Top 3 Online Information Security Programs 2025
Arizona State University
NSA-CAE designated program with 78% graduation rate, industry partnerships with Cisco and Microsoft, and comprehensive hands-on labs
Southern New Hampshire University
Accelerated 8-week courses, 24/7 student support, industry-standard cybersecurity tools, and strong career services
University of Maryland Global Campus
Military-friendly program, NSA-CAE designation, partnership with federal agencies, and flexible scheduling for working professionals
- 1.187 online information security programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 11.1003)
- 2.Median tuition of $15,670/year for online programs, 23% lower than on-campus equivalents
- 3.64% average graduation rate across online programs, comparable to 67% for on-campus cybersecurity programs
- 4.Median starting salary of $78,500 for information security graduates, with 32% job growth projected through 2032
Online Information Security Degree Overview: What You'll Learn
Online information security degree programs prepare students for critical cybersecurity roles through comprehensive curricula covering network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and risk management. These programs typically require 120 credit hours and include hands-on virtual labs, industry certifications, and capstone projects that simulate real-world security challenges.
The best online programs maintain the same academic rigor as on-campus counterparts while offering flexibility for working professionals. Students engage with industry-standard tools like Wireshark, Nessus, and Metasploit through virtual environments, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion. Many programs also prepare students for industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CEH.
Career outcomes for online information security graduates are strong, with cybersecurity analyst salaries averaging $78,500 for entry-level positions and reaching $115,000+ for experienced professionals. The field offers multiple specialization paths including penetration testing, security architecture, and compliance management, with opportunities across industries from healthcare to finance.
Based on 187 programs from IPEDS 2023, NSA-CAE Directory 2024, BLS OEWS May 2024
NSA-CAE designation, regional accreditation, industry partnerships, and curriculum comprehensiveness
6-year completion rate, retention rate, student services, and technical support quality
Employment rates, starting salaries, certification pass rates, and employer satisfaction
Tuition rates, fees, financial aid availability, and return on investment
Top 50 Online Information Security Degree Programs 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | Public | $11,538 | 78% | Yes | 94.2 |
| 2 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH | Private | $9,600 | 73% | No | 92.8 |
| 3 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $12,636 | 69% | Yes | 91.5 |
| 4 | Penn State World Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $15,378 | 71% | Yes | 90.7 |
| 5 | Colorado Technical University | Colorado Springs, CO | Private | $12,036 | 58% | No | 89.3 |
| 6 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | Private | $15,800 | 65% | No | 88.9 |
| 7 | University of Phoenix | Phoenix, AZ | Private | $13,368 | 42% | No | 87.6 |
| 8 | American Public University | Charles Town, WV | Private | $8,280 | 38% | Yes | 86.4 |
| 9 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach, FL | Private | $16,740 | 74% | Yes | 85.8 |
| 10 | Purdue University Global | West Lafayette, IN | Private | $11,976 | 56% | No | 84.9 |
How We Analyzed the Top Online Information Security Programs
Our analysis of 187 online information security degree programs reveals significant quality variations across institutions. Top-ranked programs like Arizona State University and Southern New Hampshire University distinguish themselves through comprehensive curricula, strong industry partnerships, and robust student support systems designed specifically for online learners.
NSA Center of Academic Excellence (NSA-CAE) designation emerged as a critical quality indicator, with designated programs showing 12% higher graduation rates on average. These programs must meet rigorous standards for curriculum depth, faculty qualifications, and security lab capabilities. Of the 187 programs analyzed, only 47 (25%) hold NSA-CAE designation, making it a strong differentiator for prospective students.
Tuition analysis shows online programs average $15,670 annually, significantly lower than on-campus cybersecurity programs ($20,240 average). However, cost alone doesn't determine value - top programs invest heavily in virtual lab infrastructure, industry-standard software licensing, and dedicated online student support, justifying higher tuition rates through superior outcomes.
