Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

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Updated May 22, 2023

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HBCUs are proven leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. This resource explores the many benefits of choosing an HBCU for your cybersecurity degree.

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Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have played a major role in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education for Black students. HBCUs account for about 3% of all U.S. degree-granting institutions. Yet, they produce 32% of Black bachelor's degree-holders in STEM fields.

Cybersecurity ranks among the world's top industries in terms of job opportunity. In 2021, Cybersecurity Ventures reported a 350% increase in the number of vacant cybersecurity jobs between 2013-2021. The organization predicts a total of 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings worldwide by 2025.

These trends boost the appeal of studying cybersecurity at an HBCU. This guide profiles the leading HBCU cybersecurity programs of 2023.

Why Attend an HBCU?

HBCUs emerged in the 19th century. Most schools now recognized as HBCUs opened between 1865-1900, after the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment. Prior to the Civil War, three colleges were established in the North to educate free Black people: Cheyney, Lincoln, and Wilberforce.

The eldest institution, Cheyney University, began in Pennsylvania in 1837. Lincoln University, founded in 1854, is noted as the first Black institution to actually grant degrees. Ohio's Wilberforce University became in 1856 the first Black-owned institution under the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The South had refused to admit Black people to established white schools. The Second Morrill Act of 1890 helped create land-grant colleges in southern states.

As the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) notes, HBCUs play a key role in making higher education accessible to Black students, who were historically excluded from predominantly white instiutions. In particular, the UNCF stresses their importance for first-generation college students from lower-income backgrounds.

HBCUs offer excellent alumni networks, supporting the success of learners transitioning into their careers. Additionally, HBCU graduates are more likely to earn graduate and professional degrees.

Emerging research suggests that Black students who attend HBCUs may also enjoy health benefits in older age. A 2020 Ohio State University study compared metabolic syndrome rates in college-educated Black students who attended HBCUs. It found that Black people enrolled at HBCUs were 35% less likely to develop the syndrome than those who attended a non-HBCU school.

Further data published by the Brookings Institution in 2021 found that such benefits may extend to numerous other areas. This survey-based study reported the following conclusions:

  • Higher rates of financial well-being among HBCU graduates (40%) compared to non-HBCU graduates (29%)
  • A stronger sense of purpose among HBCU graduates (51%) compared to non-HBCU graduates (43%)
  • Increased feelings of social well-being among HBCU graduates (54%) compared to non-HBCU graduates (48%)

These findings support long-held notions documenting the holistic benefits of HBCU attendance for Black students.

Why Study Cybersecurity at an HBCU?

HBCU cybersecurity programs offer multiple unique benefits for learners who study at historically Black institutions. These include:

  • Increased Investment: In 2015, the Obama administration invested $25 million in HBCU cybersecurity programs. The money provided facility development funding to 13 leading HBCUs. It resulted in major improvements that generated a valuable college-to-career pipeline for aspiring Black tech professionals.
  • A Culture of Innovation: A growing number of HBCUs began offering new cybersecurity and other STEM programs during the 2010s. HBCUs with established programs in these fields invested in lab improvements and other campus resources. This work has helped build a strong culture of tech innovation at HBCUs. These innovations are a major reason why HBCUs produce the majority of Black doctorate-holders in STEM fields.
  • Alumni Support: HBCU graduates gain access to one of the largest, strongest, and most extensive alumni networks in the United States. Alumni programs serve as valuable networking resources that can turn into job offers and other economic opportunities.
Explore careers in cybersecurity
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Top Online Cybersecurity Bachelor's

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What to Expect From HBCU Cybersecurity Programs

Learners can study cybersecurity at both the undergraduate and graduate levels at HBCUs. The top HBCU cybersecurity schools feature demanding curricula that equip students with vital, industry-standard skill sets. From an academic and career training standpoint, these programs match the ones offered at accredited non-HBCU institutions.

Many HBCU cybertraining programs embrace interactive teaching strategies that focus on hands-on learning. Many HBCUs maintain partnerships with major employers and tech organizations including Google, NASA, Lockheed Martin, and SpaceX. These programs offer valuable internship and job recruitment opportunities.

