25 Best Affordable Online Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance Degree Programs (Master’s) 2020

25. Lewis University

Romeoville, Illinois

Website

Lewis University (Lewis, est. 1932) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Lasallians/ Roman Catholic Church. It serves students online and on-campus.

Lewis offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two inexpensive online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Information Security (MSIS) with two concentrations: Technical; Management
• MS in Computer Science (MSCS) with a concentration in Cyber Security

LU is considered a CAE-CDE (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) by the NSA and DHS. Its MSIS is a 41-credit, top-value online degree program that teaches students the skills and techniques and tools for safeguarding data at an organizational level. Also covered: quantifying IT asset value; risk assessment; data recovery; legal and ethical issues; etc. The economical online degree program prepares graduates for the CISSP professional certification exam (not part of the program). Sample online courses include: Introduction to Information Security; Legal and Ethical Issues in Information Security. An Information Security Practicum is a required part of the curriculum.

The MSCS is a 33-credit, online degree program with a broader computer science curriculum than the MSIS. A thesis is required, in this case relevant to the Cyber Security concentration. Sample online courses include: Advanced Cyber Security; Network Security Essentials.

Alternatives: Bachelor’s to MSIS Dual Degree Option; Digital Forensics concentration of MSCS.

24. Champlain College

Burlington, Vermont

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Champlain College (CC, est. 1878) is a private, nonprofit institution. It serves students at multiple campuses and online.

CC offers inexpensive associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has of the cheapest online/hybrid program in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Information Security Operations (MSISO)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a certificate track in Information Security (IS)

The MSISO is a 30-credit, best-value online degree program with a minimum 20-month timeline and no GRE/ GMAT requirement. It is designed for individuals who will be involved in the daily operation of running and protecting “systems and networks in mid-to-large enterprises.” Sample online courses include: Managing Risk in IT Operations; Security Design and Architecture. A Capstone experience is required.

For students who want a cheap online degree providing stronger business skills, there is the 36- to 42-credit, online MBA-IS program. Sample online courses include: Information Security Systems; Threat Classification and Analysis. Completion of a Capstone is required.

Alternatives: online MS in Digital Forensic Science.

23. Regis University

Denver, Colorado

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Regis University (RU, est. 1877) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Jesuits/ Catholic Church. Many notable people have graced the campus with visits, including human rights activist Desmond Tutu, writer/ professor/ Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, pro-democracy activist Lech Walesa, religious leaders Pope John Paul II and the Dalai Lama, amongst others.

RU offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has low cost online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security (MS-ICS) with three specialization options: General; Cyber Security; Information Assurance Policy Management.

This is a 36-credit, affordable online degree program offering a choice of Capstone, Thesis or Information Assurance Practicum. Depending on the specialization selected, the program prepares graduates for either the technical or managerial aspects of information assurance and cyber security. Graduating students will be prepared to write any of several IT industry professional certification exams (see site for details). Sample online courses include: Advancing to Cyber Security; Offensive Cyber Security; Legal Basics in Cyber and Information Security.

Alternatives: Online graduate certificate programs: Cybersecurity; Information Assurance Policy Management

22. University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

Website

University of Arizona (UA, est. 1885) is a public institution governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. It is an HCI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) and ranks #38 nationally for the number of Hispanic/ LatinX students earning PhDs. It also ranks #1 for the number of Native Americans earning PhDs.

UA offers cheap bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC) with two tracks: Information Systems; Physical Systems.

Administered by the Department of Management Information Systems (MIS) and delivered jointly by the Eller College of Management and College of Engineering, this is a 33-credit, affordable online degree program, with an option to earn the MIS’s Enterprise Security Certificate. Student will learn about computer security issues occurring at different levels (personal, corporate, national, global), understand how to assess and prevent information and systems security risks, and develop skills in forensic investigation and vulnerability testing, etc. Sample online courses include: Info Sys track: Security Risk Management; Cyber Warfare Capstone. Phys Sys track: Cyber Security – Concept, Theory, and Practice.

NOTE: UA is considered a CAE-CDE (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) by the NSA and DHS.

21. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

Utica, New York

Website

SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly, est. 1966) is a public institution and a member of the State University of New York System. It serves students at multiple campuses and online.

SUNY Poly offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC) with concentration in Network and Computer Security (NCS).

This is a 33-credit, best-value online degree program with full- and part-time study options (18 months or longer, overall), and a choice, upon approval, of either a relevant Research Project or Thesis. While courses are delivered online, students have access to the Newman Cybersecurity Lab facilities, which would require on-campus visits.

