With the increased digitization of various sectors, cyber security has become more important than ever. Due to the demand for cyber security professionals, it is crucial for students to obtain their cyber security degrees from top-tier schools. If you’re looking for the best cyber security schools in Illinois, this article will help you narrow your search.
Earning a degree in cyber security provides students with critical knowledge to build a career as a cyber security professional. The best cyber security schools in Illinois provide associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to help you land your dream career in the field. In this guide, we discuss Illinois cyber security school rankings, academic requirements for cyber security programs, and whether or not a cyber security program is worth it.
How to Choose a Good Cyber Security School in Illinois
To choose the best cyber security school in Illinois, you should consider the program format, curricular content, school reputation, faculty credentials, and tuition costs. Each of these factors should be carefully reviewed so you find the best cyber security degree option for you.
Program Delivery Format
Inquire about the delivery format for your desired cyber security program. Some options to look out for include online, hybrid, and in-person programs. Online and on-campus degrees are identical in terms of course content. If you prefer an asynchronous schedule, online programs are your best bet, but if you want the full college experience, opt for an on-campus cyber security program.
Curricular Content
The curricular content is an important consideration when selecting the best cyber security schools in Illinois. Choose a program that teaches industry skills and prepares you for real-world scenarios. If you want to have a successful cyber security career, it is crucial that the program collaborates with the cyber security industry so the curriculum remains current and relevant.
School Reputation
Research the schools’ overall reputation and its cyber security program reputation. The best cyber security schools in Illinois should equip you with the right skills and expertise to be a successful cyber security professional. Schools with a good cyber security program reputation guarantee the best education to build a career in the field and give your resume merit.
Faculty Credentials
It is important that your professors are skilled industry professionals. This ensures they are aware of the latest trends and advancements in the field. Faculty members with expert credentials typically have plenty of experience, so ensure you check the school’s list of faculty to review the instructor profiles.
Costs
Attending a cyber security school is a significant investment, so the school you choose should fit within your budget. However, don’t count out schools with expensive tuition rates just yet. You should also research the financial aid opportunities you may be eligible for which can significantly reduce the total cost of schooling.
Illinois Cyber Security School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Cyber Security Programs in Illinois?
| Cyber Security School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science–Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program | Juris Doctor Degree– Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program | 5 |
| Northwestern University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | Master of Science in Information Systems, Information Systems Security Specialization | 28 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyber Security and Information Technology | Master of Applied Science in Cyber Security | 99 |
| DePaul University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 146 |
| Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science–Cyber Systems and Security Engineering Specialization | Master of Science in Cyber Security and Cyber Systems | 179 |
| Lewis University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Cyber Security Concentration | Master of Science in Cyber Security | 19 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| University of Illinois Springfield | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security Management | 30 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
| Loyola University Chicago | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Information Technology, IT Security Specialization | 103 (National Universities) |
| Illinois State University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security | Master of Science in Information Systems- Network and Security Management |
202 (National Universities) |
| Roosevelt University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security | Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance | 299-391 (National Universities) |
Illinois Cyber Security Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Cyber Security Schools in Illinois
To rank the best cyber security schools in Illinois, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Cyber Security Schools in Illinois Explained
This section contains a list of the best cyber security schools in Illinois and a brief overview of the cyber security programs offered at each institution. Below you will find a variety of details including the acceptance rate, graduation rate, tuition, and admissions requirements for each school.
Founded in 1867, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is one of the best schools in the country to pursue computer science programs. It is ranked as the number 15 public university and number 47 national university, according to the US News & World Report. It has over 150 programs of study at all academic levels and a total enrollment of over 51,000 students.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- US News National Ranking: #47
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #48
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $17,660/year (in state); $38,132/year (out of state)
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $19,320/year (in state); $36,798/year (out of state)
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #5
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: #20
Best University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science–Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program. This degree provides in-depth training and access to innovative courses taught by world-class experts. Students can combine it with one of 14 minors including mathematics, statistics, astronomy, geography, and philosophy.
