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Best Cyber Crime Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Oghenemairo Omueda - May 17, 2022


The field of cyber crime is fascinating, as it deals with safeguarding very important information and protecting delicate files from being breached. If you’re interested in growing your career in this field, learning about the best cyber crime associate degrees can help put you on the right path.

This article contains all the necessary information that you need to get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime. You will learn about the highest-paying cyber crime associate degree jobs and also learn about the graduation rate, tuition rates, education requirements, and application process for each of the listed schools that offer a cyber crime associate degree.

Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

Some of the best schools to get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime include Dallas College, Lehigh Carbon Community College, Ferris State University, Cypress College, and College of Southern Maryland.

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What Schools Offer the Best Cyber Crime Associate Degrees?

  • Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
  • College of Southern Maryland
  • Regent University
  • Community College of Philadelphia
  • Cypress College

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

The admission requirements for a cyber crime associate degree program are having a high school transcript to show the evidence of your graduation, sometimes having SAT or ACT scores, meeting a high school GPA requirement in some cases, and filling in an application form.

Some schools do not require SAT or ACT scores but others, such as the College of Southern Maryland, require students to submit test scores for them to gain admission. Candidates usually must fill out an application online. This form contains all the necessary personal information about the student that the school will need to process admission.

Cyber Crime Associate Degree Admission Requirements

  • High school transcript
  • Application form
  • Letters of recommendation
  • High school GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • SAT or ACT scores

How to Get a Cyber Crime Associate Degree

To get a cyber crime associate degree, you must complete all the appropriate courses that are required. You also need a certain GPA and standardized test scores, if the school you are applying to requires these. You can complete the whole program within a space of two years. Before you start a cyber crime associate degree program, you should have a basic working knowledge of computers and at least a general idea of how cyber security works.

How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

You need 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime, though some programs require up to 64 credits. Students will take a combination of general education classes, electives, and majors to achieve this.

The general education courses will usually reflect on the exact type of program a student is studying. Some cyber security programs may also include capstone projects or internships.

Cyber Crime Associate Degree Requirements

  • General education accounts for 15 credits, in most cases
  • Required elective cyber crime courses account for between 15 and 18 credits
  • Required core cyber crime courses account for 21 to 24 credits
  • Students will undergo internships at some point, in some institutions
  • This program might require a capstone project for successful completion

Best Cyber Crime Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Higher Learning Commission
College of Southern Maryland Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Community College of Philadelphia Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Cypress College Associate of Science in Cyber Defense Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Dallas College Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Ferris State University Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence Higher Learning Commission
Lehigh Carbon Community College Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Palm Beach State College Associate of Science in Network Administration Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Regent University Associate of Science in Information Systems Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Alaska, Fairbanks Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Best Schools for Cyber Crime: Top Cyber Crime Associate Degree Programs

We have put together a list of some of best schools for cyber crime below and carefully highlighted their admission requirements and application processes. Although there are many schools across the country that offer cyber crime associate degrees, we’ve hand-picked the top 10 for you. You will also find other important information to consider about these top cyber crime associate degree programs, such as graduation rates, tuition fees, and student population.

1

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College

Martinsburg, WV

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College was founded as part of Shepherd College in 1974. In 2005, the school became accredited as an independent institution. The school is a two-year college that offers associate degrees across various disciplines and has a student population of 3,912.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security

This associate degree requires 60 credits for completion. The curriculum teaches students to explore risks, threats, and other security issues. It also covers how to carry out security assessments. Students will also learn how to develop security policies and give great responses to incidents. This training prepares students for entry-level roles as cyber security professionals.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $172/credit hour (in state); $311/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 35%

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Admission Requirements

  • GPA: Minimum of 2.0
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT, other placement test scores accepted
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Blue Ridge Community and Technical College

  1. Apply online.
  2. Pay the $25 application fee to submit your application.
  3. Submit your official high school transcript.
  4. Provide your ACT or SAT score. Other standardized scores will be accepted. If you don’t have any standardized test scores, you’ll be given an Accuplacer assessment to take.
  5. Complete new student orientation upon successful admission, following the instructions on your admission letter.
2

College of Southern Maryland

La Plata, MD

The College of Southern Maryland is a two-year public community college that was founded in 1958. The school offers associate degrees and certificates and has a student population of 18,653.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity

This course requires 60 credits for completion. In the first semester, students will learn about the basics of IT hardware and software. In the second semester, students will begin to explore some concepts in the cyber security field. Students will learn about digital forensics, information assurance, network security, and systems security.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition (and Fees): $137/credit (county residents); $240/credit (in state); $308/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to College of Southern Maryland

  1. Apply online and submit your application for free.
  2. Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
  3. Submit standardized test scores from the ACT or SAT. If you don’t have these, you can take the College of Southern Maryland Placement Test or the college can analyze your high school transcript.
  4. Submit your high school transcript.
  5. Complete new student orientation.
3

Community College of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

The Community College of Philadelphia was founded in 1965 and offers associate degrees to students. The school currently boasts a student population of 13,672 and has a very vibrant sports culture competing in various competitions within and outside the state of Pennsylvania.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity

The courses that students take in this program are meant to prepare them for the industry certifications of CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker, and Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator. Classes will teach students how to employ technology and critical thinking skills effectively in the analysis and communication of matters surrounding information security.

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition (and Fees): $159/credit hour (Philadelphia resident); $328/credit hour (in state); $497/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 61 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 16%

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

  • GPA: Above 2.74 to waive placement test
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Community College of Philadelphia

  1. Apply online for free.
  2. Submit standardized test scores, such as SAT or ACT. If you don’t have these scores, you can submit your high school transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.74 or take a placement test.
  3. Submit your high school transcript.
  4. Register for classes and use the school code 003249 when applying for federal student aid.
  5. Pay for classes.
4

Cypress College

Cypress, CA

Established in 1966, Cypress College is a top institution that offers many academic and vocational programs. The school offers 176 certificates and degree programs in 73 areas of study for its 15,325 students.

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense

This cyber security program requires 60 credits for completion. The courses prepare students to understand the fundamentals of cyber security and protecting cyber assets. The associate program will prepare students to qualify for bachelor’s degree-level cyber security programs, letting them further progress in the cyber security field and become cyber security professionals.

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense Overview

  • Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
  • Tuition (and Fees): $46/unit (in state); $369/unit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 30%

Associate of Science in Cyber Defense Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Community College of Cypress

  1. Create an Open CCC account to apply online for free.
  2. Complete an online orientation with myGateway or attend an in-person orientation by arranging it with the Community College of Cypress assessment center.
  3. Schedule a group counseling session appointment to create an education plan.
  4. Meet with a counselor to review your transcripts and test scores for class placement, or undergo the guided placement process.
  5. Register for classes and pay fees to secure your place in the cyber crime degree program.
5

Dallas College

Dallas, TX

Established in 1965, Dallas College boasts seven campuses in Texas. The school offers different degrees to its student body of 74,781, including associate and bachelor's degrees. The school also runs certificate programs for students.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security

This degree prepares students for several entry-level technician roles relating to information security. The program focuses on the areas of digital forensics and cyber security. There are five areas of specialization on which students can place emphasis, including digital forensics, security administration, information assurance, system security administration, and cyber defense.

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $79/credit (Dallas county residents); $135/credit (in state); $200/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 21%

Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement for general admission; 3.3 GPA for Honors Program students
  • Standardized Tests: Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirement must be met; SAT or ACT will suffice
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Dallas College

  1. Apply online for free.
  2. Submit an official transcript from high school.
  3. Submit TSI assessment or standardized test scores from the ACT or SAT.
  4. Submit proof of meningitis vaccination if you are younger than 22.
  5. Meet with a success coach, attend a new student orientation, and prepare to register.
6

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI

Ferris State University is a public university that was founded in 1884. The school was founded by an educator from New York known as Woodbridge Nathan Ferris. It is one of the largest universities in the state of Michigan with a student population of 11,165. The school offers several different degrees, including associate and bachelor's degrees.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence

This program prepares students for a wide range of career possibilities in fields requiring strong technical and problem-solving skills. Some of these career paths include information security, computer forensics, ethical hacking, incident response, penetration testing, and mobile security. These opportunities exist in different industries, including intelligence and finance.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $455/credit (US residents and Canadians); $734/credit (international)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 50%

Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Intelligence Requirements

  • GPA: 3.0
  • Standardized Tests: Minimum Math ACT score of 22 or SAT score of 550
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: 750- to 1000-word essay

Applying to Ferris State University

  1. Arrange a campus visit.
  2. Register for and take the ACT during high school. You must achieve a minimum math score of 22 on the ACT to be eligible for admission to this program.
  3. Apply after your junior year of high school. Include a 750- to 1000-word essay that describes why you want to study this program, a personal talent, quality, or accomplishment, and a person who has influenced you.
  4. Submit your ACT score using the code 1994, or submit your SAT score of at least 550. Arrange for your high school to send the official transcript of your education to FSU.
  5. Respond to orientation mail and attend the mandatory orientation events.
7

Lehigh Carbon Community College

Schnecksville, PA

Lehigh Carbon Community College was established in 1966 and offers over 90 different study programs in various fields including computer science, technology, communication, and business. The school currently has a student population of 6,205.