As the degree name implies, it covers the skills necessary for management and technical roles in protecting computers and networks. Ideally, admitted students will have an undergrad degree in a technical subject such as computer science, computer systems, electrical engineering, computer and network security. However, otherwise-qualified students may be able to complete pre-requisite work and be admitted. Sample courses include: Information Assurance Fundamentals; Computer Security; Network Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems.

20. Old Dominion University

Norfolk, Virginia

Website

Old Dominion University (ODU, est. 1930) is a public institution. Students are served at five campuses or learning centers, plus online.

ODU offers cheap bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two low-cost online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC)
• MS in Computer Science (MSCS) with a concentration in Cyber Security (or Cybersecurity grad certificate)

The MSC is a 30-credit, high-value online degree program with a Capstone requirement instead of a thesis. The curriculum is entirely focused on cybersecurity topics, and students have access to ODU’s Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research. The 31- to 34-credit MSCS, on the other hand, is intended for students interested in a broader computer science program with a cybersecurity component. Students choose from three tracks: all courses; Thesis; Masters Project. All three tracks require a comprehensive exam that may require an oral defense or presentation. Credits from ODU’s grad certificate program in Cybersecurity can be applied towards the MSCS.

19. Norfolk State University

Norfolk, Virginia

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Norfolk State University (NSU, est. 1935) is a public institution. It is an HBCU (Historically Black College/ University) and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

NSU offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degree programs. It has one affordable online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC).

Delivered by the Department of Computer Science within the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, this is a 36-creditl, economical online degree program that focuses particularly on the skills required to defend against cyber attacks, and apply digital forensics to identify threats — as well as learn communication and critical thinking skills. Graduates will be prepared for cybersecurity roles at academic institutions, government agencies, or within industry. Sample online courses include: Management of Information Security; Computer and Network Forensics; Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing.

18. Hampton University

Hampton, Virginia

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Hampton University (Hampton, est. 1868) is a private, nonprofit institution and an HBCU (Historically Black College/ University). It is run by the country’s longest-serving higher education president, Dr. William Harvey, who is the author of a book on leadership. Dr. Harvey also has had many experiences meeting notable American historical figures in his boyhood home, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Hampton offers top-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Information Assurance (MS IA).

This is a 36-credit, online, interdisciplinary degree program imparting the skills and knowledge necessary for roles in information assurance. It is intended for individuals holding a suitable bachelor’s degree such as computer science, or that combined with either of engineering, math or science. A comprehensive exam is part of the curriculum. For students without this prerequisite, there is a Bridge Program with courses that prepare students for the MS IA. Sample courses include: Systems Security Administration, Management, and Certification; Systems Security for Senior Management; Network Security and Intrusion Detection.

17. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, Missouri

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Missouri University of Science and Technology (MST, est. 1870) is a public institution and a member of the University of Missouri System. It serves students online and on a campus with multiple sustainability initiatives that have resulted in a 50% reduction in energy usage.

MST offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) with an emphasis in Cybersecurity
• MS in Systems Engineering (MSSE) with a specialization in Computer Security and Reliability (CSR)

The MSCS is a 31-credit, online, multi-disciplinary degree program with an optional thesis. Students who have already taken MST’s grad certificate in Cyber Security can apply the credits towards this degree. Its primary goal is to build the skills necessary for improving cyber security infrastructure overall, particularly in terms of “security, reliability and survivability.”

The MSSE is an inexpensive online program with non-thesis (30 credits) and thesis (36 cr) tracks. The CSR specialization can be replaced with a grad certificate such as the Information Assurance and Security Officer Essentials program. Sample online courses include: Security Operations and Program Management; Advanced Network Security.

Alternatives: Online MBA combined with a grad certificate in either Cyber Security or Big Data Management and Security

16. Capitol Technology University

Laurel, Maryland

Website

Capitol Technology University (CTU, est. 1927) is a private, nonprofit institution. Originally a radio engineering institute, it now serves students STEM and business programs both on campus and online.

CTU offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has three cheap online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC)
• Technical Master of Business Administration (TMBA) in Cybersecurity
• MS in Aviation Cybersecurity (MSAC)

CTU is considered a CAE-CDE (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) by the NSA and DHS. Its MSC is a 33- to 36-credit, economical online degree program that follows the NSA’s guidelines for cybersecurity education. It requires a relevant computer-related background for admission, and it prepares graduates for the CISSP professional IT security certification exam. Sample online courses include: Introduction to Information Assurance; Legal Aspects of Computer Security and Information Privacy.

The TMBA-Cyber is a 36- to 39-credit, high-value online degree program designed to impart both the business/ management and the technical skills and knowledge necessary for professionals who will make business decisions relevant to cyber assets and their security. Sample online courses include: Security Risk Management; Security Risk Management.

The MSAC is a 33- to 36-credit, top-value online degree program that covers cybersecurity from an aviation-related viewpoint, with skills applicable to senior management roles. Sample online courses include: Aviation Cybersecurity Management; Aviation Cybersecurity Research Project.

Alternatives: online Master of Science (MS) in Cyber Analytics; Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science (has some coverage of data security but is not strictly a cyber security degree)

15. Central Washington University

Ellensburg, Washington

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Central Washington University (CWU, est. 1891) is a public institution. While not an Hispanic-Serving Institution, it is considered “emerging” as such, with 15% of the student population being Hispanic/ LatinX.

CWU offers cheap bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management (MS-ITAM) with a specialization in Cybersecurity Management (CM).

This is a 46-credit, top-value online degree program, with nearly half of credits (20) allotted to the specialization. Students can choose cohort or non-cohort tracks, and either full- or part-timej studies. This is a professional degree suitable to a range of individuals who seek a combination of skills/ knowledge in relation to cybersecurity, including: budget planning; communications; entrepreneurship; ethics; leadership; supervision; etc. Sample online courses include: Cybersecurity Fundamentals; Strategic IT Security; Cybersecurity Risk Management

Alternatives: Non-cybersecurity specializations for the MS-ITAM; grad certificate in Cybersecurity Management

14. Bellevue University

Bellevue, Nebraska

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Bellevue University (BU, est. 1966) is a private, nonprofit institution. It has been offering affordable online degrees since 1996 — one of the first institutions in the country to do so.

BU offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs. It has two of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC) with cohort and non-cohort tracks; MS in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Security. Both are 36-credit, online programs.

The top-value online MSC degree program focuses entirely on technologies and techniques for information assurance. Skills gained include: business continuity plan development (upon incidents/ cyber attacks); computer forensics; detection and mitigation of cyberattacks; identification of system vulnerabilities; management of information security risk; network attack prevention; etc. Sample courses include: Computer Forensics; Information Security Management.

The economical online MSCIS degree program has a strong focus on “assessing the business needs of stakeholders” in relation to computer technology — in this case, specifically relating to information systems security. Sample online concentration courses include: Security Architecture and Design; Ethical Hacking and Response. Completion of an IT Security Capstone is required.

Alternatives: Online MS in Intelligence and Security Studies; online MS in Security Management

13. West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia

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West Virginia University (WVU, est. 1867) is a public institution and a member of the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. It serves students online and on multiple sub-campuses. In addition to boasting its own rapid transit line between locations, the campus is considered one of the safest in the country.

WVU offers best-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs – over 30 low-cost online degrees alone. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Business Cybersecurity Management (MSBCM).

Delivered by the AACSB-accredited College of Business and Economics, this is a 30-credit, hybrid degree program with online courses and a required residency. It prepares students for careers as cybersecurity professionals, and is suitable for individuals with a background in any of computer science, criminal justice, or management information systems.

Sample courses include: Information Security Assurance Management; Network Security Management; Business Cybercrime Management. GRE/ GMAT scores for admission consideration may be waived for applicants having 5+ years of professional work experience.

12. California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, California

Website

California State University-San Marcos (CSUSM, est. 1989) is a public institution and a member of the California State University System. It serves students at two campuses and online, and has a strong Hispanic/ LatinX student contingent (45%), the largest enrollment group.

CSUSM offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 75 top-value degree programs in total. It has one low cost online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity.

This is a 38-credit, hybrid, non-thesis program with online courses and a Semester-in-Residence project working “with a biotech company to address a real-world issue, project or problem.” The curriculum offers a mix of “technical courses, MBA-level business courses and real-world experience.” Students gain knowledge in many areas of cybersecurity, including: encryption algorithms; ethical hacking; incident response; intrusion detection; risk analysis. No GRE is required for admission. Sample courses include: Introduction to Cybersecurity; Security in Computer Networks; Offensive Security and Penetration Testing.

NOTE: The university is recognized as a NCAE-CDE (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) jointly by the NSA and DHS.

11. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Winona, Minnesota

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Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (SMU, est. 1912) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Originally a men’s college, it merged with a women’s college in 1969 and then became coed.

SMU offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC)

This is a 36-credit, affordable, online degree program that prepares individuals for advance careers in the growing cybersecurity job market, by building the skills necessary to protect the data for businesses large and small. Students will learn/ build both leadership skills and technical skills needed for network security, risk management, etc.

