Where to Get a Cybersecurity Degree in Florida
Updated November 2, 2023
Edited by
Credit: Busa Photography / Moment / Getty Images
Want to pursue a cybersecurity career in Florida? According to CompTIA, as of 2022, the Sunshine State employs almost 485,000 tech workers who support a tech industry worth $80 billion. The organization also reports cybersecurity and systems engineers make up the fourth largest group of tech workers in Florida, a state which added more than 25,000 tech jobs in 2022, according to the 2023 CyberStates report.
Whether you want to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree, cybersecurity programs in Florida can prepare you for lucrative careers. Use our guide to learn more about how to pay for your online cybersecurity degree in Florida and job prospects for graduates.
Florida at a Glance
- 2022 Average Annual Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations: $94,200
- Percentage of Workforce in Tech: 4.9%
- Economic Impact of Tech Industry: $80 billion
- Number of Higher Learning Institutions: 163
Sources: Cyberstates™, NCES, OEWS
Why Go to College for Cybersecurity in Florida?
Beginning a cybersecurity career in Florida can start with earning a degree from one of the state's 163 colleges and universities, which enrolled over 1 million students in 2020, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). These institutions include 41 public schools and 57 private nonprofit schools. You can find cybersecurity programs in Florida at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels.
For the 2020-21 school year, NCES data shows the average cost of tuition in Florida for in-state undergraduates at public institutions was $4,541 for in-state tuition — the lowest average tuition across all 50 states. In comparison, the national average for undergraduates at in-state public schools was $9,375 that same year.
The cybersecurity industry in Florida is also growing: the state legislature created the Florida Center for Cybersecurity in 2014 to strengthen the job market and attract tech companies to the state. This may lead to continued demand for professionals with cybersecurity skills in the coming decades.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Education Statistics for Florida
According to NCES data from 2021, more than half of Florida's college students take some or all of their classes online. Overall, Florida ranks fifth in the nation for total number of degree-granting institutions in the state.
| Higher Education Statistics | Florida Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Year Colleges | 125 | 2,679 |
| Two-Year Colleges | 38 | 1,303 |
| Students Enrolled in Distance Education | 62,7% | 59% |
Source: NCES
Accreditation for Florida Schools
When a college or university holds accreditation, it means a recognized accrediting agency has evaluated that institution across areas like student outcomes and faculty credentials. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintain directories of institutional accrediting agencies. Many schools in Florida hold accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
In addition to verifying that a school meets standards of academic excellence, institutional accreditation ensures enrollees are eligible for federal financial aid. Often, graduate-level programs only accept applicants with bachelor's degrees from accredited schools, so consider pursuing degrees from these institutions if you also intend to earn a master's or doctoral degree.
Cybersecurity programs can also hold programmatic accreditation, an optional process that evaluates how well a department's coursework prepares students for field-specific careers. The most common programmatic accreditor for cybersecurity degrees is ABET.
Considerations for a Cybersecurity Degree in Florida
You should consider multiple factors during the college decision-making process. The degree level you pursue usually correlates to the job you want. While some positions accept associate degree-holders, others may want candidates with bachelor's or master's degrees, so research these expectations as you determine how much education to pursue.
Think about the learning format that most benefits you. Will you need to work or care for family while in school? If so, a fully online or hybrid model can help you integrate coursework into your busy schedule. In contrast, if you prefer rigorous structures and face-to-face instruction, you may thrive in an on-campus program. In 2021, 31.8% of college students in Florida took fully online courses, while another 30.9% took at least one class online.
Explore Rankings for Top Cybersecurity Programs Around the Country
Cybersecurity Concentrations and Similar Degrees
Colleges offer an array of cybersecurity concentrations and cybersecurity-adjacent degrees that can qualify you for tech careers. The concentrations below help prepare you for a variety of in-demand jobs with higher-than-average salaries.
Data Analytics
A data analytics concentration teaches students to collect data and infer meanings that can help stakeholders make business decisions. This specialization often builds programming, math, and business skills. Common topics include data wrangling, statistical analysis, visualizations, and model deployment.
Digital Forensics
A digital forensics concentration gives students the skills to investigate and mitigate data breaches and other digital crimes. Coursework often explores cryptography, database systems, and digital forensics analysis. Students in this specialization often learn coding tools like Python.
Computer Science Degree
A general computer science degree offers a broad education that can qualify graduates for careers in multiple subfields. These programs develop analytical thinking and programming skills, exploring topics like computation problems and automata theory. Learners build software solutions and study operating systems. Classes may also cover cybersecurity, machine learning, and data analytics.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Paying for Your Cybersecurity Degree
According to NCES data for the 2020-21 school year, the average cost of tuition in Florida is below national averages in almost every category. Generally speaking, in-state students at public schools pay the lowest tuition, while out-of-state students and private school enrollees pay more for their degrees.
Even with lower-than-average tuition in the state, pursuing a degree can still be a financial challenge. To help cover the cost of a cybersecurity degree in Florida, you can access federal financial aid, including loans and grants.
State grants and scholarships can also help you pay for cybersecurity programs in Florida. For instance, the Florida Department of Education's Office of Student Financial Assistance program can connect you to numerous state grants and scholarships.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
As the table above reveals, the average tuition for out-of-state students at public schools in Florida is more than four times higher than tuition for in-state students at those institutions. To qualify for state residency and in-state tuition rates, you must reside in Florida for 12 consecutive months — with your family if they declare you as a dependent or on your own if you declare yourself independent. Learners in specific circumstances have different eligibility requirements.
Some online programs may charge in-state tuition to all learners or offer lower online-specific rates for their distance education degrees. Additionally, some Florida schools participate in the Southern Regional Education Board's Academic Common Market, a tuition reciprocity program that offers reduced tuition to learners from other participating states. In Florida, only some graduate-level programs are eligible for this lower tuition.
Florida's Cost of Living
World Population Review maintains a cost of living index that compares states' cost of living to a national baseline of 100. Florida is scored at 102.3, slightly higher than the national average, which means that the cost of expenses like groceries, housing, and utilities are only somewhat higher than the national average.
Careers for Cybersecurity Graduates in Florida
CompTIA estimates that as of 2022, 37,266 people work as cybersecurity and systems engineers in Florida, one of the top tech job categories in the state. According to CyberSeek.org, Florida had more than 30,000 cybersecurity job openings between September 2022 and August 2023, which signals continuing demand for these professionals.
We explore several common careers for cybersecurity degree-holders below.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Florida companies hire cybersecurity analysts to implement security measures. Cybersecurity analysts check logs and monitor activities to identify risks and malicious activity through security assessments and penetration testing. This job usually requires a bachelor's degree.
- 2022 Average Salary for Cybersecurity Analysts in Florida: $111,870
- Job Outlook in Florida (2018-28): +52%
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers conduct vulnerability assessments and security audits to check for weaknesses in networks and systems. These professionals must stay up-to-date about the evolution of cyberthreats to advance their understanding of digital risks to their organizations. This job usually requires a bachelor's degree.
- October 2023 Average Salary for Penetration Testers Nationwide: $92,570
- Job Outlook in Florida (2018-28): +52%
Security Managers
Cybersecurity managers, also called computer security managers, oversee teams of IT professionals and manage projects that help protect companies from security risks. They maintain and recommend security measures to prevent threats. In addition to a bachelor's degree, this job typically requires multiple years of experience. Some employers may prefer candidates with additional education, including professional certifications or master's degrees.
