Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in today’s job market. In fact, the demand for cyber professionals is expected to grow by almost 20% between now and 2022. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a cyber security specialist, you will be happy to know that there are numerous online degree programs in cyber security available that can help you meet your career goals.
Online degree programs in cyber security will enable you to explore this exciting field from the comfort of your own home. Depending on your educational background and interests, you have several different options when it comes to an online cyber security degree program. In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive guide to the best online degree programs in cyber security so that you can make an informed decision about which program is right for you.
What You Will Learn In an Online Degree Programs in Cyber Security
When you enroll in an online degree programs in cyber security, you will be exposed to a variety of topics related to information assurance and network security. These topics include – Computer Security, Data Analytics and Modeling, Cyber Law, Computer Networks, Mobile Security, Software Development, and more. While you will learn the core concepts of online degree programs in cyber security, you will also be expected to gain hands-on experience with the latest technology and tools used in the field. Many online cyber security degree programs will also prepare you to write and defend a thesis.
Read on: Top 8 Best Online Degree Programs for Network Security.
Associate’s Degree in Cybersecurity
An associate’s degree in cybersecurity is a two-year program that will provide you with a foundational knowledge of cyber security. During your first two years of study, you will be expected to complete a certain number of core credits, elective credits, and general education credits.
Most two-year associate’s degree programs in cybersecurity require that you complete about 30 credits per year. Your studies will provide you with a solid understanding of computer networks, malware, and other areas related to information assurance and cyber security.
You can expect to earn your associate’s degree in cybersecurity at the end of your two years of study. After completing your associate’s degree in cybersecurity, you can choose to continue your education at the bachelor’s level.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science: Cyber Security Track
A bachelor’s degree in computer science with a cyber security track is a popular choice among students who already have a background in computer science. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you can explore a cyber security track by taking a few extra classes. A track in cyber security is a set of courses designed to prepare you to work in this field.
In addition to taking the core computer science courses, students enrolled in a cyber security track are expected to complete a certain number of classes related to cyber security. You can expect to take courses like Computer Network Security, Ethical Hacking, Malware Analysis, and more. Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a cyber security track will take you two years of full-time study.
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Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology: Cyber Security Track
A bachelor’s degree in information technology with a cyber security track is a popular choice among students who do not have a background in computer science. If you do not have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you can explore a cyber security track by taking a few extra classes.
A track in cyber security is a set of courses designed to prepare you to work in this field. In addition to taking the core information technology courses, students enrolled in a cyber security track are expected to complete a certain number of classes related to cyber security.
You can expect to take courses like Computer Network Security, Ethical Hacking, Malware Analysis, and more. Earning a bachelor’s degree in information technology with a cyber security track will take you two years of full-time study.
Bachelors of Science in Computer Science
A bachelor’s of science in computer science is a four-year program designed for students who have an interest in computer science and want to explore more advanced concepts in the field. If you are interested in earning a bachelor’s of science in computer science and want to specialize in cyber security, you will have to complete a few extra classes.
A bachelor’s of science in computer science with a cyber security specialization is a four-year program that will expose you to the most advanced concepts in cyber security. You can expect to take courses like Advanced Computer Networks, Applied Cryptography, and more. Earning a bachelor’s of science in computer science with a cyber security specialization will take you four years of full-time study.
Read on: Pros and Cons of Online Degrees
Masters Degree in Computer Science: Cyber Security Track
A masters degree in computer science with a cyber security track is a two-year program designed for students who want to gain more advanced knowledge in the field. If you are interested in earning a masters degree in computer science and want to specialize in cyber security, you will have to complete a few extra classes.
A masters degree in computer science with a cyber security specialization is a two-year program that will prepare you to work in this field. You can expect to take courses like Advanced Network Security, Applied Cryptography, and more. Earning a masters degree in computer science with a cyber security specialization will take you two years of full-time study.
Masters Degree in Information Technology: Security Track
A masters degree in information technology with a security track is a two-year program designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in information technology. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in information technology, you can explore a security track by taking a few extra classes.
A track in security is a set of courses designed to prepare you to work in this field. In addition to taking the core information technology courses, students enrolled in a security track are expected to complete a certain number of classes related to cyber security.
You can expect to take courses like Networks Security, Cryptography, and more. Earning a masters degree in information technology with a security track will take you two years of full-time study.
Conclusion
There are many benefits associated with earning an online degree program in cyber security. First and foremost, you will have the flexibility to choose the path that works best for you. You can select a program that is offered online and enroll at whatever pace works best for your schedule.
You can also select a program that is offered online but be sure to check if the program is accredited. When selecting an online degree program in cyber security, be sure to choose a program that is accredited and has a high graduation rate. This will put you in a better position to find a well-paying job after graduation.
