Digital technology has made it easier than ever to handle data. However, it has also exposed us to new cyber threats, which according to Statista, can cost businesses up to $3.86 million. In response, companies are now investing in information security professionals, and there has been no better time to pursue one of the best online information system security bachelor’s degrees.
In this article, we will guide you through a range of online information systems security bachelor’s degrees, touching on what they are, the best schools offering them, and their admission requirements.
Additionally, we’ll discuss the benefits of earning an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security and compare it with other learning formats. Finally, we’ll explore the top information systems security bachelor’s degree jobs, highlight their job outlook, and share the best places to look for job opportunities.
Where Can I Get an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Online?
The best schools to earn your online information systems security bachelor’s degree are Liberty University, Western Governors University, South New Hampshire University, Regent University, and Arizona State University. Generally, you can earn your online information systems security bachelor’s degree from any online school with an information technology program.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Liberty University
- Regent University
- South New Hampshire University
- Western Governors University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The major admission requirements for an online information systems security bachelor’s degree are your high school diploma, official school transcripts, completed college application, and an application fee. Additional materials often include standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency test results for international students.
Some programs also require you to complete prerequisite courses, attend an interview, graduate in the top 25 percent of your class, or meet a minimum GPA requirement. Each school reserves the right to decide on its admission requirements, so confirm with the school’s admissions office to ensure you have the appropriate prerequisites before applying.
Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- College application
- Official transcript
- High school diploma
- Application fee
- Prerequisite courses
How to Get an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can earn your information systems security bachelor’s degree by fulfilling all of your school’s graduation requirements. In a regular 120 credit program, those requirements are usually along the lines of 47 to 49 major credits, 30 to 36 concentration credits, 45 general education credits, and five to 13 elective credits.
Information Systems Security Degree Requirements
- Complete a minimum of 120 credits
- Complete 47-49 major credits
- Complete 30-36 credits concentration credits
- Complete 45 general education credits
- Complete 5-13 elective credits
- Complete a capstone course
Best Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Arts in Business–Information Security | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science In Computing & Security Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | Bachelor of Science in Security and Risk Analysis – Information and Cyber Security Option |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Professional Studies Cybersecurity Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Cyber Security | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Online Network Operations and Security | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Information Systems Security: Top Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best online schools for information systems security must be accredited, affordable and comprehensive. Below, we’ve listed 10 online schools that meet these requirements. Also included in this list are key metrics like tuition and graduation rate. This will help you better evaluate whether the school and its program are a good fit for you.
What Is an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
An online information systems security bachelor’s degree is an academic degree program. It teaches you how to safeguard information systems and is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. During this degree, you will learn to understand security systems, detect and respond to cyber attacks, and develop recovery plans.
A bachelor’s degree usually lasts for four years, and throughout, you’ll encounter core courses on network security, computer forensics, and information system security. Instead of physically attending classes, you’ll interact with your instructors and classmates via an online platform which you’ll also use to write exams and tests.
Online vs In-Person Information Systems Security Degrees
An online information systems security bachelor’s degree runs similarly to an in-person degree. You’ll communicate with your professors and classmates, work on assignments, and test your knowledge with tests and exams. The major difference is that with an online program, you’ll do all this from an online learning platform and at your convenience.
Other differences exist between the two types of programs. To help you discover what type of program best meets your needs and aligns with your goals, we’ve distilled the top five benefits of online vs in-person Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Systems Security.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security
- Personalized Learning. Unlike in-person degrees, which can be inaccessible because of their fixed schedules, online information systems security bachelor’s degrees give you total control of when and where you do your learning.
- Generous Transfer Credit policy. Online information system security bachelor’s degrees generally have more generous credit transfer policies than in-person degrees, allowing you to complete your program much quicker.
- Faster Completion. Instead of sitting through lectures on topics you already know, an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security lets you earn credits for prior work experience.
- Online Student Services. Students enrolled in online information system security bachelor’s degrees enjoy student services to help them succeed. These may include resources like a writing center or academic coaching.
- Certification Exams. In addition to building your network and information systems skills, the best online information systems security bachelor’s degrees also prepare you to take professional certification exams.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security
- Definite Timeline. Considering the flexibility of online information systems security bachelor’s degrees, it’s anyone’s guess when you will complete your degree. On the other hand, in-person degrees have a defined timeline through to graduation.
- Hands-on Learning. Although online programs have evolved tools to improve interactions between instructors and students, there is still something special about the hands-on experience you gain from a physical class.
- High Engagement. Even though there are opportunities to engage with your instructors and classmates through discussion boards and live classes, nothing quite beats the engagement of a physical classroom.
- Fewer Distractions. Learning from anywhere is convenient but can also be distracting. On the other hand, in-person information systems security bachelor’s degrees let you learn in an environment dedicated to pursuing knowledge.
- Network and Community. In-person information systems security bachelor’s degrees provide more opportunities to network, build relationships and collaborate.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Information Systems Security?
The most common type of information systems security bachelor’s degree is a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. Alternatively, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Business with a Concentration in Information Security, a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems with a Concentration in Information Assurance, or a Bachelor of Business Administration in Cyber Security.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Business Administration or Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science than a Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems Security. This is because the former focuses more on skills training than the latter. With a Bachelor of Science program, you’ll learn a wide range of skills that will increase your employability across different fields.
However, if you intend to apply your new skills in a business environment, a Bachelor of Business Administration might be the better choice. A Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems Security degree contextualizes your knowledge of security systems specifically within the business landscape.
How Much Does an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the cost of an information systems security bachelor’s degree averages $35,331 per year. Considering that you don’t have to pay for transportation or housing, the cost of an online information systems security bachelor’s degree can be much lower. Scholarships, as well as resident and in-state tuition, can also lower your program costs.
Ultimately, the amount you pay for your information systems security bachelor’s degree depends on your school and how it charges for your degree. Check with your school’s registrar to get a definitive cost estimate for your program.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get an information systems security bachelor’s degree online. Some programs allow you to complete the program faster by transferring college credits from previous programs or by earning credits for prior work experience.
An average information systems security bachelor’s degree requires you to complete 120 credits before graduating. That means that to meet the goal of graduating within four years, you must complete a minimum of 15 credits per semester, or 30 credits per year.
Are Online Information Systems Security Degrees Respected?
Yes, online information systems security bachelor’s degrees are well respected, especially if you get yours at an accredited and well-established online university. Both employers and students are beginning to see online programs in a new light, and the National Center for Education Statistics reports that over 37 percent of students are enrolled in at least one online course.
Is Information Systems Security Hard to Learn Online?
No, information systems security is not hard to learn online. The degree focuses on practical experiences, and a good blend of synchronous and asynchronous classes can help overcome any challenges.
The hardest part about learning information systems security is that it is a constantly evolving field, and you need to be aware of new developments. However, this can be easily remedied by subscribing to the top information security newsletters and staying up to date with developments in the field.
Information Systems Security Bootcamp vs. Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
An online information systems security bachelor’s degree is better than an information security bootcamp because it qualifies its graduates for a broader range of employment opportunities. However, depending on your circumstances, a bootcamp may be more beneficial than an online degree and vice versa. In the section below, we’ll explore the top five benefits of each.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree
- Comprehensive Curriculum. Unlike bootcamps which have a steep learning curve, online information systems security bachelor’s degrees teach foundational courses necessary for building a successful career in information systems security.
- Work Experience. The internships and capstone projects you complete as part of online information systems security bachelor’s degrees give you real-world experience that you can include on your resume.
- Convenience. Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Systems Security are built for convenience, allowing you to choose between synchronous, asynchronous, 100 percent online, and hybrid classes.
- Career Opportunities. An online information systems security bachelor’s degree program is often the minimum requirement for entry-level information systems security jobs.
- Continued Learning. Upon earning your online information systems security bachelor’s degree, you can enroll in advanced programs and earn a master’s degree or even doctoral degree.
Top 5 Benefits of an Information Systems Security Bootcamp
- Specialized Learning. Information systems security bootcamps streamline your course load and only teach you the relevant skills you need to succeed in your information systems security job.
- Quicker Completion. Unlike online degrees, which take four years to complete, bootcamps qualify you for information systems security jobs in just a few months.
- Less Costly. A streamlined course load and shorter duration reduce costs, making information systems security bootcamps cheaper than online degree programs.
- Practical Learning. Bootcamps teach industry-relevant skills, so you can rest assured that there will be a market for your skillset once you graduate.
- Career Services. With their job placement programs, interview training, and portfolio reviews, bootcamp student support services are a cut above the rest.
Why You Should Get an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Online
An online information systems security bachelor’s degree can build your cyber security skills, prepare you for professional certification exams, and qualify you for advanced degrees, all without disrupting your current schedule. It is a perfect fit for working professionals and learners with existing commitments.
Online information systems security bachelor’s degrees offer the same course content as in-person degrees while being cheaper and more convenient. They prepare you for high-paying careers as a systems administrator, network engineer, or systems analyst.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Information Systems Security?
You will encounter certain core courses during your online information systems security bachelor’s degree program. Below, we’ve made a list of the five most important online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security courses to look out for as well as an overview of what they entail.
Scripting and Programming
This language-agnostic course introduces you to programming basics like variables, data types, and design concepts. You’ll explore different programming languages and analyze the distinction between interpreted and compiled languages. You’ll also learn programming logic and problem-solving skills applicable to languages across the board.
Network Security
Businesses rely on organizational networks to transfer sensitive information. This course builds the skills necessary to ensure that those networks are secure. The topics covered include network protocols, classifications, components, and vulnerabilities. Additionally, you’ll learn about security features like virtual private networks, firewalls, and cryptography.
Digital Forensics
In the wake of spiking cyber attacks, identifying and punishing cyber criminals has become more critical. This course develops the investigative competencies you’ll need to detect and trace cyber crimes. It involves discovering, documenting, and handling evidence to support a civil or criminal cyber security trial.
Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Students taking this course learn the different ways information systems can be attacked, including through viruses, worms, and malware. They then learn to formulate defenses against these attacks and resolve any system vulnerabilities they may cause.
