What are the Best Cybersecurity Schools in Texas?

Cyber security remains one of the fastest-growing tech fields in the US. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the national average for all other occupations.¹ Employers regularly hire candidates with cyber security expertise to fill well-paying positions across industries. Whether you’re just starting out or making a career change, enrolling in one of the best cyber security schools in Texas can help you build the skills needed for this growing field.

The best cyber security schools in Texas include top-ranked universities that offer undergraduate and graduate programs in information security, cyber defense, and digital forensics. Texas has also become a hub for cyber security education thanks to federal designations such as the National Security Agency’s (NSA) National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), which includes schools like the University of Texas at San Antonio and Sam Houston State University. These designations recognize institutions that meet rigorous national standards for cyber security education and research.

How to Choose a Good Cyber Security School in Texas

Accreditation and Reputation of the Program

Besides regional school accreditation, it’s important to look at whether the cyber security program itself has any specialized designations. One key marker is if it is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), which is awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security. Schools with CAE-CD status, such as the University of Texas at San Antonio and Sam Houston State University, have to meet rigorous national standards for cyber security education in order to achieve this accreditation. You can also use public national rankings, like those from US News & World Report, to give you a sense of program reputation compared with other similar programs around the country.

Curricula Content

Your ideal program should offer a curriculum that balances foundational computer science with specialized cyber security topics. Look for degree plans that allow you to customize your curriculum through concentrations or electives in areas such as digital forensics, network defense, artificial intelligence security, and cloud computing. This type of advanced knowledge is often required for leadership roles in the field, so it’s helpful to consider whether the school offers graduate-level options like a Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Some Texas schools, including the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, even offer hybrid programs that blend online coursework with on-campus lab sessions.

Student and Career Services

Strong student resources can significantly improve both your learning experience and your career outlook. Many cyber security schools in Texas provide academic advising, tutoring, and dedicated research centers to support students throughout their studies. Career-focused services such as internships, mentorship programs, and partnerships with local employers can also help you build your professional connections before graduation, which is very important for the job market and your future professional endeavors.

For example, several Texas universities partner with state and federal agencies on research projects, giving students the chance to gain hands-on experience while networking with industry professionals.

Texas Cyber Security School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Cyber Security Programs in Texas?

Texas Cyber Security Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Cyber Security Schools in Texas

To rank the best cyber security schools in Texas, we evaluated multiple verifiable criteria sources. Our methodology began with the 2025 U.S. News & World Report graduate computer science rankings, with a focus on the Cybersecurity specialty list where available. We also considered whether a program holds an NSA/DHS National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation, along with CAE-R (Research) and CAE-CO (Cyber Operations) where applicable. Additional factors that we looked at included graduation and acceptance rates, tuition affordability, and research activity, such as whether an institution holds a Carnegie R1 classification, which indicates the highest level of research intensity. We weighted the CAE-CD designations and U.S. News Cybersecurity specialty rankings most heavily, since these reflect both academic rigor and federal recognition. Affordability, outcomes, and research strength were then used to distinguish programs that combine strong reputations with accessibility.

Best Cyber Security Schools in Texas Explained

The best cyber security schools in Texas combine strong academic programs with national recognition and research leadership. Below are ten institutions that stand out in 2025 for their cyber security degrees, designations, and student opportunities.

University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) | San Antonio
UTSA is one of the nation’s leading cyber security schools. It holds three NSA designations: CAE in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), Cyber Operations (CAE-CO), and Cyber Defense Research (CAE-R). It is also home to the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS), which supports national and state-level cyber readiness initiatives.

Texas A&M University | College Station
Texas A&M holds multiple federal designations, including CAE-CD, CAE-CO, and CAE-R, demonstrating comprehensive excellence across cyber defense, operations, and research. The university’s Cybersecurity Center runs applied research projects for both government and industry partners, giving students opportunities to contribute to large-scale security challenges.

Baylor University | Waco
Baylor was formally designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) in 2023. Its computer science programs integrate cyber security concentrations at both the undergraduate and graduate level, with research spanning network security, AI-driven threat detection, and privacy.

Sam Houston State University | Huntsville
Sam Houston State University’s Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security program has been recognized as a CAE-CD institution. Students gain practical skills in forensics, incident response, and cyber defense, and graduates are prepared for roles across government and the private sector.

University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) | Richardson
UT Dallas is classified as an R1 research university and has a strong track record in cyber-related research. The university maintains nationally competitive graduate computer science programs and an active portfolio of cyber security research projects in cryptography, secure systems, and information assurance.

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) | Austin
UT Austin consistently ranks among the top computer science schools in the nation. The university’s security research spans privacy, applied cryptography, and critical infrastructure protection.

University of North Texas (UNT) | Denton
UNT is an R1 Carnegie-classified research university and part of the Texas University Fund, which supports emerging research leaders. Its cyber security programs focus on applied research and workforce preparation, with particular emphasis on network security and information assurance.

University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) | Arlington
UTA is another R1 institution with one of the largest engineering colleges in Texas. While not currently designated CAE-CD, it offers graduate-level concentrations in information security, data privacy, and network systems, supported by faculty research in AI security and digital forensics.

Texas Tech University | Lubbock
Texas Tech is an R1 research university offering computer science programs with strong cyber security electives. The university emphasizes applied, industry-driven projects in areas like cloud security and risk analysis.

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) | Edinburg
UTRGV offers a hybrid Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security that combines online coursework with in-person labs. This program gives students flexibility while ensuring hands-on practice in digital forensics, networking, and secure systems. Its regional partnerships also provide internship opportunities with South Texas employers.

Best Undergraduate Cyber Security Schools in Texas

The best undergraduate cyber security schools in Texas offer a mix of associate degrees that prepare students for entry-level roles and bachelor’s degrees that provide advanced pathways into professional careers.

Best Cyber Security Associate Degree Schools in Texas

• University of St. Thomas Houston | The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cybersecurity requires 60 credits and can typically be completed in two years. The program prepares students for careers such as cloud administrator, network administrator, and network security specialist.
• Dallas College (Richland Campus) | Offers a 60-credit-hour Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security, with options to specialize in cyber defense, digital forensics, information assurance, or network security.
• Texas State Technical College | Provides a CAE-designated Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity. Students complete 63 credits in about 20 months, available in online, in-person, or hybrid formats.
• Alamo Colleges District Northwest Vista College | Offers three associate degrees and seven certificates in information assurance and cyber security, requiring 60 credits. Courses can be completed online or in person.
• El Paso Community College | Offers a 60-credit Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security with courses in firewalls, computer system forensics, and network security. The degree can be completed in about six semesters.

Community colleges such as Dallas College and Alamo Colleges District also partner with local employers and the Department of Homeland Security on workforce-aligned certifications, ensuring that students graduating with an associate degree in cyber security are prepared to continue toward a bachelor’s or start entry-level analyst roles.

Best Cyber Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Texas

• University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) | The 120-credit Bachelor of Business Administration in Cyber Security is aligned with the NSA CAE-CD designation and covers digital forensics, intrusion detection, and risk management. Students benefit from internship opportunities within San Antonio’s growing cybersecurity sector.
• University of North Texas (UNT) | The Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security develops skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and cyber defense. Graduates pursue roles as cyber defense analysts, enterprise architects, or IT security project managers.
• Sam Houston State University | Offers a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security that emphasizes digital evidence preservation, forensics, and security analysis, preparing graduates for both employment and advanced study.
• Texas A&M University–Commerce | Provides a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at the RELLIS Campus, with courses in AI-driven security, malware analysis, and smart systems. The program is part of an NSA CAE-CD designated institution, ensuring federally recognized rigor.
• University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) | Offers a hybrid Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, combining online coursework with on-campus labs in areas like digital forensics and secure networking.

Best Graduate Schools for Cyber Security in Texas

The best graduate cyber security schools in Texas prepare students for advanced technical and leadership roles. These universities combine rigorous academics with applied research, federal designations, and strong ties to government and industry.

Best Schools for Master’s in Cyber Security in Texas

• Southern Methodist University (SMU) | The Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit program covering cryptography, access control, network security, and cyber policy. Students can complete the program through a thesis or capstone project track.
• University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) | Offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Science, emphasizing advanced research in areas such as cloud computing, algorithms, computer architecture, and network security. Graduate students often collaborate with the National Security Collaboration Center (NSCC), which connects them to more than 60 industry and government partners.
• University of North Texas (UNT) | The Master of Science in Cybersecurity allows students to conduct research through the UNT Center for Information and Cyber Security, covering topics such as AI for security, blockchain, and cryptography.
• Sam Houston State University (SHSU) | Provides a fully online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, requiring 30 credits. Students work alongside peers in management information systems, computer science, and related disciplines.
• Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) | The 30-credit Master of Science in Cybersecurity is designated by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), ensuring alignment with federal standards.

