Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity in Illinois

Badge for BEST ONLINE CYBERSECURITY BACHELOR'S IN ILLINOIS
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Illinois' Best Online Bachelor's in Cyber Security Programs

Sort by:
  1. McKendree University
  2. Aurora University
  3. Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  4. Liberty University
  5. Purdue Global
  1. Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  2. Liberty University
  3. Aurora University
  4. Purdue Global
  5. McKendree University
  1. Liberty University 99%
  2. Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
  3. Aurora University 82%
  4. McKendree University 68%
  1. Purdue Global 26 to 1
  2. Liberty University 18 to 1
  3. Aurora University 18 to 1
  4. McKendree University 17 to 1
  5. Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1
  1. McKendree University $33,430
  2. Aurora University $27,420
  3. Liberty University $22,511
  4. Southern Illinois University Carbondale $15,416
  5. Purdue Global $10,080
  1. Aurora University $14,586
  2. Southern Illinois University Carbondale $11,268
  3. Purdue Global $9,472
  4. McKendree University $9,450
  5. Liberty University $7,893
  1. Purdue Global
  2. Liberty University
  3. Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  4. Aurora University
  5. McKendree University
  1. McKendree University
  2. Purdue Global
  3. Aurora University
  4. Liberty University
  5. Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  1. McKendree University 68%
  2. Aurora University 82%
  3. Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
  4. Liberty University 99%
  1. Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1
  2. McKendree University 17 to 1
  3. Liberty University 18 to 1
  4. Aurora University 18 to 1
  5. Purdue Global 26 to 1
  1. Purdue Global $10,080
  2. Southern Illinois University Carbondale $15,416
  3. Liberty University $22,511
  4. Aurora University $27,420
  5. McKendree University $33,430
  1. Liberty University $7,893
  2. McKendree University $9,450
  3. Purdue Global $9,472
  4. Southern Illinois University Carbondale $11,268
  5. Aurora University $14,586

According to Bridge for Innovation, the Information Technology Sector’s GDP in Illinois is $34.7B. Additional data from ZipRecruiter suggests that the average annual salary of cyber security professionals in Illinois is $116,027, which is lower than the national average of $128,870.

While the tech industry in Illinois is not as big as others, the state can still be one of the best places to pursue a bachelor’s degree and a career in cyber security.

In 2022, Illinois ranked as the 17th state with a relatively low cost of living in the United States. This comparatively lower cost of living in Illinois can be attractive for individuals considering living and working in the state, especially for those pursuing careers like cyber security.

In addition, students who choose to study cyber security in Illinois can typically benefit from lower tuition and fees. This affordability factor, combined with the state’s relatively low cost of living, makes Illinois an appealing option for those seeking higher education while managing their educational expenses.

cyber security professional sitting in front of two large computer monitors

Featured Programs

Cyber Security: A Top Degree for the Next Decade

While earning a bachelor’s degree in cyber security in Illinois is relatively new, its relevance has grown exponentially in response to the escalating threats in the digital landscape. In today’s interconnected world, where information and data are invaluable assets, the need for skilled professionals who can protect against cyber threats has never been greater.

According to Dr. Isaac Ben-Israel, everyone needs protection, from military organizations and defense organizations to simple citizens. In 2011, no college or university in Israel or the United States offered a cyber security degree. Today, with the demand and need for high-security technology, students can easily pin down on-campus and online cyber security programs.

According to National Defense, there are 700,000 cyber security job openings in the United States alone. That’s why we’ve ranked cyber security degrees as the #1 degree for jobs over the next decade.

Earning a cyber security degree will lead to several high-paying job opportunities. Graduates can easily break into information security jobs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security jobs are expected to grow 32% over the next ten years. That’s much faster than average career growth. Information Security Analysts earn a median annual of $112,000, which is twice as high as the average for all occupations with a bachelor’s degree.

If you are still wondering if a cyber security bachelor’s degree is worth it, we answer that, and we can give you the playbook for how to become a cyber security analyst.

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Illinois Colleges Answering the Demand for Cyber Security Degrees Online

Several colleges and universities in Illinois offer cyber security programs, from certificates to graduate degrees. However, only three colleges have online cyber security bachelor’s degrees in Illinois, offering students maximum flexibility and convenience.

These programs are offered by some of Illinois’ top-ranked colleges, like Aurora University and McKendree University. For more about Illinois colleges, visit The Best Colleges in Illinois.

To give you more options, we’ve included two more online bachelor’s in cyber security degree programs that are affordable and flexible.

Jump to Ranking

cyber security professionals working on a threat to a computer network
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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security in Illinois

What will I learn in an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security program in Illinois?

