Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity

Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • The fastest online PhD in cyber security degrees can be completed in 3-4 years, while a traditional PhD program can take 6-10 years.

  • Graduates of an online cyber security program have numerous career advancement opportunities working for government agencies, private companies, nonprofit organizations, and think tanks, among others.

  • To determine which online PhD in cyber security program is right for you, make sure that it is accredited, has credentialed faculty, strong student support services, and a research focus area related to your interests.

Fastest Online Doctorate in Cyber Security Degree Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of North Texas
  2. Nova Southeastern University
  3. National University
  4. New Jersey City University
  5. Capella University
  6. Marymount University
  7. Colorado Technical University
  8. University of the Cumberlands
  9. Capitol Technology University
  10. Dakota State University
  1. University of North Texas
  2. Nova Southeastern University
  3. National University
  4. Capella University
  5. New Jersey City University
  6. Marymount University
  7. Colorado Technical University
  8. Capitol Technology University
  9. University of the Cumberlands
  10. Dakota State University
  1. New Jersey City University 90%
  2. University of the Cumberlands 83%
  3. Marymount University 81%
  4. University of North Texas 79%
  5. Dakota State University 79%
  6. Nova Southeastern University 76%
  7. Capitol Technology University 64%
  1. Capella University 35 to 1
  2. Colorado Technical University 31 to 1
  3. University of North Texas 23 to 1
  4. University of the Cumberlands 18 to 1
  5. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  6. Nova Southeastern University 17 to 1
  7. National University 16 to 1
  8. New Jersey City University 15 to 1
  9. Marymount University 13 to 1
  10. Capitol Technology University 9 to 1
  1. Marymount University $37,600
  2. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  3. Capitol Technology University $27,004
  4. Capella University $14,328
  5. New Jersey City University $13,384
  6. National University $13,320
  7. Colorado Technical University $12,696
  8. University of the Cumberlands $9,875
  9. University of North Texas $8,295
  10. Dakota State University $7,616
  1. Nova Southeastern University $22,062
  2. Marymount University $21,420
  3. National University $15,912
  4. Capella University $14,826
  5. New Jersey City University $14,346
  6. Colorado Technical University $13,937
  7. Capitol Technology University $11,340
  8. University of North Texas $6,350
  9. Dakota State University $5,999
  10. University of the Cumberlands $4,282
  1. Dakota State University
  2. Capitol Technology University
  3. University of the Cumberlands
  4. Colorado Technical University
  5. Marymount University
  6. Capella University
  7. New Jersey City University
  8. National University
  9. Nova Southeastern University
  10. University of North Texas
  1. Dakota State University
  2. University of the Cumberlands
  3. Capitol Technology University
  4. Colorado Technical University
  5. Marymount University
  6. New Jersey City University
  7. Capella University
  8. National University
  9. Nova Southeastern University
  10. University of North Texas
  1. Capitol Technology University 64%
  2. Nova Southeastern University 76%
  3. Dakota State University 79%
  4. University of North Texas 79%
  5. Marymount University 81%
  6. University of the Cumberlands 83%
  7. New Jersey City University 90%
  1. Capitol Technology University 9 to 1
  2. Marymount University 13 to 1
  3. New Jersey City University 15 to 1
  4. National University 16 to 1
  5. Nova Southeastern University 17 to 1
  6. University of the Cumberlands 18 to 1
  7. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  8. University of North Texas 23 to 1
  9. Colorado Technical University 31 to 1
  10. Capella University 35 to 1
  1. Dakota State University $7,616
  2. University of North Texas $8,295
  3. University of the Cumberlands $9,875
  4. Colorado Technical University $12,696
  5. National University $13,320
  6. New Jersey City University $13,384
  7. Capella University $14,328
  8. Capitol Technology University $27,004
  9. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  10. Marymount University $37,600
  1. University of the Cumberlands $4,282
  2. Dakota State University $5,999
  3. University of North Texas $6,350
  4. Capitol Technology University $11,340
  5. Colorado Technical University $13,937
  6. New Jersey City University $14,346
  7. Capella University $14,826
  8. National University $15,912
  9. Marymount University $21,420
  10. Nova Southeastern University $22,062

Programs that offer accelerated online cybersecurity doctorates offer working professionals the excellent opportunity to earn a terminal degree in a shorter time than it would take to complete a traditional doctorate degree. The rigorous coursework, advanced research skills requirements, and hands-on learning experiences prepare students for leadership roles in the competitive cybersecurity industry.