Florida Employment Trends
| Year | State | National |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Engineers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 4,070 | 66,200 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 4,810 | 67,300 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +18.2% | +1.7% |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 20,980 | 482,000 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 26,720 | 543,600 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +27.4% | +10.9% |
| Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | ||
| 2020 Employment | 78,720 | 1,847,900 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 103,990 | 2,257,400 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +32.1% | +22% |
Source: Projections Central
| Career | Florida Employment | Florida Average Annual Wage | National Average Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 22,800 | $157,810 | $173,670 |
| Computer Hardware Engineers | 2,270 | $119,660 | $140,830 |
| Computer Network Architects | 7,500 | $115,510 | $129,490 |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 11,950 | $74,680 | $76,060 |
| Computer Programmers | 6,230 | $93,320 | $102,790 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 31,210 | $100,940 | $107,530 |
| Information Security Analysts | 10,830 | $111,870 | $119,860 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 20,900 | $91,620 | $97,160 |
| Software Developers | 73,090 | $113,300 | $132,930 |
| Web Developers | 4,920 | $81,120 | $87,580 |
Source: BLS OEWS
Though all the careers in the table above offer average salaries below the national averages for these roles, each job's average wage exceeds the salary for all workers in the state of Florida — $55,980 in 2022. Some careers, like software developer and computer hardware engineer, have average wages more than double this figure, while computer and information systems managers' average salary is nearly triple the average for all workers in the state.
Cybersecurity Employers in Florida
Cybersecurity professionals work across almost every Florida industry. Below, we explore three organizations that hire cybersecurity degree-holders.
Lockheed Martin: This more than 100-year-old aerospace and defense corporation operates facilities throughout the United States, including in Florida. Lockheed Martin hires cybersecurity experts to provide security solutions throughout the product development lifecycle.
NextEra Energy: With a history that began in 1925, this American energy company headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, owns Florida Power & Light Company, which provides electricity to over 12 million people. NextEra Energy recruits cybersecurity professionals to protect against cyberthreats to their energy infrastructures.
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC): SAIC, founded in 1969, offers defense, healthcare, and energy technology solutions to the government. The company has five Florida locations and hires professionals like cybersecurity engineers to monitor systems and identify vulnerabilities.
Professional Cybersecurity Organizations in Florida
Cyber Florida
The state-funded Cyber Florida began in partnership with the University of South Florida, now working with 12 state universities in Florida to create more cybersecurity talent in the state. Cyber Florida also works to bring more cybersecurity companies to Florida and create more opportunities for state residents.
Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
ISACA maintains a global community of tech professionals with more than 225 chapters — including several regional groups in Florida — and 170,000 members. ISACA members can apply for various professional credentials, including certified information systems auditor and certified information security manager.
Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)
Founded in 1984, ISSA offers opportunities to network with other cybersecurity professionals through local chapters, including multiple groups in Florida. Members can earn continuing education credits for professional certifications.
ISC2
ISC2 has built a community of more than 500,000 members since its founding in 1989. The organization offers professional development opportunities, including continuing education credits and cybersecurity credentials. Florida cybersecurity professionals can join one of several regional chapters to facilitate local networking.
Schools With Cybersecurity Degrees in Florida
| School Name | Student Population | Degree Program | Graduation Rate | Average Net Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degrees | ||||
| Barry University | 6,958 | Bachelor's in computer science with cybersecurity concentration | 39% | $20,207 |
| Beacon College | 501 | Bachelor's in computer information systems with a minor in computer forensics and cybersecurity | 58% | $43,474 |
| Eastern Florida State College | 13,114 | Bachelor's in computer information systems technology with a cybersecurity track | 51% | $5,927 |
| Florida Atlantic University | 29,592 | Bachelor of science or bachelor of business administration in management information systems with a cybersecurity track | 62% | $9,711 |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | 15,969 | Bachelor's in computer information systems with a concentration in cybersecurity | 59% | $10,834 |
| Florida International University | 55,609 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 69% | $9,881 |