With an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security program, you’ll learn specific subjects like software development and systems administration while also strengthening your math and computer science skills.

You will learn important but complicated topics like:

  • Cryptography
  • Software Programming
  • Data Analytics
  • Network Security
  • Information Security
  • Systems Administration
  • National Security Policy

Key learning skills for your online bachelor’s degree in cyber security include:

  • Mathematics
  • Computer Science
  • Organization
  • Time Management
  • Self-Pacing

As an online cyber security bachelor, you’ll learn to:

  • Analyze network components, including software and hardware.
  • Identify system vulnerabilities through a combination of technological and analytical insight.
  • Create solutions for system vulnerabilities.
  • Navigate the ethical and policy issues related to the cyber security profession.
  • Provide both short-term and long-term organizational strategies for managing cyber security challenges.

What courses will I take with an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree in Illinois?

As an online bachelor’s in cyber security student, you’ll take courses in areas like network security, risk assessment, and digital surveillance. Popular online courses in cyber security include:

Cyber Threat Intelligence

Learn to identify cyber security threats and the techniques used by bad actors to attack secure networks. Study ethical hacking methodologies, permissions management, threat assessment reporting, and more.

National Security Policy

Learn the laws, policies, and practices shaping the cyber security profession in the United States. Study American cyber security policy as well as international policy and the policy approaches in other nations.

Enterprise Risk Management

Learn how to analyze security conditions for commercial enterprises to identify vulnerabilities and provide solutions. Study best practices as well as legal and ethical responsibilities in creating network security strategies.

Network Security Administration

Learn how to assess, operate, and improve network security information for private, public, or non-profit organizations, including Homeland Security and the National Security Agency (NSA). Study cloud security, information security, systems auditing and more.

Digital Forensics

Learn how to investigate cyber crime and produce evidence to be used in prosecuting these crimes. Study the tools, techniques, and principles driving digital forensics investigation.

If the online bachelor’s degree in cyber security is your first experience with online education, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

And for a look at some of the advantages of pursuing your bachelor’s degree in cyber security online, check out these 5 Ways Online Education Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Classroom Education.

cyber security student working on code

What jobs can I do with an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security in Illinois?

You can do a lot of jobs in computer and network security with an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security. The bachelor’s degree in cyber security is the basic qualification for students who want to become:

Computer and Information Systems Managers

As a Computer and Information Systems Manager, you will plan, coordinate, and lead a wide range of computer-related activities in your organization, including network security, permissions management, database management, and more.

Computer and Information Systems Managers earned a median pay of $164,070 in 2022. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% rate of growth by 2032, with 46,900 new jobs added.

Computer Network Architects

As a Computer Network Architect, you will design and build data communication networks. This includes local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and Intranets, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The BLS also notes that computer network architects earned a median pay of $126,900 in 2022. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% rate of growth by 2032, with 10,200 new jobs added.

Database Administrators and Architects

As a Database Administrator or Architect, you will work within an organization to create, organize, and oversee the systems used to both store data and keep this data secure. Database Administrators and Architects earned a median pay of $112,120 in 2022. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% rate of growth by 2032, with 10,200 new jobs added.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

As a Network and Computer Systems Administrator, you are responsible for both the daily and long-term operation and oversight of internal network and computer systems for your organization. It includes maintenance, updates, data management, security, and more.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators earned a median pay of $90,520 in 2022. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2% rate of growth by 2032, with 19,800 new jobs added.

Is there less math required in a cyber security program than other related fields?

Cyber security involves some level of mathematics, but it is generally not as math-intensive as other fields of computer science or technology. The level of math required in cyber security can vary depending on the specific role or tasks. Nevertheless, cyber security professionals need a solid foundation in basic mathematics, including arithmetic, algebra, and possibly some basic statistics.

How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security in Illinois?

It generally takes four to six years, or 120 credits, to earn an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security. Some online programs may offer accelerated or self-paced options where you can earn your online bachelor’s degree in as little as 18 to 24 months.

Is it cheaper to get a cyber security degree online in Illinois?

It can be cheaper to get a cyber security degree online if you go to a public school in Illinois. Colleges and universities have tuition discounts for in-state students.

Online students in Illinois get these same in-state discounts. It will be cheaper to get your online bachelor’s degree in cyber security from a public school in Illinois.

Your tuition for the online degree will be the same, or slightly more, than the tuition for an in-person degree. But you will save on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees. Your online bachelor’s degree in cyber security will be cheaper if you get an in-state discount and save on these expenses.

For more, check out our Guide to the Cost of Online College vs. On-Campus College.

What are the admission requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security in Illinois?

