Best Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Michigan

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By Dr. James Barham
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Updated:

The online bachelor’s in cybersecurity is an increasingly valuable degree that can lead to an excellent career with competitive pay in Michigan. 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.

Michigan's Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs

Sort by:
  1. Eastern Michigan University
  2. Ferris State University
  3. Davenport University
  4. Northwood University
  5. Concordia University Ann Arbor
  6. Baker College
  1. Eastern Michigan University
  2. Ferris State University
  3. Northwood University
  4. Baker College
  5. Davenport University
  6. Concordia University Ann Arbor
  1. Davenport University 99%
  2. Ferris State University 88%
  3. Eastern Michigan University 83%
  4. Northwood University 80%
  5. Concordia University Ann Arbor 70%
  6. Baker College 37%
  1. Davenport University 16 to 1
  2. Ferris State University 15 to 1
  3. Eastern Michigan University 14 to 1
  4. Concordia University Ann Arbor 11 to 1
  5. Baker College 8 to 1
  6. Northwood University 8 to 1
  1. Concordia University Ann Arbor $32,982
  2. Northwood University $31,600
  3. Davenport University $22,244
  4. Eastern Michigan University $16,410
  5. Ferris State University $13,076
  6. Baker College $12,710
  1. Northwood University $37,080
  2. Davenport University $17,262
  3. Eastern Michigan University $16,857
  4. Concordia University Ann Arbor $14,166
  5. Baker College $12,510
  6. Ferris State University $8,532
  1. Baker College
  2. Concordia University Ann Arbor
  3. Northwood University
  4. Davenport University
  5. Ferris State University
  6. Eastern Michigan University
  1. Concordia University Ann Arbor
  2. Davenport University
  3. Baker College
  4. Northwood University
  5. Ferris State University
  6. Eastern Michigan University
  1. Baker College 37%
  2. Concordia University Ann Arbor 70%
  3. Northwood University 80%
  4. Eastern Michigan University 83%
  5. Ferris State University 88%
  6. Davenport University 99%
  1. Baker College 8 to 1
  2. Northwood University 8 to 1
  3. Concordia University Ann Arbor 11 to 1
  4. Eastern Michigan University 14 to 1
  5. Ferris State University 15 to 1
  6. Davenport University 16 to 1
  1. Baker College $12,710
  2. Ferris State University $13,076
  3. Eastern Michigan University $16,410
  4. Davenport University $22,244
  5. Northwood University $31,600
  6. Concordia University Ann Arbor $32,982
  1. Ferris State University $8,532
  2. Baker College $12,510
  3. Concordia University Ann Arbor $14,166
  4. Eastern Michigan University $16,857
  5. Davenport University $17,262
  6. Northwood University $37,080

Key Takeaways

  • Michigan is one of the country’s top employers of tech related professionals.
  • As such, the state’s undergraduate cybersecurity program offerings have expanded to keep pace with the growing market.
  • As a result, Michigan offers some of the country’s top online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity degree programs–both for in-state and out-of-state students.

Featured Programs

Building a Cybersecurity Career in Michigan

Students pursuing an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity in Michigan will find that the Wolverine State is among the best states for a cybersecurity career!

Michigan is a leader in the industries of information technology and cybersecurity.Michigan is ranked in the 2020 CompTIA Cyberstates report as the 11th in the US for net technology employment while Business Facilities magazine ranked it 9th for cybersecurity leaders and tech jobs growth.

This is thanks to Michigan’s innovative initiatives and its leaders whose enterprise-wide approach to cybersecurity strengthens its defense policies. The state government has also established robust partnerships with Michigan’s education sector to boost cyber defense education among its students.

The Merit Network12 (Merit) consortium, for example, led the creation of the Michigan Cyber Range (MCR), a virtual private training platform. Even students in bachelor’s in cybersecurity degree programs can benefit from the training provided by these cyber ranges. The training opportunities include industry-recognized certifications, workshops and exercises.

The Fundamentals of an Undergraduate Cybersecurity Program

Every cybersecurity degree program will likely cover the fundamentals of the Michigan Data Security Act, the definitive law on the state’s cybersecurity measures. Their curricula are also designed in accordance with the guidelines set by federal agencies, such as the NSA or National Security Agency and the DHS or Department of Homeland Security.

Typical Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree programs have a 120-credit or 180-quarter unit curriculum depending on the academic calendar used. The average time-to-completion is four years with full-time enrollment. Transfer of credits from an associate degree, placement courses, and military service are often accepted on a program-by-program basis.

Cybersecurity Coursework

The didactic courses are divided into three sections, namely:

  • General education courses, which are liberal arts courses that contribute to a well-rounded education
  • Major or concentration courses that equip students with career-specific knowledge and skills
  • Elective courses that broaden the students’ interdisciplinary knowledge of the cybersecurity industry and its possible career implications

Major courses provide a comprehensive coverage of cybersecurity fundamentals.