- Master of Science in Computer Science–Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program. This is a 32-credit program with a wide range of courses including security and privacy, advanced computer security, and an information assurance and trust seminar.
- Juris Doctor Degree–Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program. This program prepares students for a legal profession. It provides the technical skills that students need to thrive in the corporate sector.
Northwestern University was founded in 1851 and is one of the leading private research universities in the country. It comprises twelve schools and colleges that offer a wide variety of academic programs across diverse fields. It has a total enrollment of 21,000 students pursuing degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Northwestern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- US News National Ranking: #9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #24
Northwestern University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $2,115/unit
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $4,770/unit
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #28
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: #86
Best Northwestern University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. This program teaches the fundamentals of information systems. Students learn how to implement and manage information systems to collect, store, and process information. The coursework includes information security, database systems design, computer networks, and object oriented programming
- Master of Science in Information Systems, Information Security Specialization. This graduate degree program provides students with the technical skills to design secured information systems. The coursework includes VPN, cryptography, ethical hacking, anti-spam, ransomware attacks, anti-virus, firewalls, and phishing topics.
Illinois Institute of Technology was founded in 1890 and provides high-quality education to anyone regardless of their background. It is the only technology-based university in Chicago, Illinois. It offers a wide range of degrees to over 8,000 students in different fields such as engineering, business, design, science, law, applied technology, and human sciences.
Illinois Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- US News National Ranking: #122
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #351-400
Illinois Institute of Technology Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Minimum GRE scores of 295 in quantitative and verbal and 2.5 in analytic writing
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $48,670/year
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $29,628/year
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News {Computer Science/Engineering} National Ranking: #99
- Times Higher Education {Computer Science/Engineering} World Ranking: #251-300
Best Illinois Institute of Technology Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyber Security and Information Technology. This program trains students to become qualified managers and investigators in the cyber security field. Its core courses focus on cyber security, compliance, management, compliance, and legal issues.
- Master of Applied Science in Cyber Security. This program teaches the fundamentals of network security, software and hardware security, and data and information security. It teaches students to assess, prevent, and handle cyber security risks.
DePaul University was founded in 1898 to provide outstanding teaching accompanied by real-world experience to students. With a total enrollment of 21,670 students, it is the largest private university in Illinois. It offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines.
DePaul University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- US News National Ranking: #127
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
DePaul University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $722/unit
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $900/unit
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #146
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best DePaul University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This is a 192-credit program that introduces students to information security, computer forensics, risk assessment, and infrastructure design. It includes hands-on learning in a state-of-the-art security laboratory where students learn to implement security infrastructure.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security. This program prepares students for careers in information technology including computer forensics, network security, risk assessment, web development, and incident response. Its concentrations are in computer security, governance and risk management, and network and infrastructure.
Founded in 1869, Southern Illinois University Carbondale is the flagship campus of the Southern Illinois University System. Its primary mission is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competencies they need to succeed in their respective careers. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate majors and graduate programs.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- US News National Ranking: #263
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Southern Illinois University Carbondale Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $9,638/year
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $14,085/year (in state); $35,213/year (out of state)
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: #179
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Southern Illinois University Carbondale Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science–Cyber Systems and Security Engineering Specialization. This program offers high-quality education to help students build a career in the information technology industry. Its coursework includes hardware security, computer systems reliability, computer network system architecture, and computer systems security.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security and Cyber Systems. This is an interdisciplinary program delivered by the School of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering, and the School of Computing. It provides graduate-level education for students who want to become cyber security experts or pursue doctoral degrees in the field.
Lewis University was founded in 1932 under the administration of the Chicago Archdiocese and Bishop Bernard J. Sheil. It is a private, catholic university offering practical, goal-oriented education in numerous academic programs, It offers more than 80 undergraduate programs, 37 graduate programs, and two doctoral programs. It has a total enrollment of 6,200 students.
