Best Online Bachelor’s of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Montana

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

Montana's Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs

Sort by:
  1. Montana State University–Northern
  2. University of Providence
  3. University of North Dakota
  4. Bismarck State College
  5. Boise State University
  1. University of North Dakota
  2. Boise State University
  3. Bismarck State College
  4. University of Providence
  5. Montana State University–Northern
  1. University of Providence 95%
  2. Boise State University 84%
  3. University of North Dakota 83%
  1. Boise State University 20 to 1
  2. University of North Dakota 17 to 1
  3. Bismarck State College 14 to 1
  4. Montana State University–Northern 14 to 1
  5. University of Providence 7 to 1
  1. University of Providence $27,606
  2. University of North Dakota $9,237
  3. Boise State University $5,532
  4. Montana State University–Northern $4,496
  5. Bismarck State College $4,167
  1. University of Providence $24,237
  2. University of North Dakota $11,963
  3. Boise State University $7,236
  4. Montana State University–Northern $5,742
  1. Boise State University
  2. Bismarck State College
  3. University of North Dakota
  4. University of Providence
  5. Montana State University–Northern
  1. Montana State University–Northern
  2. University of Providence
  3. Bismarck State College
  4. Boise State University
  5. University of North Dakota
  1. University of North Dakota 83%
  2. Boise State University 84%
  3. University of Providence 95%
  1. University of Providence 7 to 1
  2. Bismarck State College 14 to 1
  3. Montana State University–Northern 14 to 1
  4. University of North Dakota 17 to 1
  5. Boise State University 20 to 1
  1. Bismarck State College $4,167
  2. Montana State University–Northern $4,496
  3. Boise State University $5,532
  4. University of North Dakota $9,237
  5. University of Providence $27,606
  1. Montana State University–Northern $5,742
  2. Boise State University $7,236
  3. University of North Dakota $11,963
  4. University of Providence $24,237

Montana is one of the states where people escape the fast-paced city life because of its stunning landscape, outdoor recreation options, and community. However, this state has recently experienced a rise in technical innovation and entrepreneurship, changing how it sees itself.

The state is making significant progress in hardening its technological infrastructure and guarding against cyber threats while not being typically identified with cutting-edge cyber security. Montana and North Dakota are combining efforts to make the state a regional tech hub. These efforts will provide more opportunities for cybersecurity professionals to pursue stable careers as the state’s reliance on technology and information security increases.

For a full list of the best colleges and universities in Montana, check out our ranking.

Featured Programs

Cyber Security: A Top Degree for the Next Decade

Cyber security is one of the fastest-evolving industries around the world, with over 755,743 vacant positions in the United States alone. That’s why we’ve ranked cyber security degrees as the best degree for jobs over the next decade.

A bachelor’s alone can open up many cybersecurity jobs. One of the most common career paths for cyber security bachelor’s graduates is information security.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for information security analysts will grow to about 32% in the next ten years. Currently, these professionals make $112,000 annually, on average.

According to the world-leading cyber security expert Isaac Ben-Israel, everyone needs protection against cyber threats, including government agencies, big and small organizations, and simple citizens.

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

online cyber security student in a computer lab
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Montana Colleges Answering the Demand for Cyber Security Degrees Online

There are 2 Montana colleges offering cybersecurity programs that the National Security Agency recognizes. We’ve included three nearby out-of-state colleges and universities offering low costs and tuition discounts to broaden your search. Montana cyber security degrees online offer maximum flexibility and convenience to prepare students for cybersecurity careers.

For more about Montana colleges, visit The Best Colleges in Montana.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security in Montana

What will I learn in an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity program in Montana?

An online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree in Montana follows the same on-campus curriculum, which typically explores software development, systems administration, and computer science. Cybersecurity courses include:

  • Cryptography
  • Software Programming
  • Data Analytics
  • Information Security
  • Systems Administration
  • National Security Policy
  • Cyber Threat Intelligence
  • Enterprise Risk Management
  • Network Security Administration
  • Digital Forensics
  • Network Administration

These courses develop student’s Mathematics, Computer Science, Organization, Time Management, and Self-Pacing skills. They’ll be able to analyze computer networks, identify vulnerabilities and cybersecurity threats, propose solutions, address ethical issues, and develop organizational cybersecurity strategies for private, public, or non-profit organizations, including organizations like Homeland Security and the National Security Agency (NSA).

