Best Online Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity in Virginia 2025

Badge for BEST ONLINE CYBERSECURITY BACHELOR'S IN VIRGINIA

Key Takeaways

  • An online bachelor’s degree in cyber security can lead to a career as an information security analyst, a field that is expected to grow by 32% over the next decade.
  • The field of cyber security can lead to a position with a higher than average salary.
  • The best online bachelor’s in cyber security program in Virginia features courses in related disciplines, including computer science and information technology.

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best online bachelor’s in cybersecurity programs in Virginia saw a considerable amount of shuffling. The University of Virginia was able to gain the top ranking position as the university expanded hands-on virtual labs that mirror real-world cybersecurity environments, enabling students to develop practical skills in a fully remote setting. The program also now incorporates updated coursework on emerging threats, such as AI-driven attacks and quantum computing risks, ensuring students learn cutting-edge techniques in threat detection and prevention.

Additionally, UVA has increased its partnership with tech companies and government agencies, offering students more internship opportunities and mentorships, which bolster job placement and provide valuable networking within the cybersecurity field.

Homeland Security, the National Security Agency, the CIA, and other federal agencies, which house some of the most sensitive data in the world, are among the most important targets for technology hacking on the planet, and they are all located in Virginia. Additionally, Virginia is among the top states with the highest number of tech companies in the US. As a result, it’s one of the major targets of hackers.

US experts in cyber security and government organizations have noted a sharp rise in cyberattacks in 2020 that have links to the Chinese government. In addition to Virginia, organizations involved in crucial COVID-19 vaccine research and development were the focus of these attacks nationwide.

The Virginia state government, in particular, had to enhance its cyber security measures. An increase in cyber security jobs and programs in Virginia help safeguard sensitive information and respond to these cyber threats effectively. Virginia actively prepares for such threats through initiatives like the INNOVATE Cyber Challenge, involving students from various colleges.

Featured Programs

Cyber Security: A Top Degree for the Next Decade

Cyber security is definitely growing in demand in Virginia, just as it is around the world. Information security jobs are expected to grow by 32% 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 cyber security job market in Virginia. That’s why we’ve ranked cyber security degrees as the best degree for jobs over the next decade.

Cyber security is a relatively new field, but the need for cyber security professionals is already very widespread. In our interview with world-leading cyber security expert Isaac Ben-Israel, Ben-Israel reminds us that even ten years ago, cyber security degrees were unheard of. Today, you can learn cyber security in nearly every university.

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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Virginia Colleges Answering the Demand for Cyber Security Degrees Online

We’ve identified 10 colleges with online cyber security bachelor’s degrees in Virginia. Online degrees offer students in Virginia 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 Virginia’s top ranked colleges like Old Dominion University and Regent University. For more about Virginia colleges visit The Best Colleges in Virginia.

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Best Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security Programs in Virginia

  1. #1

    University of Virginia

    Charlottesville , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1470/33

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at University of Virginia

    Cost of Degree: $22,323
    Expenses: $18,940
    Starting Salary: $98,453
    Salary after 4 years: $122,491
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of Virginia, which has recently received significant funding to support its cyber security activities, is at the forefront of the fight against cyber crimes. In close collaboration with other research groups like the Link Lab, Software Engineering, and AI, UVA’s Department of Computer Science has a rapidly expanding group of faculty working in cyber security.

    Students who enroll in UVA’s Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies and major in Cybersecurity Analysis can participate in faculty-led research activities in cyber security. Students must complete four required CSA courses and two required elective CSA courses, including Cybersecurity Policy, Law and Ethics, Securing the Cyber World, Human Factors in Cybersecurity, and Writing and Communications in a Technical Field. The program’s electives are Digital Forensics & Cybercrime, Mobile Security & Forensics, Ethical Hacking, and Data Analytics & Decision-Making.

    Students can plot their schedule and decide how many courses they’ll enroll in each semester. Full-time students typically earn the degree in 3 years, while busy working adults have up to 6 years.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online
  2. Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    47K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/28

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at George Mason University

    Cost of Degree: $13,815
    Expenses: $19,933
    Starting Salary: $79,234
    Salary after 4 years: $98,579
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    George Mason University’s College of Computing and Engineering is one of the best Virginia schools for cyber security, thanks to its deep ties with government and industry professionals. GMU also houses one of the best student-led organizations for cyber security, the Mason Competitive Cyber (MCC) Club. This club features several events to boost practical knowledge and collaboration among cyber security students.

    GMU’s Bachelor of Applied Science is open for students who have earned an AAS degree in an accredited community college. Eligible students can pursue cybersecurity and explore topics like Information Security, Computer Crime, Forensics and Auditing, and Information Security Principles.

    Students can further tailor their cyber security degrees by choosing their own Technical Focus courses. Each cyber security student will receive one-on-one guidance from an academic advisor in determining which courses best fit their goals.

