Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky

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The online bachelor’s in cybersecurity is an increasingly valuable degree that can lead to an excellent career with competitive pay in Kentucky. Check out the top-ranked cybersecurity degree programs for 2022 and learn more about the cost of tuition, admission requirements, cybersecurity courses, jobs in cybersecurity, and more.

The State of Kentucky has multiple cybersecurity laws that protect its citizens and institutions from cyber threats and attacks.

Specifically, the data breach notification law (2014) requires persons and entities with businesses in Kentucky to notify individuals about compromises in their personally identifiable information. The data security law (2022), based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners model, requires insurers and other organizations to improve their cybersecurity measures.

What does this mean for you?

Well, it means that these laws encourage companies to hire cybersecurity professionals. This means cybersecurity students will find promising professional and academic opportunities in the state of Kentucky

In fact, now is arguably the best time to earn an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity in Kentucky. With an increasing emphasis on cyber security policies instate and countrywide, earning your online bachelor’s of cybersecutiy will prime you to capitalize on the growing opportunities in the job market.

The Bottom Line:Since Kentucky’s public agencies and private industries rely on computer systems for important daily operations, cyber security is of utmost importance. As such, there’s never been a better time to launch a career in cybersecutiy.

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Curriculum of an Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity

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What curriculum will you study in a program offering an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity in Kentucky?

First, a definition of cybersecurity is in order to understand the curriculum and courses in cyber security defense education.

The term, ‘Cyber security’ refers to the principles and practices used in the protection of computer systems, networks, and programs from internal and external attacks and interference. Digital attacks are intended to access, modify, or destroy information that, in turn, can be used for other purposes. Digital attacks may interrupt normal business operations, result in blackmailing of users, and even sabotage consumer privacy.

Achieveing proper cyber security becomes an more of a challenge as our world becomes more rooted in the digital world. And Cyber attackers develop more innovative ways of infiltrating computer systems and networks, among other malicious techniques.

The Bottom Line: In general, an undergraduate cybersecurity curriculum focuses on introducing students to the ever-changing landscapes of digital security and real-world threats against it.

Online Undergraduate Cybersecurity Course Structure

Students in online bachelor’s in cyber security degree programs will explore the foundational topics of the field. As aspiring cyber security specialists, students build knowledge and skills in both cyber security and related disciplines such as information technology and computer science.

In fact, the best cyber security programs leverage an interdisciplinary approach that enables students to gain a multidimensional perspective.

Specifically, at the core of cybersecurity programs are courses in computer science, computer information technology, and management information systems. Many cyber security degree programs also meet the requirements for occupations in homeland security.

Most bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity are billed as Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity because of the heavy emphasis on STEM courses. Students enrolling in a liberal arts school, however, will gain a strong background in the liberal arts through general education courses in English, social and behavioral sciences, and natural sciences.

Credits and Courses

The typical online cybersecurity programs have a 120-credit curriculum that can be completed in four years’ time, on average. But actual time-to-completion varies depending on several factors. These include number of transfer credits, program format (e.g., traditional or accelerated), and course load per term (e.g., full-time or part-time).

The best programs also offer students the opportunity to pursue specialties within the field. Specifically, concentration courses in cybersecurity programs are designed to equip students with specialized competencies in cybersecurity.

Introductory courses include options such as the following

  • The Cybersecurity Fundamentals course is an introduction to the fundamentals of cybersecurity including risk analysis, network security, and cryptography.
  • The Cybersecurity Risk Management course enables students to explore cybersecurity from a risk management perspective. Topics include risk mitigation, risk assessment processes, and disaster recovery planning.
  • The Fundamentals in Information Technology course is an introduction to computer organizations, operating systems and networks, and data representation. Students also explore the information technology industry and its impact on society and their future careers.

Bottom Line: The primary aim of the best online programs offering cyber security degrees is to train future professionals whose understanding of the technologies, techniques and tools used in information security will be put to effective use in organizations.

Learning Outcomes of a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity

Two people coding

The learning outcomes differ among programs depending on the exact structure of courses, concentrations, and program format. But they can be generally summarized as follows:

  • Design, implement and evaluate computer systems and networks that can meet organizational needs in cybersecurity
  • Demonstrate communication, collaboration and critical thinking skills that will enable graduates to perform in organizational settings
  • Engage in continuing professional development to keep up with trends in cybersecurity

Do you want more useful information about the best online bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity programs? Read on and find out!

Cybersecurity: A Top Degree for the Next Decade

Cybersecurity is definitely growing in demand in Kentucky, just as it is around the world. Information security jobs are expected to grow by 33% over the next 10 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s much faster than average career growth.

With current median salaries around $100,000 a year, it’s a good time to prepare yourself to compete in the cybersecurity job market in Kentucky. That’s why we’ve ranked cybersecurity degrees as the best degree for jobs over the next decade.

