There are many factors that influence choosing the right online cybersecurity master’s program. Affordability is usually top on that list for many students.
That’s why the Cybersecurity Guide research team compiled a new list that ranks top online cybersecurity master’s degree programs based on the overall projected cost of tuition.
But affordability should not come at the expense of getting the best possible career preparation possible. So in order to be included in our most affordable online cybersecurity master degree programs for 2024 rankings, each school has to also be designated a Center for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-C).
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Feature Online Master's Programs
| School Name | Program | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia Tech | Online MS in Cybersecurity | Tuition under $10k | website |
| UC Berkeley School of Information | Online MS in Cybersecurity | No GRE/GMAT Required | website |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online MS in Cybersecurity | website |
| Syracuse University | Online MS in Cybersecurity | Complete in 15 Months | website |
The CAE designation was created by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security in order to help cybersecurity programs at top education and research institutions prepare tomorrow’s cybersecurity experts.
The program exists to help the United States maintain an edge in digital security and build a robust pipeline of cybersecurity professionals.
The 2024 list for top affordable online cybersecurity master’s programs includes a blend of long-established cybersecurity programs. But the list also includes new, emerging programs offering innovative cybersecurity courses.
The online cybersecurity master’s degree programs included in this year’s affordability rankings also offer a range of opportunities for students and career preparation.
With specialties ranging from increasing technical skills and ability to management and administration, there are plenty of options to fit a wide variety of career paths.
Top affordable online cybersecurity master’s programs for 2024
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Program: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $9,600
Cost per credit: $320
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The program prepares students for professional roles in various sectors, emphasizing the protection of corporate information assets.
- A main focus is to equip cyber professionals to harden and secure network systems, conduct risk assessments, and plan for disaster recovery.
- A main focus is to equip cyber professionals to harden and secure network systems, conduct risk assessments, and plan for disaster recovery.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GeorgiaProgram: Online Master’s of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-R
Tuition: $9,920
Cost per credit: $310
Credits: 32
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The interdisciplinary degree can be completed online at a tuition cost of less than $10,000
- Georgia Tech is a top-ranked public university
- The program can be customized to accommodate specializations and can be take part-time over two to three years by working professionals
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MissouriProgram: Masters of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $11,820
Cost per credit: $394
Credits: 30
Delivery method: On-campus & Online
GRE requirement: Optional
Program highlights:- As part of the program students get 24/7 access to the NDG NetLab, which provides hands-on ethical hacking and computer forensics learning.
- The program offers a combination of online and in-person courses.
- Common topic areas include cybersecurity policy, risk management, and threat intelligence.
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FloridaProgram: Master of Science (M.S.) Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $12,750
Cost per credit: $425
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Required
Program highlights:- The program is designed around defensive cybersecurity such as training professionals to secure data, information, and networks against threats.
- Students have access to the UWF cyber range to gain hands-on experience.
- The four concentrations available are: Data security, national security, security management, and software and system security
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KentuckyProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Online
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $14,400
Cost per credit: $480
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not Required
Program highlights:- Northern Kentucky University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity program covers key areas like cloud computing, data privacy, and security architecture, and is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the National Security Agency.
- The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing students to address real-world cybersecurity issues.
- Aligned with industry needs, the program sets graduates on a path to fulfilling careers in the cybersecurity sector.
American Public University System
Charles Town, West VirginiaProgram: Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies (MS)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $15,300
Cost per credit: $425
Credits: 36
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The Master of Science in Cybersecurity Studies at American Military University aims to meet the growing need for advanced cybersecurity expertise, focusing on network security, information assurance, and risk management among other areas.
- The curriculum provides a multi-faceted understanding of cybersecurity, delving into policies and practices across different sectors, and exploring the societal impact of cyber threats.
- Targeted at individuals with an IT background or relevant work experience, the program aligns with industry standards and certifications.
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IllinoisProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $15,480
Cost per credit: $516
Credits: 30
Delivery method: On-campus & Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The University of Illinois Springfield's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management focuses on training professionals to protect digital assets, offering courses like Digital Forensics and Penetration Testing, with a tuition of $15,210 and a duration as short as 12 months.
- The program balances technical and managerial skills, covering areas such as cybersecurity policy, risk management, and business continuity planning.
- A hands-on approach featuring real-world projects and practical exercises prepares students for leadership roles in the cybersecurity field
Boise State University
Boise, IdahoProgram: Online Master of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $15,750
Cost per credit: $525
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Boise State University's online Master's in Cyber Operations and Resilience focuses on the design and operation of resilient information systems, making it ideal for those with professional, military, or law enforcement backgrounds.
- The program offers flexibility with technical and non-technical tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals.
- Beyond granting a degree, the program equips students to navigate the ever-changing challenges in the cybersecurity landscape.
Mississippi State University
Starkville, MississippiProgram: Master of Science in Cyber Security and Operations
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
Tuition: $15,934
Cost per credit: $514
Credits: 31
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Mississippi State University's online Master of Science in Cyber Security & Operations addresses the growing cyber-threat landscape through a multidisciplinary approach, offering both thesis and non-thesis tracks.