Best PhD in Cyber Security Universities in Texas

• University of North Texas (UNT) | Offers a PhD in Information Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity, requiring 60 credit hours. Coursework includes doctoral seminars in information science, communication systems, and applied security research.
• Sam Houston State University (SHSU) | The PhD in Digital and Cyber Forensic Science requires 85 credit hours, including coursework, research seminars, an internship, and a dissertation. Students gain advanced expertise in digital forensics, data recovery, and cyber defense methods.

Texas graduate schools also benefit from their close ties to the state’s cyber workforce. UTSA students, for example, gain experience through the National Security Collaboration Center, which partners with over 60 federal agencies and private sector firms, giving graduates a competitive advantage in the job market.

Admission Requirements for Cyber Security Schools in Texas

The basic admission requirements for cyber security schools in Texas differ between undergraduate and graduate programs.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Most universities in Texas require a high school transcript showing coursework in English, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences. A GPA of 2.75 or higher is generally expected for admission. Many schools have adopted test-optional policies, though applicants with SAT scores above 1010 or ACT scores above 20 remain competitive. Application materials often include an online application, an application fee (usually under $100), and one or more recommendation letters from counselors, principals, or teachers. Homeschooled students may need to complete the Texas Success Initiative Assessment before registering for courses.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Graduate programs typically require a completed online application, payment of an application fee (usually under $150), and a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, computer science, or a related technical discipline from a regionally accredited institution. A minimum GPA between 3.0 and 3.5 is often required. Some schools request GRE scores, though many offer GRE waivers or test-optional pathways for applicants with relevant academic or professional backgrounds. Supporting materials usually include a resume, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters. International students must provide proof of English proficiency, most commonly through the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.

Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Cyber Security in Texas?

Getting into a cyber security program in Texas depends on the institution. Community colleges such as Dallas College and Northwest Vista College have open admission policies, meaning any student with a high school diploma or equivalent can enroll. Selective universities such as the University of Texas at Austin has a 29% acceptance rate, while schools like Sam Houston State University accepted about 85% of applicants.^2,3 This wide range ensures that students can find a cyber security program in Texas that matches their academic background and goals.

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Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Texas for Cyber Security

• Texas State Technical College (TSTC) | Open admissions policy. Offers an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity, certificates, and Occupational Skills Achievement (OSA) awards. No GPA or test score is required for admission.
• Northwest Vista College (Alamo Colleges District) | Open admissions policy. Offers associate degrees and certificates in cyber security and information assurance. Admission is not dependent on GPA or test scores.
• University of St. Thomas, Houston | Acceptance rate around 93%.⁴ Offers an associate and bachelor’s degree in cyber security. Requires a GPA of at least 2.8, but the program is test-optional.
• Sam Houston State University | Acceptance rate of 85%.³ Offers a B.S. in Cyber Security, an online M.S. in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, and a PhD in Digital and Cyber Forensic Science.
• University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) | Acceptance rate 84%.⁵ Offers certificates, a bachelor’s degree, and a master’s degree in cyber security.

For students who want guaranteed access, community colleges such as Dallas College and TSTC provide pathways where cyber security associate degrees can later be transferred into bachelor’s programs at Texas universities.

Best Online Schools for Cyber Security in Texas

Several Texas universities offer online cyber security degrees that combine flexibility with federal recognition and strong graduation outcomes. Below are five of the best options in 2025:

The Most Affordable Colleges for Cyber Security in Texas

The most affordable colleges for cyber security in Texas are institutions that combine reasonable tuition with accredited cyber security programs.

• University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) | ~$240 per credit (residents); ~$540 (non-residents)⁹
• University of Houston (UH) | ~$420 per credit (residents); ~$953 (non-residents)¹⁰

These universities are among the most affordable four-year institutions in Texas that offer cyber security programs, based on net price after financial aid. Affordability is only one factor, however.

How to Attend the Top Cyber Security Schools in Texas With Financial Aid

Students pursuing cyber security degrees in Texas have access to a wide range of financial aid options, including federal Pell Grants, state programs such as the Texas Grant, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and low-interest federal loans. Most financial aid opportunities begin with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for both federal and state assistance¹. Awards may be need-based, merit-based, or tied to specific requirements such as residency or program of study. Some Texas universities also offer institutional scholarships and assistantships for cyber security students, including tuition waivers and research stipends for graduate students working on federally funded projects.

