Key Takeaways:
- Southern New Hampshire University is the #1 school on our ranking of the top online master’s in cybersecurity, followed by Liberty University.
- Earning a master’s in cybersecurity online from a college that offers a solid financial aid package can be a big advantage as you pursue your future career.
- The job prospects for online MS in cybersecurity graduates are projected to grow by 33% between 2023 and 2033.
This ranking explores the top online master’s in cybersecurity degree programs.
Did you know cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand fields today? Between 2022 and 2023, the global cybersecurity workforce grew by 12.6%, showing strong job prospects. Earning an online master’s in cybersecurity, especially from a program that offers financial aid, could be a smart move for your future.
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Despite this growth, there’s still a major talent shortage. A recent study by ISSA and TechTarget found that 66% of cybersecurity professionals feel their job has become more difficult, with 27% calling it very challenging. This shortage is putting businesses at risk, and advanced education is one of the best ways to help close this skills gap.
The Master’s in Cybersecurity program enhances your technical skills and also develops your critical thinking, problem-solving, and management abilities. It helps you prove to employers that you’re a highly qualified professional who can lead their cybersecurity efforts.
The only problem is advanced degrees are expensive. According to the Cybersecurity Guide, cybersecurity master’s degrees cost an average of $41,379.
Many students plunge into debt to pursue advanced education, which can often defy their goal of having a more financially stable future. However, alternative financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans can help alleviate some of this burden.
The FAFSA is an essential resource for students seeking financial assistance. By filling out the FAFSA, you access work-study programs, state grants, and scholarships, all of which can significantly reduce the cost of your education. The FAFSA will also help you access low-interest federal loans with flexible payment plans.
The main purpose of the FAFSA is to make your college experience easier. It lets you focus on building your skills instead of spending extra hours working to pay for tuition or accumulating debt while pursuing your master’s degree.
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- FAFSA and Financial Aid for Online College
- 10 Most Affordable PhD in Computer Science Programs Online
- Top 30 Affordable Master’s in Information Technology Online
Methodology
This list includes fifteen of the most cost-effective master’s degrees in cybersecurity. Some of the online colleges with financial aid may have higher tuition and fees than others, but worry not—there are various financial aid options available to help manage costs.
Each program on this list has been chosen not just for its affordability but also for the quality of education it provides and the resources available to students. We ensure that each program is offered by a regionally accredited college and university. Moreover, it is taught by experienced faculty and reviewed by the US Department of Homeland Security.
The fifteen master’s in cybersecurity offered by online schools that accept financial aid have varying curriculum requirements. Nevertheless, they’ll teach you the following key topics required for the field:
- Defensive Cyber Security Technologies
- Systems Security and Cryptography
- Information Systems Assurance
- Security Audit and Penetration Testing
- Cyber Security Law and Policy
#1 Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $637 per credit hour
When it comes to top online colleges that accept financial aid, you’ll often see Southern New Hampshire University. Aside from financial aid from the FAFSA, SNHU also offers several institutional opportunities to reduce tuition costs. On top of financial aid, students can also reduce out-of-pocket costs by transferring up to 50% of their credits into the master’s degree in cybersecurity.
SNHU’s online master’s degree in cybersecurity focuses on providing students with a blend of theory and practical experience. Courses include:
- Enterprise Resource Planning
- Advanced Information Technology
- Management of Information Technology
Plus, you’ll learn about compliance and data protection strategies. You can also concentrate on IT Management.
#2 Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Master’s in Cyber Security
Tuition: $565 per credit (full-time); $615 per credit (full-time)
Another one of the great online schools that offer financial aid is Liberty University. They offer scholarships specifically for online students and have a dedicated team that assists you in exploring your financial aid for online degrees. Moreover, you can choose various options to complete your degree without paying anything upfront.
Liberty’s online master’s degree in cybersecurity teaches you the digital language and covers ethics, legal issues, and practical computer skills. The program also includes a capstone project that gives you hands-on experience to apply what you’ve learned in real-world situations. Courses you can expect include:
- Digital Forensics
- Applied Cryptography
- Issues in Security, Privacy, and Anonymity
- Ethical Hacking
#3 Our Lady of the Lake University
San Antonio, Texas
Online Cybersecurity Master’s Degree
Tuition: $29,730 total tuition cost
Our Lady of the Lake University offers one of the best master’s degrees in cybersecurity for students seeking affordable tuition fees and various financial aid options. You’ll also receive guidance when completing the FAFSA application to ensure you receive at least one type of federal aid and qualify for institutional tuition assistance.
