Best Bachelor Degrees in Cybersecurity 2022

Cybersecurity is an ever-growing industry that is only expected to increase in the coming years. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting job growth of over 30% in information security careers, now is one of the best times to start preparing to join the industry.

As many cybersecurity and IT positions only require a bachelor’s degree, you won’t have to plan years upon years of schooling before joining this lucrative industry. However, depending on what area of cybersecurity and IT you want to go into, you’ll want to consider different degree programs.

What Does a Cybersecurity Bachelor Degree Include?

As a four-year degree, a bachelor’s in cybersecurity will prepare you to take on the many challenges that come with protecting business and user data. You’ll gain skills in computer science and information technology (IT) with a special focus on protecting web spaces.

During a cybersecurity bachelor program, you may learn things such as network vulnerability analysis, terminating unauthorized sessions, and pen-testing. You’ll also work on developing important soft skills such as problem-solving, communication and active listening, independence, and logical reasoning.

Some schools may offer internship opportunities or require them. If you have the chance, completing an internship during your studies is a great idea as the experience will help set you apart from other applicants when you finally apply for your first job.

Best Bachelor Degrees

While many schools offer cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees, some schools stand out. Some may be state schools while others are private schools, so don’t be quick to write off a school just because it doesn’t have a well-known name. You can still get a top-quality bachelor’s degree from schools all over the country.

Pennsylvania State University: World Campus

For a 100% online degree program from a well-known, well-respected university, look at Penn State’s World Campus where they offer an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. Should you decide to continue your education in cybersecurity, you can choose to complete a master’s degree or certificate in cybersecurity through the platform as well.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers multiple different bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity. With three programs specifically focusing on cybersecurity and nine with other focuses, you have quite a few choices available to you. Some of their courses are even offered online, so you can stay where you are and complete a quality degree.

Duquesne University

If you want to incorporate a few international studies with your cybersecurity studies, Duquesne University’s cybersecurity program is well worth checking out. The university offers a B.A. in cybersecurity and allows you to double major in international relations or international studies. Even if you choose not to double major, you’ll be offered the opportunity to participate in projects both nationally and internationally.

Rochester Institute of Technology

As a leading education and research center for cybersecurity, earning your bachelor’s at Rochester Institute of Technology will start you off on the right foot. Their computing security degree is extensive and well-respected. With a 98% outcome rate, RIT not only offers fantastic education but a path to success.

University of Maryland, Baltimore County

UMBC offers computer engineering courses with a variety of focuses, one of which is cybersecurity. As a fairly small institution (only around 14,000 students), you’ll study alongside peers that are also interested in cybersecurity at a facility that’s rated within the top 100 public institutions.

American Public University System

As another online university, the American Public University System offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and certifications in cybersecurity fields. Their B.S. in cybersecurity can be completed fully online and meets all NSA standards thanks to the system’s close relationship with branches of the military and cyber defense.

Ferris State University

Ferris State University in Michigan is an inclusive university that offers a bachelor’s degree in information security and intelligence as well as a certificate in cybersecurity and some master’s program options. Compared to more expensive private universities, Ferris State offers an affordable degree option even for out-of-state students.

Maryville University

Maryville University is a top-rated, private university that offers a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity with three track choices: offensive, defensive, and general. They also offer certification and a master’s degree.

It’s a small university and hosts under 10,000 students a year but is a great choice for those who enjoy small classes (the average class size is only 14 students!). Each student works with a life coach throughout their time at the university. 

Saint Leo University

Earn your bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity at Saint Leo University, one of the best Catholic universities in the country. The degree can be done either online or in-person, so if Florida isn’t a state you want to study in, you can still benefit from this fantastic degree from wherever else in the country you want to live.

Dakota State University

Dakota State University offers multiple different computer science bachelor’s degrees. With focus options such as cyber operations, digital forensics, cyber leadership and intelligence, and world affairs, you can choose a degree that truly interests you. Their cyber operations degree has even been designated by the NSA as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations, a title that only 20 universities in the country have!

Dakota State University offers some amazing internship opportunities that are available even during your bachelor’s studies, making it one of the best university choices for someone interested in cybersecurity.

Capella University

As a fully online, private university, Capella University offers a bachelor’s degree in information assurance and cybersecurity that can be completed in 22 months! It’s a great choice for those who want a quality degree in a shorter amount of time.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve completed the necessary education, it’s time to prepare your resume and start job searching! With professional and executive resume writers at your side, you’ll improve your chances of landing your dream job. Even with a top-quality bachelor’s degree, working with executive resume writers can help you realize your dream of working in cybersecurity sooner.