However, with the accelerated pace comes challenges that prospective students must plan for. Full-time enrollment is the norm. However, even with the accelerated degree course load, it’s possible to maintain employment and meet personal commitments with the right time management skills.

Cost can also be a huge factor when determining whether or not to pursue earning an online doctorate in cybersecurity. However, the cost can be made reasonable with financial aid.

There are many factors to keep in mind when deciding to go to graduate school and what you will study. Check out our article on the pros and cons of graduate school.

software developers working on a cyber defense plan for a company

Accreditation of the Fastest Online PhD in Cybersecurity Doctorate Degrees

Colleges and universities that offer accelerated online programs in cybersecurity must have national or regional accreditation from accreditation bodies authorized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The best online cybersecurity programs also have programmatic accreditation, particularly from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), and recognition from the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Admissions Requirements for Online PhD in Cybersecurity Programs

On-campus and online programs offering doctorates in cybersecurity degrees usually have the same admissions requirements and criteria. Applicants are evaluated based on holistic criteria, including their academic performance and potential, professional work experiences, and potential contribution to the cybersecurity field.

While admission requirements and criteria vary between online programs, here are the requirements that you can expect from a PhD in cyber security online program:

  • A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in cybersecurity, information technology, or computer science, among other technical fields, is a must. Some programs, however, accept academic degrees from other fields but require students to demonstrate aptitude in certain areas and complete prerequisite courses.
  • Official transcripts with minimum cumulative GPA requirement
  • Relevant professional work experience for a minimum number of years
  • Professional resume or curriculum vitae
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose or intent
  • GRE/GMAT scores

Online application and non-refundable application fee are also the norm.

IT programmer working in cyber security

Curriculum and Courses in Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs

There can be significant differences among online programs in cybersecurity, not only in the program of study, but also in the courses and their descriptions, requirements for graduation, and learning outcomes. The most common courses include:

  • Advanced Topics in Cybersecurity
  • Technology and Innovation Management
  • Cybersecurity Governance and Compliance
  • Cryptography and Data Protection
  • Network and Systems Security
  • Cyber Threat Intelligence and Analysis
  • Cybersecurity Risk Management
  • Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
  • Cybersecurity Research Methods
  • Cybersecurity Policy and Law
  • Emerging Technologies and Cybersecurity

Students will develop their cybersecurity skills through a combination of didactic online courses, dissertation activities, and even internships, practicum, or graduate assistantships.

Every online program also uses a learning management system (LMS), such as Canvas, Moodle, or Blackboard, which allow students and faculty members to upload and download learning materials and resources, submit assignments and projects, and engage in interactions. Most online programs adopt a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning methods, too.

Key Point: Aside from the coursework in cybersecurity-related topics, online cybersecurity programs also require students to complete dissertation coursework and submit an approved dissertation. The dissertation, the culminating requirement of any PhD program, is a scholarly paper that accounts for the entirety of your research work and adds to the existing body of knowledge in cybersecurity.

software engineers working for a cyber security company

Time-to-completion and Considerations in Accelerated Online Doctorate in Cybersecurity Degree Programs

The time-to-degree varies among online programs in cybersecurity, too, depending on several factors, such as the program structure, full-time or part-time matriculation, and the time required to complete the dissertation. In accelerated programs, however, earning a doctoral degree in as little as 3-4 years of full-time accelerated studies is common. Note that doctoral degree programs usually take 5-6 years to complete, and many programs have a 10-year maximum time-to-completion.

If you want to earn your doctoral degree in less time, look for cybersecurity degree programs that allow students to transfer credits from doctorate-level courses, relevant work experiences, and professional certifications.