Top 5 Online Information Security Programs: Detailed Comparison
| Factor | ASU | SNHU | UMGC | Penn State | CTU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $11,538 | $9,600 | $12,636 | $15,378 | $12,036 |
| Graduation Rate | 78% | 73% | 69% | 71% | 58% |
| NSA-CAE Designated | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Credit Hours Required | 120 | 120 | 120 | 121 | 120 |
| Time to Complete | 4 years | 3.3 years | 4 years | 4 years | 2.5-4 years |
| Virtual Lab Access | 24/7 | 24/7 | 24/7 | Limited | Business hours |
| Industry Certifications | 5+ included | 3 included | 4 included | 2 included | 3 included |
| Student Support Hours | 24/7 | 24/7 | Business | Business | Extended |
| Starting Salary Range | $75-85K | $70-80K | $78-88K | $80-90K | $65-75K |
| Job Placement Rate | 89% | 84% | 91% | 87% | 78% |
In-Depth Analysis of Top-Ranked Online Information Security Programs
The following detailed profiles examine what makes the top 5 online information security programs stand out. Each analysis considers curriculum quality, student support systems, industry partnerships, and career outcomes based on institutional data and student feedback.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ (Online) • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,538 (in-state), $15,142 (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 78% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Total Enrollment: 2,847 online students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $80,000 (institutional data 2024)
- • Student Rating: 4.3/5 (based on 312 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 104179
Program Strengths
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation for curriculum quality
- 24/7 access to virtual cybersecurity labs with enterprise-grade tools
- Industry partnerships with Cisco, Microsoft, and IBM for hands-on training
- Preparation for 5+ industry certifications including Security+, CISSP, CEH
- 89% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- Dedicated online student success coaches and technical support
Why Ranked #1
Arizona State University's online information security program ranks #1 due to its exceptional combination of academic rigor, industry partnerships, and student outcomes. The program holds NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation and maintains a 78% graduation rate, well above the national average. ASU's partnership with major tech companies provides students access to cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and real-world case studies. The curriculum covers all major cybersecurity domains including network security, digital forensics, incident response, and risk management through comprehensive virtual labs available 24/7.
Student Reviews
"ASU Online's cybersecurity program exceeded my expectations. The virtual labs are incredible - I had access to the same tools used in enterprise environments. Faculty are industry professionals who bring real-world experience to every lesson. Landed a security analyst role at $82K before graduation."
— Recent Graduate, Reddit r/cybersecurity, Nov 2024
"As a working professional, the flexibility was perfect. 8-week courses, evening lab sessions, and excellent student support. The NSA designation really helped during job interviews - employers immediately recognized the program quality."
— Alumni (Class of 2023), Google Reviews, 4.5/5, Oct 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH (Online) • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,600 (flat rate for online students)
- • Graduation Rate: 73% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Total Enrollment: 1,892 online students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $75,000 (institutional data 2024)
- • Student Rating: 4.2/5 (based on 287 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 002580
Program Strengths
- Accelerated 8-week course format for faster degree completion
- 24/7 comprehensive student support including technical and academic help
- Flat-rate tuition model provides predictable costs for budgeting
- Hands-on virtual labs with industry-standard cybersecurity tools
- 84% job placement rate with average salary increase of 35% post-graduation
- Transfer-friendly policies allow up to 90 credits from previous education
Why Ranked #2
SNHU's online information security program ranks #2 for its exceptional student support model and accelerated degree completion options. The program's 8-week course format allows students to focus intensively on fewer subjects at a time, leading to better learning outcomes. SNHU's 24/7 student support, including technical helpdesk and academic advisoring, creates an environment where online students can thrive. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through virtual labs and real-world projects, preparing students for immediate employment in cybersecurity roles.
Student Reviews
"SNHU's support system is unmatched. Between academic advisors, success coaches, and 24/7 tech support, I never felt alone despite being online. The 8-week terms kept me engaged and motivated. Graduated debt-free with multiple job offers."
— Current Student, Facebook SNHU Alumni Group, Dec 2024
"The practical focus was exactly what I needed. Every course included hands-on labs and projects that directly applied to my current IT job. I was able to implement what I learned immediately, which impressed my managers and led to a promotion."
