If you are thinking of starting an information security (IS) career, learning about the best schools for information security is a good start. The best information security schools give you the knowledge and hands-on experience to thrive in the industry. Several schools offer degrees in information security, but not all schools are created equal.
This article gives you a comprehensive guide to choosing the best information security colleges based on your unique circumstances and career goals. It contains a list of the ten best information security universities, types of information security degrees, and job opportunities you should expect as an information security graduate.
Best Information Security College and University Rankings: Top 10 Information Security Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | AZ | In-person, online, hybrid | 117 |
| Carnegie Mellon | PA | In-person, online, hybrid | 25 |
| Columbia University in the City | NY | In-person, online, hybrid | 2 |
| George Mason University | VA | In-person | 148 |
| Johns Hopkins University | MD | In-person, online, hybrid | 9 |
| Northwestern University | IL | In-person, online, hybrid | 9 |
| Purdue University Global | IN | Online | 49 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | NY | In-person | 117 |
| UC Berkeley School of Information | CA | In-person, online, hybrid | 22 |
| University of Southern California | CA | In-person | 27 |
Information Security School Rankings: Best Information Security Colleges and Universities
The best information security colleges and universities in the United States also have a global reputation due to their education quality. Many schools are well-known public research universities with a high graduation and retention rate.
Prospective students can choose between an in-person or online degree to gain professional experience in cyber security, ethical hacking, and software development. Any of these schools can get you started on a successful career path.
Founded in 1885, Arizona State University is a multi-campus higher institution of learning that offers a wide range of academic programs in-person and online. The school is known for its high research activity, so it could be your top option if you intend to explore your research options.
Arizona State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 117
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 214
Best Arizona State University Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science-Cybersecurity. This is an ABET-accredited bachelor's degree program offered at the Tempe campus of Arizona State University. First-time students need a GPA of 3.0 for this program. The courses prepare students to build large-scale systems that are dependable, secure from cyber threats, and efficient for processing data.
- Bachelor of Arts in Business – Information Security. This flexible online bachelor's degree teaches information security in a business setting. You can secure the 120-credit program in 40 classes if you dedicate 7.5 hours a week. It covers computer forensics, business database concepts, computer networks, and information systems.
- Master of Science in Computer Science - Cybersecurity. This master's degree program is for graduate students who want to advance their skills in network security, applied cryptography, software security, and computer forensics. You will need to make up 30 credits and choose between a thesis and a non-thesis option.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science - Cybersecurity. You will need to complete 84 credits for this doctorate in cyber security. It includes core courses, concentrations, research, and electives. Research can consist of information systems security, systems management, data integrity, authentication, and other key aspects of cyber security.
Arizona State University Information Security Key Takeaway
Arizona State University is one of the few schools that offer a business information security bachelor's degree.
Carnegie Mellon University is at the heart of Pittsburgh. It is one of the best schools for STEM disciplines and one of the best information security universities. Some of the notable colleges are the college of engineering, fine arts, and information systems.
Carnegie Mellon Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 25
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 21
Best Carnegie Mellon University Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. Undergraduate students can learn about fraud detection, money laundering investigation, and the Internet of things in this program. It is one of the foremost information systems degrees in the United States.
- Master of Science in Information Security. This MS degree is a full-time and part-time program with research opportunities. Companies like Google, Uber, Facebook, Disney, and other top-tier companies hire graduates from this two-year MSIS program.
- Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance. This online master's program in cyber security equips you with the technical knowledge you need to advance your career in cyber security. Courses include risk management, information security, and data privacy.
- PhD Studies in Information Systems and Management. This doctoral degree has four areas of concentration. These include information security and privacy, digitization economics, healthcare, machine learning, and large-scale data analytics. PhD students must complete two semesters each of IS seminars, technology classes, and courses related to a research concentration.
Carnegie Mellon University Information Security Key Takeaway
Carnegie Mellon provides career counseling services for students in its IS programs.
Originally known as King's College, Columbia University is a private Ivy League university. As the fifth oldest institution in the United States, it is not surprising that the university has gained a global reputation as a leading higher education provider. It also happens to be a groundbreaking research educational institution.
Columbia University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 16
Best Columbia University Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This computer science bachelor’s degree offers an information science major that includes information security. It is a four-year year that teaches students to ensure the security of confidential information.
- Computer Science Master's Degree - Computer Security. This 30-credit graduate degree is 100 percent online. You will need a GRE, a bachelor's degree, and an existing GPA of 3.3 to enroll. The track covers security architecture, operating systems, programming languages, cryptography, and intrusion detection.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science. Students will conduct extensive research on computer science and any field they decide to explore. You can choose a specific aspect of information security as your research topic and work on it with your supervisor.
Columbia University Information Technology Key Takeaway
The Master’s in Computer Security at Columbia University helps students develop cutting-edge knowledge in security.
This is a four-year research-intensive public university in Fairfax County. The school is currently considered an R1 doctoral university. George Mason University has four campuses in Virginia and is popularly known as the genius center of the American revolution. Some popular departments in the university are computer science, information technology, criminal justice, and accounting.
George Mason University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 148
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 179
Best George Mason University Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. This four-year degree prepares students for the information technology industry by equipping them with critical thinking and communication skills. The credit requirement is 120, and it includes six information security concentrations.
- Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance. The MS program requires 30 credits, and you can choose from two concentrations. One is applied cyber security, and the other is network and systems security. There is also an accelerated option for a combined BS and MS.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology. You will need a bachelor's and Master's Degree in Information Technology or a related field for this PhD. The program offers five different concentrations, and it is helpful to choose a concentration in the first year. You’ll need 72 credits to graduate.
George Mason University Information Security Key Takeaway
George Mason University offers extensive concentration options for undergraduate and graduate studies.
Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Maryland. Johns Hopkins, an American entrepreneur, founded the private institution in 1876. The school has made significant innovations in medical research and is also the first school to open a public health center. The center is now one of the best medical institutions in the country.
Johns Hopkins Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 9
Best Johns Hopkins Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science and Master's Degree in Information Security. Johns Hopkins offers a combined five-year bachelor's and master's degree program. You will take your undergraduate-level courses first before taking the graduate courses. You must pick a research topic in information security and assurance.
- Master of Science in Security Informatics (MSSI). The MSSI is for students with undergraduate degrees and technical exposure in the field. It runs for two semesters on campus at Homewood for full-time students. The courses include data structures, computer systems fundamentals, and programming. You will need an impressive GRE score.
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity. This track is for master’s students who want to specialize in cyber security. A few courses in this program include programming with Python, data structures, algorithms, cryptology, and information assurance.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Information Security. This multidisciplinary program includes students and faculty who work together from multiple departments. Enrolling in the graduate program gives you access to cutting-edge research facilities at the university. It is a self-guided research program that will help you sharpen your independent research skills.
Johns Hopkins Information Security Key Takeaway
Learning at Johns Hopkins gives you access to a wide range of resources as you explore your information and cyber security degrees.
Founded in 1851, Northwestern University is another heavy name in higher education. The institution has several prominent colleges, including the School of Professional Studies, Kellogg School of Management, Bienen School of Music, and McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science.
Northwestern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 9
Best Northwestern University Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. This four-year program allows you to pick a concentration in cyber operations or cyber security. Courses include network security, computer systems, and object oriented programming. You can choose electives from the law and communications department.
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity. This cyber security master's degree is an advanced option for anyone interested in exploring law, criminology, management, and social science. You can integrate it with a graduate certificate in engineering leadership. Students must submit a capstone project at the end of the program.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity. The Khoury College of Engineering at Northwestern University in Boston offers this PhD. The program equips students to become researchers, professors, and policy advisors. Students investigate policy, law, and human behavior and how they affect security measures.
Northwestern University Information Security Key Takeaway
Northwestern University has its cyber security divisions at different locations in the United States.
In 1869, John Purdue donated finances and other resources to develop this small university. It gained global recognition and became a public institution offering a fully operating online school. Purdue University is committed to allowing free speech and encourages individuals and organizations on campus to speak, to listen, to challenge, and to learn in the process.
Purdue University Global Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: Open admission
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 49
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 48
Best Purdue University Global Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. This 100 percent online program offers six concentrations, including CISSP certification preparation, cloud computing, data management, game development, programming and analytics, supply chain management, and logistics. It is a four-year degree requiring 180 credits.
- Master of Science in Information Security. This program is for experienced IT experts who want to take their careers to the next level with an advanced degree. You will need a GPA of 3.0 or more, a resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation to apply for this 30-credit program.
- Doctor of Philosophy/Master of Science in Information Security. This is an interdisciplinary program hosted by Purdue University Global for part-time and full-time students. Beyond the resume and 3.0 GPA requirements, international students must submit proof of English language proficiency to qualify for this doctorate.
Purdue University Global Information Security Key Takeaway
Purdue University offers an optional internship at the end of its undergraduate program.
Founded in 1829, the Rochester Institute of Technology is a private research institute. It is the flagship campus of technology in Rochester. The school has exceptional computing engineering, technology, and business programs and pays special attention to the needs of individual students.
Rochester Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 117
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 154
Best Rochester Institute of Technology Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computing Security. This traditional bachelor's degree equips you to detect security vulnerabilities, secure assets, and provide a cyber defense. The department of homeland security recognizes the four-year degree as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
- Bachelor/Master’s Degree in Computing Security. If you plan to get a master's degree after your bachelor's degree, you may benefit from enrolling in this combined bachelor's and master's degree program. This accelerated program runs for five years with 147 required credit hours.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer and Information Sciences (CIS). This CIS PhD has seven research concentrations, including artificial intelligence, data science, HCI and accessibility, software engineering, security and privacy, systems, and theory. As with all doctorates, students must undertake original research for peer-reviewed publications.
Rochester Institute of Technology Information Security Key Takeaway
The school currently has a 100 percent PhD outcome rate. This means every student who completes the PhD gets a job.
The University of California-Berkeley is a public university and a significant part of the California school system. The school of information is the university's latest professional school offering four degree programs in information management systems, cyber security, and data science.
University of California-Berkeley School of Information Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degrees Offered: Master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: 22
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 36
University of California-Berkeley School of Information Information Security Programs
- Master of Science in Information and Cybersecurity. This Master of Science is a part-time hybrid program that runs for 20 months and requires 27-credits. Some classes are online, while others need students to be on campus. This immersion course allows you to network, meet your peers, and discuss with faculty leaders.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Information Management and Systems. This PhD is one of the top programs offered at the University of California-Berkeley's School of Information. It is a research-intensive project that also includes a comprehensive final examination.
University of California-Berkeley School of Information Information Security Key Takeaway
The School of Information offers top-class education, equipping and preparing students to tackle highly complex cyber security issues.
Founded in 1880, the University of Southern California (USC) is one of the most popular private universities in Southern California. It is the oldest private research institute in California. The university is a research hub that admits hundreds of students at undergraduate and graduate levels every year.
University of Southern California Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: 27
- Times Higher Education Ranking: 19
Best University of Southern California Information Security Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence and Cyber Operations. USC provides this 128-credit unit course for students who want to combine information technology with liberal arts. The degree includes programming and cyber security, international relations, general education, and foreign language. As will all bachelor’s programs, students must provide a high school diploma in the application process.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering. This master’s degree program is available on campus and online. It equips students to work in homeland security, computer systems, computer engineering, software development, and intelligence analysis. It requires 28 credits, and full-time students will take 18 months to two years to complete the program.
- Master of Science in Computer Science (Computer Security). Computer security is one of the concentrations in the computer science master’s degree program offered at USC. The required courses include statistical analysis, cryptography, risk management, and network security. The 32-credit program has no examination requirement.
University of Southern California Information Security Key Takeaway
Industry and government expressed a need for a specific computer security program. In response, USC created its computer security master’s program.
The Best Schools for Information Security: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best schools for information security offer certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhD Degrees in Information Security. The one you choose will depend on your financial status, current education level, and career goals.
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Information Security Community College Certificate
An information security community college certificate program will focus on one specific study area. Often, colleges allow students to transfer certificates as credits towards an associate degree. You can also do a certificate course in a subject your degree did not cover to boost your credentials and expertise.
Information Security Associate Degree
An information security associate degree is an undergraduate degree awarded by a community college. However, it holds more weight than a certificate and can help you start your career in entry-level positions. You will gain university credits that you can transfer to a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security or related fields.
The typical timeline for completing associate degree programs is two years. You may find an accelerated degree that runs for 16 to 18 months. The credit requirement ranges from 60 to 80 credits, and the cost is usually more affordable than a bachelor’s degree.
Information Security Bachelor’s Degree
The information security bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree awarded by a university. It is the standard for entry into most information security careers and a path to a master’s degree, professional graduate certificate, or PhD. While a bachelor’s degree holder may get entry-level positions, they can command a higher salary.
A bachelor’s degree runs for four years for most schools in the United States. Accelerated bachelor’s degrees take about three years, and part-time students may take up to five years to complete their degree. The credit requirement for a bachelor’s degree is between 120 to 180 credits.
Information Security Master’s Degree
An information security master’s degree is a graduate degree offered by a university. Master’s students must meet the requirements for advanced learning in their field. Most universities give students the option to specialize in certain areas of information security.
A master’s degree is a pathway to a doctorate, and you cannot typically get admitted into a master’s degree program if you do not have a bachelor’s degree. The degree takes two years to complete full-time.
You can get a dual bachelor’s and master’s degree that takes four to five years or an accelerated master’s degree that takes 16 to 18 months. A master’s program usually requires 30 credit hours.
Information Security Graduate Certificate
A graduate certificate is an advanced credential that a university awards to students after meeting the requirements of specialized studies. It is not the same as a college certificate, and you need to have completed a bachelor’s degree to qualify for admission into a graduate school.
You can complete a graduate certificate in one year or less. While it isn’t the same as a master’s degree, both options will prepare you for advanced specialization.
Information Security Doctorate
An information security doctorate is a research-focused graduate degree awarded by a university. The doctorate may run for three to five years, depending on the school and research topic. Doctorates in Information Security focus on complex and highly-specialized areas of cyber security.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Information Security Schools: Other Information Security University Rankings
The best information security schools offer bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, dual degrees, and accelerated programs. Depending on what the school offers, you can take these programs on-campus or online. The best schools for each degree type and learning format are listed below.
Best Online Information Security Schools
- Dakota State University. Dakota State University offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Network and Security Administration. It also offers an associate degree in the same subject. You can enroll and complete the program 100 percent online.
- Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity beneficial for those chasing a career in information security. It is an interdisciplinary degree that combines a wide range of security topics and allows you to choose electives from other fields.
- Western Governors University. This school offers a wide range of information security degrees, including network operations and security, cyber security, and assurance. The school also offers top certifications to boost your resume.
Best Community Colleges for Information Security
- Central Texas College. This college serves residents of Coryell County and Bell County, Texas. It offers degrees in network cloud security, safety and security, computer information technology, and cyber security.
- Coastline Community College. This school has several mini campuses that offer various programs, including degrees in information security. It offers an Associate of Science in Computer Networking and Cybersecurity program.
- Harford Community College. Harford Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance. The course includes cyber security, information systems security, and cyber defense.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Information Security
- Grand Canyon University. This university offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. The program covers network security, cyber law, security-driven systems, cyber forensics, and ethical hacking. There is also a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity for those who want to study for an advanced degree.
- Kennesaw State University. With the increase of cyber attacks, cyber and information security is becoming one of the top in-demand degrees. This is a highly-rated affordable online bachelor’s program.
- Liberty University. Liberty University is one of the best online schools in the United States and one of the largest Christian universities in the country. It offers an accelerated 121-credit computer science cyber security bachelor’s degree.
Best Graduate Schools for Information Security
- Boston University. Boston University is a private research institution that offers a Master of Science in Computer Information System, Security Concentration. The 40-credit program takes 12 to 20 months to complete in-person, online, or in a hybrid format.
- George Washington University (GWU). GWU is a private university and one of the oldest schools in the country. It has a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity in Computer Science. This is a 30-credit program that runs for two years full-time and three years part-time. The advanced program requires an admission GPA of 3.0.
- Grand Canyon University. This school offers a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity in the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. The 34-credit graduate degree program will teach you how to protect organizational systems from advanced cyber attacks. You will also learn the soft skills required to thrive in the information security industry.
Best Information Security Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- DePaul University | Cybersecurity Bachelor of Science, Combined Bachelor’s + Master’s Degree. DePaul University is a four-year public institution. It has two campuses and an online platform for distance learning. The school offers a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program, but you must maintain a 3.3 GPA to remain in the program.
- Montclair State University | Information Technology/Cybersecurity-Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree. This research-based public institution offers students a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The dual degree is a five-year program that combines a bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Information Technology/Cybersecurity.
- University of Houston | Accelerated Bachelor of Science/Master of Science Degree Program in Computer Information Systems/Cybersecurity. This school is a public research institute with a reputation as the flagship university in Houston. The combined five-year bachelor’s and master’s dual program is for those who wish to continue their education after completing their bachelor’s degree.
Best Schools With Accelerated Information Security Programs
- Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. Whether or not you have previous college credits, you can apply for this cyber security bachelor’s degree. The online program runs for three and a half years and is one of the most affordable options available.
- Norwich University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. Norwich University is one of the oldest military colleges in Vermont. This school allows you to complete a 90-credit bachelor’s degree program in 18 months. You will need 30 credits as an admission requirement.
- Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. Old Dominion University is a four-year public school and the largest university in Virginia. It offers an accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security for students with a minimum of 30 college credits.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Information Security Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for information security is worth it for anyone who wants to advance their career in information security, cyber security, and related fields. With a graduate-level degree, you can either pursue research or opt for higher-paying management positions.
What Jobs Can You Do With an Information Security Degree?
Jobs you can get with an information security degree are information security analyst, computer and information research scientists, cyber security engineer, network security engineer, software developer, and penetration tester.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Information Security?
You can earn an annual salary of $73,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security, according to PayScale. Master’s degree holders will make an average of $95,000 annually. Also according to PayScale, associate degrees make entry-level jobs possible with an annual salary of $63,145. Experience, location, job title, and specialization influence the median salary.
Highest-Paying Information Security Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s Degree | $159,010 | #25 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | Master’s Degree | $131,490 | #2 (tie) |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s Degree | $120,520 | #17 |
| Computer Programmer | Bachelor’s Degree | $110,140 | #38 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s Degree | $102,600 | #2 (tie) |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s Degree | $99,270 | #6 |
| Cyber security Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $97,766 | #22 |
| Network Security Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $92,724 | #47 |
| Penetration Tester | Bachelor’s Degree | $88,376 | #23 |
| Ethical Hacker | Bachelor’s Degree | $79,096 | #59 |
Best Jobs With an Information Security Degree
The best jobs for information security degree holders are in computer science, computer network architecture, information security analysis, and cyber security engineering. Other options are network security engineers, penetration testers, and computer and information research scientists. Those who choose career paths in information security can earn a high annual wage.
The best associate degree jobs for information security are computer support specialist, computer programmer, and web developer. When you secure an information security degree, your skills will allow you to secure entry-level positions in these fields.
Top Information Security Careers With an Associate Degree
The best information security bachelor's degree jobs are cyber security engineer, computer and information systems manager, and network security engineer. Many other options are available, most of which pay more than $90,000 annually.
Top Information Security Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
With a master's degree in information security, you can work as a computer and information research scientist, information security analyst, and computer network analyst. Most times, master's degree holders have the same jobs as bachelor's degree holders but can command a higher salary.
Top Information Security Careers With a Master’s Degree
The best jobs for an information security doctorate holder are information security analyst, chief information security officer, or cyber security consultant. A PhD holder can work as an information technology researcher with the government or a private technology institution.
Top Information Security Careers With a PhD
The best internships for information security students are at Tesla, Google, and the Central Intelligence Agency. These internships are open on a rolling basis. Some last for three months, some for six, while others may last up to a year.
Top Information Security Internships
How Can I Pay for Information Security School?
You can pay for your information security school on your own, apply for federal financial aid, or secure a loan, grant, or scholarship. The option you choose will depend on your level of education or financial status.
- Pay Upfront. The most straightforward way to pay for college is upfront and out of pocket. However, it is also the most expensive route to take. When you pay upfront, you do not worry about repayment or interest.
- Federal Financial Aid. This option is available to students who cannot afford to pay for schooling upfront. There are different categories available under the federal financial aid program. Consult the student aid website to find out if you’re eligible.
- Student Loan. You must begin paying off the student loan once you start earning a salary. The terms of the loan and the amount may vary depending on the lender. You may apply for a living stipend in addition to the tuition if you have no alternative source of income.
- Grants and Scholarships. You do not need to pay back grants and scholarships. You need to meet the conditions stated. There are several STEM scholarships you can explore as an information security student. Graduate students get grants to research specific promising areas of interest.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Information Security School for You
When choosing the best school for information security, you need to consider costs, career services, and accreditation. You should also consider student outcomes, retention rates, and graduation rates.
Cost
While tuition is the most significant cost, it isn’t the only one you need to consider when enrolling in a school. You also need to consider the required fees, accommodation, transportation, lab dues, and food.
Career Services
Most higher institutions of learning provide career services for their students. Some even offer placement services. You can find out more from the official career services page of the school. You can also read the testimonials from students who successfully completed the program. This can give you an idea of what career opportunities you will have access to after graduation.
Accreditation
There are many benefits when a regulatory body nationally or regionally accredits a school for education. Firstly, prospective employers will see that your degree is credible. Other universities will recognize your college credits enabling you to continue your education.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Information Security?
Yes, the college you attend for information security matters since not all schools have the same curriculum or standards. This is why it is important to thoroughly research before applying to any university. The type of degree offered by the school is another crucial factor you need to consider.
Information Security University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Information Security
We ranked the best information security schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our information security university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of information security degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Information Security
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Best Information Security Schools FAQ
The bachelor’s degree best for cyber security is a Bachelor of Science degree. Most schools offer a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security. Some schools offer a Bachelor of Arts, which usually includes a broader range of electives. Schools also offer cyber security Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Security and Assurance, computer science, and information technology management.
Cyber security is not better than computer science. Cyber security is simply a more specialized field in information technology. Computer science is a general degree that offers majors in cyber security. Cyber security takes you more in-depth into protecting information and what to do against cyber attacks.
No, information is not hard to learn if you’re technologically inclined. It is a technical subject that requires a practical element with lots of hands-on training. Information technology is in high demand with the increase in cyber crime. If you enjoy the idea of fighting crime online and you enjoy computer programming, it won’t be difficult to learn.
No, there isn’t a lot of math in cyber security, but you will need some level of math, especially as you advance in your career. There will be data analysis and reading of graphs, but this doesn’t require too much math. You should be comfortable with at least high school-level math for career advancement in cyber security.
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