Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

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Updated February 23, 2023

A master's in cybersecurity can boost your career options and earning potential. Learn about online master's in cybersecurity degrees and check out our ranking of the top programs.

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A master's degree in cybersecurity develops the necessary tech skills and knowledge to stay ahead in today's rapidly changing digital landscape.

Cybersecurity students can learn to safeguard organizations. In the professional world, cybersecurity workers dig deep into nascent cyberthreats, the identities of malicious actors, and emerging best practices to ensure secure operations.

Online students can pursue an education without disrupting personal or professional obligations. A cybersecurity degree offers great value due to the growing demand for skilled professionals. According to the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study, 4.7 million people work in the global cybersecurity sphere, but the sector requires 3.4 million more skilled experts to meet the growing demand.

Discover information about cybersecurity education and the best online cybersecurity master's programs in 2023 with this helpful guide.

5 Best Online Cybersecurity Master's Programs

Earning a master's in cybersecurity online prepares learners to pursue advanced careers in a growing, in-demand industry. This guide ranks the best cybersecurity programs based on various factors, including affordability, flexibility, and program availability. These rankings offer insight into the top cybersecurity schools so prospective students can choose the best program for their needs.

Learn about our ranking methodology

#1 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

University of Arizona

  • Tucson, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Tuscon's University of Arizona (UofA) is a Hispanic-serving institution that enrolls more than 36,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate students. Nine out of 10 UofA enrollees receive financial aid.

Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity

University of Arizona's Eller College of Management and College of Engineering offers an online MS in cybersecurity for working professionals. Designated as a Center for Excellence in Cyber Defense, the hands-on program teaches students to assess and respond to data breaches and security risks.

The curriculum features eight-week and 16-week courses in information security in public and private sectors, data mining for business intelligence, and business data communications and networking. Students can choose from tracks in information systems or physical systems. The program also allows each cybersecurity major to pursue a certificate in enterprise security while earning an MS degree.

Applying to UofA

Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree from an institutionally accredited university with a 3.0 minimum GPA. The program requires at least three years of technical professional experience, a bachelor's in management information systems or a related field in the last year, or a relevant industry certification.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Tuition: $1,332/credit
  • Required Credits: 33
  • Program Length: 10 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

DeSales University

  • Center Valley, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

DeSales University, a Catholic institution of higher learning in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, offers liberal arts and professional programs. Learners experience small classes with a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Students and working professionals can pursue fully online master's degrees in cybersecurity at DeSales University. The program accepts applicants year-round. The school's Center for Homeland Security provides hands-on educational opportunities with cybersecurity researchers and practitioners. Online students can visit campus to use computer labs, borrow laptops, and acquire other equipment from the DeSales library.

The 36-credit curriculum requires core classes like cryptography, wireless technology management, and vulnerability assessment. Each enrollee must complete a three-credit capstone project or design. Cybersecurity majors can add an optional concentration in information systems. The program includes group work, asynchronous lectures, and practical learning experiences.

Applying to DeSales

The program requires a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students without degrees in relevant fields may receive admission if they can demonstrate related professional experience. Each applicant must submit a resume and personal statement. 

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $880/credit
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,500
Out-of-state
$38,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,520
Out-of-state
$20,520
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
3,302
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Hampton University

  • Hampton, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

This historically Black private university in Hampton, Virginia, enrolls over 3,000 students across 97 programs. The school traces its origins to 1868 when it started as Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute. 

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Hampton University (HU) offers a fully online, interdisciplinary master's in cybersecurity program that can prepare students to understand, design, and protect secure information systems. The curriculum explores current issues in information assurance, security in software development, and professional ethics. 

The program accepts students with an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field. Applicants without this background can complete bridge coursework to qualify for admission. 

The 37-credit degree covers classes like secure software engineering, computer viruses and malicious software, and computer forensics and incident handling. Each student must pass a one-credit comprehensive exam. Electives explore risk management, wireless networks, and systems security.

Applying to HU

HU admission requirements include an online application, a qualifying GRE score, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Each candidate must submit college transcripts and a copy of their state or federal ID.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Tuition: $695/credit
  • Required Credits: 37
  • Delivery Format: 100% online
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

#4 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Stevenson University

  • Stevenson, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1947, the Maryland-based Stevenson University features more than 90 academic programs for online and on-campus students. The school boasts 28 NCAA Division III athletic teams and an eSports team for competitive online gaming. 

Online Master's in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics

Stevenson University's fully online master's degree in cybersecurity and digital forensics prepares students to pursue cybersecurity careers as engineers, architects, and analysts. The 36-credit program, ideal for IT professionals, teaches students to analyze, document, and preserve digital and forensic evidence. 

The curriculum requires classes like incident response and evidence collection, Windows intrusion forensic investigations, and file systems forensic analysis. Stevenson's virtual lab allows enrollees to receive practical experience with forensic tools to analyze and interpret cyberattacks.

