Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity

By Dr. James Barham

Updated: Mar 28, 2024

Key Takeaways

The fastest online bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity can be completed in 2-3 years.

The strong projected employment growth and the higher-than-average salary for jobs in the cybersecurity industry positions online cybersecurity graduates for success.

An accelerated cyber security degree can be paired with an additional certification can unlock even more employment options in specific job sectors.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Norwich University
Old Dominion University
Liberty University
Southern New Hampshire University
Grand Canyon University
Mercy College
Franklin University
Purdue University Global
Maryville University
Lewis University

Old Dominion University
Liberty University
Norwich University
Southern New Hampshire University
Grand Canyon University
Franklin University
Mercy College
Purdue University Global
Maryville University
Lewis University

Liberty University 99%
Southern New Hampshire University 96%
Old Dominion University 95%
Maryville University 88%
Mercy College 86%
Norwich University 83%
Grand Canyon University 78%
Lewis University 74%

Purdue University Global 26 to 1
Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
Grand Canyon University 20 to 1
Liberty University 18 to 1
Old Dominion University 16 to 1
Franklin University 16 to 1
Mercy College 15 to 1
Lewis University 14 to 1
Maryville University 13 to 1
Norwich University 11 to 1

Norwich University $45,340
Lewis University $36,530
Maryville University $27,166
Liberty University $22,511
Mercy College $21,358
Grand Canyon University $17,800
Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
Purdue University Global $10,080
Franklin University $9,577
Old Dominion University $7,239

Norwich University $20,280
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
Mercy College $17,478
Franklin University $16,080
Lewis University $14,760
Maryville University $14,346
Grand Canyon University $10,655
Old Dominion University $10,519
Purdue University Global $9,472
Liberty University $7,893

Lewis University
Maryville University
Purdue University Global
Franklin University
Mercy College
Grand Canyon University
Southern New Hampshire University
Liberty University
Old Dominion University
Norwich University

Lewis University
Maryville University
Purdue University Global
Mercy College
Franklin University
Grand Canyon University
Southern New Hampshire University
Norwich University
Liberty University
Old Dominion University

Lewis University 74%
Grand Canyon University 78%
Norwich University 83%
Mercy College 86%
Maryville University 88%
Old Dominion University 95%
Southern New Hampshire University 96%
Liberty University 99%

Norwich University 11 to 1
Maryville University 13 to 1
Lewis University 14 to 1
Mercy College 15 to 1
Old Dominion University 16 to 1
Franklin University 16 to 1
Liberty University 18 to 1
Grand Canyon University 20 to 1
Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
Purdue University Global 26 to 1

Old Dominion University $7,239
Franklin University $9,577
Purdue University Global $10,080
Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
Grand Canyon University $17,800
Mercy College $21,358
Liberty University $22,511
Maryville University $27,166
Lewis University $36,530
Norwich University $45,340

Liberty University $7,893
Purdue University Global $9,472
Old Dominion University $10,519
Grand Canyon University $10,655
Maryville University $14,346
Lewis University $14,760
Franklin University $16,080
Mercy College $17,478
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
Norwich University $20,280

Table of Contents

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for cyber security professionals is increasing at an astounding rate of 35 percent until 2031. This makes cyber security one of the top industries hitting an all-time high.

That being said, the supply of professionals in the industry is very low. One organization that polled 343 firms stated that 70% of those surveyed believe that the lack of cyber security talent affects their business.

If you want to be in one of the most in-demand career paths, consider obtaining a bachelor’s degree in cyber security. You no longer have to spend four years on-campus studying for an undergraduate degree because several colleges and universities offer accelerated cyber security degree programs online. In addition to enrolling in programs with fast-paced courses, you can take advantage of transfer credits to shorten your time to graduation even further.

Network security and cyber threats are increasingly prevalent. An accelerated cyber security degree can open up a potential career path with agencies such as Homeland Security or the National Security Agency.

Methodology

To ensure student satisfaction, the online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs in our ranking are fully accredited and offer various student support services, such as networking and financial aid opportunities. Rest assured that graduates can use their degrees to compete in one of the most competitive fields in the job market. Multiple reputable organizations also recognize the accelerated bachelor’s degree programs on the list.

Fastest Online Accelerated Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs

programmer sitting in front of a computer working on cybersecurity data

Are there alternatives for a degree in cyber security?

There are several ways you can achieve your dream of pursuing a demanding, yet rewarding, career path in cyber security. Some professionals advise getting a degree, while others claim that certification is the best choice.

Short-term educational choices like certificate programs in cyber security offer specialized training and information in the subject. These programs are designed for people who want to improve or learn new cyber security skills without committing to a full degree program. Since cyber security continuously expands and evolves, others may argue that shorter certificate programs may offer more updated materials than degree programs.