Bachelor's in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity bachelor's programs develop the skills for protecting digital resources from cyberattacks and unauthorized use. Most programs require little to no previous technical experience. However, learners with strong backgrounds in mathematics, computing, and applied logic tend to adapt well to the subject matter.

Like most bachelor's degrees, cybersecurity programs demand about four academic years of full-time study. Some schools offer cybersecurity as a concentration in general computer science programs. Others allow learners to pursue specializations in targeted areas of cybersecurity, such as:

  • Threat analysis and intelligence
  • Security administration and operations
  • Digital forensics

Candidates should always research the accreditation status of any school under their consideration. Credits earned at accredited institutions readily transfer. Accredited schools often have recognition among employers and other colleges and universities.

Admissions Process

Each HBCU sets its own admissions guidelines and policies. You should familiarize yourself with each school's standards before applying.

General admission requirements include:

  • Proof of high school completion (diploma, GED certificate, or homeschool certificate)
  • Official academic transcripts
  • A completed institutional application

If you plan to apply to multiple programs, Common App can make the process easier to manage.

Depending on the school, applicants may also need to submit ACT or SAT test scores and other supplementary materials. Examples include letters of recommendation and personal essays. Double-check each school's test score policies, as many colleges temporarily or permanently suspended ACT/SAT requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Learn more about bachelor's in cybersecurity programs

Master's in Cybersecurity

Master's programs in cybersecurity often feature one of two objectives. First, they build advanced skills in targeted areas of professional cybersecurity. Second, the programs function as specialized extensions of general undergraduate computer science education.

At the master's level, cybersecurity programs cover 10-12 courses (30-36 credits) and take 1-2 years to complete. Course content focuses on advanced topics and is not meant for newcomers to the field. Some programs include formal computer technology training or work experience in their admission requirements.

Programs may conclude with a major research project, field learning experience, or capstone. These components allow students to pursue their interest in specific topics within the broader cybersecurity field.

Admissions Process

Master's programs in cybersecurity often require a bachelor's degree in a related field. General examples include computer science and computer engineering. Some programs consider applicants with degrees in non-technical subjects like college-level coursework in discrete mathematics and calculus.

As with other programs, HBCUs set their own admissions criteria. It is standard practice for them to request academic transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. GPA cutoffs and standardized test scores may also apply. Commonly requested test scores cover the GRE, GMAT, MAT, and LSAT exams.

Learn more about master's in cybersecurity programs

Selecting the Right HBCU Cybersecurity Program

Many different HBCUs offer quality cybersecurity programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students should expand the focus of their school research to include other important factors.

Depending on your learning goals, these factors may include:

  • The size, strength, and reach of the school's alumni network
  • The availability of internships, practicums, and extracurricular activities
  • School and program reputation
  • Post-graduation placement rates (in jobs or graduate degrees)

Accreditation can also help guide your program search. Look beyond institutional accreditation to consider these specialized endorsements:

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
  • Computer Science Accreditation Commission
  • The Department of Homeland Security and National Security Agency's Centers of Academic Excellence program

Many reputable programs do not necessarily hold specialized accreditation. However, those that do are known to offer a comprehensive, high-value learning experience.

Top 3 HBCU Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs

Launch a tech career by completing a bachelor's in cybersecurity. The list below includes three of 2023's top HBCU cybersecurity programs. Discover how we rank schools by following the link below.

View our ranking methodology

#1 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Talladega College

  • Talladega, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Two former slaves, Thomas Tarrant and William Savery, started a primary school in 1865 for former slaves' children. By 1869, the school had grown into Talladega College, Alabama's first private HBCU.

Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity

Talladega partners with Cisco, CompTIA, and the EC-Council to provide three undergraduate computer science programs. The cybersecurity option can prepare students for security analysis, penetration testing, network engineering, and vulnerability assessment roles.