Typically, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED) to be eligible for admission to an online bachelor’s program in cyber security. Some programs may require specific high school coursework in mathematics or computer science. You must check if the program requires the standardized tests SAT or ACT, and prepare for these exams if necessary.

Do I need to earn a certificate to pursue cyber security careers?

Although not required, obtaining a cyber security certificate will improve your bachelor’s degree. Many organizations, particularly in crucial sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, demand or greatly favor applicants with industry-specific certificates.

Research and learn the prerequisites for the jobs you’re interested in, and obtain the necessary certifications to strengthen your credentials. Networking, acquiring real-world experience, and staying current with industry trends are also essential.

For detailed information on accreditation, financial aid, college applications and more, check out our Complete Guide to Applying for College.

two cyber security students working on an online course
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Best Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security Programs in Illinois

  1. #1

    McKendree University

    Lebanon , IL
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at McKendree University

    Cost of Degree: $33,430
    Expenses: $15,300
    Starting Salary: $56,754
    Salary after 4 years: $67,710
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    McKendree University, one of the best cyber security schools in Illinois, offers a comprehensive educational experience that prepares you for the challenges of today’s world. Online students will receive the same on-campus academic excellence and opportunities, including experiential learning opportunities, financial aid opportunities, academic counseling, and career services. They can also participate in faculty-led research in various fields.

    McKendree University offers two online bachelor programs that equip students with the necessary abilities to pursue security management and technology careers. The Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security/Bachelor of Business Administration in Cyber Defense, although they differ in focus, offers a core curriculum that develops student’s skills in protecting computer networks from cyber attacks. Both cyber security degree programs prepare students for the rapidly growing industry.

    The BS in Cyber Security degree is designed for students who want to focus solely on technology and have programming and firewall design skills. The BBA degree is best suited for professionals who want to focus on the business industry within the cybersecurity field; they’ll specialize in risk analysis and organizational security.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BBA in Cyber Defense
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Aurora University

    Aurora , IL
    #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #12 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW #15 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1089/22

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Aurora University

    Cost of Degree: $27,420
    Expenses: $16,602
    Starting Salary: $52,232
    Salary after 4 years: $62,314
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Aurora University is a top arts college known for offering diverse and inclusive educational programs both on campus and online. It provides a range of programs, including online options and partnerships with other institutions.

    Aurora offers one of the best online cyber security bachelor’s programs in Illinois, designed to equip students with practical knowledge and programming and technical skills. The Online Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security at Aurora allows students to explore various topics, including Computer and Network Security, Ethical Hacking, Risk Management and Organizational Resilience, Digital Forensics, and Cyber Security Governance.

    Students learn to identify and mitigate threats, securing electronic data in sectors like finance and healthcare. They can specialize in either Policy and Management or Technical Analyst. Students can also pursue a double major in other fields, including Business Administration, Computer Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and more.

    Online students will gain access to various on-campus opportunities, such as the Computer Science Club and Aurora Criminal Justice Association. They’ll also benefit from the school’s information technology services.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2-4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. a cyber security student working on an online computer course
  3. #3

    Southern Illinois University Carbondale

    Carbondale , IL
    #5 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1020/23

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale

    Cost of Degree: $15,416
    Expenses: $14,673
    Starting Salary: $62,393
    Salary after 4 years: $80,961
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Southern Illinois University is a top-ranked public research university known for offering high-quality on-campus and online degree programs in Illinois. SIU’s online school offers several programs that are convenient, accredited, and designed for busy students who want to pursue higher education without abandoning their current obligations.

    SIU is also a leader in providing cyberdefense education in Illinois. Students who want to jumpstart a career in cyber security can pursue SIU’s Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and pursue electives in cyber security. With this combination, students develop a solid IT foundation while also developing cyber security expertise.

    You’ll gain a well-rounded education in information technology, covering various areas like computer science, information assurance, programming, and applied data analytics. Your cyber security electives will focus on specialized topics that will equip you with expertise in safeguarding computer systems and data. You’ll enroll in elective courses that offer practical application of cyber defense and penetration testing technologies.

    In addition to online courses, online students can pursue optional internships.

    Applicants with an AAS degree or a similar certification can transfer their credits and graduate sooner. Most students typically require 39 credit hours to complete their bachelor’s degree, but capstone students only need 30 credit hours. This means they can earn a bachelor’s degree with just an additional 60 credit hours.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $16,203
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $46,805
    Salary after 4 years: $55,840
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Although not based in Illinois, Liberty University remains one of the top online schools for Illinois students seeking affordable, flexible degrees out-of-state. Liberty, a private Christian university in VA, offers many academic programs and is known for its extensive online education offerings.