The main objective of certificate programs in cybersecurity is to impart thorough knowledge and useful skills in various cybersecurity-related fields, such as network security, information security, ethical hacking, incident response, digital forensics, and risk management. These programs usually last between a few weeks to several months, while degree programs can last up to four years, depending on the program’s level, complexity, and intensity.

Furthermore, these are ideal for those looking to break into the cyber security industry or for professionals looking to further their careers by developing specialized cyber security abilities.

A certificate program in cyber security has a curriculum that is specifically created to address core ideas, industry best practices, and pertinent tools and technology. It covers subjects including the foundations of cyber security, secure coding, network defense, vulnerability assessment, security operations, and legal and ethical issues related to cyber security.

Many certificate programs strongly emphasize practical training by providing real-world simulations and hands-on learning opportunities. Students frequently use industry-standard tools, participate in cyber security exercises, and work through real-world problems to further solidify their understanding of cyber security principles.

Furthermore, specialized and career-focused certificate programs can unlock employment options in specific sectors. Holders might pursue careers as ethical hackers, cyber security analysts, network security specialists, incident responders, or security consultants, depending on their chosen area of specialization.

It is essential to undertake careful research before selecting a certificate program in cyber security and to find an accredited institution or training provider with an updated curriculum and a proven track record of providing high-quality cyber security education.

Check out our article on why an online degree in cybersecurity might be worth it.

Here are some of the most popular and in-demand certifications in cyber security:

Security+ (CompTIA)

This entry-level industry certification is designed to help individuals apply for employment as information security analysts. This certification offers vendor-neutral course material, which is highly valued in cyber operations.

The five areas covered by the exam include:

Attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities
Operations and incident response
Implementation
Architecture and design
Governance, risk, and compliance

GIAC®️ Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

This certification, provided by GIAC, covers the fundamental abilities required for entry-level information security or cyber security roles. Topics include networking ideas, attack detection and prevention, defense in depth, secure communications, and basic security for Windows and Linux.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

EC-Council provides this certification and gives people access to the information and resources utilized by malevolent hackers. Holders of this certification can ethically test a company’s security with the organization’s approval to find vulnerabilities before nefarious hackers take advantage of them. It gives a useful understanding of the adversary’s viewpoint in cyber security analysis.

Cybersecurity Analyst+ (CA)

Individuals with three to five years of experience in the sector should be qualified for this certification. To increase threat detection, prevention, and response, it focuses on modern approaches to cyber security analysis, such as behavior analytics. For late-career cyber security analysts who want to improve their capabilities, CySA+ is advised.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

An advanced degree of information security expertise required for late-career cyber security analysts is certified through the ISACA-hosted CISM program. It is perfect for those who want to go into managerial positions. Topics include information security governance, risk management, program development, program management, and incident management and response.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

The highly recognized CISSP certification, provided by (ISC)2, is appropriate for late-career cyber security analysts who want to advance into management positions or enhance their skill set. Beyond technical risks, the CISSP focuses on administering a security program for an organization.

Key Point: These certifications provide different knowledge and skills, catering to entry-level professionals and those with more experience. Choosing the right certification depends on your career goals, experience level, and desired specialization.

cybersecurity professionals meeting together in an office

Career and Salary Outlook for Accelerated Online Cyber Security Bachelor’s Graduates

Accelerated degree programs in cyber security are designed to help students finish their degrees quickly. These programs adhere to the same credit requirements and required courses as traditional four-year programs. As mentioned earlier, graduates of traditional and accelerated programs both have the same career opportunities, possibly with agencies like Homeland Security or the National Security Agency.

Due to the growing number of cyber-attacks happening in private and government agencies, cyber security professionals are in high demand. One study shows that the country faces a workforce gap of 3.4 million.

This data indicated that the gap increased by 25% in 2022. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this job sector is expected to grow by 35% over the next decade.

Protecting an organization from cybercrime is a complicated process, but a very necessary one. Here are some of the most popular career paths you can pursue as someone with an accelerated cyber security degree. Some of these careers may require education beyond the bachelor’s degree.

IT Security Consultant

IT security consultants create plans to defend against cyberattacks and monitor adherence to their established regulations. They’ll train teams of experts to act fast in the event of a data breach and continuously monitor systems for any potential breaches.

The CISM (certified information security manager) credential, certifying a person’s risk management proficiency, is frequently required for IT security consultants.

Median Annual Salary: $159,157

Computer Network Architect

Computer network architects create data communication networks specifically tailored to complement organizational objectives. The computer network architect will be able to establish a strategy that is within budget and then engage the appropriate staff to carry it out, whether it be for small intranets or large cloud infrastructure, local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or both.

To ensure that they can keep up with the growth in data traffic as their organization expands, they’ll also need to stay on top of the latest in computer networks and emerging information technology developments.

Median Annual Salary: $120,520

Penetration Tester (aka Ethical Hacker)

The colors of the hats the characters wore in classic Western movies helped distinguish the good guys from the wicked. It is the same for hackers. Black hat hackers carry out cybercrime. White hat hackers, otherwise known as ethical hackers or penetration testers, collaborate with businesses to thwart them.