Lewis University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Lewis University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $1,056/unit
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $820/unit
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Lewis University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Cyber Security Concentration. This program provides the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and maintain information technology systems. It has different concentrations including IT security, project management, digital forensics, data privacy, and enterprise computing.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security. This is a 33-credit program that provides a solid understanding of the technical and managerial areas of cyber security. Students can become qualified cyber security experts who can analyze, plan, and implement cyber security strategies.
As part of the world-class University of Illinois System, University of Illinois Springfield has distinguished itself as a great place to pursue academic degrees. It was founded in 1969 and provides a student-focused educational experience through research, civic engagement, and active learning.
University of Illinois Springfield Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
University of Illinois Springfield Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: GRE scores are required unless the applicant has an undergraduate GPA greater than 3.0 from an accredited US School
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $289/credit (in state); $604/credit (out of state)
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $332/credit (in state); $681/credit (out of state)
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best University of Illinois Springfield Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security. This program introduces students to the fundamentals of information security. Students take courses that focus on security assessment, computer security ethics, and secure systems.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security Management. This is a 30-credit program that helps students develop analytical thinking, leadership, and management skills in cyber security management. It teaches penetration testing, cyber security policy, information security, and cyber security management.
Loyola University is a Jesuit Catholic university founded in 1879 by Arnold Damen, S.J. It provides an education that emphasizes knowledge, curiosity, and global perspectives. It has a total enrollment of 16,893 students engaged in undergraduate, graduate, and adult education programs across diverse disciplines.
Loyola University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- US News National Ranking: #103
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Loyola University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $48,100/year
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $1,055/unit
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Loyola University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This program introduces students to cyber security and the vulnerabilities in computer network systems. Students learn about the architecture, properties, and management of wired and wireless networks. Its courses include object-oriented programming, intrusion detection, and network security.
- Master of Science in Information Systems, IT Security Specialization. This program provides a broad technical understanding of current and emerging technologies in the tech field. The IT security specialization teaches computer security, intrusion detection, and computer vulnerabilities.
Founded in 1857, Illinois State University is a first-choice institution in the state. It has a total enrollment of more than 20,000 students pursuing degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels. Students can join programs in a wide range of fields including agriculture, arts, business, education, humanities, politics, nursing, and technology.
Illinois State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 72%
- US News National Ranking: #202
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Illinois State University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: Minimum of 300 (verbal and quantitative)
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $384/unit (in state); $768/unit (out of state)
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $403/unit (in state); $838/unit (out of state)
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Illinois State University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This program covers cyber security topics such as cryptography, digital forensics, ethical hacking, and security defenses. It provides a background in programming and networking, preparing students for careers in cyber security.
- Master of Science in Information Systems - Network and Security Management. This is a 33-credit program that focuses on information security management in large organizations. The coursework involves practical, hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs. Students learn about modern technologies and network automation.
Established about 75 years ago, Roosevelt University is one of the leading private universities in Chicago. It offers 120 academic programs including over 72 undergraduate majors and 48 graduate programs. It has a total enrollment of 4,329 students.
Roosevelt University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- US News National Ranking: #299-391
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Roosevelt University Cyber Security Overview
- Cyber Security Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- GRE Requirements for Cyber Security Grad Students: GRE not required
- Cyber Security Undergraduate Tuition: $534/credit
- Cyber Security Graduate Tuition: $947/credit
- Cyber Security Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A
Best Roosevelt University Cyber Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security. This is a five-year program that introduces students to the social, political, and economic realities of cyber security and cyber conflict. It prepares students for careers in computer forensics, fraud investigation, crime analysis, and cyber intelligence.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance. This program provides critical knowledge and technical skills for a career in cyber security. The program features practical cyber security training and support from industry leaders.
Best Undergraduate Cyber Security Schools in Illinois
The best undergraduate cyber security schools in Illinois provide a solid foundation for students looking to delve into the cyber security field. These institutions provide the essential skills students need for entry-level jobs after graduation. Below is a list of the best cyber security associate degree schools and best cyber security bachelor’s degree programs in Illinois.