Its online cybersecurity degree will immerse you in a curriculum tailored for real-world application and prepare you for industry-recognized certifications like ISC2® CISSP and CompTIA® Security+. You can expect the following courses:
- Cybersecurity Planning and Management
- Information Assurance and Compliance Auditing
- Basic Scripting and Programming
- Digital Forensics
- Networking and Cloud Computing
#4 Purdue Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Management
Tuition: $420 per credit hour
Purdue Global is one of the largest schools offering a cybercrime degree online. The program covers key topics like:
- Managing Information Continuity
- Asset Control
- Compliance Management
- Incident Response
- Secure Information System Administration
You’ll learn from seasoned professionals with extensive cybersecurity and education experience. Moreover, industry experts frequently update the curriculum, so graduates are well-equipped to tackle current challenges in the field. This online cybersecurity degree also allows you to customize your degree and develop specialized knowledge in one of the following areas:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Technologies
- Blockchain Technologies and Apps
- Critical Infrastructure Security
- Data Analytics
- Enterprise Architecture Systems
- Project Management
- Secure Software Development and Quality Assurance
#5 Quinnipiac University
Hamden, Connecticut
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $4,865 per semester
Several organizations have ranked Quinnipiac University’s online MS in Cybersecurity degree as one of the top producers of highly skilled information security professionals. This program will equip you with advanced prevention, detection, and recovery methods to become indispensable in any industry.
This online MS degree is designed to align with the key knowledge areas set by the NSA and the Department of Homeland Security. Featured courses of Quinipiac’s cyber security degree online include:
- Cloud Security
- Identity And Access Management
- IoT Security
- Data Security
- Network and Operating System Security
On top of completing the FAFSA application, you must complete the Quinnipiac graduate financial aid application form. Like the FAFSA, it will help you access more financial aid options, enrollment plans, and external resources, such as tuition reimbursement. It also serves as authorization to release your information as needed.
#6 Georgetown University
Washington, DC
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Risk Management
Tuition: $1,620 per credit hour
The per credit hour cost of Georgetown’s Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Risk Management may shock you. However, considering it’s one of the top cybersecurity schools online with various facilities and resources, the investment can be worthwhile.
Through a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, the CyberCorps™ Scholarship for Service Program provides scholarships for students pursuing degrees essential for cybersecurity. In return, recipients agree to work in a government cybersecurity position after graduation.
The online curriculum draws on frameworks from the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It takes an interdisciplinary approach that includes:
- ethics
- communication
- management
- law
- security
- computer science
You’ll also master key tools and techniques, such as applied intelligence and machine learning, to effectively respond to security threats.
#7 University of West Florida
Pensacola, Florida
Online Master of Science Cybersecurity
Tuition: $12,750 full program tuition
As one of the best cybersecurity programs, the University of West Florida’s online MS in Cybersecurity prepares you to secure data, systems, and networks in just two years. You’ll gain hands-on experience through the UWF Cyber Range and complete a capstone course on current issues.
This online cybersecurity degree also offers several concentration courses that help you tailor your degree closer to your career goals. You can select one from the following concentrations:
- Data Security
- National Security
- Security Management
- Software and System Security
The cybersecurity school will encourage you to apply for financial aid as an online student. Around 70% of UWF students receive assistance, with nearly $100 million awarded last year through loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
#8 Pace University
New York, New York
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $36,300 total tuition
Although online students at Pace are not qualified for institutional scholarships, they’re given several alternatives to reduce out-of-pocket costs, including Federal Direct Stafford Loans and a Pell Grant. As an online student, you’ll receive further assistance locating privately funded scholarship programs.
Designated as a CAE-CDE school, Pace’s online master’s in cybersecurity program allows you to pursue a concentration in Cyber Operations or Cybersecurity Leadership. You can also design your track by choosing elective courses from a curated list of cybersecurity topics.
#9 Maryville University
St. Louis, Missouri
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $876 per credit
Maryville University offers one of the most comprehensive cybersecurity degrees online, with various financial aid opportunities. There are many options to help reduce your college education costs, including grants, student employment opportunities, and employer assistance programs. You’ll receive guidance in completing the FAFSA and applying for institutional and private tuition assistance.
