Best Network Security Schools: The Top Colleges and Universities for Network Security Programs
As the world becomes more technologically advanced, our digital identities and personal data need to be protected from potential cyber attacks. The cyber security industry is constantly shifting and evolving, and the best schools for network security will help you develop the skills you need to work in this fast-paced industry.
This article will provide you with a list of the best network security universities, including public and private schools, where you can get your higher education. All of the best network security colleges on our list offer an array of undergraduate and graduate programs to help you grow as a security professional.
Best Network Security College and University Rankings: Top 10 Network Security Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University | PA | In-person | 25 |
| DePaul University | IL | In-person, online | 127 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | GA | In-person, online | 38 |
| Illinois University | IL | In-person, online | 202 |
| Northeastern University | MA | In-person, online | 49 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | NY | In-person, online | 117 |
| Temple University | PA | In-person, online | 103 |
| University of California, Berkeley | CA | Online | 22 |
| University of Maryland | MD | In-person | 59 |
| University of San Diego | CA | In-person, online | 93 |
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Network Security School Rankings: Best Network Security Colleges and Universities
Many of the best network security colleges and universities also happen to be some of the top-ranked public and private universities in the country. Each educational institution listed below is accredited and offers a wide variety of courses that will prepare you to work in fields like network security technologies or cyber defense research.
Carnegie Mellon University
Graduation Rate: 93%
The Information Networking Institute at Carnegie Mellon University was established in 1989 as a pioneer research center for information networking. This private research university has four different network security and IT degree programs and is considered one of the best network security universities in the country.
Carnegie Mellon University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #25
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #28
Best Carnegie Mellon University Network Security Programs
- Cyber Ops Certificate . This program for graduate students can be completed in three semesters. Students must finish courses that cover all of the obligatory Knowledge Units (KU) and at least four of the optional KUs to earn the Cyber Ops credential. The optional KUs include software security analysis, networking, and network forensics.
- Cyber Forensics and Incident Response (CyFIR) Certificate . The CyFIR program uses a skill-based curriculum and cutting-edge tools to equip students for systems security and digital investigations. Graduate students who choose this track spend 48 units of their program curriculum learning about and practicing host and network security .
- Master of Science in Information Security . Full-time students must complete 123 credits to earn this degree. Its wide array of technical courses includes network security, systems security, network forensics, and more. The standard program doesn’t require an internship, while the applied track requires the completion of a three-unit internship.
- Master of Science in Information Technology - Information Security . This degree is one of the bicoastal programs offered by CMU. Bicoastal degree students split their time between CMU’s Pittsburgh and Silicon Valley campuses. While in Silicon Valley, graduate students participate in hackathons and work alongside industry leaders.
Carnegie Mellon University Network Security Key Takeaway
The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated this private research university as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) for the government job market.
DePaul University
Graduation Rate: 71%
DePaul University is a private university that was established in 1898. It has a student body of 14,145 undergraduate students and offers some of the best network security in-person and online programs in the country. Whether enrolled in an on-campus or online degree program, undergraduate and graduate students at DePaul receive an excellent education.
DePaul University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #127
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #231
Best DePaul Network Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Security . The Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Security covers technical writing, applied network security, applied network engineering, network protocols, and voice communication technologies. This four-year program requires the completion of 192 credits.
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity . The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program requires students to take applied network and security courses in their first year and telecommunication and network security courses in their third year. These 192 credits take four years to earn for full-time students.
- Master of Science in Network Engineering and Security . DePaul University's 52-credit MS in Network Engineering and Security (NES) program teaches the theory and practice of designing and maintaining network infrastructures. Graduate students learn how to configure routers, switches, and firewalls and how to secure networks.
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity . This degree’s network security concentration focuses its curriculum on firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), cyber security tools , and overall security engineering and design. Fifty-two credits are required to graduate from this program.
DePaul University Network Security Key Takeaway
This private institution takes an experiential approach to learning and uses a game-like environment to teach its undergraduate and graduate students the skills they need to work in network security.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Graduation Rate: 91%
One of the best public universities in the country, the Georgia Institute of Technology , founded in 1885, is located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, and offers certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees both online and in person. The school is based on a semester system and had just under 40,000 students enrolled as of fall 2020.
