Cybersecurity Programs in Idaho
Updated April 4, 2023
Reviewed by
Credit: Anna Gorin / Moment / Getty Images
Though many may associate Idaho with its agricultural exports, including potatoes, the state now features an emerging tech sector.
According to CompTIA's 2022 Cyberstates report, Idaho had the fourth-highest percent change for tech job growth in 2021. CompTIA also projects a 20% tech job growth from 2022-2032 — on par with tech hubs like Texas and Washington, D.C.
Cybersecurity education opportunities should likely grow with the demand for Idaho cybersecurity professionals. Most of Idaho's schools now offer cybersecurity certificates or degree programs.
Discover more about those programs and Idaho's growing cybersecurity industry with this helpful guide.
Idaho at a Glance
| Average Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations | |
|---|---|
| % of Workforce in Tech | |
| Economic Impact of Tech Industry | |
| Number of Higher Learning Institutions |
Sources: Cyberstates™, NCES, OEWS
Why Go to College for Cybersecurity in Idaho?
While Idaho may not hold widespread recognition as a tech hub, interest in cybersecurity continues to flourish here among students and educational leaders.
Several Idaho schools have offered cybersecurity associate degrees and certificate programs for years, and the University of Idaho launched the state's first bachelor's degree in cybersecurity in 2020. More recently, Idaho's higher education leaders just participated in a 2023 cybersecurity exercise to understand the growing cyberthreats.
This increased focus on cybersecurity and rapid state-wide industry growth bodes well for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, who can anticipate more education and networking opportunities in the near future.
Professional cybersecurity groups continue to form in Idaho. In 2022, BSides held its fifth annual Idaho Falls conference, and Women in Cybersecurity started an Idaho chapter.
Affordability also draws many students to schools in Idaho. Schools offer low in-state tuition, with many maintaining tuition reciprocity programs for learners from nearby states.
Idaho has schools with cybersecurity programs across the state, including in large cities like Boise and smaller areas like Moscow. Enrollees can also consider flexible online classes to complete their degrees anywhere.
Education Statistics for Idaho
Idaho houses 14 higher education institutions, and nearly two-thirds of students study partially or fully online.
| Higher Education Statistics | Idaho Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
|
Four-Year Colleges |
2,679 |
|
|
Two-Year Colleges |
1,303 |
|
|
Students Enrolled in Distance Education |
72.8% |
Sources: NCES
Accreditation for Idaho Schools
When looking for cybersecurity programs in Idaho, students should prioritize accredited schools. Institutional accreditation applies to an entire college or university, indicating that a third-party accrediting body has reviewed and approved the school's ability to deliver a high-quality education. Only learners attending accredited institutions can apply for federal funding, as well.
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) primarily accredits Idaho's institutions of higher education.
Third-party organizations may also accredit individual programs or departments within schools, known as programmatic accreditation. Prospective enrollees can research cybersecurity programs with programmatic accreditation by ABET.
Considerations for a Cybersecurity Degree in Idaho
Students should consider several other factors before selecting a cybersecurity degree program, including degree type. Schools in Idaho offer short certificate programs to provide learners with an introduction to cybersecurity.
Other options include two-year associate and four-year bachelor's degree programs. Current Idaho computer science professionals looking to specialize can also pursue master's degrees in cybersecurity.
Each prospective enrollee should also identify their preferred learning option. Some learners may thrive with the traditional structure of in-person classes, while others need the flexibility of online coursework.
Most Idaho schools teach cybersecurity on campus. However, schools like Lewis-Clark State College and Boise State University offer fully online cybersecurity degree programs.
Explore rankings for top cybersecurity programs around the country
Cybersecurity Concentrations and Similar Degrees
While some Idaho schools offer general cybersecurity degrees and certificates, others provide unique opportunities. The following section includes three cybersecurity-related programs available in Idaho.
| Industrial Cybersecurity |
Idaho State University offers the country's first certificate and degree options in industrial cybersecurity engineering technology. This focus prepares engineering professionals to secure physical infrastructure. Potential careers include cybersecurity technician, industrial control systems security lead, and cybersecurity engineer. |
|---|---|
| Computer Information Technology |
Several Idaho schools offer computer information technology degrees that provide a comprehensive tech education. Coursework generally covers various topics, including cybersecurity. Graduates from computer information technology programs can pursue roles as cybersecurity analysts, data engineers, and system administrators. |
| Network Security Administration |
Network security administration shares cybersecurity's goal: safeguarding organizations' data. However, network security professionals focus more on proactive approaches to protecting network infrastructure. Schools like North Idaho College offer degrees in network security administration that prepare students to pursue entry-level security positions. |
Paying for Your Cybersecurity Degree
Completing a cybersecurity degree in Idaho typically costs less than the national average. In-state and out-of-state students can save thousands on yearly tuition by choosing an Idaho school. Private four-year institutions in Idaho offer some of the most cost-effective options, with tuition totaling one-fifth of the national average.