An accelerated program, especially at the doctorate level, is not for everyone. To make sure that you are a good fit for this fast-paced program, consider trying out the pace at a lower level. If you haven’t already obtained your bachelor’s or your master’s, consider enrolling in one of the fastest bachelor’s or master’s degrees in cybersecurity.

Tuition and Financial Aid in Online Programs in Cybersecurity

Online PhD programs can be more affordable than traditional degree programs because traveling and incidental expenses associated with on-campus enrollment are removed from the picture. But it’s also important to remember that earning a doctorate degree in cybersecurity has its monetary costs that range between $20,000 and $60,000 or more every year in tuition and fees. Add in the cost of technology, such as your personal computer and Internet connection, and it will add up.

Fortunately, there are several financial aid options that graduate students are eligible for including:

  • Federal and state financial aid including work-study schemes and loans
  • Scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships
  • Grants and research funding
  • Private loans
  • Employer assistance, usually through tuition reimbursement

These financial aid options can be combined to increase the savings.

team meeting together to discuss cyber security defense plan
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Popular Careers and Salaries for Cybersecurity Professionals

Earning your PhD cybersecurity online degree opens up excellent career advancement opportunities in the cybersecurity field in diverse workplaces, including government agencies, privates companies, nonprofit organizations, and think tanks.

Here are some of the most popular occupations and their average annual salaries.

Key Point: Online PhD cybersecurity degrees are recognized and accepted by employers and clients. In fact, graduates are highly sought-after professionals who can earn six-figure salaries and enjoy the prestige that comes with an online PhD degree.

cyber security professionals working together in front of a desk
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Professional Organizations for Cybersecurity Professionals

Current and aspiring cybersecurity professionals choose to become members of these professional organizations for their valuable resources, professional support, and networking opportunities. Staying connected to the cybersecurity field and keeping up with trends are also benefits of membership.

  • International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)²
  • Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)
  • International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
  • Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
  • Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
  • CompTIA
  • National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCSA)
  • Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS)

Is an online doctorate degree in cybersecurity worth it?

Whether or not a cybersecurity degree is worth it will larger be determined by career and personal goals. However, the degree brings about numerous benefits including:

  • Career advancement
  • Expert cybersecurity skills and specializations
  • Credibility and recognition from your peers
  • Networking and collaboration opportunities
  • Research and other contributions to the advancement of cybersecurity

But earning a doctorate degree in cybersecurity will only be worth it if and when it’s aligned with your personal and professional goals.

Choosing the Best Doctorate in Cybersecurity Online Program for You

Be sure to consider these factors when choosing from online programs in cybersecurity at the post-graduate level:

  • Look for regional and programmatic accreditation.
  • Consider the program’s structure, degree requirements, and schedule, as well as its time-to-completion and academic rigor.
  • Ask about the credentials of faculty members and their research record and interests.
  • Check the research focus areas and determine if they are aligned with your intended research interests.
  • Consider the student support services and resources for online students.
  • Determine if the total cost of attendance and financial aid options are within your reach.

In case of doubt, coordinate with the program coordinators and/or the admissions counselors.

cyber security doctorate student working on a computer
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Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity Programs

  1. #1

    University of North Texas

    Denton , TX
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    49K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    What is University of North Texas known for?

    University of North Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of North Texas

    Tuition + fees: $11,994

    Doctor of Philosophy in Information Science - Cybersecurity Concentration

    The online PhD in Information Science - Cybersecurity Concentration program emphasizes the convergence of computer science, engineering, information technology, and decision sciences. Professionals pursuing this PhD in cybersecurity specialization benefit from the interdisciplinary training that enables them to practice cybersecurity from diverse perspectives.

    The online doctoral program is part of UNT’s center of excellence that nurtures next-gen leaders. Students pursuing the online cybersecurity PhD degree develop their research and publication skills and gain expert skills in pedagogical practices.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree with at least 3.5 GPA
    • GMAT/GRE scores
    • Three letters of recommendation
    • Statement of purpose
    • Resume

    Required Credit Hours: 60 (With master’s degree); 72 (With bachelor’s degree)

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Tuition: About $2,857 for three credits

    Featured Courses:

    • Introduction to Computer Security
    • Information Security Management
    • Information Warfare, Security and Risk Analysis

    University of North Texas’s Online Degrees

    PhD in Learning Technologies
    • Required Credits: 69
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    What is Nova Southeastern University known for?