Learners can complete a nine-credit cyberoperations concentration covering Python programming and Java security APIs — two tools commonly used by cybersecurity professionals. Students who do not choose this concentration can opt for courses on cybersecurity ethics, computer architecture, and risk management. 

The rest of the curriculum explores diverse computer science and cybersecurity topics, like network security, digital forensics, and cloud computing. Each enrollee also completes research projects and an internship. 

Applying to Talladega

Each applicant completes an online form, pays a $25 fee, and submits high school transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.0 GPA. A student must also provide ACT or SAT scores with a 16 or 820 minimum, respectively. Talladega also requests medical record forms and a recommendation letter. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $505/credit
  • Required Credits: 120
  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Delivery Format: Hybrid; on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,130
Out-of-state
$12,130
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,156
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Grambling State University

  • Grambling, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Grambling State began as the Colored Industrial and Agricultural School in 1901 with just three teachers. It moved to Grambling, Louisiana, in 1905 and grew into a 590-acre campus that now serves over 5,400 students.

Cybersecurity Degree Program

Grambling State's cybersecurity program can prepare students to become ethical and legal decision-makers in tech. Coursework develops abilities such as teamwork and effective communication in cybersecurity contexts. 

The curriculum combines computer science and cybersecurity classes. Students take fundamental courses in data structures, software security, and computer organization. They also dive into advanced topics like applied cryptography and network security. 

Students supplement the curriculum with two cybersecurity electives. They can choose from options like cybergaming, artificial intelligence, cloud security, and vulnerability assessment. The final semester includes a cybersecurity seminar and a capstone project. 

Applying to Grambling State

Each candidate must complete an online application and pay a $20 fee. They also submit immunization records, high school transcripts (2.0 minimum GPA), and test scores (minimum of 20 for ACT or 1030 for SAT). Grambling State expects in-state applicants to meet 19 high school credit requirements, while out-of-state candidates need only 17.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $3,841/semester (in state); $8,353/semester (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 120
  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Delivery Format: Hybrid; on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,140
Out-of-state
$5,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,110
Out-of-state
$5,110
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
5,438
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Hampton University

  • Hampton, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

In 1861, slaves rushed to the Union's border in Virginia seeking freedom — and received freedom and education. What began as small classes under an oak tree grew to become the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, now known as HU.

BS in Cybersecurity — Computer Science

HU offers four undergraduate computer science degrees, including a program with a cybersecurity focus. The curriculum begins with fundamental classes, like computer programming and an intro to computers. 

Coursework immerses learners into network architecture and data structure before exploring cybersecurity-specific topics. Students learn about cyberspace ethics, laws, and crimes. They also engage with risk management tactics, incident handling, and computer forensics classwork. 

The curriculum combines cyber-specific laws with general criminal justice courses for a comprehensive security education. Students explore criminology, terrorism and national security, and homeland security. 

Each enrollee completes the program with two capstone projects in software design.

Applying to HU

Each candidate must complete an online application and submit high school transcripts, a recommendation letter, a personal essay, and a $50 fee. HU does not require test scores for students in the top 10% of their class or those with a 3.0 minimum GPA.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private 
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $26,198/year
  • Required Credits: 120
  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,198
Out-of-state
$26,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,099
Out-of-state
$13,099
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
3,516
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Top 3 HBCU Master's in Cybersecurity Programs

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, a master's in cybersecurity degree program can help further your career. Explore 2023's top three HBCU cybersecurity programs, ranked by availability, affordability, academics, and reputation.

#1 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Hampton University

  • Hampton, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1868 as the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, HU now serves over 3,200 students on its 314-acre campus. The school prioritizes multiculturalism and diversity, and its curriculum offers research and public service opportunities. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

HU designed its master's in cybersecurity program for students with prior computer science experience. Learners new to the field can still apply to the program but must complete a bridge program in information assurance.

Students with basic programming knowledge who have taken two undergraduate calculus courses and one discrete mathematics class can start the bridge program immediately. The bridge program includes classes in programming fundamentals, data structure, and operating systems. 

