Online cybersecurity associate degrees give graduates the skills and knowledge they need to compete for entry-level roles focused on addressing computer network security issues.
These two-year programs also prepare students to pursue a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related subject.
Graduates with a cybersecurity degree enjoy strong job prospects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that network and computer systems administrators made a median annual salary of $82,050 in 2018. The BLS also projects jobs for these professionals to grow 5% between 2018 and 2028.
| #1 | Dakota State University | Madison, SD |
| #2 | Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Granite Falls, MN |
| #3 | University of Maine at Fort Kent | Fort Kent, ME |
| #4 | Minnesota State College Southeast | Winona, MN |
| #5 | Northern Wyoming Community College District | Sheridan, WY |
| #6 | Laramie County Community College | Cheyenne, WY |
| #7 | Hinds Community College | Raymond, MS |
| #8 | Lake Superior College | Duluth, MN |
| #9 | MidAmerica Nazarene University | Olathe, KS |
| #10 | Palo Alto College | San Antonio, TX |
Table of Contents
This guide ranks the best online associate in cybersecurity programs to help students find the right program for their needs. We also cover important information for prospective students, such as career opportunities, related professional organizations, and certifications.
The Best Online Associate in Network Security Degree Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Dakota State University |
Madison, SD | ||
| 2 |
Minnesota West Community and Technical College |
Granite Falls, MN | ||
| 3 |
University of Maine at Fort Kent |
Fort Kent, ME | ||
| 4 |
Minnesota State College Southeast |
Winona, MN | ||
| 5 |
Northern Wyoming Community College District |
Sheridan, WY | ||
| 6 |
Laramie County Community College |
Cheyenne, WY | ||
| 7 |
Hinds Community College |
Raymond, MS | ||
| 8 |
Lake Superior College |
Duluth, MN | ||
| 9 |
MidAmerica Nazarene University |
Olathe, KS | ||
| 10 |
Palo Alto College |
San Antonio, TX | ||
| 11 |
Harford Community College |
Bel Air, MD | ||
| 12 |
Westmoreland County Community College |
Youngwood, PA | ||
| 13 |
St Petersburg College |
Clearwater, FL | ||
| 14 |
Community College of Allegheny County |
Pittsburgh, PA | ||
| 15 |
Central Texas College |
Killeen, TX |
End of list, bravo!
Online Associate in Network Security Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following associate degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Will a Cybersecurity Associate Degree Take Me?
A cybersecurity associate degree prepares students to pursue entry-level jobs or further study through a bachelor's degree. Many graduates with an associate degree can complete a four-year bachelor's degree in only two years of additional study. The following list outlines several common bachelor's degree majors for graduates with an associate degree in cybersecurity.
Bachelor's in cybersecurity programs build on the foundational skills and knowledge students gain in an associate degree program by covering more advanced concepts in the field. Classes typically explore cybertechnologies for criminal justice, cybercrime law and investigations, software foundations for cybersecurity, and computer hardware and peripherals. Many programs also require degree-seekers to participate in an internship to apply their skills to professional settings.
Bachelor's in cybercrime programs focus on how to protect individuals, families, and groups from security compromises that affect the safety of themselves and their information. Common classes include cybercrime investigations and forensics, payment systems and fraud, information assurance risk and compliance, and fraud prevention and detection technologies. Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare security and privacy, computer forensics investigation, vulnerability assessments, and law enforcement.
Bachelor's in Information Technology
An online bachelor's in information technology can lead to diverse careers in industries like cybersecurity, computer programming, software development, and mobile app development. Many of these degrees offer concentrations that allow students to tailor the program to their interests and goals. Common concentrations include business management, data analytics, project management, and cybersecurity.
Students typically take courses in the fundamentals of information technology, information technology operations and systems planning, introduction to computer networks, and computing as a service. Most programs also require an internship.
Bachelor's in Computer Science
Bachelor's in computer science programs prepare students for a variety of jobs, such as computer information systems manager, data scientist, or computer systems analyst. These programs often offer concentrations in data science, software engineering, high-performance systems, or artificial intelligence.
Common courses include computer organization and systems, introduction to probability for computer scientists, data structures and algorithms, and principles of computer systems. Students may complete an internship or a thesis to culminate the degree.