Stevenson is a member of the FBI National Academy Associates Academic Alliance. The cybersecurity program does not require the GRE or an application fee.

Applying to Stevenson

Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution and at least two years of professional experience. Or, a candidate can hold a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field from an accredited college and at least five years of professional experience.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $695/credit
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,204
Out-of-state
$35,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,340
Out-of-state
$8,340
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
3,492
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs for 2023

Excelsior College

  • Albany, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Founded in 1971, Albany's Excelsior College provides online learning opportunities to working professionals and learners of all ages. Students can receive academic credit for military training, previous college coursework, professional certifications, and exams.

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Excelsior College offers a completely online MS in cybersecurity degree with the opportunity to choose a concentration in information assurance or general cybersecurity. The 30-credit program accepts up to 15 graduate transfer credits toward the degree, so long as it was completed in the last five years. 

Excelsior's online cybersecurity classes cover reverse engineering, large-scale cybercrime and terrorism, and software and application security. Courses last eight or 15 weeks and include weekly discussions, assignments, and readings. The Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency designated Excelsior as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.

Applying to Excelsior

Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university. Excelsior does not require GRE scores for admission.

Program at a Glance

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Tuition: $715/credit
  • Required Credits: 30
  • Delivery Format: 100% online
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
21,974
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Why You Should Get Your Master's in Cybersecurity Online

Many students turn to online programs to earn their degrees. Earning an online degree offers flexibility for learners — particularly individuals with personal and professional obligations that make in-person attendance difficult. Online programs often follow asynchronous formats, allowing students to view lectures when convenient.

Earning a master's in cybersecurity online may offer even more benefits specific to this sector. Students already working in the field may find that online cybersecurity courses prepare them for more professional responsibilities.

Prospective online learners should consider their preferred learning style when deciding if online education will suit their needs. Distance learners need strong time management skills and self-discipline to balance coursework and other commitments.

Pros and Cons of Earning a Master's in Cybersecurity Online
Pros Cons

Flexibility: A lack of commute times increases scheduling flexibility. Study at your own pace and schedule with asynchronous courses.

Lack of face-to-face interaction: Students may miss out on personal engagement and networking opportunities.

Wider access to resources: Online programs may expand the reach of expert-level faculty who live in other areas of the world.

Dependence on technology: In an online program, technological glitches can bring learning to a halt.

Up-to-date technology and skills: Many online programs offer practical experiences with the latest tools and technologies.

Self-discipline: Online students must manage their time and remain motivated without the traditional classroom structure.
Explore government cybersecurity careers Transition from general IT to cybersecurity Find cybersecurity jobs for military and veterans Learn about women working in cybersecurity

What to Expect From an Online Cybersecurity Master's Program

An online master's degree in cybersecurity provides students with advanced education and training in information security. Like on-campus programs, online degrees typically cover many topics, including computer networks, cryptography, security management, and ethical hacking.

However, several key differences separate on-campus and online programs. For example, online programs often allow students to study on their own schedules. Additionally, distance learning may use different teaching methods, such as online discussion forums and simulation labs, instead of traditional lectures and discussions.

Learn more about a master's in cybersecurity in general

How Is an Online Master's in Cybersecurity Different From an On-Campus Program?

Online and on-campus students take the same courses, pay similar tuition costs, and spend about the same amount of time earning their degrees. Their educational experiences, however, can feel quite different.

On-campus learners can use state-of-the-art learning laboratories and participate in professor-led research projects. These students can often engage with technologies that online learners cannot access from their laptops. In addition, on-campus learners can enjoy the social environment, academic structure, and networking opportunities available with in-person learning.

Alternatively, on-campus programs may not offer the flexibility and freedom of web-based degrees. Students in brick-and-mortar schools may have to alter their schedules, commute to campus, and pay additional fees.

Web-based learning is intuitive and immersive — a perfect environment for a field like cybersecurity. Nevertheless, online students need strict self-discipline for remote learning.

An online degree can be an intense, efficient, and skills-driven approach to learning, ideal for cybersecurity programs. Online education allows students to access information and engage in hands-on practice at the same time. Furthermore, graduates can easily pivot from their academic experience into pursuing technology-related careers.

Since online and on-campus programs offer benefits, students should select the model that best suits their academic, personal, and professional goals.

Online vs. On-Campus Master's in Cybersecurity Degrees
Online Program On-Campus Program

Cost

$695-$1,332/credit

$456-$1,898/credit

Course Load

6-9 credits per semester

6-9 credits per semester

Scheduling

Flexible

Structure

Program Length

18-24 months

18-24 months

While online and on-campus programs share similar costs, course loads, and graduation timelines, they feature some key differences. Online programs typically emphasize simulation and self-driven study, while on-campus programs promote structure and in-person collaboration.

How Is an Online Master's in Cybersecurity Different From a Bootcamp?

