It’s not a secret that working in the network security industry can be one of the best career choices one could ever make.
This industry is ever-changing and rapidly growing, so there’s a high demand for specialized workers.
By earning a diploma in Network Security, you will be able to work in the following areas of expertise:
- Security Analyst
- Security Engineer
- Security Administrator
- Software Developer
- Cryptanalyst
- Security Consultant
Overall, it’s an excellent opportunity for individuals who don’t mind the hard work and want to help make the world a better place.
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an online degree program in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance.
This program is perfect for individuals who’d like to eventually become seasoned IT professionals.
What’s great about this program is the fact that the curriculum follows the educational standards that will qualify them for employment at Homeland Security and the National Security Agency.
WGU’s program is renowned and praised by many top agencies in the field of network security, including the EC-Council and CompTIA.
Besides the full-time option, students will be able to choose the fast-tracked version of the program.
Overall, the degree can be earned in one to two years.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Illinois Springfield
The University of Illinois Springfield offers a bachelor degree program in Information Systems Security.
Prospective students will learn about the following:
- Network Security
- IT Systems
- Computer Science Theories
The university’s Computer Science Department is also being used as the instruction center for the Cisco Regional Networking Academy.
If you have some experience working with Java programming language and are looking to further your knowledge and skills, then this program is the perfect choice for you.
Official WebsiteKennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University offers two degree options when it comes to their IT department:
- Bachelor of Business and Administration in Information Security and Assurance
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The degree in cybersecurity has a strong focus on the technical features of network security.
By attending this course, students will obtain and further their skills for managing and protecting data information.
On the other hand, the degree program in Information Security and Assurance will teach students about the various concepts of network security, as well as about the influence it can have on a business.
Official WebsitePurdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers a bachelor degree program in Cybersecurity that’s been recognized by the Department of Defense.
The curriculum is customized, particularly for individuals who’d like to work in the network security industry for huge companies or the government.
Prospective students will also get an opportunity to obtain an internship, which will help improve their skills and gain practical, real-world knowledge.
The program has 180 credit hours.
Official WebsiteColorado State University-Global
Colorado State University – Global offers two different degree options to choose from:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics
- Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
The Information Technology program consists of many classes that will be helpful for one’s journey to obtaining a certification like Microsoft SQL or CompTIA Security.
Under this degree program, students will be able to choose between the following specializations:
- Homeland Security
- Cybersecurity
When it comes to the Management Information Systems and Business Analytics program, students will get an opportunity to learn about the industry and how it affects the digital world.
Also, students will be able to better understand all the current trends and techniques, making it perfect for individuals who’d like to work in managerial or financial parts of the industry.
Official WebsiteDakota State University
Dakota State University has an amazing online degree program in Network and Security Administration.
This program is well-suited for individuals who’d like to work in systems security and it will teach students about the technical aspects of modern security standards.
Students will also get a chance to learn and explore defensive hacking, as well as network forensics.
There are also many research activities students can partake in, as well as practice with the university’s faculty or other establishments.
Official WebsiteDrexel University Online
Drexel University’s online degree program in Computing and Security Technology will help students gain relevant knowledge and practical experience about the network security industry.
Students will be able to choose between Security Technology and Computing and create their own curriculum pace.
Another great thing is the fact that the school accepts transfer credits and has military benefits, making the program even more accessible.
Official WebsitePenn State World Campus
Pen State World Campus offers a degree program in Security and Risk Analysis.
The aim of this degree is to provide students with the relevant knowledge needed to work as a network security specialist that prevents data and other assets from being hacked.
The program is recognized by the Center of Academic Excellence, and it has 120 credit hours.
Students will learn about the following:
- Threats of Terrorism
- Crime Threats
- Data Organization
- Information Technology
- Laws and Regulations
Liberty University
Liberty University offers a degree program in Information Technology – Data Security and Security.
Students will embrace Christian principles and apply them during their educational journey.
This 120-credit hour program is designed for individuals who’d like to work in network security.
Students will get the chance to learn about design technology, application engineering, innovative tools, and modern technology.
The school’s Information Security Planning course will teach students how to design and apply various security programs into the system.