However, even the most cost-effective cybersecurity degree programs still cost thousands or sometimes tens of thousands of dollars. Students can consider several financial aid options to help cover tuition:
- Loans: Enrollees can take out private or federal student loans to cover most or all of the tuition costs. However, they must repay them over time, usually with added interest.
- Grants: Universities and organizations generally award grants based on financial need, which students do not need to repay
- Scholarships: Like grants, scholarships are gifts. Learners can apply for this form of funding based on merit, need, and identity through their universities or outside organizations.
- Fellowships: Government agencies, universities, and foundations offer fellowships to graduate students based on their academic achievement and potential.
- Work-Study Jobs: Some schools let enrollees work at the university part time while completing their degrees. Their wages go toward tuition.
Idaho residents can apply for these general financing options, plus unique scholarships. The Idaho State Board of Education offers several state-specific awards, such as the Idaho Governor's Cup Scholarship and the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners.
Members of Idaho's Native American tribes can also receive unique funding opportunities. For example, Boise State University offers discounted tuition rates for members of federally recognized tribes in Idaho.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
Public schools in Idaho typically charge different in-state and out-of-state tuition. Idaho residents enjoy lower in-state tuition, while students from other states pay higher out-of-state rates.
For example, the College of Eastern Idaho charges in-state fees of $1,680 per semester, and out-of-state students pay double this figure. Some schools feature lower rates for Idaho residents from specific districts.
Even though out-of-state tuition costs more, some schools offer significant discounts through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). Students from the 16 eligible states and territories can travel to Idaho and study for reduced tuition at participating schools.
University of Idaho offers a 60% discount for WUE recipients. Normal out-of-state tuition totals nearly $28,000, but WUE recipients pay less than $12,000 per year.
Idaho's Cost of Living
Along with tuition, students must consider general living expenses like rent, groceries, healthcare, and transportation. The World Population Review uses an index to measure each state's cost of living, with scores ranging from 83.3 (Mississippi) to 193.3 (Hawaii).
Idaho received a score of 102.1, closely aligning with the national average of 100. While housing and transportation costs rank higher than the national average, the state has the lowest utility costs in the country. Groceries prices also total well below average.
Careers for Cybersecurity Graduates in Idaho
The national tech industry has continued to steadily grow, as states like Texas and Florida spurred some of this growth by adding over 10,000 tech jobs in 2021. However, the leading states based on percent change include Nevada, Tennessee, Rhode Island, and Idaho.
Data from the Idaho Department of Labor indicate similar growth, with a 160% increase in Idaho cybersecurity jobs from 2015-2020. CompTIA projects continued tech employment growth for Idaho, ranking it eighth in projected percent change from 2022-2032.
Part of this growth results from the growing importance of cybersecurity across industries. The Idaho Department of Labor has identified regional cybersecurity clusters connected to industry strongholds.
For example, aerospace companies in northern Idaho and the food processor companies of southern and central Idaho have growing cybersecurity needs. Idaho's government and agricultural industries also require skilled cybersecurity professionals, proving the sector's increased relevance throughout the state.
This growth provides unique career opportunities. The following section explores cybersecurity careers for Idaho professionals.
Select Cybersecurity Careers in Idaho
Incident Responder
Incident responders use their knowledge of disaster recovery, information systems, and computer forensics to mitigate potential cyberattacks. They analyze network alerts, track cyberdefense threats, and organize response strategies. An entry-level incident responder typically needs a bachelor's in computer science or cybersecurity.
Average Salary (March 2023): $84,020
Job Outlook in Idaho (2018-2028): +11.6% (information security analysts)
Penetration Tester
Pen testers conduct simulated cyberattacks to test network and information security. They identify points of exploitation before attacks occur. While similar to vulnerability assessors, a penetration tester implements a complete cyberattack simulation rather than a security evaluation. Aspiring pen testers can pursue should bachelor's degrees in cybersecurity, information assurance, or computer science.
Average Salary (March 2023): $90,864 (as of February 2023)
Job Outlook in Idaho (2018-2028): +11.6% (information security analysts)
Security Engineer
Security engineers protect sensitive company data through offensive and defensive cybersecurity efforts. They identify necessary improvements, create security protocols, and monitor networks for threats. These cybersecurity professionals also simulate attacks to identify and address any vulnerabilities. A security engineer needs a bachelor's degree in a computer science field, but many also hold master's degrees.