Georgia Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Degrees Offered: Certificates, Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #38
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #45
Best Georgia Institute of Technology Network Security Programs
- Cyber and Network Security Boot Camp . Learners in this 24-week bootcamp receive hands-on instruction in networking, systems, web technologies, databases, and defensive and offensive cyber security. They are also taught to recognize the severity of risks to an organization's security using a wide array of approaches and tactics.
- Cybersecurity Certificate . This five-course certificate teaches the fundamentals of cyber and network security, beginning with a look at cyber security systems before allowing you to pick between four courses of your choice. This is a great certificate for working professionals looking to access a wider range of job opportunities.
- Master of Science In Cybersecurity. Georgia Tech’s School of Computer Science offers an information security specialization where you can learn network security. A minimum of 32 credit hours is required to complete the Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity offered at this public institution.
Georgia Institute of Technology Network Security Key Takeaway
Gatech’s MS program allows students to specialize in a specific area of cyber security for a more focused career path and increased job opportunities.
Illinois State University
Graduation Rate: 68%
Illinois State University was established in 1857 as a public research university. It has a total undergraduate student body of around 18,000 and is located in an urban setting. The school’s academic calendar is semester-based and it is the oldest public university in the state.
Illinois State University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #202
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-500
Best Illinois State University Network Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. This four-year, 120-credit undergraduate academic program focuses on teaching foundational skills in cryptography, penetration testing, and offensive and defensive cyber security.
- Network and Telecommunication Management Graduate Certificate . Illinois State University offers a graduate certificate in network and telecommunications management where you can learn the theory and application of cutting-edge security technologies. This is a great certificate for those looking to work in leadership roles.
- Information Assurance and Security Graduate Certificate . This graduate certificate in Information Assurance and Security is designed for IT professionals. The certificate covers the technologies and policies used to secure the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of personal and corporate data. It requires nine credit hours for completion.
- Master of Science in Information Systems - Network and Security Management Sequence . The Network and Security Management sequence of this master’s degree delves into the difficulties of information security management for businesses and equips students with skills using modern technologies to secure and protect information.
Illinois State University Network Security Key Takeaway
Illinois State University is the sole university in the state with ABET-accredited information systems and computer science programs.
Northeastern University
Graduation Rate: 90%
Northeastern University was established in 1898 as a private institution and has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 15,150 students. One of the most selective private schools in the country, Northeastern University has produced numerous notable alumni, including multiple Nobel Prize winners.
Northeastern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, PhD
- US News Ranking: #49
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #168
Best Northeastern University Network Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity . Students in this four-year, 12-credit bachelor’s program are exposed to comprehensive coverage of major Internet protocols, such as IPs and DNSs. Students also get to examine denials of service, viruses, worms, and the prevention methods for those attacking networks.
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity . This 36-credit Master of Science in Cybersecurity trains students to identify and manage network security threats in their workplace. It's aimed at working professionals and recent graduates who want to learn how to protect their organizations.
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity - Align . The Master of Science in Cybersecurity integrates computer systems and network security training combined with social sciences, law, criminology, and management to provide you with highly sought-after abilities. The 36 to 44-credit program is designed for students with a BS or BA degree from any background.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity . This PhD combines the teaching of solid technical skills with an emphasis on security policy and social sciences. It aims to teach students how to develop state-of-the-art systems and networks for businesses, academia, and the government. The program requires the completion of 48 credits.
- Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity . This 16-credit certificate aims to give aspiring network security professionals an entrance point into the sector within eight months of admission and with a lower financial investment. Courses taught cover topics such as network security and techniques used in computer forensic examination.
Northeastern University Network Security Key Takeaway,
The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have named Northeastern University a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations.
Rochester Institute of Technology
Graduation Rate: 71%
The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), founded in 1829, is a private institution located in Henrietta, New York, in the Rochester metropolitan area. The school offers an incredible range of academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels.
Rochester Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #117
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #800-1000
Best Rochester Institute of Technology Network Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computing Security . Students in this four-year, 126-credit bachelor’s program learn about Internet Protocols (IP) and User Datagram Protocols (UDP), as well as how to administer, monitor, secure, and troubleshoot the networks of computer systems that use them.