Best Cyber Security Associate Degree Schools in Illinois
- Elgin Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems. This program provides the skills and knowledge necessary to meet industry needs. The curriculum covers cyber security fundamentals like cyber law and ethics, database administration, and cyber forensics.
- McHenry County College | Associate in Applied Science in Network Security. This is a 60-credit-hour program for students who want to work in IT networking positions. It covers networking protocols, computer ethics, Windows server, and CISCO certifications.
- College of Lake County | Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Technology. This program equips students with tech skills to land entry-level jobs. Its different program options include computer forensics, network administration and cyber security, and web programming.
- Moraine Valley Community College| Associate of Applied Science in IT Security Specialist. This program trains students to enter the developing field of information technology. It teaches information security concepts, methods, principles, and procedures.
- Morton College | Associate in Applied Science in Computer Network Security. This is a 62-credit program that helps students become computer network security specialists. It covers network security, computer diagnosis, server configuration, and operating systems.
Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Illinois
- Loyola University Chicago | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This cyber security program is recognized by the National Center of Academic Excellence for its excellent curriculum. It focuses on the major challenges of computer networks.
- Elmhurst University | Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This is a four-year program for students interested in cyber security careers. It teaches core cyber security courses including cryptography, information assurance, ethical hacking, and cyber forensics.
- Governors State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. This is a 120-credit program that provides a comprehensive understanding of information security, cloud computing, digital forensics, and virtualization. Students learn to design, maintain, and protect information systems.
- McKendree University| Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. This program provides the right mix of theoretical and practical knowledge that students need to work in network security, digital forensics, information security, and secure software development.
- Northeastern Illinois University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This program provides a broad understanding of computer science areas. It covers computer security, network design and management, data science, blockchain, and web design.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Cyber Security in Illinois
The best graduate cyber security schools in Illinois offer advanced education that qualifies students for leadership positions in the cyber security field. Below are some of the best schools to get a Master’s Degree in Cyber Security.
Best Schools for Master in Cyber Security in Illinois
- Eastern Illinois University | Master of Science in Cyber Security. This program equips students with an advanced understanding of security technology and organizational management. It prepares students to become leaders in the cyber security field.
- The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign | Master of Science in Computer Science. This is a 32-credit program that contains a wide range of computer science topics such as security and privacy, systems and networking, architecture, database, and information systems. Students interested in cyber security can also join the Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program.
- Northwestern University | Master of Science in Information Systems. This program offers the education students need to land management positions in IT careers. It has an information systems security specialization for students interested in cyber security.
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Master of Science in Cyber Security and Cyber Systems. This is a 30-credit-hour program that focuses on the fundamentals of computer security, systems programming, and network systems. It provides a solid understanding of cyber security concepts.
- DePaul University | Masters of Science in Cyber Security. This program was created for students who want to build a career in the cyber security field of technology. Students learn how to design, implement, and manage risk in an enterprise.
Best PhD in Cyber Security Universities in Illinois
- The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Juris Doctor: Cyber Security Scholars Program. This program was developed for computer science and information science graduate students who want to specialize in cyber security and privacy. It prepares students to become researchers and educators in the field.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Cyber Security Schools in Illinois
The basic admission requirements for cyber security schools in Illinois are different for undergraduate and graduate students. The admission requirements for a cyber security undergraduate student include a complete online application, high school diploma, and standardized test scores, among other things.
The admission requirements for a graduate program in cyber security include a complete online application, a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, and GRE scores, with some additional documents. Below is a full list of admission requirements for both undergraduate and graduate admission.
Cyber Security Schools in Illinois: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Complete online application
- Submit high school transcripts
- Submit standardized test scores (ACT or SAT)
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Provide proof of English language proficiency for international students
Cyber Security Schools in Illinois: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Complete the online application
- Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security or related field
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (depending on the school)
- Submit GRE scores
- Submit a personal essay and letters of recommendation
- Provide proof of English proficiency for international students
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Cyber Security in Illinois?