    Nova Southeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Nova Southeastern University

    Tuition + fees: $35,560

    Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity Management

    The hybrid Ph.D. in Cybersecurity Management program provides students with an interdisciplinary and comprehensive view of contemporary cybersecurity principles and practices. Graduates of this online doctoral degree program are valued leaders in the public and private sectors because of their expert skills in cybersecurity and information security management.

    Students in the online cybersecurity PhD program must complete the academic requirements from start to finish. These include the qualifying stage for PhD candidacy, the dissertation proposal stage, and the dissertation defense.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in cybersecurity or other closely related field
    • Professional work experience
    • Strong research potential

    Required Credit Hours: 51 credits (With master’s degree); 66 credits (With bachelor’s degree)

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $969 - $1,386

    Featured Courses:

    • Information Systems Operations Management
    • Information Security Governance
    • Information System Auditing
    • Research Seminar in Cybersecurity Management

    Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

    PhD in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Juvenile Justice
    • Behavioral Science
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Cybersecurity Management
    • Required Credits: 67
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdD in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Curriculum And Teaching
    • Educational Leadership
    • Higher Education Leadership
    • Human Services Administration
    • Instructional Technology And Distance Education
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Reading Education
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EdS in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Curriculum And Instruction
    • Educational Leadership
    • Mathematics Education
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Nursing Education Curriculum
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Nursing DNP to PhD
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Post Professional Occupational Therapy
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DPT in Physical Therapy
    • Required Credits: 61
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Conflict Analysis And Resolution
    Degree Concentrations
    • Community-Based Conflict
    • Conflict In Organizations
    • Global Conflict
    • Interpersonal Conflict
    • Required Credits: 76
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. PhD student working on a dissertation
  3. #3

    National University

    San Diego , CA
    #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #3 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    29K

    What is National University known for?

    National University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    National University

    Tuition + fees: $13,320

    Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity

    The online PhD in Cybersecurity program prepares students for the challenges that come with the detection and prevention of security breaches, among other cybersecurity concerns. Students are encouraged to take an applied perspective when choosing their research topics and conducting their dissertation research.

    The curriculum of the cybersecurity program emphasizes the exploration of advanced topics in cybersecurity, as well as technology strategies applicable for diverse cybersecurity scenarios. Students in the online PhD in cybersecurity program choose from specializations in:

    • General and Technology
    • Global Strategy and Operations
    • Governance, Risk, and Compliance
    • Secure Cloud Computing

    Admission Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree with at least 2.5 GPA; GRE/GMAT and other standardized test scores are accepted for applicants who don’t meet GPA criteria
    • Official transcripts

    Required Credit Hours: 60 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Per Quarter Unit: $442

    Featured Courses:

    • Principles of Cybersecurity
    • Cyber Risk, Contingencies, and Incidents
    • Cyber Automation, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning

    National University ’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Organizational Innovation
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #4

    New Jersey City University

    Jersey City , NJ
    #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    8K

    New Jersey City University

    Tuition + fees: $13,168

    Doctor of Science in Civil Security Leadership, Management and Policy

    While the courses are delivered online, students in the DSc in Civil Security Leadership, Management, and Policy program must participate in on-campus residencies. Students gain expert skills in three areas: national security including homeland security and intelligence, corporate security, and information assurance. Civil security core competencies—communications, data analysis, emergency management, current issues, and policy and budget—along with advanced research skills are emphasized.

    Graduates are prepared for leadership positions in business, government, and nonprofits, as well as for tenured professorial positions in academia and research organizations.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Master’s degree with at least 3.5 GPA
    • Four years of relevant work experience
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Statement of purpose
    • Official transcripts

    Required Credit Hours: 48 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $800.70 (In-state and out-of-state)

    Featured Courses:

    • Current Issues in Civil Security Leadership, Management, and Policy
    • Civil Security Policy/Budget Development and Implementation
    • Data Analysis for Civil Security Leadership, Management, and Policy
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    6. cyber security professional working for a software development company
  6. #5

    Capella University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #10 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #2 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #5 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    68K

    What is Capella University known for?