Average Salary (March 2023): $98,080
Job Outlook in Idaho (2018-2028): +11.6% (information security analysts)
Idaho Employment Trends
| Year | State | National |
|---|---|---|
|
Computer Hardware Engineers |
||
|
2020 Employment |
340 |
66, 200 |
|
2030 Projected Employment |
400 |
67,300 |
|
Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 |
+17.6% |
+1.7% |
|
Computer Network Architects |
||
|
2018 Employment |
660 |
165,200 |
|
2030 Projected Employment |
680 |
174,200 |
|
Projected Job Growth, 2018-2028 |
+3% |
+5.4% |
|
Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers |
||
|
2020 Employment |
4,210 |
1,847,900 |
|
2030 Projected Employment |
4,880 |
2,257,400 |
|
Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 |
+15.9% |
+22% |
Source: Projections Central
| Career | Idaho Employment | Idaho Annual Mean Wage | National Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
1,400 |
$116,270 |
$159,010 |
|
Computer Hardware Engineers |
140 |
$97,430 |
$128,170 |
|
Computer Network Architects |
540 |
$80,650 |
$120,520 |
|
Computer Network Support Specialists |
520 |
$59,070 |
$62,760 |
|
Computer Programmers |
1,180 |
$72,490 |
$93,000 |
|
Computer Systems Analysts |
1,860 |
$91,200 |
$99,270 |
|
Information Security Analysts |
880 |
$99,290 |
$102,600 |
|
Network and Computer Systems Administrators |
1,280 |
$76,600 |
$80,600 |
|
Software Developers |
4,890 |
$98,560 |
$109,020 |
|
Web Developers |
260 |
$66,680 |
$78,300 |
Source: BLS OEWS
Technology positions in Idaho continue to grow steadily across specialties. However, aspiring tech professionals might find more job openings and higher salaries if they pursue careers in software development and quality assurance.
While computer hardware engineers received the highest projected growth rate, Idaho employers hire significantly more software developers and quality assurance analysts. Information security analysts and software developers also earn some of the highest average salaries in the state, following only information security manager positions.
Cybersecurity Employers in Idaho
Organizations across industries employ cybersecurity professionals. The list below includes three top employers, including long-standing businesses and a rapidly growing startup.
Idaho National Laboratory: This organization employs over 5,700 researchers and staff to develop cutting-edge innovations in security and renewable energy. The Idaho National Laboratory hires roles such as senior cybersecurity analyst, IT project manager, and classified information systems security engineer.
Micron Technology: This global memory and storage solution company began in a Boise, Idaho, basement over 40 years ago. Micron Technology includes a cybersecurity organization that works to maintain trust and determine risk. The company hires for positions like security engineer.
PlexTrac: Idaho has produced several startups, including the cybersecurity software developer PlexTrac. Founded in 2016, PlexTrac helps cybersecurity professionals by improving the security reporting process. This company has grown significantly over the past few years and continues to hire for engineering roles.
Professional Cybersecurity Organizations in Idaho
-
ExploitCon Boise: ExploitCon hosts annual cybersecurity conferences nationwide, including in Boise, Idaho. Local industry experts share the latest cybersecurity advances while attendees gain hands-on experience at the workshops. -
Women in Cybersecurity Idaho: As a global organization, WiCyS offers extensive support for women in the cybersecurity workforce. It creates local chapters to foster collaboration, networking, and professional development. The Idaho chapter just began in December 2022. -
Center for Regional Disaster Resilience: The CRDR partners with the Idaho Office of Emergency Management to host the annual Idaho Cybersecurity Interdependencies Summit, which explores topics like mitigation activities and disaster recovery. -
BSides — Idaho Falls: The Idaho Falls chapter of BSides began in 2017 and hosts an annual conference. Local cybersecurity professionals lead the workshops and speaking events to develop collaboration and foster a community of information security members.
Schools With Cybersecurity Degrees in Idaho
MS in cybersecurity
BS in computer information technology
AAS in information assurance and cybersecurity
AAS in cybersecurity
AAS in cybersecurity and programming
BAS in industrial cybersecurity engineering technology
BS in cybersecurity management
AAS in network security administration
BS in cybersecurity
Questions About Cybersecurity in Idaho
-
Can I study cybersecurity at online colleges in Idaho?
Yes — you can study cybersecurity through online colleges in Idaho. Some Idaho institutions, like Lewis-Clark State College, offer cybersecurity degree programs online and on campus. Other institutions without a presence in Idaho also provide online degree options for cybersecurity students nationwide.
-
Are the best cybersecurity schools in Idaho expensive?
Compared to average national tuition rates, cybersecurity schools in Idaho can be cost-effective. Private four-year schools in Idaho charge an average of $6,452, while the national average totals over five times that. Likewise, the average public four-year school in Idaho costs $7,482, nearly $2,000 less than the national average.
-
Are cybersecurity programs in Idaho hard to get into?
Each school has specific admissions requirements. However, most cybersecurity applicants in Idaho must provide transcripts and meet GPA minimums. Some schools also require or recommend ACT/SAT scores.
-
Is cybersecurity a good career in Idaho?
While Idaho may not be a recognized tech hub like California or New York, the state's tech industry continues to grow — particularly its cybersecurity subsector. Projections Central anticipates an 11.6% job rate growth for information security analysts from 2018-2028, which includes cybersecurity professionals like penetration testers and security engineers.
Recommended Reading
Take the next step toward your future.
Discover programs you’re interested in and take charge of your education.