| Florida Polytechnic University | 1,593 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity engineering | 47% | $12,373 |
| Florida Southern College | 3,281 | Bachelor's in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity | 68% | $27,324 |
| Florida State University | 44,161 | Bachelor's in cyber criminology | 85% | $14,003 |
| Full Sail University | 26,737 | Bachelor's completion program in cybersecurity | 41% | $28,695 |
| Gulf Coast State College | 4,694 | Bachelor's in technology management with a specialization in cybersecurity management | 38% | $5,725 |
| Herzing University | 746 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 27% | $22,237 |
| Hodges University | 443 | Bachelor's in computer science with a focus in cybersecurity and networking | 20% | $18,083 |
| Indian River State College | 14,862 | Bachelor's in information technology and cybersecurity | 46% | $5,019 |
| Jacksonville University | 3,837 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 53% | $26,943 |
| Keiser University | 19,020 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 58% | $35,346 |
| Lynn University | 3,520 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 52% | $38,728 |
| Miami Dade College | 47,245 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 45% | $5,478 |
| Nova Southeastern University | 20,948 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity management | 62% | $29,589 |
| Pensacola State College | 7,981 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 37% | $3,305 |
| Rasmussen University | 8,166 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 43% | $17,890 |
| Saint Leo University | 10,242 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 49% | $20,390 |
| Santa Fe College | 12,729 | Bachelor's in information systems technology with a concentration in security | 51% | $11,380 |
| St. Petersburg College | 23,501 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 38% | $2,132 |
| Stetson University | 3,928 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 64% | $25,756 |
| Strayer University | 1,445 | Bachelor's in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity | 22% | Not available |
| University of West Florida | 13,521 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 53% | $8,609 |
| University of South Florida | 49,600 | Bachelor's in cybersecurity | 74% | $11,004 |
| Master's in Cybersecurity Degrees | ||||
| Atlantis University | 850 | Master's in cybersecurity | 73% | $16,108 |
| Edward Waters University | 1,181 | Master's in cybersecurity | 30% | $13,649 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | 8,315 | Master's in information assurance and cybersecurity | 67% | $30,752 |
| Florida International University | 55,609 | Master's in cybersecurity | 69% | $9,881 |
| Florida State University | 44,161 | Master's in computer science with a major in cybersecurity | 85% | $14,003 |
| Nova Southeastern University | 20,948 | Master's in cybersecurity management | 62% | $29,589 |
| Saint Leo University | 10,242 | Master's in cybersecurity | 49% | $20,390 |
| St. Thomas University | 6,370 | Master's in cybersecurity and analytics | 43% | $28,654 |
| The University of Tampa | 10,566 | Master's in cybersecurity | 66% | $34,653 |
| University of Central Florida | 68,346 | Master's in cybersecurity and privacy | 76% | $13,108 |
| University of Miami | 19,402 | Master's in electrical and computer engineering with a concentration in cybersecurity | 84% | $36,467 |
| University of North Florida | 16,406 | Master's in computing and information sciences with a concentration in cybersecurity | 68% | $11,338 |
Source: NCES
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
FAQ About Cybersecurity Programs in Florida
Can I get an online cybersecurity degree in Florida?
Yes. Many Florida colleges and universities offer cybersecurity degrees online. Because the field is so tech-focused, cybersecurity programs may be especially well-suited to distance education. Online learning helps students study on their own schedules without relocating.
Can I get a master's in cybersecurity degree in Florida?
Yes. Multiple Florida schools offer a master's in cybersecurity or a related field. These schools include Florida State University and Florida International University. Florida residents may also pursue graduate degrees in the field online from out-of-state institutions.
Do cybersecurity programs in Florida have a good reputation?
Yes. For example, the University of Florida is home to the Florida Institute for Cybersecurity Research, which aims to facilitate collaboration between academia, government, and business in cybersecurity. In addition, Florida is home to 24 of the National Security Agency's centers for academic excellence in cybersecurity.
Is cybersecurity a good career in Florida?
According to the BLS, more than 10,000 cybersecurity specialists work in Florida. These professionals earn an average annual salary of $111,870 as of 2022 — a wage almost twice as high as the average salary for all workers in the state. Jobs for professionals with cybersecurity expertise include security analyst, security engineer, and risk manager.
Where can I get a cybersecurity associate degree in Florida?
A number of institutions in Florida, including Pensacola State College and St. Petersburg College, offer cybersecurity associate degrees. This credential can qualify graduates for some entry-level tech careers or provide a pathway to a four-year program.
Recommended Reading
Take the next step toward your future.
Discover programs you’re interested in and take charge of your education.