A computer science or other technology bachelor’s degree is not required for admission. Graduates of this top-value online master’s degree will be prepared for CISSP + CISM professional certification exams. Sample online courses include: Foundations of Cybersecurity; Security Architecture; Cybersecurity Change Management.

10. Wilmington University

New Castle, Delaware

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Wilmington University (WilmU, est. 1968) is a private, nonprofit institution. A commuter college, it serves students online and at a dozen locations in Delaware and New Jersey

WilmU offers best-value associate’s through doctorate level degree programs – including over 120 economical online degree programs. It has one low-cost online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC) with two optional concentrations: Cyber Terrorism; SCADA Cybersecurity.

This is a 36-credit, affordable, online degree program that covers cybercrime, forensics, counter sabotage and espionage and more. Skills developed include, but are not limited to, threat modeling and analysis, and creation of cyber defense scenarios. Completion of a Capstone is required. Students not selecting a concentration can choose elective courses. Sample online courses include: Network Security; Protecting and Securing the OS; Cyberthreat Intelligence.

Alternatives: Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MS-IST) with a concentration in Information Assurance.

9. University of Maryland-University College/ Global Campus

Adelphi, Maryland

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University of Maryland-University College/ Global Campus (UMUC/ UMGC, est. 1947) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Maryland. Known as University of Maryland Global Campus as of July 2019, it serves students online and on over 100 campuses and learning centers in USA, Europe and Asia.

UMUC/ UMGC offers cheap associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy (MSCMP).

This is a 36-credit, high-value, online degree program aimed at individuals seeking management track opportunities in cyber security roles. Students will learn to deal with design, implementation and administration of cyber security plans, using a “security approach that combines technology, governance, and compliance perspectives.” Graduates will be prepared for one or more of five professional certification exams (see site for details). Sample online courses include: Communicating, Problem Solving, and Leading in Cybersecurity; Foundations in Cybersecurity Management; Cybersecurity Governance

Alternatives: Master of Information Technology with a specialization in Information Assurance; Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation (MS-DFCI).

8. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, Florida

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Saint Leo University (SLU, est. 1889) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Order of Saint Benedict. It is one of the USA’s largest Catholic colleges, though it serves students of all faiths.

SLU offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two affordable online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cyber Security (MSCS); Master or Business Administration with a concentration in Cyber Security (MBA-Cyber).

The MSCS is a 36-credit, inexpensive, online degree program designed to prepare individuals with the skills necessary to protect electronic infrastructures in various cyber security professional roles. Students will learn about biometrics, compliance and legal issues, cryptography, digital forensics, and various types of security (cloud computing, computer, mobile, network, software, web). Sample courses include: Cybersecurity Compliance and Legal Issues; Cybersecurity Risk Management.

The ACBSP-accredited MBA-Cyber is a 36-credit, best-value online degree program that combines the business and technical skills suitable for leadership roles in cyber security efforts. Sample online courses include: Principles of Cybersecurity Management; Systems Security Management. An Internship experience is optional.

NOTE: SLU is considered a CAE-CDE (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education) by the NSA and DHS.

7. Southern Utah University

Cedar City, Utah

Website

Southern Utah University (SUU, est. 1897) is a public institution and a member of the Utah System of Higher Education. Originally a teacher training school, it currently serves students on-campus and online.

SUU offers economical associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 160 low-cost degree programs in total. It has two of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security:

• Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance (MS-CSIA) with two emphasis options: Cyber and Web Security (CWS); Government, Regulation, and Compliance (GRC) and IS Controls (ISC)
• Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (MIS) with 17 areas of study including Cybersecurity and Information Assurance (must choose three areas)

Delivered by the Department of Computer Science and Information System within the Walter Maxwell Gibson College of Science and Engineering, the MS-CSIA is a top-value 33-credit online degree program that takes as few as four semesters. It prepares graduates with the skills necessary for the protection of cyber systems and infrastructure from various types of external threats. The CWS track builds on existing computer science/ coding experience, while the GRC-ISC track is for less technical backgrounds focusing cyber law and best practices. Sample online courses include: Cyber Operations; Cryptography Fundamentals.

The MIS is a cheap 30-credit online degree program suitable for individuals who are interested in cyber security roles but also want a broader education. Amongst the 17 areas of study are categories such as administration, education and training, leadership, systems, and technology. Sample online Cybersecurity courses include: Network Security; Advanced Persistent Threats. Completion of a MIS Capstone is required.

6. Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, Minnesota

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Minnesota State University-Mankato (MSU, est. 1868) is a public institution and a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. It serves students online and on four campuses and learning centers.

MSU offers high-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Information Security and Risk Management (ISRM).