The core cybersecurity curriculum immerses learners in advanced topics like software engineering and cryptography. Students explore cyberspace ethics and laws, malicious software, and network security. They also choose four elective cybersecurity courses, like risk management or secure distributed computing.                                                                                                                                                                                 

Applying to HU

Candidates complete an online application and present college transcripts. HU also requests GRE scores, a personal statement, two recommendation letters, and a copy of state or federal identification.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private 
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $695/credit
  • Required Credits: 37 credits
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,198
Out-of-state
$26,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,099
Out-of-state
$13,099
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
3,516
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Norfolk State University

  • Norfolk, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

NSU has operated on the values of diversity, integrity, excellence, and student-centeredness for nearly 100 years. This Virginia school sits on a 134-acre campus and offers 17 graduate programs. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

NSU encourages students from any professional background — not just computer science — to apply to its cybersecurity master's program. The curriculum starts with several introductory courses, including network fundamentals and computer security, before moving to advanced topics. 

Learners explore ethical hacking, cyberethics, and emerging trends in cybersecurity. One class focuses on healthcare information security, offering an overview of healthcare ethics, electronic health records, and privacy laws. 

The curriculum delivers hands-on cybersecurity experience and teaches students to use industry-standard systems and tools. Learners can also access NSU's Cybersecurity Complex (online or in person), which includes simulation labs and research facilities.  

Applying to NSU

Candidates complete an online application, pay the $50 application fee, and submit undergraduate transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 minimum GPA during the last two years of study. NSU also requests three recommendation letters and five years of applicable work experience.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $4,410/semester (in state); $10,436/semester (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Program Length: 2-3 years
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,752
Out-of-state
$16,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,820
Out-of-state
$20,872
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
5,457
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best HBCUs With Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

  • Princess Anne, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

UMES began in 1886 as the Delaware Conference Academy, a branch of Baltimore's Centenary Bible Institute. It has experienced multiple organizational changes over the years, and UMES now operates on the values of collaboration, family, pride, and communication. 

MS in Cybersecurity Engineering Technology

The Department of Science and Engineering Technology at UMES offers two master's degree programs: applied computer science and cybersecurity engineering technology. The latter prepares learners to pursue work implementing cybersecurity measures and addressing security breaches.

The cybersecurity degree program includes four core classes covering project management in tech and statistical applications for technology. The next seven classes immerse learners in security topics. 

Students explore cybersecurity administration, incidence response, and network technology fundamentals. They also learn mobile wireless security and WLAN standards. The program ends with a master's seminar where learners critically examine cybersecurity ideas and present research papers. 

Applying to UMES

UMES prefers each applicant to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field, like computer engineering or information security. A student must submit undergraduate transcripts, three recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a $50 fee, and a resume. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $346/credit (in state); $476/credit (in Eastern Shore region); $641/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 34
  • Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,418
Out-of-state
$15,828
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,968
Out-of-state
$14,784
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
2,646
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

FAQ About HBCU Cybersecurity Programs

Are HBCU cybersecurity programs hard to get into?

HBCU cybersecurity programs generally require a strong background knowledge of mathematics and computer science. Learners that possess such backgrounds can access opportunities to earn a cybersecurity degree. However, all HBCUs establish their own admission policies.

Should I study cybersecurity at an HBCU?

HBCUs have a long history of preparing Black students for careers in technology. Comprehensive analysis has found that HBCUs have issued 32% of all bachelor's degrees in STEM fields held by Black college graduates.

Which HBCU has the best cybersecurity program?

Organizations that compile rankings differ in their opinion of which school has the best HBCU cybersecurity program. Prospective students should check multiple sources during their program search and focus on schools that appear on multiple lists.

Which cybersecurity degree will help me get a job?

Most industry experts view a bachelor's degree as the minimum criteria for an entry-level cybersecurity job. However, an upgradable associate degree may suffice, especially given the continued lack of necessary skills in the labor pool.

Dr. Hill is a paid member of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network and has reviewed the supplementary content only, not the ranked programs. Dr. Hill is not affiliated with the schools in the ranking.

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