of soft skills are covered as well. The entire program can be completed in 74 weeks. Upon completion, graduates will be able to sit for several certifications so as to be competitive in the tech industry. This course of study will also provide an insight into healthcare IT-specific skills. Their mission is to help cultivate well-rounded students that can not only manipulate software and hardware but explain and communicate project outcomes and implement security plans. Courses include: digital forensics in cybersecurity, designing customized security, introduction to health science, and network and security foundations. This best online associate’s in cybersecurity degree has the potential to lead to a number of healthcare IT security jobs.
Degree: AS in Cyber and Network Security
20
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College offers an associate of applied science in computer technology: network security and information assurance. This course of study is delivered in a hybrid format. Some courses are offered online and others must be taken in person. The entire program can be completed in two years and consists of a total of 72 credit hours. Understanding network security and information assurance is the protection of an organization’s digital network and securing data. Students will learn local and wide area networking along with system administration, and internet management. Graduates of this course of study typically go on to hold positions as systems administrators, internet webmasters, or network administrators. This program is located in South Carolina and will provide students with a lot of hands-on opportunities to learn within the coursework. This best online associate cybersecurity degree can shape students into proficient and innovative professionals. Network security and information assurance do not only mean students are learning to become digital bodyguards, but they will also learn how to design many aspects of network security.
Degree: AAS in Computer Technology: Network Security & Information Assurance
21
Macomb Community College
Macomb Community College offers an associate’s of applied science in information technology with a specialization in network security professional. Completion of this program can lead to a promising career as a network specialist. The coursework consists of 63 credit hours that take two years to complete. While this program is offered in a hybrid format, students are strongly encouraged to work with an academic counselor to go over a plan of study. Network security as a specialization focuses on cybersecurity issues and policies. Learning outcomes are tailored down to concentration. This closely relates to the impact cybersecurity has and the issues that impact the users, the equipment, the networks, and other systems. Getting a degree will allow students to sit for several certifications that are required to hold a position within the tech industry. Courses include principles of networking, introduction to program design and development, cloud administrator, and so much more.
Degree: AAS in Information Technology: Network Security Professional
22
Kirtland Community College
Kirtland Community College offers an associate of applied science in cyber security that is located in the state of Michigan, though all of the classes can be taken online. Working with professionals to earn your degree is a promising attribute of this program. The instructors who deliver all of the classes online are considered experts in the industry. Choose how you want to study, as Kirtland delivers their online cybersecurity program in a full-time or part-time format. The entire course of study is 60-62 credit hours, which can be completed in two years if students attend the program on a full-time basis. Learning outcomes are the central focus of the best online associate cybersecurity degrees in the country. This program provides students with a diverse experience within cybersecurity. This will prepare students for a wider range of opportunities in the job market. Graduates of the program will move on to become computer user support specialists, database administrators, or information security analysts.
Degree: AAS in Cyber Security
23
Finger Lakes Community College
Finger Lakes Community College offers an associate’s of applied science in networking and cybersecurity program. This course of study is delivered in an entirely online format. One of the goals of the program is to Cultivate a skilled group of technical masterminds to tackle the growing demands of the cybersecurity field. As the need for online services increases, so does the need for network and cybersecurity specialists. FLCC prides itself on being able to offer an online program with the same resources as the on-campus program. The only difference is students can learn from wherever they are at their convenience. The entire course of study consists of 64 credit hours and can be completed in two years. Students can also transfer their credit to any number of four-year institutions to continue on for a bachelor’s in the field of cybersecurity. This is one of the best online associate cybersecurity degrees out there for a myriad of reasons. The instructors and the college staff are dedicated to helping students accomplish their learning goals and pursue rewarding careers in cybersecurity.
Degree: AAS in Networking and Cybersecurity
24
St Louis Community College
St Louis Community College offers an associate in applied science degree in cybersecurity. This particular program offers intensive classes that are hands-on as well as some flexible online course options. They ask that students come into the program with a foundation in hardware and software under their belts, so they can hit the ground running. Students will be offered a skill set that includes ensuring the necessary and applicable security controls are utilized when safeguarding a variety of digital files and those related to imperative electronic infrastructures. Embedded in the coursework are also the skills to interrupt security breaches and viruses. All of the members of the staff at the Forest Park Information Systems department are members of the CyberWatch Center, CSEC and Community College Cybersecurity Conferences, and Cyberwatch, ensuring they are up to date on the most current related skills and information. Students should be aware that there is a background pre-employment screening required for those who are interested in entering the field of cybersecurity.
Degree: AAS in Cybersecurity
Lackawanna College offers an associate’s in cybersecurity delivered online for the flexibility and convenience of learning at your own pace. This program is a designated center for academic excellence for cybersecurity the National security agency and department of homeland security hand out these designations to programs that have meant the specific program criteria. The astonishing thing that is amazing about this program is the required internship. It is rare that an associate’s program will require an internship for graduate completion. Yet this hands-on experience will solidify the study student will be exposed to through their learning plan. Which is an in-depth breakdown of the various computer science topics that pertain to cybersecurity. Interpreting fundamental concepts, apply course work to laboratory exercises. Graduates from this program will be able to hold positions, as network architecture, software development, database, or systems administrators.
Degree: Associate in Cybersecurity
Why Should I Get My Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree Online?
Why cybersecurity? This field is a highly technical competitive industry that is growing faster and faster each year. While there are many reasons why you would want to dive into the field of cybersecurity, it is clear that immense financial gains are a big one. Above we have ranked several schools that offer cybersecurity online associate degrees. Examining their utility is helpful to the process of choosing a program. Earning potential is important. With an associate’s degree, you can earn more money than without one. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the earning potential for someone with an associates degree is higher than the earning potential of someone without a degree at all. We have all heard this before, so do you need another reason? Some of the best online cybersecurity degrees are expensive; 34 % of adults ages 18 to 29 have student loan debt. Associates degrees are typically offered by community colleges at a lower cost to their students. This makes it possible to learn the skills needed to join the workforce without amassing a huge amount of debt.
Is an Associate’s in Cyber Security Worth It?
What is worth it? Examining the complex understanding of worth requires one to put a value on their time. The old saying “time is money” comes to mind when trying to decide if a cybersecurity associate degree is worth it. Millions of people all over the world are online; now more than ever before. Due to the restraints, the pandemic has put on everyone. Deciding to become a cybersecurity professional is like some deciding to be a police officer, in order to protect and serve. The internet is becoming the new battleground of which digital warfare is being fought, making information security a major priority to economic stability. Deeming the people that help protect our precious networks, the new sheriff in town. An associate’s degree in cybersecurity is certainly worth it to millions of people sharing data over the web. An associate degree in cybersecurity can later be transferred to a bachelor’s degree. It can also turn into a lucrative career in an industry with immense professional demand. Looking at it financially according to student debt relief, the average cost of an associate degree is $3570 per year, and the median salary of a cybersecurity professional is $76,626. You do not have to be a math genius to know that it’s worth it.
How Much Can I Make with an Associate’s in Cybersecurity?
Now to the dollars and cents how much can you make? Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, so any skilled IT cybersecurity specialist with the right certifications can walk into a six-figure salary. However, with an associate degree some companies may assume you are new to the game so let’s look at a few cybersecurity salaries with associates degrees. According to payscale with an associate degree in cybersecurity, salary potential can average off at $52,850 annually. Cybersecurity associate degree jobs’ include careers as a systems administrator, cybersecurity analyst, and information technology manager. For those still contemplating why or is it worth it to get an associate in cybersecurity, the salary figures say it all.
Related:
What Can I Do with an Associate’s in Cybersecurity?
Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity