The diverse degree programs available to students looking to enter the cyber security field as a beginner can be challenging. This is because it is hard to know which cyber security degree program aligns best with their career path. If you’re looking to enter the professional world as quickly as possible, the fastest online cyber security degree might be the best choice for you.
An accelerated online cyber security degree program saves time, ensures flexibility, and allows you to get an online cyber security degree faster. In this article, we look at the fastest online cyber security degree programs and how they can benefit you.
What Is an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree?
An accelerated cyber security degree is a specialized program designed to take less time than a typical degree. For example, instead of four years to earn a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, some universities offer accelerated tracks that may take as little as 18 to 36 months if you transfer prior credits. Most accelerated programs are online and structured in shorter course terms.
How Do Accelerated Degrees Work?
Accelerated degrees work by compressing a program’s curriculum into a shorter time frame. For example, while standard college courses last 16 weeks, accelerated terms can be 8–12 weeks, allowing you to complete more credits in less time.
Types of Accelerated Cyber Security Degrees
There are different types of accelerated cyber security degree programs. Whether you are looking for an associate, undergraduate, or graduate degree, you can find an option at many accredited institutions.
Accelerated Associate Degrees
An associate degree usually takes two years. An accelerated cyber security associate degree can take about 12 to 18 months depending on the institution and whether you transfer credits.
Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees
An accelerated bachelor’s degree program in cyber security can take as little as 18 months to three years if you have prior credits. Without transfer credits, bachelor’s programs generally take four years, even in an online format.
Accelerated Master’s Degrees
Some accelerated cyber security master’s programs can be completed in one year, particularly MBA programs with a cyber security concentration. Others may take closer to 18 months depending on credit load.
Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Combined bachelor’s and master’s programs allow students to earn both degrees faster than pursuing them separately. These programs usually take about five years, though select institutions may offer intensive four-year tracks with heavy course loads.
Who Should Get an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree?
An accelerated cyber security degree is best suited for highly motivated students, working professionals, or parents with family responsibilities. Because most accelerated programs are online, they allow for greater flexibility and a self-paced mode of learning. Students comfortable with reduced instructor interaction and intensive schedules benefit most.
How to Get a Cyber Security Degree Fast
If you’re determined to earn your cyber security degree quickly, here are several strategies to accelerate the process:
- Take online courses. Online classes save commuting time and often allow you to take more credits per term. Many schools offer condensed eight-week terms online so you can double up on classes.
- Transfer credits. Prior coursework at accredited institutions may transfer toward your degree. Some schools accept up to 90 transfer credits, which can cut years off your program.
- Attend full time. Committing as a full-time student reduces overall time to completion. If possible, take courses in summer and winter terms to stay ahead.
- Apply prior learning credits. Work or military experience can sometimes be converted into college credit through Prior Learning Assessments (PLA) or CLEP exams.
- Leverage certifications. Some programs grant credits for industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH, which can shorten your degree path.
- Stay on track. Avoid retaking courses by staying focused and completing coursework successfully the first time. Using school-provided tutoring and advising services can help you stay organized.
- Choose an accelerated program track. Many universities design specific accelerated tracks with shorter course terms and flexible pacing to help students graduate faster.
What Is the Fastest Online Cyber Security Degree?
One of the fastest online cyber security degrees is the MBA, Cybersecurity Concentration from the University of South Florida, which can be completed in only one year.¹
Fastest Online Cyber Security Degrees: The Basics
| Degree Title | School | Required Time |
|---|---|---|
| MBA, Cybersecurity Concentration | University of South Florida | 1 year1 |
| BS in Cyber Security | Lindenwood University (Accelerated Degree Programs) | 18–24 months with transfer credits2 |
| BS in Cybersecurity | Norwich University | 18 months with transfer credits3 |
| BS in Cybersecurity | Franklin University | 2 years (degree completion)4 |
| BS in Cybersecurity | Old Dominion University | 2 years (degree completion)5 |
| BS in Cyber Security | Southern New Hampshire University | 2 years with transfer credits6 |
| BS in Computer Science – Cybersecurity | Liberty University | 3.5–4 years7 |
| BS in Cybersecurity | Grand Canyon University | 4 years8 |
| BS/MS in Cyber Security | Mercy University | 5 years10 |
The Fastest Online Cyber Security Degrees, Explained
MBA, Cybersecurity Concentration | University of South Florida1
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $750/credit hour
- Required Time: 1 year
This tech-focused online program culminates in a capstone project centered on integrating diverse concepts through applied cases and project work. The MBA in Cybersecurity from the University of South Florida is designed to prepare graduates for careers in information security and give professionals an up-to-date skillset.
BS in Cybersecurity | Lindenwood University (Accelerated Degree Programs)2
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $525/credit hour²
- Required Time: 18–24 months (with transfer credits)
Lindenwood University’s BS in Cybersecurity is designed to impart valuable skills to aspiring information security analysts. In addition to the program’s general education requirements, you’ll need to complete 64 credit hours. With the online, accelerated mode of study, you can complete your degree in 18 months.
BS in Cybersecurity | Norwich University3
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $375/credit hour
- Required Time: 18 months (with transfer credits)
University is an accredited institution that offers cyber security degree programs that prepare online students who understand the value of advanced technology to become cyber security experts. This accelerated program gives students skills-based instruction and industry-relevant learning materials through the use of online resources.
BS in Cybersecurity | Franklin University4
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $398/credit hour
- Required Time: 2 years (degree completion)
Franklin University is committed to giving cyber security students the state-of-the-art skills they need to respond to security breaches as effectively as possible. This online degree program can take as little as two years to complete.
