2020 Most Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degrees

Kennesaw State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is an interdisciplinary program that incorporates information technology, business administration, information security and assurance, and criminal justice. The degree requires 120 credits, including general education, major requirements, specialization credits, and electives. Available tracks include cyber crime, systems security, and network security. Students can pursue an approved internship, directed study, or cooperative study that counts toward their elective requirements. The program can be completed on a part-time or full-time schedule.

Desire2Learn is the learning management system used to deliver coursework, video lectures, and reading materials. Students work at their own pace to complete assignments. However, deadlines and scheduled exams are structured into the curriculum, and attendance may be required at set times. Online discussion forums and occasional group projects keep students connected to their peers. Distance learners have access to academic advising, tutoring, library resources, IT support, and career development tools. Financial aid in the form of scholarships, work-study opportunities, loans, and grants is also available.

Prospective students must have a high school diploma and fewer than 30 college credits. Those with fewer than 15 should apply as freshmen, while those with 15-30 credits should apply as transfer students. Admission requirements include an application, academic transcripts, and standardized test scores. A 2.5 minimum GPA is required.

Western Governors University (WGU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance and a Bachelor of Science in Network Operations and IT Security. The online programs vary in length, depending on schedules and course loads. The curriculums include general education, major-specific courses, and a written capstone project. The cybersecurity program includes secure systems analysis and design, risk management, and hacking countermeasures. The network operations focus includes leadership management, spreadsheets, and general science content. Industry certifications are also built into the programs at no additional cost.

Students use various tools to access their course materials, including the WGU student portal, electronic textbooks, simulations, library resources, and interactive tutorials. Coursework may include projects, essays, exams, research papers, and video lectures. Learning is asynchronous, and students generally take one course at a time. As soon as they feel prepared to move on, they can do so by taking a final assessment. Through this unique format, students can progress quickly and save time and money. Program mentors are available to assist students throughout their studies.

Prospective students must have a high school degree and prior professional or academic experience. Examples of accepted experience include an associate or bachelor’s degree, previous 300-level IT coursework, at least two years of professional IT work, or IT certifications. Interested students must submit an application, official transcripts, and supporting documentation.

Distance learners can pursue a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). Both require a total of 124 credits and offer a concentration in Cybersecurity. The programs, which typically take four years, can be completed on a part-time or full-time schedule. There are opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and professional certification preparation.

Course materials, such as recorded lectures, readings, and lesson plans, can be accessed through the Blackboard learning management system. The platform is also used for interactive activities like discussion forums, labs, exams, and assignments. The informatics department at FHSU hosts a number of clubs and student organizations like the Advanced Technology Student Organization, which online students can choose to join. Distance learners have access to free tutoring and writing support, career development resources, IT support, and alumni services. There are scholarship and financial aid opportunities and tuition assistance for military students and veterans.

Students must submit an application, academic transcripts, and test scores to apply to one of the online cybersecurity programs. Applicants who live in-state must have at least a 2.0 GPA, while out-of-state students must have at least a 2.5 GPA. Students transferring with previous college credit must submit their college transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0.