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security

This computer forensics program provides a solid base for students in both the theory and application of technical and non-technical cyber security skills. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the digital security industry. Students can go on to register in a four-year institution to earn a bachelor of science degree upon graduation.

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition: $3,660/12-18 credits (in state); $5,490/12-18 credits (out of state/international)
  • Required Credits: 64 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 20%

Associate of Science in Computer Forensics and Digital Security Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Lehigh Carbon Community College

  1. Apply online for free, then receive your LCCC Student Portal login details.
  2. Submit your official transcript from high school.
  3. Submit SAT or ACT test scores, or complete placement testing at an LCCC campus or remotely. Arrange remote testing by emailing admissions@lccc.edu and advise whether you have a webcam.
  4. Register for classes and take part in virtual orientation events.
  5. Pay for college to secure your place.
8

Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth, FL

Palm Beach State College was established in 1933 as the first community college in the state of Florida. The school has grown to have around 26,666 students who have over 130 programs to choose from. At the moment, the school offers both associate and bachelor’s degrees, along with certificate programs.

Associate of Science in Network Administration

This degree prepares students on how to plan, install, and configure computer networks. Having adequate knowledge of computer networks is essential in keeping them secure from cyber crime. Students will learn how to troubleshoot and manage these networks in a LAN or WAN setting. The coursework includes networking terminology and computer hardware concepts. It will take three years for part-time students to complete this course, and two years for full-time students.

Associate of Science in Network Administration Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $101/credit (in state); $363/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 44%

Associate of Science in Network Administration Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: Not required for adult students or transfer students
  • Application Fee: $40 (US); $75 (international)
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Palm Beach State College

  1. Apply online and pay the $40 or $75 application fee to submit your application.
  2. Apply for financial aid through FAFSA and declare Florida residency if you intend to pay in-state tuition fees.
  3. Get your high school to submit your education transcript within a PDF file to Palm Beach State College Admissions via admissions@palmbeachstate.edu.
  4. Check to see if you are required to take a Palm Beach State College placement test . Ordinarily, this will be the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT).
  5. Contact your assigned academic advisor for the next steps, and register for student orientation events.
9

Regent University

Virginia Beach, VA

Regent University is a Christian school that was established in 1977. As one of the best universities in Virginia , this school offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees across various fields to its 10,483 students. It also offers a range of online courses to distance learners seeking an affordable online education.

Associate of Science in Information Systems

This Associate of Science in Information Systems program provides fundamental knowledge in subjects including technical design, development, and management. Requiring 64 credits to complete, students will learn top skills that can help them gain entry-level jobs in education, business, and government agencies. Students can attend the in-person or online program.

Associate of Science in Information Systems Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition: $9,040/semester (full-time); $603/credit (part-time)
  • Required Credits: 64 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Associate of Science in Information Systems Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: A laptop that is powerful enough to run the required program software

Applying to Regent University

  1. Apply to Regent University online by filling out the application form.
  2. Complete the admissions questionnaire by following the link you receive after filing your application.
  3. Submit all unofficial education transcripts. Official transcripts will be required once you are made an offer of study.
  4. Submit a government-issued ID, if applicable.
  5. Submit FAFSA for financial aid using the Regent University code 030913.
10

University of Alaska, Fairbanks

Fairbanks, AK

The University of Alaska Fairbanks was established in 1917 but it started full operation in 1922. The school offers certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and postbaccalaureate degrees in various fields for its 6,813 students. The academic attributes of this school are top-notch, and this shows in its high retention rate of 78 percent .