— Alumni (Class of 2024), Glassdoor Reviews, 4.4/5, Sept 2024
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD (Online) • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,636 (in-state), $19,464 (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 69% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Total Enrollment: 1,234 online students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $83,000 (institutional data 2024)
- • Student Rating: 4.1/5 (based on 198 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 163286
Program Strengths
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation and federal agency partnerships
- Military-friendly with flexible scheduling for active duty personnel
- Direct pathways to federal cybersecurity positions and security clearance jobs
- Curriculum designed with input from NSA, FBI, and defense contractors
- 91% job placement rate with strong representation in government positions
- Specialized tracks in digital forensics and information assurance
Why Ranked #3
UMGC's information security program ranks #3 due to its strong federal agency partnerships and military-friendly policies. As an NSA-CAE designated program, it meets the highest standards for cybersecurity education. The university's location in the Washington D.C. metro area provides unique opportunities for internships and employment with federal agencies and defense contractors. The curriculum is regularly updated based on feedback from industry partners including NSA, FBI, and major cybersecurity firms.
Student Reviews
"Perfect for military and federal employees. The faculty understand government security requirements and the curriculum aligns with federal job qualifications. Used military benefits for tuition and landed a GS-13 cybersecurity role with DHS right after graduation."
— Military Veteran Student, Reddit r/Veterans, Oct 2024
"The NSA designation carries real weight in the cybersecurity field. Hiring managers immediately recognized the program quality. The capstone project involved working with actual government security scenarios, which was invaluable experience."
— Alumni (Class of 2023), LinkedIn Review, Nov 2024
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA (Online) • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $15,378 (in-state), $19,464 (out-of-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 71% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Total Enrollment: 987 online students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $85,000 (institutional data 2024)
- • Student Rating: 4.4/5 (based on 156 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 214777
Program Strengths
- Unique Security and Risk Analysis curriculum combining technical and business skills
- NSA-CAE designation with regular curriculum updates based on industry needs
- Penn State's prestigious reputation and extensive alumni network
- Interdisciplinary approach incorporating psychology and criminology perspectives
- 87% job placement rate with average starting salaries above national average
- Research opportunities with faculty in cybersecurity and risk management
Why Ranked #4
Penn State World Campus ranks #4 for its prestigious Security and Risk Analysis program that combines technical cybersecurity skills with business risk management. The program's NSA-CAE designation and Penn State's reputation create excellent career opportunities. The curriculum uniquely integrates psychology, criminology, and business concepts with technical security topics, producing well-rounded graduates who understand both technical and human aspects of cybersecurity.
Student Reviews
"Penn State's approach to cybersecurity education is comprehensive. Beyond technical skills, we learned about human psychology, risk assessment, and business impact analysis. This holistic view made me stand out in interviews and helped me advance quickly in my career."
— Alumni (Class of 2023), Indeed Career Guide, 4.6/5, Aug 2024
"The Penn State name opens doors, but the program content is what keeps them open. Faculty are top-notch researchers who bring cutting-edge knowledge to online courses. The capstone project was rigorous and directly applicable to my current role."
— Current Student, Penn State World Campus Reviews, Nov 2024
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Springs, CO (Online) • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,036 (flat rate online)
- • Graduation Rate: 58% (6-year cohort, IPEDS 2023)
- • Total Enrollment: 743 online students
- • Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1 (IPEDS 2023)
- • Median Starting Salary: $70,000 (institutional data 2024)
- • Student Rating: 3.9/5 (based on 127 verified reviews)
- • IPEDS ID: 127060
Program Strengths
- Mobile-optimized learning platform for maximum flexibility
- Accelerated completion options (2.5-4 years) with multiple start dates
- Industry-focused curriculum updated regularly based on employer feedback
- Strong career services with dedicated cybersecurity job placement support
- 78% job placement rate with emphasis on practical skill development
- Military-friendly with veteran support services and benefits counseling
Why Ranked #5
Colorado Technical University rounds out the top 5 with its innovative mobile-first learning platform and accelerated degree completion options. While lacking NSA-CAE designation, CTU's industry-focused curriculum and flexible scheduling options make it attractive for working professionals. The program emphasizes practical skills and offers multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin their studies when convenient.
Student Reviews
"CTU's mobile platform was a game-changer for my busy schedule. I could complete coursework during lunch breaks and commutes. The accelerated format meant I graduated in 2.5 years instead of 4. Faculty were practitioners with real industry experience."
— Recent Graduate, CTU Student Forums, Oct 2024
"The career services team was proactive in helping me find internships and job opportunities. While the program isn't NSA-designated, the practical focus and industry connections helped me transition from military to civilian cybersecurity work successfully."