On the other hand, the Cybersecurity course will prepare prospective graduates for the following:
- System Security Certified Practitioner Certification (BMIS 342)
- Official (ISC) 2 SSCP Certified Body of Knowledge
Capitol Technology University
Capitol Technology University has a stellar online degree program in Cybersecurity, perfect for individuals who’d like to develop the skills needed to succeed in different network security careers.
By attending this program, students will be fully prepared to take exams such as:
- Certified Ethical Hacker
- Network A+
- A+
- CompTIA Security +
There are also many fun cybersecurity challenges students will be able to be a part of.
Those challenges will help students with further developing their skills while maintaining a competitive spirit by facing-off other schools.
The program has 120 credit hours and it will cover the following topics:
- Programming
- Information Assurance
- Computers
- Sciences
- Social Science
- Math
George Mason University
George Mason University has an online degree program in Cybersecurity which is recognized by the National Initiative for Cyber Security Education.
Students who attended the following colleges will be able to earn a full degree through George Mason:
- Tidewater Community College
- Northern Virginia Community College
- Lord Fairfax Community College
Syracuse University
Syracuse University offers a 120-credit-hour online degree program in Cybersecurity Administration.
Prospective students will be learning about various IT infrastructures, as well as how to protect systems from being hacked.
The curriculum includes the following:
- Ethical and Critical Thinking
- Communication
- Relationship Management
- Liberal Studies
On the other hand, some of the program’s core courses include:
- Safeguarding Knowledge Management
- Codification Data
- Leading Issues in Information Security
Syracuse University offers multiple financing options including grants, scholarships, and financial assistance.
Official WebsiteCharter Oak State College
Charter Oak State College offers a degree program in Cybersecurity, suited for individuals who already have IT-related background.
By attending this course, students will get a chance to improve their knowledge and obtain new skills which will be helpful in protecting systems from data breaches and hacks.
Students will learn about the basics of network settings, risk management, and preserving system and information safety.
This particular program has 45 credit hours and it will help prospective graduates land jobs in the field of network security.
The school accepts transfer credits from already obtained certifications and degrees.
This program is also suitable for military professionals who already have some background in computer science and would like to earn additional credentials.
Official WebsiteBellevue University
Bellevue University offers a 127-credit-hour degree program in Cybersecurity.
This course is perfect for individuals who’d like to seek careers in hacking prevention and network security.
Students will get a chance to learn about the following network security aspects:
- Structured System Analysis
- Design
- Data and Database Security
- Healthcare Security
- Operational Security
Prospective students will be able to combine online and on-campus classes if desired.
Official WebsiteLewis University
Lewis University has an amazing degree program in Information Security and Risk Management.
Upon completion of this course, students will be fully ready to work as security specialists.
This university also has a CloudLab where students will gain practical experience in solving actual problems.
The program will also help students prepare for the following certifications:
- AccessData Certified Forensics Examiner
- Certified Ethical Hacker
- Security +
Lewis University also has an accelerated version of this degree program that has a discounted tuition price.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers an online degree program in Cyber Operations that will enable students to obtain amazing job positions, including working in government agencies like the NSA.
The program has been accredited by the National Security Agency, and students will be able to choose between two specializations:
- Forensics
- Engineering and Defense
The school also accepts up to 60 transfer credits from other accredited educational establishments.
Official WebsiteKing University
King University offers a degree program in Information Technology with a Cybersecurity specialization.
The goal of this program is to adequately prepare students for working in the following areas:
- Policy Consultation
- Research
- Project Management
- IT Plan Development
Also, to enroll, students must have at least 45 credit hours from a previous educational institution in the field of programming.
The program itself has 124 credit hours, and the school offers many financing options, including military education benefits.
Official WebsiteOld Dominion University
Old Dominion University offers a comprehensive degree program in Cybersecurity, suitable for individuals who’d like to seek careers in the field of network security.
This is a higher-credential course that will teach students about security itself, as well as how to protect online data.
The course is ideal for students who have a background in one of the following areas:
- Information Technology
- Criminal Justice
- Modeling and Simulation Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Philosophy
- Engineering Management
Since this is a technical program, students who have a high command of math and analytics will have a significant advantage.
Official WebsiteSouthern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University offers a great online degree program in Information Technology and Information Systems.
Students will be able to choose between the following specializations:
- Internet of Things
- Cybersecurity
- Network and System Administration
- Applied Data Analytics
- Data Management
- IT/IS Management
- Web App Development
- Mobile App Development
Students who live in the surrounding area might also be able to obtain an internship.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Maryland
The University of Maryland offers multiple degree programs in the field of computing:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development and Security
- Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity Management and Policy
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity
Students will gain exhaustive knowledge of tech polities and digital forensics.
Another great thing about this school is the fact that prospective students might also be suitable to work with Maryland’s cybersecurity departments.
Official WebsiteExcelsior College
Excelsior College offers a 120-credit-hours degree program in Cybersecurity.
By attending this course, prospective students will learn about data and network security, as well as develop the technical skills needed to succeed in this industry.
Some of the things students will discuss include:
- Governance and Compliance
- Network and Application Security
- Computer Forensics
- Computer Systems Architecture
- Microprocessors
Excelsior College also accepts up to 117 transfer credits.
Official WebsiteSaint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers two different degree programs in computer science:
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Information Assurance
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
When it comes to their Information Assurance program, students will get a chance to develop their skills in the fields of programming logic and design, computer systems, network defense, database concepts and programming, and network security.
On the other hand, by selecting the Cybersecurity program, prospective graduates will have gained extensive knowledge in the following areas of expertise:
- Homeland Defense
- Computer Forensics
- Disaster Recovery
- Internet Security
- Intranet Security
- Penetration Testing
Prospective graduates will also be able to seek internships in Verizon, Tech Data Corporation, or Pasco Country Sheriff’s department.
Official WebsiteNorwich University
Norwich University offers an online degree program in Cybersecurity with two different specializations:
- Information Warfare and Security Management
- Computer Forensics and Vulnerability Management
Here, students will get an amazing opportunity to further their knowledge of today’s technology threats and solutions, as well as develop crucial skills needed to become a seasoned industry professional.
Norwich University also accepts up to 90 transfer credits from previous educational endeavors.
There is also an option to take the accelerated program, which will allow prospective students to obtain a degree within two years.
For students who meet the criteria, the school also offers multiple financing options, as well as military benefits.
Official WebsiteChamplain College
Champlain College offers an extensive degree program in the field of Cybersecurity.
The modern curriculum was designed to teach students how to protect systems from data breaches and cyber hacking.
The school also offers an accelerated format of this program, where students will be able to obtain their degrees in only 7 weeks.
Students will learn about the following aspects of cybersecurity:
- Ethical Hacking
- Python Security Scripting
- Digital Forensics Investigation
- Operating Systems
While attending the program, prospective graduates will also be able to obtain some of the following certifications:
- Linux Administration
- Computer Networking
- Computer Forensics
- Digital Investigation
- System Administration
Students will have to pass the tests for these certifications upon obtaining a degree.
All students will also have to prepare a senior seminar project before graduation.
Official WebsiteUniversity of Maine - Fort Kent
University of Maine – Fort Kent offers another stellar degree program in the field of Cybersecurity.
The program was recognized by the National Security Administration, as well as the Department of Homeland Security.
Students will get an opportunity to better understand the ins and outs of network systems, as well as work on their problem-solving skills to resolve and prevent hacking attacks.
Upon completion, students will be fully capable to excel in Cybersecurity jobs and easily adjust to this fast-paced industry.
The school also offers military benefits in the form of accepting transfer credits for veterans and other military personnel.
Official WebsiteFranklin University
Franklin University has a great degree program in Cybersecurity, which will help students learn more about all the necessary aspects of obtaining the Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, including:
- Hacking Countermeasures
- Security Architecture
The school accepts transfer credits from prior education, and the tuition costs are $526 per credit, while service members will be able to enjoy a discounted $250 per credit tuition fee.
Official WebsiteWilmington University
Wilmington University offers an online degree program in Computer and Network Security.
This program is perfectly suited for individuals who’d like to work in the field of digital forensics.
Students who’d like to earn even more credentials will be able to take the accelerated version of the program which will help them with obtaining the SCADA Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate.
Wilmington University also accepts transfer credits from previous educational institutions, as well as previously-obtained certifications.
Official WebsiteUtica College
Utica College is a fantastic educational institution that offers a degree program in the field of Cybersecurity, with a special focus on Identity Management and Information Protection.
The curriculum is enjoyable and dynamic, and it includes the following:
- Cyber Operations
- Information Assurance
- Intrusion Investigations
- Fraud Investigations
This program was specifically designed for individuals who already have some experience or have attended similar programs before.
By attending their Cybersecurity degree program, students will further develop their knowledge and skills and be ready to work as network security specialists.
Official WebsiteMisericordia University
Misericordia University offers an online degree program in Information Technology with a special focus on IT Security.
The curriculum will cover the following subjects:
- IT Security Trends
- Access Controls
- Cryptography
- Disaster Recovery
- Security and Risk Assessment and Management
- Models
The program has 121 credit hours and it is perfect for individuals who don’t mind dealing with math, research, and programming.
Prospective graduates will be able to obtain a diploma in two to four years.
Official WebsiteDavenport University
Davenport University offers an online degree program in Cyber Defense.
This program was created for individuals who’d like to become seasoned network security professionals.
The program has 120 credit hours, and students will be able to choose between the following specializations:
- Information Security
- Health Care Information and Assurance
The Information Security specialization has a strong focus on audits, troubleshooting network systems, and data authentications, while the Health Care Information and Assurance program deal with laws, regulations, and data governance.
A good tip is to take a minor in Mathematics in order to increase your credibility for future job opportunities.
This university also offers many accredited certifications that can be obtained upon graduation.
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Q. What Does the Bachelor's Degree in Network Security Program Consist of?
Most of the Network Security degree programs have around 120 credit hours needed to graduate, which can take anywhere from two to four years.
Many schools also offer an accelerated option, which lasts from one to three years.
Accelerated programs are usually meant for individuals who have prior work or educational experience in this area of expertise.
The average tuition costs for these programs is somewhere between $8,000 and $25,000, depending on the selected course.
Most Network Security programs offer the following specializations:
- Digital Forensics
- Information Assurance
When it comes to Digital Forensics, its popularity has been rapidly increasing due to the high volume of students being interested in investigating digital mishaps.
Here, students will get an opportunity to learn more about the following:
- Extraction of Digital Pieces of Evidence
- Technical Theories
- Analysis Techniques
- Communication Strategies
- Uncovering Fraudulent and Hidden Data
This specialization will also introduce students to Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement, and it is a great foundation to eventually work as a computer security specialist or an operations analyst.
On the other hand, Information Assurance is perfect for students who’d like to work in the field of digital hacking management or IT systems.
Students will learn all the techniques and methods of ensuring system safety.
For example, Penn State University offers this specialization as a stepping stone to working in the government or foreign service, while Champlain University offers coursework that will help students obtain jobs in the military.
The curriculum may include the following core courses:
- Firewalls and Network Security
- Networks and Telecommunication
- Python
Firewalls and Network Security will teach students about computer networks, as well as about methods used by hackers to penetrate various systems.
Students will gain practical experience on how to solve such problems, and will also learn about cryptography.
Networks and Telecommunications deals with automation and technology.
Here, students will learn all the basics of network settings and communications.
They will talk about voice communications, internetworking, and networking from small to big devices.
Students will also learn about protecting the system’s network settings from data breaches.
Python is perfect for students who love programming, which plays a huge role in this industry.
Python is one of the most common programming languages which is used in many loops and network systems that control programs and applications.
Q. Which Skills Will I Obtain By Attending One of These Courses?
Students will get a chance to further their knowledge of technology and programming. Here are some necessary skills that are likely to be developed by graduation:
- Intrusion Detection
- Analyzing and Reversing Malware
- Programming
- Ethical Hacking
- Unique Skillset
- Risk Analysis
- Cloud Security
- Communication
Intrusion Detection
Intrusion Detection is an essential skill that is of utmost importance for prospective network security specialists.
Since you are likely to experience many Trojans or other backdoor codes, you will learn how to prevent such breaches.
Data breaches are costly and can cost anywhere from a thousand to a couple of million dollars.
Analyzing and Reversing Malware
Malware is similar to Trojans, and it can cause terrible damage to a company.
Students will learn how to recognize threats and create effective solutions for them.