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity

This is a two-year program that prepares students to work in entry-level roles as IT specialists, giving them the skills to carry out network administration and protect systems from cyber attacks. The program fortifies students with knowledge in the basics of network administration and support, network security, computer programming, and server operating systems.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity Overview

  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition: $234/credit (in state); $800/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 39%

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network and Cybersecurity Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum requirement
  • Standardized Tests: ACT and SAT requirements are waived until 2025
  • Application Fee: $40
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old

Applying to University of Alaska Fairbanks

  1. Create a university account online and apply for admission.
  2. Pay the $40 application fee to submit your application.
  3. Submit your official high school transcript.
  4. SAT and ACT scores are being waived until 2025 and their submission is now optional, but you can submit official test results using the ACT code 0064 and the SAT code 4866.
  5. Wait for an admission update and contact an admissions counselor if you need assistance.

What Is a Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

A cyber crime associate degree is a degree earned in a college program that helps prepare students to start their journey in the field of cyber crime. This program provides training in different areas including learning network administration and ethical hacking, and covers an introduction to information systems, digital forensics, information security, and network security.

A cyber crime associate degree will usually take two years to complete. This degree helps students launch careers in numerous fields that are related to IT security. At the associate degree level, students will connect with cyber security professionals that will expose them to the latest trends in network design and security technology.

How Important Is an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

An Associate Degree in Cyber Crime is very important since a cyber crime degree can help you work as part of a team that is tasked with data protection and also be paid a high salary. There is also an extremely high job outlook of 33 percent for information security analysts, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Cyber Crime?

The two types of associate degrees you can get in cyber crime are an Associate of Science degree or an Associate of Applied Science degree. An Associate of Science degree serves majorly as a stepping stone to getting a bachelor’s degree in a four-year institution, while an Associate of Applied Science degree focuses on practical skills and can prepare you to get a job immediately after graduating from the program.

Is It Better to Get an Associate of Science or an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Crime?

An Associate of Science (AS) degree is best for you if you wish to continue on your academic path to earn a bachelor’s degree. You learn specific skills to improve upon in a four-year school. This means that an AS degree is considered a transfer degree by many schools. Many community colleges offering AS degrees have transfer arrangements with four-year schools.

However, an Associate of Applied Science degree would be best for you if you’re looking to get a job with your degree, as that is what it prepares you for. You can start your career immediately after earning an Associate of Applied Science degree, as it is considered a terminal degree.

What Is the Difference Between a Cyber Crime Associate Degree and a Cyber Crime Certificate?

The difference between a cyber crime associate degree and a cyber crime certificate is that an associate degree includes multiple courses that relate to cyber crime and provides a degree upon completion, while a cyber crime certificate just proves that you took a class. Certificates are extremely focused on a niche of cyber crime that the student picks, and they do not confer a terminal degree, but instead a professional certificate of completion.

There are also other differences, such as the requirements to begin the program and the completion time. Cyber crime certificates take a shorter time to complete than cyber crime associate degrees.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), on average, it costs $11,391 to get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime . This includes costs for tuition, fees, and room and board.

The cost may increase or decrease, depending on whether you get your degree from a public or private institution, among other variables.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

It takes two years to get a Cyber Crime Associate Degree if you are a full-time student. This is equal to about 20 college courses. If your school offers an accelerated degree program, you can earn the degree in 12 to 18 months. If, however, you choose to take a part-time course, you may take more than the regular two years to complete your program.

In most cases, a student needs 60 credits to complete this program. If divided evenly this will be a total of 15 credits per semester to graduate in two years.

How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

It is not very hard to get an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime. Though it may be a bit more challenging to get this degree than other non-research type majors such as business or humanities, getting a cyber crime associate degree is usually easier than other majors that are lab or research-intensive, such as engineering and science.

Cyber crime programs assume minimal technical background. The writing requirements, as well as the research work involved, can be well managed, and the lab requirements are not research-based, so they are not too difficult. However, the difficulty of any program depends on your natural aptitude for the subject and willingness to study and learn.

Why Should You Get a Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

You should get a cyber crime associate degree because it will enable you to pick up high-end skills such as how to protect computer operating systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks. You can use these skills to get good jobs, such as working as an information security officer, security engineer, or forensics expert.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Cyber Crime?

Studying for an associate degree program in cyber crime will have you taking courses such as Computer Networking, Cyber Security Foundations, Legal and Human Factors of Cyber Security, Operating System Security, and Application Security. Check out more about the five courses that you can expect to be part of your program below.