An online master's degree in cybersecurity and a technology bootcamp are two very different types of educational programs. While both methods can help prepare students to pursue cybersecurity careers, they differ in length, scope, cost, and flexibility.

For instance, a typical online master's degree in cybersecurity takes about two years to complete, while a cybersecurity bootcamp typically lasts just a few months. Similarly, master's students explore a comprehensive and in-depth education in the field, and bootcamp participants primarily engage in career-focused learning.

A graduate certificate in cybersecurity may offer a middle ground for learners to complete shortened, professional-minded academic programs.

Should you attend a cybersecurity bootcamp instead?

Delivery Formats for Online Cybersecurity Degrees

Online learning is not a one-size-fits-all approach to education. Of course, all online students participate in internet-based course delivery, but the similarities end there.

For example, some schools offer 100% online degrees, and others provide hybrid programs. At some institutions, enrollees study asynchronously on their own schedules. Conversely, synchronous delivery requires degree-seekers to log on at specific class times for live instruction.

Each student should determine their ideal learning model. For example, learners who need help with time management might prefer synchronous programs, which offer more structure.

Accreditation for Online Cybersecurity Degrees

Accreditation indicates that a school has undergone rigorous evaluation and received approval from a government-approved independent agency. Attending an accredited school can help students pursue financial aid, post-graduate education, and job opportunities.

Institutionally accredited schools have received this status from accreditors like the Higher Learning Commission or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Programmatic accreditation evaluates the quality of individual academic programs — in this context, ABET evaluates and accredits cybersecurity degrees.

How Much Will an Online Master's in Cybersecurity Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a master's degree in the United States is $19,749 per year. However, costs can range from about $8,000-$50,000 or more.

Factors that can affect the price of a master's degree include the type of institution (public vs. private), field of study, and course delivery method. Distance learners can avoid costs such as books, room and board, transportation, and campus-specific expenses.

Graduate students can receive scholarships, grants, or employer tuition assistance to help cover degree costs. For instance, master's-level cybersecurity students can research the CyberCorps Scholarship for Service program and connect with industry associations, such as (ISC)2.

Choosing the Right Online Master's in Cybersecurity Degree

In addition to institutional accreditation and National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity designations, you should consider other factors in your school search. For example:

  • Tailored Cybersecurity Curriculum: Does the curriculum allow you to develop practical experience in virtual labs? Look for programs with capstone projects where you can apply your knowledge. Some programs prepare learners to pursue professional certifications, provide continuing education units, or deliver credits toward professional credentials.
  • Online Admissions and Student Profile: Consider if your program suits IT professionals looking to move into security, midcareer workers aspiring to become chief information security officers, or executives who need a systematic view of information security. Is the program friendly to veterans, women, and minorities? Pay attention to the acceptance rate and the average GPA, as these metrics often indicate high-quality technical programs.
  • Career Support and Outcomes: Career assistance and access to other resources are a huge plus in an online degree, especially if you're working toward a promotion or a new career. Research if the school arranges interviews, hosts virtual career fairs, or offers virtual job coaching. Some schools report data like job placement rates and average graduate debt, as well.
  • Financial Aid: Many organizations and schools feature scholarship and fellowship programs for students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity or computer science. Learners may also take advantage of employee discounts, veterans' benefits, and university aid. Public schools, along with institutions that offer lower in-state tuition, are usually more affordable than private schools.

Learn more about cybersecurity programs

Associate in Cybersecurity Programs

Associate in Cybersecurity Programs

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Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs

Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs

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Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs

Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs

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Doctorate in Cybersecurity Programs

Doctorate in Cybersecurity Programs

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FAQ About Online Cybersecurity Master's Programs

  • Why should you earn an online master's in cybersecurity?

    By earning an advanced degree, entry-level cybersecurity professionals enhance their knowledge and skills and can pursue more advanced roles with higher earning potential. An online master's in cybersecurity covers advanced topics in digital forensics, ethical hacking, and risk management.

  • What jobs can I get with an online master's in cybersecurity?

    Individuals with master's degrees in cybersecurity can pursue roles as computer and information systems managers, cybersecurity consultants, and information security analysts. The BLS projects a 35% job growth rate for information security analysts from 2021-2031 — about seven times the average for all occupations.

  • Are online cybersecurity master's programs worth it?

    Yes. Earning a graduate degree in cybersecurity allows graduates to pursue in-demand careers in homeland security, digital forensics, and network security. Individuals with backgrounds or interest in information technology, computer systems, and related topics can gain valuable insights into how to safeguard data.

  • How long does it take to earn a master's in cybersecurity online?

    An enrollee can typically complete a traditional cybersecurity master's degree in two years. Over four semesters, each learner completes 30-36 credits. Online master's programs may offer opportunities to earn a degree on an accelerated schedule. An individual with extensive experience and a strong background in cybersecurity can often complete an accelerated master's degree in as little as 18 months.

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