    Capella University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Capella University

    Tuition + fees: $14,328

    Doctor of Information Technology

    The online Doctor of Information Technology program features an intensive curriculum with 13 core courses including specialization courses and two virtual residencies. The doctoral dissertation is the culminating requirement where students demonstrate their advanced information technology and cybersecurity competencies.

    Students build extensive knowledge and skills in information assurance and cybersecurity that prepare them for technology leadership roles. There’s also an integrated capstone requirement that enables students to expand their perspectives of information technology including cybersecurity.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Master’s degree with at least 3.0 GPA
    • Official transcripts
    • Valid government-issued form of photo identification

    Required Credit Hours: 70 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $765

    Featured Courses:

    • Research and Practice in Information Technology
    • System and Application Security Advances
    • Projects as Complex Adaptive Systems
    • Advanced Risk Management Systems and Research
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Marymount University

    Arlington , VA
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024 #13 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024 #17 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    4K

    What is Marymount University known for?

    Marymount University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Marymount University

    Tuition + fees: $36,800

    Doctor of Science in Cybersecurity

    Marymount’s online DSc in Cybersecurity program has a more practice-based approach than a PhD in Cybersecurity program. Students gain industry-specific skill sets that result in their eligibility for a wide range of top-level technology leadership positions, from national security to enterprise management. While technical skills are emphasized, transferable skills vital for success in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity are also developed.

    Both students and graduates benefit from Marymount’s proximity to many of the nation’s foremost cybersecurity agencies including the Department of Homeland Security, the National Security Agency, and the National Science Foundation. Plus, many of the world’s top technology companies are in the nation’s capital, too. Extensive research and employment opportunities are within reach!

    Admission Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree
    • Official transcripts
    • Graduate application
    • Professional résumé
    • Statement about research accomplishments and interests
    • Two writing samples
    • Interview

    Required Credit Hours: 36 credits (With master’s degree); 72 credits (With bachelor’s degree)

    Average Time-to-Degree:

    Per Credit Tuition: $1,190

    Featured Courses:

    • Managing Cybersecurity Risk
    • Cyber Threat Intelligence
    • Malware Analysis
    • Applied Research in Cybersecurity

    Marymount University’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Education
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    tDPT in Transitional Doctor Of Physical Therapy
    • Required Credits: 20
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    tOTD in Transitional Doctor Of Occupational Therapy
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    9. cyber security doctoral student working in an internship
  9. #7

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    50K

    What is Colorado Technical University known for?

    Colorado Technical University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Colorado Technical University

    Tuition + fees: $12,581

    Doctor of Computer Science - Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

    The online DSc Computer Science - Cybersecurity and Information Assurance program at Colorado Technical University ensures that its students benefit from personal and professional growth opportunities. Students learn the skills in enterprise systems management using tools like OWL, RDF, and J2EE.

    Their information assurance education also includes a dissertation with a process that’s integrated into the rigorous curriculum. Students at Colorado Technical University must meet residency requirements and attend in-person symposiums that strengthen their networks and provide exposure to the industry’s latest trends.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Completed graduate application form
    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree
    • Official transcripts
    • Entrance essay
    • Interview

    Required Credit Hours: 100 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $598

    Featured Courses:

    • Foundations of Digital Systems Security
    • Enterprise Security Architecture
    • Security Management
    • Governance, Quality, Compliance and Ethics
    Compare school
  10. #8

    University of the Cumberlands

    Williamsburg , KY
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2024 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/19

    What is University of the Cumberlands known for?

    University of the Cumberlands’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of the Cumberlands

    Tuition + fees: $9,875

    Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology

    Students in the online PhD in Information Technology program are encouraged to become the movers and shakers, the innovators, and the shapers of the information technology sector.

    Their extensive training is applicable to diverse disciplines within information technology, such as in cybersecurity and information assurance. Their education also covers the applications of machine learning in business issues, in the use of analytics in meeting information technology needs, and in the effective response against cybersecurity threats.

    The affordable online PhD program combines the best theoretical research-centric approach of PhD programs and the practitioner-based perspective of Doctor of Science programs. The result: Graduates are adept at solving real-world issues through data-driven research.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Master’s degree with at least 3.0 GPA
    • Official transcripts
    • Application and application fee

    Required Credit Hours: 60 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $549

    Featured Courses:

    • Information Governance
    • Enterprise Risk Management
    • Information Technology in a Global Economy
    Compare school
    11. two IT professionals working on cyber security defense plan

  12. #9

    Capitol Technology University

    Laurel , MD
    #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity in Maryland #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024 #4 Best Online Colleges in Maryland 2024 #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    1K

    What is Capitol Technology University known for?

    Capitol Technology University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Capitol Technology University

    Tuition + fees: $26,934

    Doctor of Science in Cybersecurity

    Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, CTU’s online DSc in Cybersecurity program delivers on academic excellence at every turn! Students can access outstanding resources for training and research in cybersecurity matters, as well as choose from internship opportunities, if they so desire.

    The courses are delivered online but there’s a residency course requirement. Students thrive thanks to the online community consisting of their peers, professors, and alumni, as well as industry experts. Graduates of the cyber security online program conduct research in several areas including information assurance and information security.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Master’s degree in relevant field
    • Resume
    • At least five years of relevant professional work experience
    • Two completed recommendation forms

    Required Credit Hours: 54-66 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3-4 years

    Per Credit Tuition: $950

    Featured Courses:

    • Applied Research in Information Assurance
    • Special Topics in Information Assurance
    • Situation Awareness Analysis and Action Plan Processes

    Capitol Technology University’s Online Degrees

    PhD in Business Analytics And Data Science
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Occupational Health And Safety
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Product Management
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Artificial Intelligence
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Quantum Computing
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Combined Ms/Phd
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Critical Infrastructure
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Cybersecurity Leadership
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Emergency And Protective Services
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DSc in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 54-66
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Human Factors
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Unmanned Systems Applications
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Aviation
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    PhD in Construction Science
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    13. cyber security professional working in front of a computer
  13. #10

    Dakota State University

    Madison , SD
    #4 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/23

    What is Dakota State University known for?

    Dakota State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Dakota State University

    Tuition + fees: $9,633

    Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Defense

    The online PhD in Cyber Defense program has a yearly residency requirement, particularly three research seminars in the Madison campus. DSU is also designated as a Center for Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security, and hosts a Cyber Defense Consultative Regional Resource Center.

    DSU also offers a PhD in Cyber Operations program that complements the Cyber Defense program.

    Admission Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or data privacy, among other related fields
    • At least 3.0 GPA

    Required Credit Hours: 72 credits

    Average Time-to-Degree: 3 years

    Tuition for nine credits/semester: $3,365.10 (Resident); $ 5,305.14 (Minnesota reciprocity); $5,965.20 (Non-resident)

    Featured Courses:

    • Data Privacy
    • Managing Security Risks
    • Incident Response
    • Network Security Monitoring and Intrusion Detection
    • Security Metrics
    Compare school

Students’ Submitted Questions on Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity

Rachel asks, “Can I transfer credits from a previous graduate program?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: This is going to vary widely depending on what schools you are transferring credits to and from. Make sure to look into your school’s policies regarding this matter by looking online or calling the admissions office. You might also want to look into how relevant your previous coursework is to your doctorate program.

Cailey asks, “Is an online doctorate credible in the field of cybersecurity?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Yes! It is important to make sure your school is accredited, and regionally accredited at that. Ever since the pandemic, online education has become more of a norm and more widely accepted in the workplace. An online education in this particular field might also help you learn various aspects of technology that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

Moises asks, “Does the program include practical experience?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Many programs will include practical experience of some kind. This might be in the form of projects, internships, or collaboration with companies in the field. Look into what companies your school is partnered with to see where you might be placed. It is also important to learn if you will have to find your own internship opportunities or if your university will help you with this endeavor.

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