No, it is not hard to get into a school for cyber security in Illinois, but the acceptance rate varies based on the school. For instance, Southern Illinois University Carbondale has an acceptance rate of 92 percent, meaning they accept the majority of applicants.
However, Northwestern University has a 9 percent acceptance rate, meaning only a small portion of applicants get in. Below are the easiest colleges to get into in the state.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Illinois for Cyber Security
- College of Lake County | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This school has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts all students who apply for admission. It offers an Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Technology that covers core cyber security concepts including computer forensics and web programming.
- East-West University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. At this university, students can get a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science. It focuses on information science courses like cyber security, cryptography, networking, artificial intelligence, and data warehousing.
- Morton University | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Morton University accepts all candidates who meet the admission requirement for the Associate in Applied Science in Computer Network Security. The program teaches operating systems, networking, network security, and computer diagnosis.
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Acceptance Rate: 92%. This school has a high acceptance rate, which makes it one of the easiest colleges to get into in Illinois for cyber security undergraduate and graduate degrees. It offers a Bachelor’s in Computer Science with a cyber security specialization and a Master’s in Cyber Security and Cyber Systems.
- University of Illinois Springfield | Acceptance Rate: 77%. This school accepts a majority of applicants into its academic program. It offers a Bachelor’s in Information Technology Systems Security and a Master’s in Cyber Security Management. It utilizes a hands-on learning system that helps students to gain practical skills.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Cyber Security in Illinois
The best online schools for cyber security in Illinois are DePaul University, Lewis University, Northwestern University, University of Illinois Springfield, and Loyola University Chicago. These schools offer fully online or hybrid cyber security degree programs for distance learners. They also have high graduation rates. The graduation rate statistics in the table below come from the US Department of Education College Scorecard.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Cyber Security Program |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University | 95% | Master of Science in Information Science |
| Loyola University Chicago | 73% | Master of Science in Information Technology |
| DePaul University | 68% | Master of Science in Cyber Security |
| Lewis University | 67% | Master of Science in Cyber Security |
| University of Illinois Springfield | 54% | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Cyber Security in Illinois
The most affordable colleges for cyber security in Illinois include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Western Illinois University, and University of Illinois Springfield. Learn more about these schools and other affordable options below.
At $12,000 per year, this is the most affordable college on this list. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security and a Master of Science in Cyber Security Management. Students benefit from high-quality education created in collaboration with the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
This is one of the best schools to get a cyber security degree. lt offers a bachelor’s, master’s, and Juris Doctor degree which provides the essential education, skills, and experience that students need to become experts in the field. Students who join the Illinois Cyber Security Program can benefit from financial aid to alleviate the cost of schooling.
Northeastern Illinois University offers a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science at $15,000 per year. This program has a cyber security concentration that trains students for careers in cyber law, artificial intelligence, network security, and secure programming.
Western Illinois University offers a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security at $15,305 per year, which is less than the average annual cost for typical four-year schools. The program provides the theory, technical expertise, and management skills students need for a career in cyber security. It also offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities to students.
This school offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Cyber Systems at an average cost of $16,000 per year. The programs aim to provide excellent yet affordable education to cyber security students looking to become innovators and leaders in the future.
How to Attend the Top Cyber Security Schools in Illinois With Financial Aid
Students in the top cyber security schools in Illinois can receive financial aid like scholarships and grants from the government to help alleviate the cost of schooling. This is handled through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (LSAC). Students need to fill out and submit the Free Application for Financial Student Aid form to benefit from financial aid opportunities.
Best Cyber Security Scholarships for Illinois Students
- Monetary Award Program | Amount: $5,496. This award was created for Illinois residents that need financial assistance to attend an LSAC-approved school. Aspiring students must demonstrate financial need and show satisfactory academic performance to benefit from this scholarship.