- The program holds the distinction of being recognized by the National Security Agency with all three centers of academic excellence credentials, and its curriculum serves as a model for the US Navy.
- Designed to meet the Department of Defense's Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations requirements, the program focuses on advanced cyber operations like penetration testing and malware analysis.
Murray State University
Murray, KentuckyProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management online
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $16,455
Cost per credit: $549
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Required
Program highlights:- Murray State University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management offers a fast-track program that can be completed in 12 to 18 months, covering a wide array of topics from network intrusion prevention to public key encryption.
- The curriculum extends beyond technical skills to include governance, policy, and risk management, and is designed to meet the needs of diverse industries like healthcare, education, and finance.
- A focus on real-world applications enables students to collaborate with industry partners on projects, enhancing their practical experience.
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VirginiaProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CO, CAE-CD
Tuition: $17,130
Cost per credit: $571
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Old Dominion University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity program aims to create technology leaders proficient in technical aspects of cybersecurity, including project management and team coordination.
- The program serves dual purposes: preparing graduates for the workforce and acting as a stepping stone for those interested in doctoral studies or teaching cybersecurity at higher education levels.
- With a flexible curriculum that can be completed in one year, ODU offers both online and on-campus options and emphasizes real-world problem-solving and research opportunities with faculty.
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UtahProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $17,180
Cost per credit: $573
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Western Governors University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance focuses on equipping students to safeguard critical data, covering advanced topics like Cloud Security and Penetration Testing.
- The curriculum aligns with multiple industry standards, including the NICE Framework, NSA Center of Academic Excellence guidelines, and CISSP Common Body of Knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.
- The program stands out for including multiple industry-recognized certifications at no extra cost, such as CompTIA CySA+ and ISACA CISM, preparing graduates for the complexities of the cybersecurity field.
Hood College
Frederick, MarylandProgram: Online Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $18,300
Cost per credit: $610
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Hood College's online Master's in Cybersecurity addresses the urgent need for skilled professionals in the face of escalating cybercrime damages, projected to surpass $6 trillion annually by 2021.
- The curriculum is available 24/7 and is taught by practitioner-based faculty, providing students with insights from experts actively engaged in the cybersecurity field.
- With one of the lowest tuition rates in the country, the program offers a fast-track option that can be completed in just 15 months.
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, MichiganProgram: Master of Science in Information Assurance (MS-IA)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $19,050
Cost per credit: $635
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The University of Detroit Mercy's Master of Science in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity is aimed at creating professionals skilled in combating digital threats, and it holds the distinction of being recognized as a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA and U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
- The curriculum is comprehensive, covering a broad spectrum of cybersecurity roles from software assurance and network security to legal compliance, and has been offering nationally certified expertise since 2004.
- With a focus on real-world applications, the program is well-positioned to equip students for high-paying, in-demand careers in the burgeoning cybersecurity field.
University of New Hampshire
Durham, New HampshireProgram: M.S. in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management (CPRM)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $19,200
Cost per credit: $640
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The University of New Hampshire's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management aims to foster strategic thinking and policy development, blending these with practical skills like incident response and resilience.
- With a fast-track option that can be completed in just 12 months, the curriculum is guided by expert faculty and industry professionals, ensuring students are prepared for real-world cybersecurity challenges.
- The program holds the distinction of being recognized as a National Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the U.S. National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
- In-state tuition is cheaper for New Hampshire residents at $570 per credit.
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NevadaProgram: Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $19,500
Cost per credit: $650
Credits: 30
Delivery method: On-campus & Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers an interdisciplinary Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, leveraging expertise from both the Lee Business School and the Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering.
- Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the program is tailored for professionals from diverse backgrounds and includes some on-campus courses in Las Vegas.
- Addressing the nationwide high demand for cybersecurity professionals, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum that melds technical and managerial aspects of the field.
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, ArizonaProgram: Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $19,550
Cost per credit: $575
Credits: 34
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- Grand Canyon University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity, offered by the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology, aims to tackle the growing challenges of cyber threats, covering topics like cyber warfare and enterprise security design.
- The curriculum is hands-on, focusing on white hat practices, digital forensics, and penetration testing, and is delivered online for added flexibility.
- The program concludes with a capstone course where students create a comprehensive cybersecurity program, taking into account ethical and legal considerations.
University of Maryland – Global Campus (formerly UMUC)
Adelphi, MarylandProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $19,770
Cost per credit: $659
Credits: 30
Delivery method: Online
GRE requirement: Not required
Program highlights:- The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, targeting the protection of corporate information resources across various sectors.
- The program is tailored for individuals with backgrounds in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or related fields, and zeroes in on network hardening, risk assessments, and disaster recovery planning.
- While the program doesn't specify its duration or delivery method, it's designed to provide specialized skills for those already in tech-related fields, preparing them for advanced roles in information assurance and cybersecurity.
- In-state tuition is cheaper for Maryland residents at $570 per credit.
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