Cybersecurity is also new and its need is very widespread. In our interview with world-leading cyber security expert Isaac Ben-Israel, Ben-Israel says Because we understand that nowadays everyone is dependent on computers, not only military organizations, defense organizations. and therefore, the citizen, the simple citizen, needs a protection as well as the big organization. and we decided to make it legitimate for education and industry. ...At that time, 2011, it’s hard to believe but this is true, there was not even one university in the world, neither in Israel nor in the States, in which you could go and study cybersecurity. Only 10 years ago. It’s hard to believe but this was the situation 10 years ago. Today ... you can learn cyber security in every university.

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

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Kentucky Colleges Answering the Demand for Cybersecurity Degrees Online

We’ve identified 3 colleges with online cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees in Kentucky. Online degrees offer students in Kentucky maximum flexibility and convenience so they can study while working. And you don’t have to sacrifice quality. These programs are offered by some of Kentucky’s top ranked colleges like Eastern Kentucky University and Murray State University. For more about Kentucky colleges visit The Best Colleges in Kentucky.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity

With an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity include:

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

As an online cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity profession.
  • Provide both short-term and long-term organizational strategies for managing cybersecurity challenges.
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As an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity student, you’ll take courses in areas like network security, risk assessment, and digital surveillance. Popular online courses in cybersecurity include:

Cyber Threat Intelligence

Learn to identify cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity profession in the United States. Study American cybersecurity policy as well as international policy and 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. Study cloud security, information security, systems auditing and more.

Digital Forensics

Learn how to investigate cybercrime 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity online, check out these 5 Ways Online Education Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Classroom Education

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You can do a lot of jobs in computer and network security with an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. The bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity 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 $159,010 in 2021. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% rate of growth by 2030, with 52,700 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 $120,520 in 2021. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% rate of growth by 2030, with 9000 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 $98,860 in 2021. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% rate of growth by 2030, with 13,200 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. This includes maintenance, updates, data management, security, and more. Network and Computer Systems Administrators earned a median pay of $80,600 in 2021. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% rate of growth by 2030, with 18,800 new jobs added.

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It takes four to six years, or 120 credits, to earn an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. 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.

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It can be cheaper to get a cybersecurity degree online if you go to a public school in your state. Colleges and universities have tuition discounts for in-state students. Online students get these same in-state discounts. It will be cheaper to get your online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from a public school in your state. 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 cybersecurity 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.

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If you need more answers to frequently asked questions about online degrees, we can help.

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

Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Kentucky
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Factors of Ranking the Best Cybersecurity Programs

The technicalities involved in Cybersecurity programs require rigorous coursework that imparts on every online student the basics of the discipline for actual application in professional settings. To this end, our selection process of the best online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity in Kentucky takes into account the academic excellence demonstrated by colleges.

We considered the manner in which the Cybersecurity programs are delivered. We also evaluate the online or hybrid learning format, and ensure that each cyber security degree program on our list meets the academic standards established by accrediting organizations

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Equally important, the cybersecurity degree programs must look to the guidelines and ruling principles set by the National Security Agency on cybersecurity education and curbing security breaches.

Because the state of Kentucky takes information systems security seriously, the online degree programs in this ranking have professional experts as faculty who are eager to train the next generation of cyber security analysts. These programs lay the foundation for each undergraduate student’s potential for entry and mid-level employment in the sector.

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Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Programs in Kentucky

  1. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1062/20

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Eastern Kentucky University

    Cost of Degree: $9,844
    Expenses: $13,160
    Starting Salary: $49,537
    Salary after 4 years: $64,278
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BA in Homeland Security

    Concentrations

    • Disaster management
    • Intelligence studies
    • Security operations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1077/22

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Murray State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,432
    Expenses: $15,655
    Starting Salary: $53,318
    Salary after 4 years: $69,185
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity and Network Management

    Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity
    • Wireless Communications
    • Network and Systems Administration
    • Required Credits: 102-104
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/19

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at University of the Cumberlands

    Cost of Degree: $9,875
    Starting Salary: $43,187
    Salary after 4 years: $51,524

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BAS in Information Technology

    Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity
    • Infrastructure
    • Management
    • Software Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology

    Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity
    • Infrastructure
    • Management
    • Software Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online

Career Outlook for Students with Cybersecurity Degree

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Computer And Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: Kentucky (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $9,473
  • Avg. Expenses*: $15,102
  • 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%$121,170
Database Architects10.00%$101,420
Managers, All Other3.35%$100,880
Computer Network Architects3.55%$99,910
Information Security Analysts31.56%$88,820

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$50,125$85,084$135,470

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#30 Kentucky14% higher than average$85,084
#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$121,170
Database Architects$101,420
Managers, All Other$100,880

Interested in an online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity but not sure where to study? Kentucky isn’t the only state that has excellent degrees! Look into online bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity in North Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and more!

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