- Federal Pell Grant | Amount: Covers tuition and living expenses. This is a need-based grant awarded to undergraduate students with financial needs. It covers the cost of educational expenses including tuition, board, room, and living expenses. The scholarship amount you get depends on your expected daily contribution, college tuition, and academic plans.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant | Amount: $100-$4,000. This is another scholarship for students with exceptional financial needs. It offers between $100 to $4,000 per year depending on factors such as financial need, application time, and availability of scholarship opportunities at your school.
- Illinois National Grant Program | Amount: Covers tuition and schooling expenses. This scholarship assists members of the Illinois National Guard enrolled in undergrad or graduate study programs. It pays for tuition and other fees including registration, matriculation, term fees, and general activity costs.
Illinois Employment Outlook for Cyber Security
The Illinois cyber security employment outlook shows that there is a strong demand for cyber security experts in Illinois, especially in computer systems design companies, finance and insurance agencies, business management companies, and telecommunications services. However, job availability depends on the area in Illinois you want to work.
According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, information security specialists have a job growth rate of 23 percent in Illinois. Overall, the job prospect for cyber security professionals is positive in Illinois, especially for people with experience and specialized skills in database management.
Highest-Paying Cyber Security Careers in Illinois
| Cyber Security Job | Cyber Security Degree | Average Salary in Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Security Architect | Master’s degree | $137,733 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $112,830 |
| Ethical Hacker | Bachelor’s degree | $100,000 |
| Security Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $97,367 |
| Penetration Tester | Bachelor’s degree | $84,400 |
Best Cyber Security Jobs in Illinois Explained
The best cyber security jobs in Illinois include working as an information security analyst, penetration tester, security engineer, ethical hacker, and security architect. Below is a description of each of these high-paying jobs, the average salary, and other key employment statistics.
Security architects create the cyber security vision and plans for their company. They oversee different stages of network and computer security, from general design to implementation. It is a management position requiring the expertise of someone with a Master's Degree in Cyber Security from a reputable university.
Information security analysts develop security measures and protocols to safeguard their organization’s computer network and systems. They employ security software such as data encryption programs and firewalls. If you are interested in this role, getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security provides the required knowledge and expertise for this job.
Ethical hackers identify flaws and vulnerabilities in security systems. They help their workplace improve the security infrastructure by performing malware analysis, reverse engineering, debugging, and application analysis. A Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security provides the essential education to land ethical hacker job positions in the industry.
Security engineers develop computing solutions to improve the security systems and projects of their company. They create new solutions for security issues. Security engineers must have a strong understanding of security systems and popular programming languages. You can get this job with a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering.
Penetration testers execute cyber attacks on a company’s security system to reveal the weak spots and security vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. You can land a job as a penetration tester by pursuing a cyber security bachelor's degree from University of Illinois.
Does It Matter What Cyber Security School in Illinois I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school in Illinois you go to for cyber security. The higher the school’s academic quality, the better the program outcome. The National Center for Education Statistics revealed that college quality had an effect on the future earnings of students. This implies that attending the best cyber security schools in Illinois will help you land high-paying jobs.
Prospective employers may also favor students who earned their degrees from elite schools. Having a good cyber security school degree to include when writing your resume helps you stand out from the many other applicants during your job search.
Additional Reading About Cyber Security
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Best Cyber Security Schools in Illinois FAQ
The best degrees for cyber security are a Master of Science in Cyber Security. Other suitable options include an advanced degree in computer science, information assurance, information technology, and computer engineering subjects. Students wanting to get a high-paying job in cyber security can get the necessary education from these programs.
Yes, college is worth it for cyber security. It provides all the foundational knowledge students need to begin their careers. Getting a college degree can lead to high-paying cyber security jobs in the industry.
Cyber security is not a hard major, but it requires a great deal of work. The curriculum changes quickly as the latest trends in cyber security shift. Students must constantly stay up to date with the current happenings in cyber security. Depending on their aptitude, there is lab work some students may find challenging.
You typically need a minimum GPA of 3.0 to gain admission into a cyber security bachelor’s degree program. However, this depends on the school and degree level. Some less competitive schools may accept a lower grade point average.
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