    This program is also best for those planning to pursue graduate school.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    Bachelor of Applied Science
    • Required Credits: 120-126
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  3. Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/24

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Old Dominion University

    Cost of Degree: $12,262
    Expenses: $19,392
    Starting Salary: $60,386
    Salary after 4 years: $75,130
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Old Dominion University offers two cyber security degrees that focus on helping students break into an entry-level cyber security career in federal government agencies as well as private for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

    ODU’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity has been recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Operations by the National Security Agency. Students who qualify for this degree will receive various professional development opportunities and a comprehensive curriculum.

    Cyber security major courses explore topics, including Cybersecurity Techniques and Operations, Cyber Law, Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy, Cybercriminology, and Cryptography.

    The second degree students can pursue at ODU is the BS in Interdisciplinary Studies in Cybercrime. Similar to the BS in cybersecurity degree, this program will cover similar topics. However, students with this bachelor’s degree will study with a focus on the disciplines of criminal justice, computer science, and information technology.

    Both degree programs require students to complete an experiential learning opportunity, such as an internship.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies

    Concentrations

    • Cybercrime
    • Leadership
    • Professional Writing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. college student working on an online course

  5. #4

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $15,822
    Expenses: $21,458
    Starting Salary: $50,745
    Salary after 4 years: $56,247
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Cybersecurity at Liberty University offers a curriculum focused on helping students acquire the proficiency levels to assist businesses in creating secure networks and safeguarding crucial data. Featured courses of the program include Advanced Programming Using C++, Network Architecture and Protocols, Technical Aspects of Computer Security, and Modern Cryptography.

    Thanks to the comprehensive coursework at Liberty University, students will graduate with polished technical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities that allow them to implement and maintain complex software systems on schedule and under budget.

    The online cyber security program at Liberty University is one of the most sought-after degrees of candidates with an associate degree from an accredited community college. Liberty University allows eligible students to transfer up to 75% of the required credit hours.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Computer Science Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
  6. #5

    Regent University

    Virginia Beach , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    32%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/22

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Regent University

    Cost of Degree: $20,686
    Expenses: $12,146
    Starting Salary: $55,893
    Salary after 4 years: $61,953
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Regent University is among the best cyber security colleges in Virginia, offering two cybersecurity degree programs: The BS in Cyber and Digital Forensics and the BS in Cybersecurity.

    Both degree programs are designed to equip students with the necessary abilities to defend, secure, and protect sensitive information and data of federal government agencies and private sectors. The BS in cyber security is ideal for students seeking a more comprehensive curriculum, while the cyber and digital forensics is for those who want to develop forensic techniques to identify and gather digital evidence for legal or investigative purposes.

    Both programs cover Network Defense and Security, Management of Information Security, Information Systems Security, and Network and Telecommunication Concepts.

    Regent University is also a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) institution.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cyber and Digital Forensics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  7. Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    40%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    940/17

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Norfolk State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,910
    Expenses: $17,592
    Starting Salary: $48,111
    Salary after 4 years: $59,857
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    With Information Assurance and Cybersecurity programs to meet the rising demand for varied cyber security professionals, Norfolk State University leads the way in cyber research and teaching. The program trains students in various cyber-related subjects in their Cybersecurity Complex, which has cutting-edge facilities, enabling them to meet cyber security issues in the future. Norfolk State University holds key designations, including the Cybercorps Scholarship for Service, Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence, and the National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research for its cyber security education and research programs.

    Norfolk’s ABET-accredited online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science allows students to pursue a cyber security track and study advanced topics in Cryptography and Network Security, Digital Forensics, Computer Architecture, and Computer Network Defense. Graduates will be in a good position to start lucrative careers in cyber security and contribute to continuing initiatives to safeguard digital data in a world that is becoming more interconnected.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  8. Strayer University has 78 physical campuses and online, with one located in Arlington. The online programs offered by Strayer University provide a practical route for people interested in earning degrees without having to relocate.

    One of Strayer’s online degrees is the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology minor in Cybersecurity, designed for students seeking a broad IT foundation while studying cyber security practices. This minor helps students develop a specialized skill set in cyber security and gain a deeper understanding of how to defend against cyberattacks and safeguard sensitive information.

    Required cyber security minor courses include Networking, Networking Security, Computer Forensic Technology, Perimeter Defense Techniques, and Network Penetration Testing.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Information Technology minor in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  9. #8

    ECPI University

    Virginia Beach , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    17K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at ECPI University

    Cost of Degree: $18,484
    Starting Salary: $48,171
    Salary after 4 years: $53,393

    With a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education designation, ECPI University’s Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security Technology is among the most competitive online cyber security degrees. ECPI University tailored this program’s curriculum to meet 21st-century employer demands. Moving away from traditional book-based learning, ECPI promotes a more practical, hands-on approach to cyber security education that requires students to attend workshops, labs, and externships.

    The program’s core curriculum includes advanced topics like Cloud Solutions, Linux Administration, Applied Project Management, and Python Scripting. Students will also explore Ethical Hacking, Advanced Defense and Countermeasures, and a Cyber and Network Security Capstone as part of their Cyber and Information Security Technology major courses.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cyber and Information Security Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2.5 years
    • Format: Online
  10. #9

    Averett University

    Danville , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/19

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Averett University

    Cost of Degree: $38,550
    Expenses: $16,890
    Starting Salary: $60,060
    Salary after 4 years: $66,572
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Averett University offers an affordable Bachelor of Applied Science with a minor focus on Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics designed for students with an Associates Applied Science degree. Key topics of the programs explore IT Infrastructure, Data Transfer and Networking, and Computer and Network Security. Graduates of this online program are prepared to pursue information security and cybercrime positions in today’s technologically advanced society.