This is a 30-credit, affordable, online degree program that covers information technology, leadership, management, professional communication and other skills. The interdisciplinary curriculum balances business, communication, information security, psychology and risk management. A Capstone experience is required for graduation from the ISRM. Sample online courses include: Information Warfare; Researching and Analyzing Information Security Risks; Information Risk Management

5. Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

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Sam Houston State University (SHSU , est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. Named after Texas hero Sam Houston, it was founded as a teacher training school. It serves students online and on two campuses, with the main campus considered one of the safest in the state and nationally.

SHSU offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security (MSIAS).

This is a cheap 36-credit, online degree program that prepares students for opportunities in “commercial, industrial and governmental information assurance.” Skills gained include those necessary for corporate information protection, disaster recovery planning, risk assessment, securing and hardening networks, network damage prevention and more. Admission requirements including holding of a bachelor’s degree in either Computer Science or Management Information Science (major or minor), or professional experience. Sample online courses include: Operating System Security; Database Security; Network and Cyber Security.

4. Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

Website

Western Governors University (WGU, est. 1997) is a private, nonprofit institution. It serves students entirely online and its existence is due to the efforts of nearly two dozen U.S. governors.

WGU offers economical bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance (MSCIA)

This is an inexpensive 30-credit, online degree program whose curriculum covers several areas of cybersecurity-related topic categories: Cybersecurity Management; Forensics and Network Intrusion; Hacking; Networking Design and Management; Secure Systems Analysis and Design; Security. These further include topics not limited to cyberlaw, disaster recovery, forensics and network intrusion, risk management, security policies and standards, etc..

Completion of a Cybersecurity Graduate Capstone is required. Optional professional certification choices are associated with this program, including for ethical hacking and forensic investigation. (See site for details.) Sample online courses include: Information Security and Assurance; Secure Software Design; Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering.

3. Dakota State University

Madison, South Dakota

Website

Third on this list of the most affordable, online, accredited masters degrees in computer and information security, Dakota State University (DSU, est. 1881) is a public institution governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Originally a teacher training school, it delivers programs in a range of topics to students on campus and online.

DSU offers high-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two low cost online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cyber Defense (MSCD); Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) with a specialization in Cyber Operations. DSU has a designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Both are low-cost 30-credit degree programs with a choice of full- or part-time studies, and requiring completion of a comprehensive exam for graduation. The MSCD is a hybrid program, as some courses have associated labs, which may require on-campus visits for use of specialized hardware or software. Sample courses include: Principles of Information Assurance; Managing Security Risks.

MSCS students can choose either the Cyber Operations specialization, or choose elective courses from the MSCD program. However, this economical degree program covers a broader scope of Computer Science topics in its curriculum.

Alternatives: Online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSCS) with a specialization in Network Administration and Security

2. Missouri State University-Springfield

Springfield, Missouri

Website

Placing second on our list of affordable, online, accredited masters degrees in computer and information security, Missouri State University-Springfield (MSU, est. 1905) is a public institution and a member of the Missouri State University System. It serves students online and at four campuses and has partnerships with Chinese institutions, and has set Fall enrollment records for several years straight.

MSU offers high-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – 170 economical degree programs in total, excluding concentration/ track options. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSC).

Delivered by the Department of Information Technology and Cybersecurity, this is a low-cost 30-credit online degree program that covers several facets of corporate information security, including human, legal and technical aspects, preparing graduates for senior management roles. Though courses are online, there are hands-on labs. There are two tracks: Traditional and Accelerated Master’s (dual-degree for current MSU undergrads).

Sample online courses include: Foundations of Cybersecurity; Ethical Hacking and Incident Response; I.T. Legal Issues in Cybersecurity. Alternatives: 12-credit Graduate Cybersecurity Certificate, for students eligible for MSU’s MBA program.

1. University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, Kentucky

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Ranking first for most affordable, online master’s in computer and information security, University of the Cumberlands (UC, est. 1888) is a private, nonprofit institution historically affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention. It integrates a Baptist Christian worldview into its high-value degree programs, serving students on two campuses and online.

UC offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degree programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid program in computer/cyber security: Master of Science in Information Systems Security.

This is an inexpensive 31-credit, online degree program designed for bachelor’s degree holders working in Information Technology. It focuses on prevention of, and the minimization of the impact of, data loss. Its alignment with cyber security education standards is a contributing factor to UC’s designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Sample online courses include: Telecommunications and Network Security; Information Security and Risk Management; Application Security. Alternatives: Weekend-residency Executive Master of Science in Information Systems Security; online Master of Science in Digital Forensics (or on-campus Executive version); Online Master of Science in Information Technology (or on-campus Executive version).