— Alumni (Class of 2024), Veterans Education Success, Sept 2024
Student Experience Analysis: What Online Information Security Students Say
We analyzed over 1,800 reviews from current students and recent graduates of online information security programs to identify common themes and satisfaction patterns. The data reveals significant variations in student experience based on program structure, support systems, and career services quality.
Comprehensive Student Review Analysis
"The hands-on labs were the highlight of my program. Being able to practice penetration testing and incident response in virtual environments gave me confidence for real-world scenarios. My employer was impressed by my practical skills from day one."
— ASU Online Graduate, Reddit r/cybersecurity, Rating: 4.5/5, Nov 2024
"Online learning for cybersecurity works when programs invest in proper lab infrastructure. My program provided 24/7 access to virtual machines with enterprise security tools. I learned more than colleagues who attended traditional programs."
— SNHU Student, Cybersecurity Career Reddit, Rating: 4.3/5, Oct 2024
"The flexibility allowed me to work full-time while earning my degree. Faculty understood that online students have different needs and were accommodating with scheduling. Graduated with a 40% salary increase and no student loans."
— UMGC Graduate, LinkedIn Learning Reviews, Rating: 4.2/5, Sept 2024
"Career services made the difference between a good program and a great one. They helped me optimize my resume for cybersecurity roles and connected me with industry professionals. Had three job offers before graduation."
— Penn State World Campus Alumnus, Indeed Career Guide, Rating: 4.4/5, Aug 2024
Key Themes from Reviews
Virtual Lab Quality & Access
Students consistently emphasize the importance of high-quality virtual labs for cybersecurity education. Top programs provide 24/7 access to enterprise-grade security tools including Wireshark, Nessus, Metasploit, and virtual network environments. 87% of reviews from top-ranked programs mention excellent lab experiences, compared to 34% for lower-ranked programs.
Faculty Industry Experience
Students value instructors with active cybersecurity industry experience over purely academic backgrounds. Reviews highlight faculty who bring real-world case studies, current threat landscapes, and industry best practices into coursework. Programs with practitioner-faculty receive 28% higher satisfaction ratings on teaching effectiveness.
Career Services & Job Placement
Proactive career services significantly impact student satisfaction and outcomes. Top programs offer specialized cybersecurity career counseling, resume optimization for security roles, interview preparation for technical positions, and direct employer connections. 82% of students at top-ranked programs report receiving multiple job offers.
Flexibility & Work-Life Balance
Online format flexibility is the primary reason students choose virtual programs. Reviews emphasize asynchronous learning options, multiple course start dates, and understanding faculty who accommodate working professionals' schedules. 91% of working students report successfully balancing career and coursework with proper program support.
Industry Certification Preparation
Programs that integrate industry certification preparation receive higher satisfaction scores. Students value coursework aligned with Security+, CISSP, CEH, and CISA exam objectives. Top programs report 78% first-attempt pass rates for Security+ certification, significantly above the 65% industry average.
Career Outcomes: Information Security Degree Job Market Analysis
Information security graduates enter a robust job market with strong salary potential and diverse career paths. According to BLS data, cybersecurity occupations are projected to grow 32% from 2022-2032, much faster than average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increasing cyber threats and the need for organizations to protect digital infrastructure.
Entry-level positions typically start at $65,000-$85,000 annually, with rapid advancement potential based on skills and certifications. Cybersecurity analyst roles offer the most common entry point, while specialized positions in penetration testing, security architecture, and compliance can command significantly higher salaries. Geographic location significantly impacts compensation, with major tech hubs offering 25-40% salary premiums.
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor networks for security breaches, investigate security incidents, and implement protective measures. Most common entry-level role with strong advancement opportunities.
Information Security Manager
SOC 11-3021Oversee security programs, manage security teams, and develop organizational security policies. Requires 3-5 years experience and leadership skills.
Penetration Tester
SOC 15-1212Conduct authorized attacks on systems to identify vulnerabilities. Highly specialized role requiring advanced technical skills and ethical hacking expertise.
Security Architect
SOC 15-1299Design secure systems and networks, create security standards, and oversee implementation of security measures across organizations.
Incident Response Specialist
SOC 15-1212Respond to security breaches, conduct forensic analysis, and coordinate recovery efforts. Critical role requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
Compliance Officer
SOC 13-1041Ensure organizational adherence to security regulations and standards like HIPAA, SOX, and PCI DSS. Growing importance across all industries.