- Combined BS/MS in Computing Security . The Combined BS/MS in Computing Security is an accelerated cyber security degree that allows you to complete both degrees in five years. The program allows you to broaden your computing security knowledge and receive advanced cyber security training in a shorter amount of time.
- Master of Science in Computing Security . This is a 30-credit unit program where graduate students are exposed to advanced computer system security and cryptography. Students graduate equipped with the skills needed to apply cryptography to secure network systems.
Rochester Institute of Technology Network Security Key Takeaway
RIT was named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research by the US Department of Homeland Security and National Security Agency.
Temple University
Graduation Rate: 75%
Temple University is a public school that was established in 1884 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As of fall 2020, it had a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 27,306 students. One of many public universities in the state, Temple University stands out thanks to its incredibly large number of professional education programs.
Temple University Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Certificates, bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #103
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #301-350
Best Temple University Network Security Programs
- Computer Security and Digital Forensics Undergraduate Certificate . This is a 10-credit certificate course designed for undergraduates majoring in computer and information sciences programs. Its students are taught skills in computer forensics and network security.
- Computer and Systems Security Graduate Certificate . This nine-credit course gives students graduate-level knowledge without requiring them to enroll in a degree program. They'll learn to protect networked computers and embedded systems, which are essential for productivity and network safety.
- Professional Science Masters in Cyber Defense and Information Assurance . This interdisciplinary 30-credit graduate program is designed for workers in technology-related fields who want to learn more about worldwide cyber and network security detection and prevention protocols.
- Master of Science in Information Technology - Auditing and Cybersecurity. This 30-credit master's degree is offered by Temple’s Fox School of Business. There is also a cyber security concentration where students are taught skills in identifying and preventing risks in networking which prepares them for the Certified Information Security Systems (CISSP) certification.
Temple University Network Security Key Takeaway
Temple University stands out among other public schools for helping its students prepare for professional certifications as a part of their curricula.
University of California, Berkeley
Graduation Rate: 92%
UC Berkeley was founded in 1868 and is the University of California System’s flagship campus. It is a public university with a total undergraduate enrollment of around 31,000 students and is one of the most competitive and prestigious schools in the country. It offers a wide variety of degree programs at all levels of higher education.
UC Berkeley Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degrees Offered: Master’s
- US News Ranking: #22
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #8
Best UC Berkeley Network Security Programs
- Berkeley Cybersecurity Boot Camp . The Berkeley Cybersecurity Boot Camp is a demanding, part-time program that takes a multidisciplinary approach to help students master IT, networking, and current information security technologies over 24 weeks.
- Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) . Cryptography, secure programming, network security, and cyber security's legal underpinnings are all covered in the MICS’ 27-credit core curriculum. During this 20-month program, students can choose from various electives like privacy engineering and managing cyber risks.
UC Berkeley Network Security Key Takeaway
UC Berkeley is one of the highest-ranked schools in the country and worldwide, making a degree from this public research university extremely attractive to employers.
University of Maryland
Graduation Rate: 87%
The University of Maryland (UMD) was established in 1856 and is a public university with a total undergraduate enrollment of around 31,000 students. Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, the school offers a wide variety of on-campus and online programs across many different fields of study.
UMD Overview
- School Type: Public
- Acceptance Rate: 51%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, master’s
- US News Ranking: #59
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #93
Best UMD Network Security Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science . This four-year degree offers a cyber security specialization that allows students to take upper-level elective courses in topics such as network and distributed systems security, operating systems security, and cryptography.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering . Students in this program can also choose a cyber security specialization track. To complete the cyber security specialization, they must complete courses in network security and computer systems and software. The program takes four years and 122 credits to complete.
- Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity . This is a 30-credit-hour program with core courses in network security, network and protocols, and special topics in engineering, among others. This is a professional master’s degree program students can use to hone their network security skills.
UMD Network Security Key Takeaway
The University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS) provides technical and administrative support to the Maryland Cybersecurity Center.
University of San Diego
Graduation Rate: 80%
The University of San Diego is a private institution located in San Diego, California. It offers a large selection of programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate education levels. Home to almost 10,000 students, the university has produced numerous notable alumni across multiple fields of study and industries.