    One of the main advantages of this online degree program is that students can fully tailor their degrees with help from Averett’s excellent academic advisors. Students can tailor their schedules and be able to choose electives that will help expand their knowledge and skills in cybersecurity and other related fields.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BAS in Applied Science

    Concentrations

    • Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
  11. #10

    Bluefield University

    Bluefield , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for Cybersecurity degree at Bluefield University

    Cost of Degree: $29,696
    Expenses: $13,624
    Starting Salary: $56,383
    Salary after 4 years: $62,496
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Bluefield University is a top option for students looking for faculty members to give them individualized attention. The university is dedicated to offering a welcoming and flexible learning environment, emphasizing small class sizes and a strong sense of community.

    The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Bluefield offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students with various educational backgrounds for a career in cyber security. With a focus on incorporating Christian values, the curriculum includes a range of skills, from fundamental computer security ideas to sophisticated hacker tracking tactics.

    Major requirements of the programs explore several cyber security topics, such as Network Switching and Routing, Digital Forensics, Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems, Ethical Hacking and System Defense, and Linux Fundamentals. The curriculum also includes a Cybersecurity and IT Certification Preparation course dedicated to helping students gain the expertise required to succeed in the cyber security and IT industries.

    Online students will be required to complete an internship.

    Online Cybersecurity Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 2-4 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: Virginia (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $12,263
  • Avg. Expenses*: $18,139
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $65,838
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 12 years
  • Job Growth: 12.77%
  • Number of Jobs: 1,616,000
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’
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Student Submitted Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Cyber Security in Virginia

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

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
  • Information Security
  • Systems Administration
  • National Security Policy

Key learning skills for your online bachelor’s 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 cybersecurity degree in Virginia?

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

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

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

You can do a lot of jobs in computer and network security with an online bachelor’s degree in cyber security. The bachelor’s 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 for your organization. This includes maintenance, updates, data management, security, and more. These professionals earned a median pay of $90,520 in 2022. The Labor Statistics Bureau projects a 2% rate of growth by 2032, with 19,800 new jobs added.

cyber security expert sitting in an office in front of several computers

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

It typically takes four to six years, or 120 credits, to earn an online bachelor’s in cyber security. 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 than a traditional degree?

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.

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’s next after earning an online bachelor’s in cyber security in Virginia?

Depending on your interests and job goals, you can choose from several alternatives for continuing education once you have earned your cyber security bachelor’s degree online. Many cyber security graduates begin their careers in entry-level cyber security positions, while others prioritize earning industry-recognized cyber security certificate programs to enhance qualifications and job prospects.

On the other hand, those who want to expand their specializations and pursue advanced roles consider pursuing cyber security master’s programs. Online master’s degrees provide graduates with opportunities for more senior and specialized cyber security jobs like cyber security manager, security architect, or consultant.

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Why pursue cyber security studies in Virginia?

Virginia boasts a wealth of prestigious colleges and universities that have embraced the importance of cyber security education. These institutions provide a wide range of cybersecurity degree and certification programs, accepting both traditional on-campus and online students from Virginia and other countries.

Modern curricula created in partnership with industry experts and governmental organizations are part of the state’s commitment to cyber security education. Virginia’s dedication to this critical field makes it an attractive destination for those pursuing careers in cyber security, fostering a rich educational landscape accessible to both local and distant learners.

Virginia offers a supportive environment for cyber security experts and prospective students through various professional organizations, in addition to a strong job market and competitive compensation. Professional organizations are important in fostering collaboration, networking, and continuous learning within the cybersecurity community.

Three of Virginia’s biggest cyber security professional organizations are Virginia Cyber Security Partnership, CyberVirginia, and ISSA-NOVA. These professional organizations offer access to special job vacancies, mentorship possibilities, and certification options, all of which can help one advance their career.

There are also several financial aid opportunities that are unique to cyber security education students in Virginia. One of its biggest financial assistance is the Virginia Scholarship for Service. Other notable scholarship opportunities include the G3 – Get Skilled, Get a Job, Get Ahead, Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program, and Virginia Commonwealth Award.

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The Demand for Cyber Security Professionals in Virginia

Virginia is one of the hottest states for professionals seeking job opportunities, competitive compensation, and high job security in cyber security. With almost 58,000 available opportunities, according to recent data from Cyber Seek, the state has a staggering need for cyber security specialists and information security analysts. This astonishing number places Virginia second only to California regarding cyber security job availability.

Moreover, the BLS indicates that Information Security Analysts in Virginia have an average annual pay of $131,340, surpassing the national average of $112,000. This high earning potential reflects the acknowledged importance of cyber security in protecting infrastructure, technology systems, and sensitive data in the state.

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

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