BS in Cybersecurity | Old Dominion University5
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $268/credit hour in state; $1953.50 out of state
- Required Time: 2 years (degree completion)
Old Dominion’s BS in Cybersecurity program produces skilled professionals who can work as security management specialists, network administrators, and computer system analysts. This multidisciplinary program combines cyber security-focused expertise and knowledge from various other disciplines to create well-rounded students with versatile career and communication skills.
BS in Cyber Security | Southern New Hampshire University6
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $342/credit hour
- Required Time: 2 years with transfer credits
This online degree program at Southern New Hampshire University gives students hands-on experience in the application of cyber security principles. Through this online learning experience, you can begin to build a successful career in cyber security, addressing security threats, protecting information assets, and building secure networks and systems.
BS in Computer Science – Cybersecurity | Liberty University7
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- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $390/credit hour
- Required Time: 3.5–4 years
This program prepares cyber security professionals to tackle a wide range of security threats and data breaches likely to arise in organizations. The program is affordable, accredited, and flexible, and it provides hands-on skills and exposure to real-world situations.
BS in Cybersecurity | Grand Canyon University8
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $485/credit hour
- Required Time: 4 years
This online BS program trains students to handle real-world problems in the cyber security field through its online learning platforms. Students learn how to address vulnerabilities, prevent cyber crime, and identify and prevent data breaches. The dynamism of the technology field and the need to keep learning are also emphasized over the course of this four-year program.
BS/MS in Cyber Security | Mercy University9
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $994/credit hour
- Required Time: 5 years
The dual BS/MS in Cybersecurity is an accelerated program that allows talented students to get their bachelor’s and master’s in just five years. To remain in the dual program, students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA per semester.
Fastest Cyber Security Degree Completion ProgramsDegree completion programs are best for students who have some prior college credits. Examples include:
- George Washington University College of Professional Studies: Accelerated online bachelor’s completion in cyber security.10
- East Coast Polytechnic Institute (ECPI): 12-month accelerated cyber and information security degree for transfer students.11
- Rasmussen University: Online BS in Cyber Security with credit transfer options.12
- University of Charleston: Completion in as little as 18 months for students with prior credits.13
University of Saint Mary: BS in Cyber Security within 18–24 months for transfer students.14
Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?
Yes, employers respect online degrees when they are earned at accredited institutions recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or US Department of Education (DOE).15
What Jobs Can You Get with an Accelerated Cyber Security Degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (retrieved August 2025):16
- Computer Network Architect | $130,390 | 12% growth (2024–2034)
Computer network architects are specialists who build and design communication networks like intranets, wide area networks (WANs), and local area networks (LANs) for organizations. To excel in this field, you must know an organization’s goals and create networks that are customized to achieve those goals. - Information Security Analyst | $124,920 | 29% growth (2024–2034)
Information security analysts detect and prevent cyber security threats in an organization’s systems and networks. Workers with an accelerated cyber security degree are equipped with the latest techniques and tools in data protection. - Computer Systems Analyst | $103,790 | 9% growth (2024–2034)
Computer systems analysts focus on an organization’s systems and network. They regularly evaluate systems and find ways to improve them and raise or maintain levels of efficiency.
Are Online Cyber Security Degrees Worth It?
Yes, online cyber security degrees are worth it because they provide flexibility, affordability, and accessibility, particularly for working adults and parents balancing multiple responsibilities.
Fastest Online Cyber Security Degrees FAQ
How fast can you get a cyber security bachelor’s degree?
You can get a cyber security bachelor’s degree within a year and a half to three years if you transfer prior credits. A Master’s Degree in Cyber Security can be completed in as little as one year in some accelerated programs.
What are some of the best-paying cyber security jobs?
Some of the best-paying cyber security jobs are information security analyst, computer network architect, and computer systems analyst.
Is an online cyber security degree marketable?
Yes, an online cyber security degree is marketable if you get it from an accredited online institution.15 This degree equips you with the skills you need to handle cyber security threats and ensure safe networks and systems. After earning your cyber security degree from a top college, you can work in private organizations or even government agencies like the National Security Agency.
Is an accelerated cyber security degree the right one for me?
An accelerated cyber security degree is the right one for you if you have a passion for cyber security and can handle the intense pressure that may come with a fast-paced program. Earning a cyber security degree through an accelerated program might be best for you if you are a parent or working student looking for online, self-paced degree programs to break into the cyber security industry.
Sources
- https://www.usf.edu/business/graduate/mba/online-mba.aspx
- https://www.lindenwood.edu/online-degrees/bs-cybersecurity/
- https://online.norwich.edu/academic-programs/bachelor-science-cybersecurity
- https://www.franklin.edu/degrees/bachelors/cybersecurity
- https://online.odu.edu/programs/bs-cybersecurity
- https://www.snhu.edu/online-degrees/bachelors/bs-in-cyber-security
- https://www.liberty.edu/online/information-technology/bachelors/computer-science-cyber-security/
- https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/bachelor-science-cybersecurity
- https://www.mercy.edu/academics/programs/bsms-cybersecurity
- https://cps.gwu.edu/cybersecurity-bachelors-completion
- https://www.ecpi.edu/degree/online-cyber-information-security-technology
- https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/cyber-security/
- https://www.ucwv.edu/programs/cybersecurity/
- https://online.stmary.edu/programs/bs-cybersecurity
- https://www.chea.org/
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