University of San Diego Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degrees Offered: Master’s
- US News Ranking: #93
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #600-800
Best University of San Diego Network Security Programs
- Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering (MS-CSE) . The graduate program in information security is academically demanding and focuses on the technical aspects of software and hardware security. It features core courses in network security and was created with working professionals in mind, with its courses available on campus or entirely online. You can become a cyber security engineer after completing the course.
- Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership (MS-CSOL). This is a fully online master’s degree program that requires 31 credits to complete. This online program is spread across five semesters and offers cyber incident response and computer network forensics courses.
University of San Diego Network Security Key Takeaway
The University of San Diego offers leadership courses paired with cyber security courses to prepare students for management positions in network security.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Network Security: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
There are different types of college degrees and university programs that can help you get started in network security. Below we have created a list of some of the most common degrees you can pursue.
Network Security Community College Certificate
A network security community college certificate program is typically shorter and more focused than traditional university degree programs and can provide you with the necessary skills to start working in entry-level positions in the field.
Network Security Associate Degree
A network security associate degree is a two-year degree earned at a community college or university. An Associate Degree in Network Security focuses on teaching students the basics of networking, security, and system administration. Many network security associate degree programs are flexible, making them excellent for students who can’t study full time.
Network Security Bachelor’s Degree
Bachelor's Degrees in Network Security focus on teaching students the basics of networking, security, and system administration more thoroughly than associate degree programs. Most Bachelor's Degrees in Network Security can be completed in four years and require a minimum of 120 credits.
Most bachelor’s degrees also require the completion of an internship, which allows students to gain hands-on skills and experience outside the classroom. Bachelor’s Degrees in Network Security often come in the shape of a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Information Security, or Computer Engineering.
Network Security Master’s Degree
A Master's Degree in Network Security is a two-year degree that offers advanced network security skills. These degrees are also great for analysts and engineers that are already working in the field and want to improve their leadership or management skills.
Students can complete most Master's Degrees in Network Security in two to three years, and some schools offer accelerated programs that combine bachelor’s and master’s degrees, which can be finished in five years.
Network Security Graduate Certificate
A network security graduate certificate takes one year to complete, on average. Graduate certificates in this field focus on teaching students advanced skills in networking, forensics, and cryptography through a shorter and more focused curriculum than a master’s degree. Graduate certificate programs are typically for network security professionals wanting to learn new skills.
Network Security Doctorate
A network security doctorate is typically a four-year degree primarily focused on research. PhD students take a variety of advanced courses in their field of study and complete a lengthy dissertation process. PhDs are particularly useful for professionals with a significant amount of work experience who want to work in research or academia.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Network Security Schools: Other Network Security University Rankings
The best network security schools offer a wide variety of degree and certificate programs. Below we have curated a list of academic institutions that offer online degrees and on-campus options.
Best Online Network Security Schools
- ECPI University. ECPI’s cyber and network security program offers you hands-on training in network security similar to a classroom experience. You will be taught to keep hackers at bay by building secure networks in Windows, Cisco, and Linux systems and implementing network security procedures.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the most reputable technologically-focused schools in the world. It offers numerous professional courses and degree programs in network security and other tech fields.
- Stanford University. Stanford University is a prestigious private institution in California with the largest campus in the country. The school offers various network security and computer science programs at multiple levels, as well as a number of certificate programs.
Best Community Colleges for Network Security
- Anne Arundel Community College. This school offers an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity, Networking, and Digital Forensics which is accredited by The National Security Administration. This is a great degree for those looking to enter entry-level cyber and network security positions.
- College of Southern Nevada. The Associate of Applied Science in Computing and Information Technology – Cyber Security – Digital Forensics degree prepares students to investigate digital and computer crimes through courses in computer forensics, network forensics, and digital crime investigators training.
- Inver Hills Community College. The Associate of Applied Science in Network Technology and Security at Inver Hills Community College is a 60-credit program that equips students with the skills needed for rewarding careers in the fast-paced computer networking and security sector.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Network Security
- DePaul University. Courses in technical writing, applied network security, applied network engineering, network protocols, and voice communication technologies are all included in DePaul University ’s Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Security program.
- Illinois State University. Illinois State University’s Bachelor of Science in Network and Telecommunications Management is a 120-hour program that combines technical and practical courses in network security, preparing students to enter the workforce or pursue a master’s degree after graduating.
- Rochester Institute of Technology. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Computing Security at RIT learn about IPs and UDPs as well as how to administer, monitor, secure, and troubleshoot the computer system networks that employ these protocols and services.
Best Graduate Schools for Network Security
- Georgia Institute of Technology. The Georgia Institute of Technology offers three different Master of Sciences in Cybersecurity. The School of Computer Science offers an information security specialty in which network security is taught.
- Northeastern University. The cyber security doctorate degree at Northeastern provides its students with a strong technological foundation focusing on security policy and social sciences. The school’s goal is to advance state-of-the-art systems, networks, and the Internet through its faculty and students’ research.
- University of California, Berkeley. Cryptography, secure programming, network security, and the legal underpinnings of cyber security are all covered in UC Berkeley’s Master of Information and Cybersecurity curriculum. Students can also choose from various elective courses, such as engineering and cyber risk management.
Best Network Security Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Carnegie Mellon University | Kobe Information Security Dual Degree. This two-year dual degree program offered by Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Hyogo combines instruction in information security technology with corporate management and policy.
- Eastern Illinois University | Dual Degree in MBA and MS in Cybersecurity. This dual degree is designed to provide students with the chance to gain advanced knowledge and abilities in leadership, management, and business activities while supplementing their expertise in cyber security.
- University of Arizona | MS MIS/MS Cybersecurity. This program is designed for working professionals who want to transition from a non-IT career to a cyber security position but lack the technical know-how. The first year of the program allows students to build a strong technical foundation in cyber security before taking on IT courses.
Best Schools With Accelerated Network Security Programs
- George Washington University | BA/BS Computer Science/MS in Cybersecurity. After completing their bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, George Washington University undergraduate students can earn a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity in just one academic year. As part of their undergraduate degree, students must complete two graduate-level courses.
- Rochester Institute of Technology | BS/MS in Computing Security. The BS/MS in Computing Security is a five-year program that allows students to earn both degrees. This BS/MS program allows you to expand your computing security expertise while also gaining advanced network security training.
- St. Joseph’s University | BS Computer Information Technology/MS Cybersecurity. This program prepares its graduates for jobs as network security analysts . Students can save time and money by enrolling in this five-year accelerated degree program. The university provides its students with numerous internship opportunities throughout the length of the program.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Network Security Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for network security is worth it. Graduate school will allow you to engage with cutting-edge research and develop your network security theory and practical skills. While some careers in network security only require a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree will highly improve your career and earning potential in the long term.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Network Security Degree?
The jobs you can do with a network security degree are information security analyst, software security engineer, cyber security architect, or chief information security officer. You can also work as a cryptographer, digital forensics specialist, malware analyst, data protection officer, and more. A degree in network security or a related field is the best way to give yourself an advantage when applying for these positions.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Network Security?
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Network Security, you can earn an annual wage of $71,000 , according to PayScale. Meanwhile, a graduate degree can boost your earning potential dramatically, as you can get an annual salary of $103,000 with a master’s degree. Additional qualifications, the company you work for, and your location and job title will also affect your pay.
Highest-Paying Network Security Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Information Security Analyst | Master’s degree | $168,687 |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Master’s degree | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $120,520 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,270 |
| Cyber Security Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $97,766 |
| Security Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $96,327 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $80,600 |
| Cyber Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $77,177 |
| Forensic Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $66,943 |
Best Jobs With a Network Security Degree
The best jobs with a network security degree are chief information security analyst, computer and information systems manager, information security analyst, and cyber security analyst. The jobs available will depend on the degree you have. A master’s or doctoral degree can qualify you for jobs with higher pay.
Best
Network Security Associate Degree
The best network security associate degree jobs are primarily network support jobs. Network support technicians troubleshoot and maintain the computer networks of their companies. They make sure that workstations can connect to the network, printers work properly, and email is delivered without problems.
Top Network Security Careers With an Associate Degree
Best
Network Security Bachelor’s Degree
The best network security bachelor's degree jobs are computer network architect , information security analyst, or computer systems analyst. These jobs require a good understanding of network security at the basic level. No specialization is needed for this level.
Top Network Security Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
Best
Network Security Master’s Degree
The best network security master's degree jobs include chief information security analyst, computer and information system manager. These are jobs that require advanced knowledge of network security skills as well as significant work experience.