Cybersecurity experts need to be alert at all times, and capable of adjusting to the ever-evolving world of malware and viruses.
Programming
Programming is very technical, and it requires a lot of thinking and planning ahead.
Students will gain a basic programming knowledge in C+, PHP, Python, and Java.
They will also learn about system architecture since network security specials usually work on the backend of a network.
That’s precisely why they need to be ready to introduce hacking countermeasures.
Ethical Hacking
Ethical Hacking is a method of getting into a black hat hacker’s shoes.
That means that you’ll become a highly-skilled hacker that works for the good guys.
Students will gain the skills needed to prevent data damage and data breaches.
Unique Skillset
Security Specialists must be very skilled when it comes to technical aspects of network security.
Technology is an ever-evolving industry, so an individual must be capable of keeping up with all the trends and industry developments.
They must know how to do penetration testing, identify and access management, as well as maintain IoT security.
Risk Analysis
This is something that every network security specialist must know how to do.
It’s their task to be aware of all the risks and to create solutions to reduce the influence of those risks.
Students will have to have very great attention to detail because many backdoors can cause security breaches.
Cloud Security
The cloud industry has been booming, and many companies use cloud services to store confidential data.
Prospective network security specialists must be alert and organized in order to foresee and intercept future attacks.
This skill requires refresher courses which can be obtained through continuous learning or certifications.
Communication
Communication is a crucial aspect of our everyday lives.
The skill of communication is very important for trying to convey your ideas to your team members efficiently and effectively.
This is especially important for individuals who’d like to work in the Criminal Justice or work as teachers upon graduation.
Not everyone is skilled in the technical aspects of network security, so you must be able to use plain language to communicate your ideas and thoughts.
Q. Which Other Certifications Are Compatible With My Bachelor's Degree in Network Security?
Certifications are beneficial for both enhancing your resume, but also for gaining new knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. Certifications might also help you in obtaining lucrative job positions. Here are some certifications you should take into consideration:
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Unlike regular hackers that are notorious for their bad intentions, ethical hacking is a skill of thinking like a hacker in order to recognize system flaws and help companies maintain their security.
By obtaining this certification, individuals will have learned about the IT Security Law and Regulations, trends, and techniques, as well as updates of the newly-created malware and viruses.
Individuals will gain practical experience in penetrating systems and designing potential solutions.
This is an excellent addition to one’s resume if they want to work in penetration testing.
Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)
This is one of the most popular certifications, as it’s usually a pre-requisite for obtaining a job in cybersecurity.
Students will learn about telecommunications, networking, and access control.
To obtain this certification, students are required to have at least three years of experience working in this area of expertise.
It’s one of the hardest to pass, so prospective employers are more likely to hire you instead of someone who doesn’t hold this certification.
It can also help in landing high-paying job positions such as CISO, security architect, or IT security manager.
CompTIA Security+
This is a fundamental certificate that requires only two years of prior relevant experience.
This certification is also recognized by the US Department of Defense.
Students will learn about various forms of network attacks and learn how to develop countermeasures.
Efficient security policies, disaster recovery, and data management are other relevant topics that will be covered.
This is a general certification.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This certification is very highly-regarded in the network security community.
It requires at least five years of experience to qualify as a candidate.
The Certified Information Security Manager certification is divided into four parts:
- Information Risk Management and Compliance
- Information Security Management
- Information Security Program Development and Management
- Information Security Incident Management
By obtaining this certification, you will be able to land amazing management positions that are very lucrative and sought-after.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
If you want to work in information auditing, then this certification would be an amazing asset to your resume.
This is a globally-recognized certificate that requires at least five years of work experience to qualify.
Individuals will learn about the following:
- Safekeeping of Data Assets
- System Management and Governance
- IT Systems
By obtaining this certificate, you will be able to work as an assurance specialist or IS auditor.
Combined with the Certified Information Security Manager certification, this is a perfect combo for obtaining lucrative senior job positions.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, all of the establishment mentioned above are highly-regarded in the IT community.
By obtaining a degree from one of these universities, you are guaranteed to have an easier time seeking appropriate and lucrative career opportunities.
Working in the network security industry is a very smart career choice that will yield amazing results in the future.