You’ll spend half your time on core courses covering such as:
- IT Management
- Cyber Defense
- Incident Response
You can also choose to focus on either Technical or Business/Leadership topics. Furthermore, you will be prepared for various industry-recognized certifications. These include CCSP, ECSA, CISSP, CISA, and Splunk Core Certified Power User.
#10 University of Pacific
Stockton, California
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $1,280 per unit
The Master’s Degree in Cyber Security at the University of Pacific is one of the top providers of online individualized support from financial aid and academics to wellness. You can take advantage of scholarships funded by generous donors dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
This master’s in cybersecurity online will sharpen your skills in the following areas:
- Software Development
- Network Security
- System Administration
- Cyber Risk Management
- Incident Response
- Computer Forensics
With asynchronous courses, you can learn at your own pace. The program ends with a capstone course where you’ll tackle real-world cybersecurity projects.
#11 Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $590 per credit
In this program, you’ll learn essential skills to become a leader in the cybersecurity industry. You’ll delve into advanced network security, cyber threat intelligence, digital forensics, ethical hacking, and security governance. The program also emphasizes the integration of a Christian worldview and ethical decision-making, using the Hackers with Halos™ methodology.
Courses include:
- Cyber Warfare and Applications
- Enterprise Cyber Law and Compliance Strategies
- Innovation in Security Frameworks
- Policy Management for Security Solutions
- Cybersecurity Program Development
GCU offers various online scholarships for students in its online or evening programs. It also partners with many employers nationwide to provide scholarships for eligible individuals pursuing degrees, certificates, or single courses.
#12 Western Governors University
Millcreek, Utah
Online Master’s in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Tuition: $4,655 per six months term
Western Governors online Master’s in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance has a unique tuition structure. Instead of charging you per credit, WGU charges tuition per term. This means you can keep your overall costs down while finishing your degree faster. Plus, you can obtain industry certifications without paying extra.
Certifications include:
- CASP+ Optional Voucher
- CompTIA PenTest+
- (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
- ISACA CISM Optional Voucher
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
WGU will help you qualify for federal aid by giving you thorough guidance in the FAFSA application.
#13 Utica University
Utica, New York
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $895 per credit hour
As a leader in economic crime programs for over 25 years, Utica’s online MS in Cybersecurity degree includes the latest intelligence, forensics, and cyber operations practices. You’ll gain technical skills in cyber defense, offense, and digital forensics. There are also three specializations to enhance your expertise:
- Digital Forensics
- Cybersecurity Operations
- Cybercrime and Fraud
The NSA and DHS National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) consistently recognize Utica’s graduates as one of the best in their fields. As a result, the school receives several privately funded scholarships.
#14 Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta Georgia
Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Tuition: $335 per credit hour
The Georgia Tech online MS in Cybersecurity features a specialization in cybersecurity from three options: Information Security, Cyber-Physical Systems, or Policy. Below are brief descriptions of each track.
Although Georgia Tech does not offer as much financial aid as others on the list, we’ve decided to include this program due to its low tuition rate. Nevertheless, you can still apply for various financial aid opportunities with the help of Georgia Tech’s dedicated financial aid officers.
#15 University of San Diego
San Diego, California
Online Master of Science (MS) in Cyber Security Operations & Leadership
Tuition: $965 per unit
The University of San Diego’s online MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership offers a strong curriculum aligned with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework. You’ll work with key stakeholders in the cybersecurity community to grow as a leader and lifelong learner. Featured courses of the program include:
- Applied Cryptography
- Enterprise Security Architecture
- Cyber Incident Response and Computer Network Forensics
The University of San Diego prioritizes providing adequate financial support to all eligible students. They will help you complete your FAFSA application and apply for external funding opportunities.
Cybersecurity Job Market and Financial Aid Benefits
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says professionals in the field of cybersecurity earn an average annual salary of $120,360. Moreover, the field is expected to grow 33 percent from 2023 to 2033. But to become competitive, you’d need a combination of technical skills, educational background, and relevant certifications.
To afford your master’s degree in cybersecurity without compromising future finances, you should take advantage of financial aid options. We’re not talking about loans. You should prioritize scholarships, grants, tuition discounts, and employer tuition programs. Many universities offer specific scholarships for cybersecurity students; some even partner with employers to provide additional funding opportunities.
Start with the FAFSA. This will give you various financial aid opportunities, from gift aid to loans. However, navigating the FAFSA can be quite challenging. It would be best to seek help from your school when applying for the FAFSA or any financial aid opportunities.