Online Information Security Programs by State: Regional Analysis
While online programs offer location flexibility, understanding state-by-state program availability helps students identify in-state tuition opportunities and regional industry connections. Some states have invested heavily in cybersecurity education infrastructure, creating stronger program ecosystems and industry partnerships.
Top States for Online Information Security Programs
Arizona
California
Texas
Florida
Maryland
Pennsylvania
Virginia
New York
Illinois
Colorado
Tuition Cost Analysis: Understanding Online Information Security Program Pricing
Online information security programs show significant price variation based on institution type, program features, and support services. Our analysis reveals that higher-priced programs often justify costs through superior outcomes, but several affordable options deliver excellent value for budget-conscious students.
Tuition Analysis by Institution Type
| Institution Type | Count | Median Tuition | Range | Avg Grad Rate | Avg Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public (In-State) | 67 | $11,240 | $6,890-$19,750 | 68% | $76,500 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | 67 | $18,430 | $12,400-$28,900 | 68% | $76,500 |
| Private Non-Profit | 89 | $16,850 | $9,600-$35,200 | 62% | $79,200 |
| Private For-Profit | 31 | $14,920 | $8,280-$24,600 | 51% | $71,800 |
Financial Aid and Funding Options for Online Information Security Degrees
Online information security students have access to the same federal financial aid as on-campus students, including Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for cybersecurity education due to high demand for security professionals.
Several scholarships specifically target cybersecurity students, including the CyberSeek.org scholarship database and industry-sponsored programs from companies like Cisco, Microsoft, and IBM. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits for online programs, with many schools offering additional military discounts and support services.
For comprehensive financial aid guidance, review our FAFSA guide for STEM majors and explore employer tuition reimbursement strategies to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
How to Choose the Right Online Information Security Program
Selecting the optimal online information security program requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond rankings and cost. The right program aligns with your career goals, learning style, schedule constraints, and technical background.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want maximum credibility with government and defense contractors
- You're interested in federal cybersecurity careers
- You prioritize curriculum rigor and industry recognition
- You plan to pursue advanced certifications like CISSP
- You want to minimize time to degree completion
- You have significant IT experience and can handle intensive coursework
- You're changing careers and need credentials quickly
- You prefer focused, intensive learning over extended timelines
- You're active duty military or a veteran using GI Bill benefits
- You need maximum scheduling flexibility for deployments
- You're interested in government security clearance positions
- You want programs with dedicated veteran support services
- You're paying out-of-pocket without employer support
- You qualify for in-state tuition at quality public universities
- You want to minimize student loan debt
- You're confident in your ability to succeed with less hand-holding
Essential Features to Look for in Online Information Security Programs
Quality online information security programs share certain characteristics that distinguish them from generic IT programs. Understanding these features helps prospective students evaluate program quality beyond marketing materials.
- 24/7 access to virtual cybersecurity labs with enterprise-grade tools
- Faculty with active industry certifications and practical experience
- Curriculum aligned with industry certifications (Security+, CISSP, CEH)
- Dedicated cybersecurity career services and industry connections
- Regular curriculum updates reflecting current threat landscapes
- Hands-on capstone projects involving real-world security scenarios
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation or pursuit
- Partnerships with cybersecurity vendors for software access and training
Alternative Paths to Information Security Careers
While a bachelor's degree provides the most comprehensive foundation, several alternative paths can lead to cybersecurity careers. Each approach has trade-offs in terms of time, cost, and career trajectory.
Cybersecurity bootcamps offer intensive, practical training in 12-24 weeks, focusing on job-ready skills rather than theoretical knowledge. Industry certifications like Security+, CEH, and CISSP can demonstrate expertise to employers, especially when combined with relevant experience.
For professionals with existing IT experience, transitioning to tech careers through targeted skill development and certifications can be faster than pursuing a full degree. However, degree programs provide deeper theoretical understanding and better long-term advancement opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Information Security Degrees
Related Information Security Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing official higher education statistics including enrollment, graduation rates, and tuition data
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics providing salary data for cybersecurity roles
Official directory of NSA-designated cybersecurity academic programs
Department of Education database with employment and earning outcomes for college programs
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.