While each cybersecurity degree program has a specific sequence of courses and prerequisites, common courses include:

  • The Computer Organization and Assembly course prepares students for the complex concepts of computer architecture. Topics include input/output systems, computer networks and interfacing, and assembly language programming.
  • The Data Structure and Algorithm Analysis course emphasizes data and algorithm design. Topics include advanced tree structures, dynamic programming, and divide-and-conquer.
  • The Database Management Systems course is an introduction to the fundamentals of database concepts including ER modeling, design theory, and query processing. Database security is also covered.
  • Other major courses are operating systems and computer networks.

Requirements of Michigan’s Undergraduate Cybersecurity Programs

Students must possess strong STEM skills to keep up with these cybersecurity courses.

Most cybersecurity degree programs also require students to complete one or all of these graduation requirements:

  • A capstone course where students demonstrate their cybersecurity knowledge and skills through a technical project;
  • A seminar course where students participate in a major software project with emphasis on real-world applications; and/or
  • An internship with a cybersecurity company where real-world exposures are critical for experiential learning

Depending on the bachelor’s degree program, a cybersecurity major can be a standalone degree or a concentration within computer science. Many programs also offer concentrations in cybersecurity, such as digital forensics.

After Graduation

Graduates of online cybersecurity programs are able to:

  • Analyze complex cybersecurity and computing issues using a multidisciplinary approach and identify viable solutions
  • Design, execute and evaluate computer programs and network systems suitable for an organization’s security needs
  • Work well with a team in delivering cybersecurity solutions

With career-specific knowledge and skills, graduates qualify for entry-to-mid-level positions in the information technology and cybersecurity sectors. Popular job titles include digital forensics specialists, information security analysts, and penetration testers. Many of these occupations require professional certifications.

What’s next after earning a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity? You can also pursue a master’s in information assurance, information technology, or advanced cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity: A Top Degree for the Next Decade

Cybersecurity is definitely growing in demand in Michigan, 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 Michigan. 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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Michigan Colleges Answering the Demand for Cybersecurity Degrees Online

We’ve identified 6 colleges with online cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees in Michigan. Online degrees offer students in Michigan 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 Michigan’s top ranked colleges like Eastern Michigan University and Ferris State University. For more about Michigan colleges visit The Best Colleges in Michigan.

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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 Michigan
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Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Programs in Michigan

  1. #1

    Eastern Michigan University

    Ypsilanti , MI
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/21

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Eastern Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $16,410
    Expenses: $14,566
    Starting Salary: $55,335
    Salary after 4 years: $71,802
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Ferris State University

    Big Rapids , MI
    #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Michigan 2024 #5 Best Online Associate in Marketing #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #10 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1030/20

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Ferris State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,608
    Expenses: $13,600
    Starting Salary: $62,519
    Salary after 4 years: $81,125
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Information Security and Intelligence
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Northwood University

    Midland , MI
    #5 Best Online MBA in Economics Degree Programs Ranked in 2024 #9 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Online Master's in Economics #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/20

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Northwood University

    Cost of Degree: $31,600
    Expenses: $16,222
    Starting Salary: $62,068
    Salary after 4 years: $74,049
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity
    • Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    Concordia University Ann Arbor

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #9 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Online MBAs in Sustainability #14 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs #15 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Concordia University Ann Arbor

    Cost of Degree: $32,982
    Expenses: $17,860
    Starting Salary: $45,901
    Salary after 4 years: $54,761
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Applied Computer Science

    Minors and Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity
    • Software Engineering
    • Information Systems
    • Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
    • Computer Animation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Baker College

    Owosso , MI
    #7 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #1 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024 #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) #7 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Web Design Degree Programs 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    37%

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Baker College

    Cost of Degree: $12,710
    Expenses: $12,700
    Starting Salary: $35,952
    Salary after 4 years: $42,892
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Information Systems

    Concentrations

    • Assurance Specialist
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in IT and Security

    Concentrations

    • Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • 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: Michigan (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $15,606
  • Avg. Expenses*: $14,269
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $59,558
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $74,564
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 9 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%$133,740
Computer Network Architects3.55%$117,990
Managers, All Other3.35%$111,800
Information Security Analysts31.56%$98,620
Project Management Specialists6.21%$91,320

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$58,039$93,068$143,875

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#12 Michigan15% higher than average$93,068
#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$133,740
Computer Network Architects$117,990
Managers, All Other$111,800
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.

Michigan is just one of the many states that have wonderful online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity programs. States such as Tennessee, Texas, and Nebraska have some of the best programs in the country where students will be equipped to face the challenging issues that face the cyber world today.

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