Intrusion Detection and Incident Response
This course focuses on how to use intrusion detection systems to secure networks against attack. You’ll learn about intrusion detection methodologies and tools and how to deploy them in the face of a cyber attack. Additionally, it teaches data breach protocol and the different approaches to resolving security breaches.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Graduates of online information systems security bachelor’s degree programs can further their education by pursuing an information security master’s degree and after that, a doctorate degree. Alternatively, they can earn industry certifications like the CompTIA Security+ to prove their competency.
Related Online Information Systems Security Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in your online information systems security bachelor’s degree program are accreditation, cost, school reputation, employment outcomes, and flexibility and format. In the section below, we’ll explain each of these features in-depth and detail why they are important to consider during your school search.
Accreditation
There are two types of accreditation. They are regional accreditation and programmatic accreditation. Both are important factors that prove that your school and its program meet general educational standards. If your school is not accredited, it means that its programs are inferior and employers will not respect the degrees it awards.
Cost
It is prudent to research the average cost of attending your school before enrolling to avoid unnecessary student debt. Also important are the financial services your school offers, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. In-state and resident tuition can also cut down the cost of your online information systems security bachelor’s degree.
Reputation of the School
Prestige is another essential factor to consider when choosing your school. Earning your degree at a reputable online school will help you stand out to employers and give you a leg up over other candidates.
Employment Outcomes
It is important to research the employment outcomes of alumni of your school. Analyze the percentage of those who secured jobs, where they work, how long it took to secure their first job, and their starting salaries when hired. This information can help you paint a better picture of your own employment experience after graduating.
Flexibility and Format
Another thing to consider is how well your online information systems security bachelor’s degree program will fit into your schedule. Confirm whether your program is 100 percent online or hybrid, as well as whether classes will be held synchronously or asynchronously.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online information systems security bachelor’s degree is the Bachelor of Science in Online Network Operations and Security offered by Western Governors University. Attending costs $3,625 per six-month term, which works out to a total four-year program cost of $29,000.
Can I Get an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get an online information systems security bachelor’s degree for free. However, there are online cyber security course materials and resources you can explore to get started. Additionally, you can look into scholarships, grants, and federal aid to offset the cost of your degree. You may end up paying much less than you expect, or if you’re lucky, nothing at all.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Once you’ve earned your online information systems security bachelor’s degree, the next step is securing a high-paying job. In the sections below, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about getting a job in information security, including different career options, the best jobs to apply for, and your salary potential.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an information systems security degree. In fact, according to a report by the World Economic Forum, demand for these professionals far eclipses supply, and there is currently a global cyber security workforce gap of 3.12 million.
Improving perceptions of online degree programs also means that you will remain competitive even in an applicant pool filled with in-person degrees. Additionally, the internships and projects you embark on during your online information systems security bachelor’s degree program will count as work experience and can help you secure your first job quicker.
What’s the Average Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary of a holder of an information systems security bachelor’s degree is $77,000 per year. However, there is plenty of room to earn even higher salaries. For example, if you work as an information security manager, you can earn as much as $107,000 a year.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can do with an online information systems security bachelor’s degree include IT auditor, network technician, network administrator, and cyber security specialist. You can even become an information security analyst and work in industries like healthcare, finances, and even aerospace.
Information Systems Security Degree Jobs
- Network Engineer
- System Administrator
- Cyber Security Analyst
- IT Auditor
- Security Architect
Potential Careers With an Online Information Systems Security Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree?
With an online information systems security bachelor’s degree, you can make between $127,509 and $76,240 per year. That figure will rise further as you gain experience and amass a robust portfolio.
Additionally, you can increase your income by upskilling and applying for higher-paying jobs. We’ve done the research, and in the table below, you’ll find the top five highest-paying online information systems security bachelor’s degree jobs.
Highest-Paying Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Security Architect | $127,509 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Cyber Security Engineer | $97,841 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $80,600 |
| Network Engineer | $76,253 |
Best Jobs for Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The sections below will discuss what each of the best online information systems security bachelor’s degree jobs entails. Additionally, you’ll learn about their salary, job outlook, and the states with the best wage offerings for that position.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online information systems security bachelor’s degree is worth it. It puts you on track to work in fast-growing, enriching careers where you will contribute to detecting and preventing cyber crimes. Online programs offer quality education, flexibility, and the benefits of completing the degree from the convenience of your home.
Additional Reading About Information Systems Security
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Online Information Systems Security Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
There is not a lot of difference between these two areas of expertise. Both fields intersect and it is sometimes impossible to tell one from the other. However, one distinction is that while cyber security professionals restrict themselves to guarding against cyber threats, information security professionals guard against all kinds of possible threats, including cyber threats.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is the most popular certification among information security analysts. Other popular certifications are the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and CompTIA Security+.
Entry-level information systems security degrees do not require a lot of coding. You will primarily work on identifying cyber threats and protecting systems. However, as you upskill to middle-level and upper-level roles, you’ll need programming knowledge to succeed at your job.
Yes, you can learn information systems security on your own. There are many online training resources and materials available. However, the learning curve will be steep, and you might find it extremely difficult to learn without guidance. You’ll need to be highly motivated and committed to learning about information systems security independently.
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.