Computer Networking

This course will teach you the basics of computer networking and you will learn about the different approaches to network designs and network architecture. You will also gain some experience by performing practical work on administrative tasks and common network implementation.

Cyber Security Foundations

This course focuses on the foundational concepts and terms of cyber security. You will learn the difference between environmental and adversarial threats and be able to analyze the way security practitioners tackle each one, respectively. You will identify and examine legal and human factors to find out the influence they have on the development of government strategies.

Legal and Human Factors of Cyber Security

This course focuses on security concerns that are associated with humans and their interactions with information systems. You will learn about social engineering and how to carry out defense against cyber attacks that are human-focused. The legal and ethical aspects of privacy and other social concerns will also be studied.

Operating System Security

You will learn the strategies and techniques that are best to offer modern operating systems a good measure of security. You will learn how to troubleshoot settings that are not secure, so as to minimize the risk of a system getting compromised.

Application Security

This course explores the basic principles of application security. You will learn how to identify common loopholes in software that make them vulnerable and develop solutions to minimize the potential impact of these vulnerabilities. A very key aspect of this course is understanding how to analyze the security of web apps that are multi-tiered.

Continuing Education Paths for Cyber Crime Associate Degree Graduates

Graduates with an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime can continue their education by transferring their credits to a four-year college where they can earn a bachelor’s degree, and then even a master’s degree . Similarly, graduates with an associate degree can take professional certification courses if they wish to gain knowledge on a specific subject in this field.

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What to Look For in the Best Cyber Crime Associate Degree Programs

The things to look for in the best cyber crime associate degree programs are school accreditation, cost and financial aid, the career services of the school, reputation, and alumni network. All of these are briefly discussed below to aid you in your school search.

Accreditation

One of the most important factors to consider when settling for an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime program is to check it’s being run by an accredited institution, as this shows the quality and credibility of the school. Accreditation is done by either a national, regional, or programmatic body. The best institutions usually have regional and programmatic accreditation.

Career Services

A school that has a robust career services program for students studying cyber crime should top your list. Also, if you wish to study online, find out how you can benefit from the career services on offer.

Alumni Network

Check if the school has a well-organized and influential alumni base that has cyber crime professionals. A large, well-maintained alumni base serves as a good point of networking in your field.

Cost and Financial Aid

Every student should look out for the total cost of a degree and weigh it against the financial aid that’s available to them. A generous financial aid package can help you pay for a school with a very high price tag.

Reputation

Prospective students should look out for how the cyber crime program of a school is viewed by a potential employer, as well as former students. You can look up reviews of the school on social media or sites like Career Karma to help you gauge this.

What Is the Most Affordable Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

The most affordable cyber crime associate degree is the Associate of Science in Cyber Security from Cypress College. The annual tuition fee at Cypress for this degree is pegged at about $1,146. For the full length of the program that runs for two academic sessions, the total cost will be around  $2,292.

Salary and Job Outlook for Cyber Crime Associate Degree Graduates

A college student in hallway with school files a backpack and white headphones.
A cyber crime associate degree can help boost the career growth of students by turning them into cyber security professionals.

After graduating from a cyber crime associate degree program, you may want to go into the labor market straight away, instead of progressing on to a four-year degree. Steps to take include searching for jobs that relate to your degree, researching some cover letter and resume tips , applying to your preferred job, and then preparing well for the interview questions .

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

It is not very hard to get a job with a cyber crime associate degree, especially if you have an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Crime, since this degree focuses more on skills that graduates can use to get a job. Also, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a high job outlook of 33 percent for cyber crime specialists , showing that cyber security experts are in-demand.

What’s the Average Cyber Crime Associate Degree Salary?

The average salary for someone with a cyber crime associate degree is $52,000 according to PayScale. For specific roles, the annual median salary of a cyber security analyst at an entry-level is $64,786. A systems administrator earns $51,913 per year , on average, in their first year.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Cyber Crime Associate Degree?

The types of cyber security jobs you can do with a cyber crime associate degree include working in federal government agencies, healthcare, education, financial institutions, energy and utility companies, and small businesses.

Cyber Crime Degree Jobs

  • Information security analyst
  • Computer forensics analyst
  • Penetration tester
  • Malware analyst
  • Cyber security engineer

Potential Careers With a Cyber Crime Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime?

You can make between $50,000 and $100,000 per year with an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime. One of the highest paying jobs in the cyber operations field is working as an information security analyst, which pays as high as $102,600 per year, according to BLS. Another lucrative job in the field is cyber security engineer, where you can earn as much as $97,841 annually , as per PayScale’s estimate.

There are also other jobs in the cyber crime field where workers can earn a very respectable salary. We shall be looking at five different jobs in the cyber crime field that pay well, below.

Highest-Paying Cyber Crime Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Cyber Crime Associate Degree Jobs Average Salary
Information Security Analyst $102,600
Cyber Security Engineer $97,841
Malware Analyst $92,880
Penetration Tester $87,860
Computer Forensics Analyst $74,798

Best Jobs for Cyber Crime Associate Degree Grads

We shall be looking at some of the best jobs for cyber crime associate degree grads that you can look into even before you graduate. Here, we’ll investigate the salaries, outlooks, and locations of high-paying cyber crime occupations, plus other jobs you can get with a cyber crime degree or an Associate Degree in Cyber Security.

1

Information Security Analyst

Average Salary: $102,600

The job of an information security analyst is to plan and execute security measures that serve to protect the computer networks and systems of an organization. Information security analysts play an important role in creating the disaster recovery plan of the organization they work for, ensuring that the IT department of an organization can always continue to work smoothly.

2

Cyber Security Engineer

Average Salary: $97,841

The job of a cyber security engineer is to identify active threats and vulnerabilities in the systems and software of a company's network. They apply their skills to develop and use high-tech solutions in the defense against all sorts of cyber crimes such as malware, hacking, and insider threats.

3

Malware Analyst

Average Salary: $92,880

A malware analyst identifies, examines, and determines different types of malware and their methods of delivery. Some malicious software include different types of bots, bugs, adware, spyware, Trojan horses, and viruses. Once an incident has been identified and contained, a malware analyst will deconstruct and reverse the malicious code that triggered the attack.

4

Ethical Hacker

Average Salary: $87,860

The job of an ethical hacker is to use the tools that cyber criminals use to test the security of the network and data against cyber threats. Ethical hackers, or penetration testers as they are also called, carry out mock cyber attacks to identify the vulnerabilities and weaknesses of systems. Ethical hackers can work in healthcare facilities, government agencies, and corporate offices.

5

Computer Forensics Analyst

Average Salary: $61,930

Computer forensics analysts focus on computer-based crimes, assisting in the criminal investigation of cyber security incidents. They collect and analyze data to uncover cyber crimes like identity theft, scams, and electronic fraud. They also help law enforcement agencies, like Homeland Security, recover information that has been deleted, encrypted or hidden.

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Is an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime Worth It?

Yes, an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime is worth it because the labor market is projected to see a growth of 33 percent for jobs in the cyber crime field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Obtaining a degree in cyber crime can help you start your career in this exciting field, and the average annual salaries that you will earn from these roles are very attractive.

Getting an Associate Degree in Cyber Crime can help you to get a foot in the door, as you will be able to use transferable credits to get into a bachelor’s degree program, from which you can even progress on to a master’s degree program. Higher degrees in cyber security, plus industry certifications, can serve to improve your job opportunities and your earnings.

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Cyber Crime Associate Degree FAQ

What can you do with a cyber crime degree?

Getting a cyber crime associate degree can open up opportunities to work in very fascinating roles including working as a security analyst, security engineer, security architect, and security administrator. You can also become an ethical hacker , security software developer, cryptographer, chief information security officer, and network administrator.

Can a cyber crime associate degree be earned online?

Yes, you can earn a cyber crime associate degree online. Many online colleges offer some of the best Associate Degrees in Cyber Crime online. Many students can get their degrees faster via accelerated options, which also exist in an online format.

What are some of the best technical degree programs in cyber crime?

The top concentrations when studying for a cyber crime associate degree include cloud computing, digital forensics, and network security. Many schools also focus on cyber security analysis.

What is a two-year degree?

A two-year degree is the degree you receive after completing about 60 college credits, and it is most commonly called an associate degree. In many cases, students earn a two-year degree as a stepping stone to pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Cyber security associate degrees can also effectively prepare students for a job at the and this takes less time than earning a bachelor’s degree.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.

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Oghenemairo Omueda

About the author: Oghenemairo is an expert content writer who has been published on Opera News and Medium. He holds a degree in microbiology from the University of Abuja. He also has a Facebook Certificate in Digital Journalism and a Google Digital Marketing Skills Certificate.

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