What Is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is a rapidly expanding field dedicated to ensuring computer information and internal/external networks remain safe from security compromises. The field heavily intersects with criminal justice, forensics, computer science, and information technology, allowing cybersecurity professionals to pursue careers in those areas as well.
Cybersecurity is a rapidly expanding field dedicated to ensuring computer information and internal/external networks remain safe from security compromises.
Cybersecurity professionals need a keen attention to detail, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a commitment to ongoing learning. They often develop strategies to keep data, hardware, and software secure; implement security measures to respond to developing threats; create firewalls; and educate staff on safety protocols. They may also hire ethical hackers to look for security weaknesses.
What Is a Cybersecurity Associate Degree?
Online associate in cybersecurity programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete. Admission requirements vary by institution, but they typically include an application fee, a high school diploma or GED, and transcripts from any schools previously attended. More competitive programs may also require letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
Courses vary by program, but they often cover industrial applications and software, information security fundamentals, computer security ethical and legal foundations, and computer forensics and incident response. Some programs may also include a practicum or capstone, though these requirements are more common at the bachelor's level. Aside from classes focused on cybersecurity, degree seekers also take general education courses.
Graduates can pursue entry-level employment or further study through a bachelor's program.
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Cybersecurity Jobs
Graduates with a cybersecurity associate degree can pursue entry-level jobs in diverse fields. We cover several common jobs for graduates below.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
These professionals ensure a company's computer and network systems run smoothly and efficiently. They identify the software and hardware needs of companies, provide necessary maintenance and repairs, identify ways to optimize network performance, and teach employees how to use computer systems. They also ensure all internal and external networks remain safe and secure from breaches.
Some network and computer systems administrator roles require only an associate degree, but most require a bachelor's degree. The position does not require a license, but many employers prefer candidates to hold certification in the products they use.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts keep an organization's networks and systems safe from security compromises. They continually monitor the network to identify any breaches, making adjustments as needed. They also install firewalls and data encryption programs to help detect suspicious activity. Most of these professionals hold a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, programming, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with certification.
Network Architects
These professionals build an organization's networks and intranets. They typically work in house for a single company, but they may also work as consultants for a variety of organizations. Network architects must develop data communication plans, keep up with hardware and software upgrades, and stay abreast of changes in networking technologies. Most network architects need a bachelor's degree, though some employers may accept associate degree-holders who have substantial experience.
Cybersecurity Membership Associations
Cybersecurity students and professionals can take advantage of membership associations, which offer benefits such as networking opportunities, awards and funding, and certification programs.
Information Systems Security Association International
ISSA provides local chapters, learning opportunities, awards, and a fellows program. The group also offers cyberexecutive forums, chapter events, and web conferences.
WiCyS brings together female cybersecurity experts in academia and industry to support them with meaningful member benefits. Benefits include an annual conference, a career support portal, and industry news.
Members of ISACA can access career support and credentialing opportunities. They can also access in-person and online training, an annual conference, and in-house publications.
This professional association offers industry-recognized certifications in security administration, cloud security, authorization, and software security. The group also provides continuing education opportunities, online and in-person communities, and exam preparation materials.
The SANS Institute serves more than 165,000 cybersecurity professionals worldwide. Members can access more than 45 online and in-person courses in addition to several continuing education programs. The institute also hosts webcasts, a blog, several newsletters, and a reading room.
Cybersecurity Certifications
Cybersecurity certifications help professionals demonstrate specialized expertise to employers. While not industry mandated, many employers look for candidates with at least one type of certification. The following list outlines several common certifications for cybersecurity professionals.
- CompTIA Security+ This foundational certification demonstrates basic cybersecurity skills. The exam helps individuals advance from entry- to mid-level jobs, assessing knowledge and skills in areas such as technologies and tools, architecture and design, and risk management.
- GIAC Security Essentials This cybersecurity certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in areas like cryptography concepts, security policy and contingency plans, web communication security and virtualization, and active defense.
- Certified Ethical Hacker Designed for professionals who want to help individuals and businesses identify weaknesses in their networks, the ethical hacker certification demonstrates expertise in footprinting and reconnaissance, social engineering, evading firewalls and honeypots, and hacking web servers.
- Certified Information Security Manager This ISACA-backed certification demonstrates proficiency in risk management, information security governance, and incident management. The organization provides exam prep materials and continuing education for certification maintenance.