They’ll employ the same abilities as the black hats to predict their every move. They’ll practice cyberattacks to evaluate a system’s security flaws (a process known as penetration testing) and then help create security engineering plans to plug any holes they find.

Median Annual Salary: $116,104

Systems Analyst

A company’s demands may radically change as it expands. Previous-generation information systems could no longer be able to keep up with the evolving technology. The responsibility of the systems analyst is to ensure that an organization’s hardware, software, and network architecture are scaled up to meet those growing needs. Before advising developers and programmers to apply new changes, they will test current network systems.

Median Annual Salary: $112,805

Application Developer

A software developer that focuses on building mobile applications is known as an app developer. App developers collaborate with designers, project managers, and others to construct an app that appeals to the target market.

Software developers are responsible for understanding the app’s needs, creating the user interface and experience, designing the app’s functionality, and testing it. App developers may also be in charge of distributing and maintaining the app over time, as well as integrating the app with backend systems or third-party APIs.

Median Annual Salary: $112,141

network security equipment in a cybersecurity infrastructure

Webmaster

Every website you visit has a webmaster who is hard at work behind it. Websites are created and kept up by webmasters. They will update the content following the demands of the owners and designers, fix broken links and errant code, and do routine speed and functionality testing. To ensure that a website operates at its best, webmasters must also manage the server on which all its data is kept.

Median Annual Salary: $64,205

Network Administrator

Network architects rely on network administrators to maintain the smooth operation and security of the systems they build. Once everything is operational, they will assist with installing the required hardware and software and offer ongoing support. They will perform the necessary updates to maintain performance and keep up with data flow.

Additionally, they’ll be available to address issues as they arise, whether that entails educating people on proper usage, implementing bug patches, or fixing system components.

Median Annual Salary: $64,126

Computer Network Support Specialist

Specialists in computer network support are extremely important in maintaining a secure network. They will do routine maintenance checks and connectivity tests regularly to ensure that all data exchanges within a company are secure and safe.

Additionally, network support specialists maintain organized documentation of current network processes and architecture, offer on-site technical assistance, develop reliable backup methods, and use cutting-edge IT to improve performance.

Median Annual Salary: $59,096

Cryptography

You may thank a cryptographer for protecting private information from prying eyes when you transfer it over the internet. Cryptographers use their understanding of systems design, data structures, and programming languages to create computer security systems and encryption methods. Being a cryptographer requires you to use your analytical skills daily. Most people assume that websites are secure, but skilled cryptographers never do.

Median Annual Salary: $54,684

Certified Computer Technician

Network support professionals frequently collaborate with other IT department staff, particularly with licensed computer technicians. To enable everyone to produce their best work, certified computer technicians guarantee every employee can access the most recent gear and software. They may also work for hardware and software makers, offering remote or on-site support for customers.

Median Annual Salary: $52,377

Key Point: Because of the lack of trained cyber security professionals and the increasing demand for cyber defense, graduates of accelerated degree programs in cyber security are uniquely positioned to have numerous career opportunities and a higher than average pay.

Regardless of the role you choose, you will want to be up-to-date in your field and learning new technologies. For those interested in pursuing advanced degrees, consider earning your master’s or doctorate’s degree. Check out our ranking of Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s or Doctorate in Cybersecurity.

Paying for a Cyber Security Degree

It is true that an accelerated cyber security degree is a great option for busy working professionals. However, a bachelor’s degree is a major expense. So how can students afford one of these degrees?

Most of the accelerated cyber security degree options in our ranking have numerous financial aid options available for students who qualify. To find out more about how to apply for financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Students’ Submitted Questions on Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity

Jess asks, “What support services are available for online students?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: This will vary by institution. However, advances in online education in recent years have created much more support for online students. Many colleges and universities will offer academic advising, career services, online tutoring, and technical support. Review your schools’ website to see what services are available to you.

Samuel asks, “What is the shortest degree in cyber security?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: According to our ranking, Norwich University offers a degree in cybersecurity that students can obtain in as little as 18 months. Most accelerated degrees in cybersecurity, though, will take around 3 years to complete.

Carson asks, “Is there any practical experience included in the program?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Many programs will require hands-on learning or practical experience in the form of internships, simulations, or capstone projects. Make sure to look into the specific programs you are interested in to see what the program requirements are. You want to look for programs with at least some practical experience so that you are prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.

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Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Methodology

Fastest Online Accelerated Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs

Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Norwich University

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Old Dominion University

Most Influential Alumni

Old Dominion University’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Liberty University

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Liberty University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Southern New Hampshire University

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Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Grand Canyon University

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Mercy College

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Mercy College ’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Franklin University

Purdue Global’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Maryville University

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Maryville University’s Online Degrees

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