    Liberty University obtained the prestigious designation as a National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Center of Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE). Liberty University offers an excellent Computer Science Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree that equips students with a solid foundation in cyber security education, featuring courses in Advanced Programming Using C++, Network Architecture and Protocols, Technical Aspects of Computer Security, and Modern Cryptography. The curriculum addresses cyber security and offers room for elective courses and internships for hands-on experience.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    6. software programmer working in an office
  6. #5

    Purdue Global

    West Lafayette , IN
    #10 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    66K

    Purdue Global, the online division of Purdue University in Indiana, offers competitive tuition rates to out-of-state students, making it an affordable choice for Illinois students, with costs similar to in-state institutions.

    Purdue, a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) school by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security, offers an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security. With 92% Career Outcome, this program is considered one of the best cyber security degrees in the United States.

    This online cyber security degree focuses on essential cyber security principles. It applies industry-accepted practices to tackle real-world security issues and regularly updates its content to reflect industry advancements. Sample courses cover topics like Ethical Hacking, Network Security, Python Programming, Digital Forensics, and Intrusion Detection and Response.

    Moreover, Purdue Global’s cyber security offers several concentrations, allowing students to align their studies with their professional paths. Concentrations include Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Data Management, Cloud Computing, Programming And Analytics, CISSP Certification Preparation, and Software Development.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Cybersecurity Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Computer And Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: Illinois (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $13,545
  • Avg. Expenses*: $14,925
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 11 years
  • Job Growth: 11.36%
  • Number of Jobs: 1,573,500
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$159,100
Database Architects10.00%$132,840
Computer Network Architects3.55%$128,790
Managers, All Other3.35%$124,850
Information Security Analysts31.56%$108,510

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$62,418$104,714$162,625

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#9 Illinois7% higher than average$104,714
#2 Georgia13% higher than average$108,150
#3 Virginia5% higher than average$117,193
#4 North Carolina11% higher than average$105,853
#5 Texas10% higher than average$105,429
#6 Washington7% higher than average$124,389

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers$159,100
Database Architects$132,840
Computer Network Architects$128,790
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.
cyber security programmers working together on a cyber threat
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Cyber Security Employers in Illinois

Illinois has many cyber security job opportunities, including government agencies, defense companies, banks, and innovative tech firms. In this diverse landscape, you’ll discover several prominent cyber security employers who play a significant role in the state’s thriving cyber security industry. Some of the biggest cyber security employers in Illinois include:

Argonne National Laboratory

The Argonne National Laboratory is a renowned research organization with a broad range of fields represented in its mission, including the critical field of cyber security. Argonne actively seeks cyber security experts to support its research initiatives, emphasizing projects of significant national security.

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

This well-known research facility, commonly called Fermilab, regularly hires cyber security specialists to protect their priceless scientific research data, preserving the integrity of their ground-breaking investigations.

State of Illinois

The state’s government, which employs devoted cyber security specialists entrusted with protecting vital infrastructure and sensitive data, plays a crucial role in cyber security. To protect against evolving attacks, important organizations like the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) frequently post cyber security positions.

Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME Group)

Due to its prominence in the financial markets, the Chicago-based CME Group largely relies on cyber security professionals to bolster its digital fortifications and guarantee the impenetrable security of the financial data and trading systems that support international markets.

Northern Trust

This well-known financial services company strengthens its commitment to security by working with cyber security experts to protect client’s financial assets and uphold the confidentiality of private information.

online college student working on online coursework in software programming
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Professional Cyber Security Organizations in Illinois

ISSA Chicago

The Information Systems Security Association, a global association devoted to cyber security education and professional development, has a local chapter in Chicago called SSA. ISSA Chicago organizes frequent gatherings, workshops, and events that bring cyber security professionals and enthusiasts together to exchange information and best practices.

Thotcon

Chicago hosts Thotcon, an annual hacking and security conference. It draws cyber security experts, researchers, and ethical hackers nationwide to explore new threats, weaknesses, and cutting-edge security technologies. Thotcon provides a forum for networking and education in a fun and welcoming environment.

EvolveSec Meetup Community

Chicago-based EvolveSec is a meetup group for cyber security professionals. It often hosts get-togethers, workshops, and events that cover a range of cyber security topics, such as threat hunting, offensive and defensive security approaches, and digital forensics. It’s a terrific way for people interested in cyber security to meet others who share their interests and learn more.

Chicago InfraGard

The FBI and the business sector have partnered to create InfraGard to safeguard vital infrastructure. It gathers cyber security specialists to exchange knowledge and best practices on security and resilience.

Chicago Blockchain Center

While not exclusively focused on cyber security, the Chicago Blockchain Center explores the security aspects of blockchain and distributed ledger technologies. Their events and meetups often touch on cyber security concerns related to these emerging technologies.

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