Top Network Security Careers With a Master’s Degree
Best
Network Security Doctorate
The best network security doctorate jobs are director of networking, information technology director, or a senior cloud solutions engineer. These are usually jobs that require several years of experience and an advanced degree.
Top Network Security Careers With a PhD
Best Internships for Network Security Students
The best internships for network security students are with the federal government, such as the National Security Agency (NSA) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These agencies offer paid internships to students interested in pursuing careers in network security.
Other good internships for network security students are with major corporations that need network security professionals. These companies usually have internship programs in their information technology departments that provide students with hands-on experience in the network security field.
Top Network Security Internships
How Can I Pay for Network Security School?
You can pay for network security school by using scholarships, grants, and student loans. Most educational institutions, including online colleges, offer financial aid for students . You should visit the financial aid web page or student support services of your school and find out what financial aid opportunities you are eligible to apply for. You can also work part-time or full-time while in school to help pay for your education.
- Scholarships. There is a wide range of scholarships available for students in network security programs. The NSA and CIA offer scholarships to students studying cyber security at an undergraduate level and interested in working for the government. A high-grade point average (GPA) will increase your chances of getting one of these scholarships.
- Grants. All students are eligible to apply for grants through the US Department of Education. Grants differ from scholarships because they are need-based, while scholarships may be need or merit-based. Grants don’t need to be repaid.
- Student loans. Students studying network security are eligible to apply for student loans via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid portal (FAFSA) . These loans will need to be repaid when the student graduates and begins to work.
- Employment. Many cyber security schools offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time jobs to help pay for their education.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Network Security School for You
When choosing the best school to study network security, there are many factors to consider, the most important of which is the quality of the program. You want to make sure that the school has a well-respected program that will prepare you for career opportunities in network security. Other factors include the school’s reputation, cost, concentration options, and flexibility.
Course Content
The course content of your network security degree should be relevant and help you learn about cryptography , network security, computer security, and information security. These courses should also be taught by instructors who have experience in network security. You can always look at a program’s curriculum on their website before applying.
Flexibility
Depending on your needs, your chosen school should offer flexible scheduling options so that you can schedule your classes around your work schedule. If you can’t study on campus, you should pick a school that offers online programs or hybrid courses.
Specialization/Concentration Option
The school you choose should offer a specialization or concentration in network security so that you can specialize in the area that interests you most. Some schools offer network security as a course within a cyber security program. Some network security degrees have additional options you can choose from to expand the scope of your degree.
School Reputation
A school’s reputation is an important factor to consider when choosing where to apply. A school with a higher reputation will usually attract more experienced and well-respected professionals to its faculty. Moreover, a reputable school will be more impressive to future employers.
Cost
The cost of your education is one of the most vital things to keep in mind. When choosing which programs to apply to, make sure to look at their tuition and fees, as well as what financial aid opportunities they offer compared to other schools. Don’t forget to include the cost of living and transportation when budgeting for your higher education.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Network Security?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for network security. You want to make sure that you choose a school with a well-respected program that will prepare you for a career in network security. Other factors to consider are the cost of tuition and other expenses, the course content, the instructors, the location, and the specialization options.
No matter what college you choose, make sure that you get the most out of your education by taking advantage of internships offered by the program, as well as any work-study opportunities a school provides.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Network Security University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Network Security
We ranked the best network security schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our network security university ranking methodology, we considered things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of network security degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Network Security
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Best Network Security Schools FAQ
The best way to learn about network security is to study this field at a university or college. Alternatively, you can take courses or get certifications in network security. You can also learn the basics of network security by attending a
cyber security bootcamp
, reading books and articles, attending conferences, and participating in online forums.
Network security is important because it protects businesses and individuals from data breaches, cyber attacks, and other threats. By implementing security measures, businesses can prevent or mitigate the damage caused by these attacks.
Cyber security is the practice of protecting networks, computers, and data from unauthorized access or theft. Network security is a subset of cyber security that protects networked systems from these same attacks. Network security is a more specialized field of study and work than cyber security.
The most important skills for network security professionals include knowledge of firewall configuration, encryption, and intrusion detection. Other important skills are problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking skills .