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

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

A bachelor’s degree in cyber security opens up a lot of career opportunities, from the cyber security field to other industries that need information security management. It is the basic qualification for students who want to become:

Computer and Information Systems Managers

Median Pay: $164,070

Growth Rate: 15%

Computer Network Architects

Median Pay: $126,900

Growth Rate: 4%

Database Administrators and Architects

Median Pay: $112,120

Growth Rate: 8%

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Median Pay: $90,520

Growth Rate: 2%

How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in cybersecurity in Montana?

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

Is it cheaper to get a cybersecurity degree online?

Online bachelor’s degree programs are cheaper if pursued at in-state public colleges or colleges that are part of a tuition reciprocity agreement. 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.

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

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

cyber security professional working at a desk in an office
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Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Programs in Montana

  1. #1

    Montana State University–Northern

    Havre , MT
    #6 Best Public Colleges in Montana 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Montana 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Montana 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Montana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    29%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Montana State University–Northern

    Cost of Degree: $5,955
    Expenses: $11,070
    Starting Salary: $50,923
    Salary after 4 years: $66,077
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The online BAS in Business Technology offers students foundational knowledge for cybersecurity positions. The program’s curriculum covers fundamental technology concepts, hardware, and software.

    Graduates will acquire risk management, project management, and broad knowledge of utilizing technology principles and ideas, which can help them apply for advanced degrees or industry certifications in the cybersecurity field.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Business Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Providence

    Great Falls , MT
    #10 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Montana 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Montana 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    730/19

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at University of Providence

    Cost of Degree: $27,606
    Expenses: $15,233
    Starting Salary: $43,640
    Salary after 4 years: $52,064
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    While it may not be a cybersecurity-specific degree, Providence’s online BS in Criminal Justice provides students with the foundational skills in demand in the cybersecurity industry, including investigation, law, and ethics. This can also qualify students for various programs directly related to cybersecurity.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. cyber security student working in a computer lab
  3. #3

    University of North Dakota

    Grand Forks , ND
    #1 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #5 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools North Dakota 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at University of North Dakota

    Cost of Degree: $10,951
    Expenses: $14,416
    Starting Salary: $72,855
    Salary after 4 years: $94,536
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Neighboring Montana, the University of North Dakota offers an excellent cyber defense education that can be completed fully online. UND’s Bachelor in Cybersecurity is one of the most affordable online degrees, offering online students the same tuition and fees regardless of their state residency.

    Online students will explore various courses, including Engineering Systems Reliability, Cyber-Physical Energy Systems Security, Emerging Cyber Threats and Defenses, and Introduction to Smart Grid.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Bismarck State College

    Bismarck , ND
    #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Dakota 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in North Dakota 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in North Dakota 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Bismarck State College

    Cost of Degree: $5,143
    Expenses: $12,330
    Starting Salary: $67,561
    Salary after 4 years: $87,667
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Bismarck State College is one of the most well-known cybersecurity schools for its flexibility, affordability, and convenience. The online BA in Cybersecurity and Information Technology emphasizes best practices in data processing and network security to give students a solid foundation in cybersecurity for IT assignments.

    Students explore courses in Firewall Implementation, Virtualization, Cloud Computing, Networking, Incident Response, and Data Security. Online students have internship opportunities.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BAS in Cybersecurity and Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  6. #5

    Boise State University

    Boise , ID
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Boise State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,364
    Expenses: $20,352
    Starting Salary: $54,326
    Salary after 4 years: $70,493
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Boise State’s BA in Cybersecurity and Information Technology offers an affordable online education for out-of-state students. While coursework can be completed online, students can pursue practical experience on campus. They can also follow an accelerated option that allows them to graduate in less than four years, allowing them to enter the workforce faster.

    Courses include Cyber Systems Thinking, Information Assurance and Critical Thinking, Cyber Risk Management, and Cyber Project Management and Design.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cyber Operations and Resilience
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 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: Montana (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $7,527
  • Avg. Expenses*: $16,091
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 10 years
  • Job Growth: 11.36%
  • Number of Jobs: 1,573,500
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Database Architects10.00%$106,810
Computer and Information Systems Managers15.41%$103,340
Computer Network Architects3.55%$102,410
Managers, All Other3.35%$85,340
Information Security Analysts31.56%$81,080

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$53,853$79,120$131,675

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#47 Montana3% higher than average$79,120
#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
Database Architects$106,810
Computer and Information Systems Managers$103,340
Computer Network Architects$102,410
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.
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