Best Cyber Security Scholarships for Texas Students

Several scholarship programs help Texas students reduce the cost of pursuing a cyber security degree:

• Alamo Promise | Covers up to three years of tuition and required fees for eligible students enrolled at the Alamo Colleges in San Antonio.
• Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation | Awards $20,000 scholarships annually to 150 high school seniors nationwide with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Terry Foundation Scholarship | Texas-based scholarship awarding between $1,000 and $25,000 annually, renewable for up to four years at participating Texas public universities.
• CyberCorps Scholarship for Service (SFS) | Provides full tuition plus annual stipends of up to $27,000 for undergraduates and $37,000 for graduate students, renewable for up to three years. In exchange, recipients commit to working for a federal, state, local, or tribal government agency after graduation.
• Forty Acres Scholars Program (UT Austin) | A prestigious full-ride scholarship at the University of Texas at Austin, covering tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for exceptional first-year students.
• DoD Cyber Scholarship Program (CySP) | Covers tuition, fees, books, and provides a monthly stipend for students pursuing cyber security degrees, in exchange for post-graduation service with Department of Defense agencies.

Texas Employment Outlook for Cyber Security

Texas remains a strong job market for tech and cyber talent. As of July 2025, Texas’ civilian labor force stands at over 14 million and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held at 4.0%.¹¹ Over the prior 12 months the state added 232,500 nonfarm jobs (+1.6%), with gains in Professional and Business Services and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities, which are sectors that employ many information security roles.¹¹

Demand signals are also strong at the national level: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for information security analysts to grow 33% in the next decade, and reports a national median wage of $124,91.¹ While national figures aren’t state-specific, Texas’ large tech hubs and steady job growth suggest a healthy outlook for graduates pursuing cyber security roles statewide.

Highest-Paying Cyber Security Careers in Texas

Best Cyber Security Jobs in Texas Explained

Texas employers hire across the full cyber stack, from operational defense to research and leadership. Below are five high-impact roles, what they do, the typical education path, and the latest national median pay for quick benchmarking. Texas pay varies by metro and employer but generally tracks close to these figures.

Computer & Information Systems Managers — Lead security and IT programs (strategy, budgets, teams, risk, and compliance) and align security initiatives with business goals. Typical degree: Bachelor’s. National median pay: $171,200.¹²

Database Architects — Design secure data platforms, govern access, and implement encryption and key-management for analytics and AI workloads. Typical degree: Bachelor’s. National median pay: $135,980.¹³

Computer & Information Research Scientists — Advance the state of the art in areas like cryptography, vulnerability discovery, and AI for security; often in R&D labs or academia/industry partnerships. Typical degree: Master’s. National median pay: $140,910.¹⁴

Computer Network Architects — Build and secure enterprise networks (on-prem, cloud, SD-WAN) and set standards for segmentation, VPN, and zero-trust access. Typical degree: Bachelor’s. National median pay: $130,390.¹⁵Information Security Analysts — Protect networks and data, implement controls, monitor threats, and lead incident response. Typical degree: Bachelor’s. National median pay:$124,910.¹⁶

Does It Matter What Cyber Security School in Texas I Go To?

Yes, your choice of school can shape your coursework quality, eligibility for federal scholarships, and access to research labs and employer networks. Programs that are designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) meet national standards and help build the cybersecurity talent pipeline. Many federal awards, including the Department of Defense’s Cyber Scholarship Program (now part of the DoD Cyber Service Academy), are offered specifically to students enrolled at CAE-designated universities.

Independent accreditation also matters. ABET accreditation for computing/cybersecurity programs signals that a curriculum meets defined learning outcomes (for example, applying security principles under realistic risk and threat conditions) and is regularly reviewed for quality.Finally, school-specific ecosystems can open doors. For example, the University of Texas at San Antonio’s National Security Collaboration Center (NSCC) brings together government and industry partners on campus, and the newly authorized Texas Cyber Command in San Antonio is set to deepen statewide cyber operations and training links, which are advantages that translate into richer project, internship, and research opportunities for students.

Best Cyber Security Schools in Texas FAQ

Sources:

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm
2. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/the-university-of-texas-austin-3658/applying
3. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/sam-houston-state-3606/applying
4. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-st-thomas-texas-3654/applying
5. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-texas-permian-basin-9930/applying 
6. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/university-of-houston-3652/applying 
7. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/the-university-of-texas-san-antonio-10115/applying
8. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/our-lady-of-the-lake-university-3598 
9. https://www.utep.edu/extendeduniversity/utepconnect/tuition-and-fees/ 
10. https://www.uh.edu/financial/undergraduate/tuition-fees/tuition/ 
11. https://www.twc.texas.gov/news/texas-labor-market-adds-8700-jobs-july 
12. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
13. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm
14. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm
15. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm
16. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm