The global number of confirmed data breaches resulting in data loss reached 5,258 in 2020, according to Statista. As cyber attacks become more sophisticated, organizations and government agencies are investing more into information assurance. The best PhDs in Information Assurance can ensure your professional success in this field.
This article discusses the best information assurance jobs and shows what your salary could be with a PhD in Information Assurance. It examines what a PhD in Information Assurance could do for your career, and it also covers the best information assurance PhD programs, their tuition rates, and the educational experience candidates need.
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What Is a PhD in Information Assurance?
A PhD in Information Assurance is the terminal degree awarded upon the completion of an academic program that provides advanced knowledge in digital information protection. Typical specializations include cyber security and information systems. You can find this doctoral degree program at public research universities and private institutions across the US.
How to Get Into an Information Assurance PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The requirements to get into an information assurance PhD program include a strong undergraduate and graduate background in computer science, information technology, or a closely related field. Other requirements are letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or CV outlining your professional experience.
While some schools require prospective students to have a Master’s Degree in Computer Engineering or another IT field, others may accept candidates with very high undergraduate GPAs and professional IT experience. Additionally, students must submit an application form, pay an application fee, and meet other individual requirements, some of which are listed below.
PhD in Information Assurance Admission Requirements
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of intent
- Application form and fee
- Undergraduate and graduate official transcripts
- Current professional resume or CV
Information Assurance PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Information Assurance?
It is very hard to get into a PhD program in information assurance. Acceptance rates vary between schools, but it is usually tough to gain admission into these graduate programs. Acceptance rates for Duke University’s computer science-related PhD programs are around 16 percent, according to the university, and other schools are often just as competitive.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Information Assurance: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | No |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | No |
| Duke University | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | Yes |
| Marymount University | Doctor of Science in Cyber Security | Yes |
| Nova Southeastern University | Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Security Management | No |
| Oregon State University | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | No |
| Portland State University | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | No |
| University of Arizona | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | No |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology | No |
| University of the Cumberlands | Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology | Yes |
Best Universities for Information Assurance PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Information Assurance
The best universities for information assurance PhDs include the Arizona State University, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of the Cumberlands. If you’re wondering where to get a PhD in Information Assurance, these schools are your best options. We discuss them in more detail below.
Founded in 1885, Arizona State University (ASU) is a public university that offers over 400 on-site and 160 online programs, and the employment rate for its graduate students is nearly 90 percent. ASU is also a certified National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Research by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
This program focuses on cyber security and information assurance principles. It provides students with the knowledge and skills required for cyber security roles. Courses include applied cryptography and computer and network security. Other courses cover software security, computer forensics, and data and information security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1,160/credit (in state); $1,663/credit (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, fellowships, awards, research and teaching assistantships
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Application and application fee
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from accredited schools attended
- Statement of purpose
- CV or resume
- Proof of English proficiency
Carnegie Mellon University is one of the top-ranked research institutions in the US. In 2020, the school spent around $386 million on research and development. It focuses on providing industry-relevant degree programs to its students and helping them become more valuable in the job market.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
This program examines computer science topics, information security, and enterprise systems. During the program, you'll master concepts like Sarbanes-Oxley regulations, programming languages, and enterprise tools. Core courses include security management, research methods, and the foundations of digital systems security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $645/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Employer sponsorship, scholarships, federal student aid
Doctor of Philosophy Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Application fee
- Official transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
- English proficiency tests
- 3 letters of recommendation
This private research university was founded in 1838 in Durham, North Carolina by Methodists and Quakers. Duke University offers graduate programs in computer science, engineering, cyber security management, and business administration to nearly 10,000 graduate and professional students.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
This program is available to qualified students who also receive full financial support through grad fellowships and assistantships. It also provides students with collaborative learning opportunities and explores cyber security policy issues in enterprise management and systems security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 - 6 years
- Acceptance Rate: 15.7%
- Tuition and Fees: $5,577/semester
- PhD Funding Opportunities: VA benefits, scholarships, grants, teaching assistantships
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- English proficiency tests
- Grade point average
- Application form and fee
This university is one of the first Catholic colleges in the US and currently has over 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Marymount University has also received numerous recognitions for its innovation, commitment to student success, and alumni achievement and is well-known for its close-knit community college feel.
Doctor of Science in Cyber Security
This degree program focuses on applied research, and you can complete it on campus, online, or using a blend of both. It prepares qualified cyber security professionals to tackle increasingly complex cyber challenges of the digital world. The program also provides degree candidates with hands-on mentorship to help them achieve their career goals.
Doctor of Science in Cyber Security Overview
- Program Length: Not specified
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1,212/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, federal student aid
Doctor of Science in Cyber Security Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- Application form and fee
- Resume/CV
- English proficiency tests for international students
Nova Southeastern University has over 24,000 undergraduate and graduate students and is also the largest private, not-for-profit institution in the US. The graduate and professional programs available at this school include oceanography, biomedicine, and engineering. The school helps students build their academic or professional expertise and progress in their career development.
Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Security Management
The PhD in Cyber Security Management is a comprehensive, research-oriented program that prepares graduates for key positions in academia, government agencies, and business. It emphasizes intensive technical and management-focused security courses to help students access the opportunities available in the field of information security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Security Management Overview
- Program Length: Not specified
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1,282/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, FAFSA
Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Security Management Admission Requirements
- 3 years of professional experience
- Master's degree
- Official transcripts
- Application form and application fee
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
This university has an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” designation from the Carnegie Foundation. It offers over 200 undergraduate degree programs, and its graduate programs in engineering and computer science are among the best in the country. Oregon State University also hosts some of the brightest doctoral students in the cyber security profession in America.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
Renowned academics teach this program, which focuses on meeting the demands of highly-skilled professionals looking to become leaders in computer science, information technology, and cyber security. The curriculum consists of courses in the Internet of Things (IoT), data science, and network security.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $557/credit (in state); $1,105/credit (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: VA benefits, employer sponsorship, federal student aid
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Baccalaureate degree
- Grade point average
- English proficiency tests
- Application fee
This private university offers some of the most affordable degree programs in the US and is one of the top-ranked schools for graduate education. Portland State University has an excellent track record for innovation, and its students enjoy top-class educational experiences in business, technology, education, and engineering.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
This program focuses on core coursework in programming, systems theory, and cyber analytics, providing a deep understanding of the fundamentals of computer science. It provides students with hands-on experience and advanced knowledge in machine learning, network architecture, cyber security, and information assurance.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: Not specified
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $724/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Grants, scholarships, employer tuition assistance, military tuition assistance, federal student aid
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- English proficiency test
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Application fee
This public land-grant research university was founded in 1885 by the 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature and is governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. The University of Arizona is also one of NASA’s top-funded universities, providing master's and doctoral degrees in engineering, agriculture, and geophysics globally.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
This degree will help you gain advanced IT competencies and real-world knowledge that applies to the evolving technology landscape. Its curriculum is built on industry standards, and you'll learn valuable skills in areas like information assurance, cyber security, and project management.
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 5.50 years
- Acceptance Rate: 17.73%
- Tuition and Fees: $575.62/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, grants, teaching or research assistantships with tuition waivers
Doctor of Information Technology Admission Requirements
- Application form
- Official transcripts
- GPA of 3.5 for undergraduates or 3.7 for graduates
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- English proficiency test (for non-native English speakers)
The University of Texas at San Antonio has a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance designation from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. Its graduate programs focus on equipping students with the tools to tackle complex cyber challenges and become information security specialists.
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology
This program provides a research-intensive focus on artificial intelligence, cyber security, information systems, and data analytics. Students can also specialize in cyber security or machine learning, and they collaborate with faculty on research projects and seminars.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology Overview
- Program Length: 4 - 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $347/credit (in state); $1,344/credit (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Research/teaching assistantship, federal work-study, grants, scholarships
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- GMAT or GRE scores
- English proficiency test scores
This university is one of a few designated Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense in Kentucky, awarded by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. The University of the Cumberlands distinguishes itself from other schools in information security research and management, and its alumni work in business, government, and education.
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology
This program is made up of 60 credit hours requiring professional research courses, content specialty courses, and dissertation research. The dissertation allows you to present authentic solutions to typical and atypical challenges in information assurance and cyber security management.
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology Overview
- Program Length: Not specified
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $500/credit hour
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, FAFSA
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- Application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Master's degree with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- English proficiency tests (for international students)
Can You Get a PhD in Information Assurance Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Information Assurance online. Some schools, like the University of Fairfax, offer students the opportunity to take their courses and complete their dissertations online. There are several options, so you choose the one that best suits your needs and be able to complete your doctorate from anywhere in the world.
Best Online PhD Programs in Information Assurance
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Capella University | Online Doctor of Information Technology | 5 years |
| Capitol Technology University | Online Doctorate in Cyber Security | 4 years |
| Colorado Technical University | Online Doctor of Computer Science – Cyber Security and Information Assurance | 3 years |
| Marymount University | Online Doctor of Science in Cyber Security | Not specified |
| University of Fairfax | Online Doctorate of Information Assurance | Not specified |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Information Assurance?
It generally takes between three and seven years to obtain a PhD in Information Assurance. These programs usually require between 60 and 100 credit hours, and students typically complete specific coursework prerequisites within three years. However, the time may shorten or lengthen depending on how many prior credits you earned and transferred toward the degree.
You’ll also need to complete a dissertation, which involves several years of research and writing. Depending on how much time you devote to researching and writing, it might take you between three to five years to submit it for a board review. If the review is successful, you will receive a doctoral degree.
Is a PhD in Information Assurance Hard?
Yes, a PhD in Information Assurance is hard. Completing a doctoral program in information assurance and cyber security requires a significant investment of time and tuition costs are high. Doctoral students often spend years researching and building their knowledge base before writing their dissertations.
Online learning options for graduate students who are too busy to attend physical classes are becoming more mainstream. However, many of these academic programs, such as the PhD program at the University of Fairfax, require students to complete several hours of in-person graduate coursework.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Information Assurance?
It costs an average of $19,792 per year to get a PhD in Information Assurance, according to figures from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The figure includes only fees and tuition costs, but the cost of research and other aspects of the program are significantly higher.
According to NCES, private institutions charge just over $26,500 per year and public universities cost around $12,000 a year. Pursuing this degree can be financially draining, especially if you are a young professional pursuing your career goals and schooling simultaneously. However, there are options to reduce the financial strain.
How to Pay for a PhD in Information Assurance: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Information Assurance include research scholarships, grants, and university or department-funded programs. One of the popular scholarship programs is the CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) program, which the National Science Foundation sponsors.
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What Is the Difference Between an Information Assurance Master’s Degree and a PhD?
The difference between an information assurance master’s degree and a PhD is that a master’s degree is less intensive than a PhD program and take an average of two years to complete. A PhD program is more research-oriented and it takes more than twice the amount of time to complete as a master’s degree.
Additionally, a master’s degree tends to focus more on a specific concentration within information assurance so that you can learn more about that particular aspect. It is often more career-oriented and it is ideal if you’re less interested in research and are instead hoping to climb the corporate ladder in your field.
Master’s vs PhD in Information Assurance Job Outlook.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for university professors, a position that requires a PhD, is 12 percent from 2020 to 2030. Jobs in information systems management, which require a master’s degree, have an 11 percent job growth rate projected within that same period of time.
Many of the jobs you can get with a PhD in Information Assurance are also obtainable with a master’s degree. As such, the job outlook prospects are relatively similar. However, if you want to work in academia or business, perhaps as a professor or consultant, a PhD is necessary.
Differences in Salary for Information Assurance Master’s vs PhD
According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a professional with a PhD in Information Assurance is $121,000. Chief information security officers are some of the most highly-paid professionals at this level, and computer network architects aren’t far behind.
PayScale also estimates the average annual salary for Master’s Degree in Information Assurance graduates to be $97,000. However, the compensation you’ll receive depends on your specific role and job title within an organization. Private sector jobs pay well, although government agencies also offer competitive salaries.
Related Information Assurance Degrees
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Information Assurance.
You should get a PhD in Information Assurance because it is a rapidly-growing area. The Internet’s popularity and information flow across networks mean that information security is essential. Consequently, the career growth prospects are positive, and a doctorate can help you achieve great professional success.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Information Assurance
- Collaborative learning opportunities. The learning opportunities available to graduates from information assurance graduate programs are tremendous. You can build your professional network and work in academia, government agencies like the NSA, or for corporations in the private sector.
- Individualized instruction and research opportunities. Completing a PhD in Information Assurance requires extensive research, and you’ll explore various concepts to see what problems there are and consider possible solutions.
- Specialized skills. These programs often require you to learn new skills. These include research, professional networking, and communication skills, which aid your career development.
- Financial rewards. Graduate students who complete a PhD in Information Assurance or Cyber Security receive some of the highest average salaries. PayScale figures indicate that a PhD holder in information assurance can earn around $121,000 annually.
Getting a PhD in Information Assurance: Information Assurance PhD Coursework
Prospective students who receive admission into a physical or online program in information assurance will take a variety of courses. A PhD in Information Assurance program includes coursework in network security and communications systems and personalized instruction that enhances the educational experience for students.
Information Security and Organizational Change
This course deals with the principles and applications of change management in information security. Doctoral students examine the factors that affect corporate policy regarding information security and its implementation.
Designing Solutions to Information Security Problems
In this course, students perform feasibility studies in their areas of research interest to determine the feasibility of the problems and proposed solutions. At the end of the course, all students present their proposed projects at a dissertation bootcamp.
Cyber Security Insurance
This course explores system security and cryptography, essential topics in data network security. Students examine these and other advanced security techniques in email and wireless network security.
Information Security Systems and Organizational Awareness
In this course, graduate students learn about core information security principles and applications in the context of management and leadership. It delves into the complexities of working as a cyber security professional or information assurance specialist, especially regarding decision-making.
Business and Security Risk Analysis
This course focuses on fundamental risk management principles. It allows students to gain a broader perspective on the internal and external risks inherent in information systems in a business environment. They learn how to identify, measure, and categorize these risks while mapping out effective mitigation strategies.
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How to Get a PhD in Information Assurance: Doctoral Program Requirements
Getting into a graduate program in information assurance is hard, and the doctoral program requirements can be intimidating for many students. However, we discuss how to get a PhD in Information Assurance below, step by step.
You must complete the specified number of credit hours in coursework to progress to the next stage of the program. Most schools require students to have a steady 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale, so you'll have to excel in your courses to reach this number.
Several schools require students to complete a teaching or research assistantship during the program. Fulfilling this requirement can help with tuition costs and count toward your academic credits. It involves teaching undergraduate or master's degree subjects and makes for an exciting hands-on educational experience.
The research aspect of a PhD program is the most challenging part, and candidates must publish articles in respected industry journals or conferences. This demonstrates their research field's scope and helps them develop strong presentation skills.
All candidates must prepare a research proposal for their dissertation topic and submit it for review. An academic panel reviews the proposal and either approves or sends it back for an amendment. When the proposal is approved, the candidate can proceed to the next stage of working on their dissertation or thesis.
All students must complete a dissertation or thesis as the final step in obtaining a PhD. After submitting the dissertation, you'll need to defend it before an academic panel, and you receive the final degree when the thesis is approved.
Potential Careers With an Information Assurance Degree
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PhD in Information Assurance Salary and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average annual salary for individuals who work in computer and information technology roles is $97,430, and PhD holders earn significantly more. The demand in the job market for these professionals is also very high and jobs in the IT sector will grow by 13 percent over the next decade.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Information Assurance?
With a PhD in Information Assurance, you can work as a network engineer, computer and information systems manager, or information technology strategist. You can also work as an academic, becoming an associate or full-time professor.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Information Assurance
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Information Systems Manager
- Computer Network Architect
- Quality Assurance Tester
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Information Assurance?
The average salary for a PhD in Information Assurance is $121,000 annually, according to PayScale. If you have the degree, you can work for organizations like the National Security Agency, the Department of Defense, or Homeland Security. You may also work as a professor at a university, teaching students at the graduate level and supervising dissertation research.
Highest-Paying Information Assurance Jobs for PhD Grads
| Information Assurance PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Quality Assurance Tester | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
Best Information Assurance Jobs with a Doctorate
The best information assurance jobs with a doctorate are computer science and information technology roles. Many of them are available to individuals with master’s and bachelor’s degrees, but candidates with a PhD often have the advantage during interviews. We discuss some of them below.
Information systems managers are in charge of planning, coordinating, and securing all of an organization's information technology and computer-related activities. Ideally, they have professional experience in a cyber security field like security engineering or network security.
- Salary with an Information Assurance PhD: $159,010
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 482,000
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey, Washington, District of Columbia
This job involves designing and building secure data communication networks and maintaining them. Cyber security professionals are a good fit for the role as they have advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in network security.
- Salary with an Information Assurance PhD: $120,520
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 165,200
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland
Quality assurance testers identify risks in projects and recommend solutions to them. They often work with software developers to build software programs and communications systems. To work effectively, a quality assurance tester may take courses in security and other computer science fields, including software testing.
- Salary with an Information Assurance PhD: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland, New Mexico, Massachusetts
Professionals who work in this role must be well-versed in cyber security management and security engineering techniques. The job entails planning and implementing security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems.
- Salary with an Information Assurance PhD: $102,600
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 141,200
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland, Iowa, District of Columbia
Computer systems analysts are also often called systems architects. These professionals study current information and computer networks within organizations and design improvements for them. This position requires advanced knowledge of systems security and it is not uncommon to find information assurance and cyber security experts working in the role.
- Salary with an Information Assurance PhD: $99,270
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 607,800
- Highest-Paying States: California, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey
Is a PhD in Information Assurance Worth It?
No, a PhD in Information Assurance is not worth it unless you want to work in academia or as a consultant. While professional studies at the graduate level provide you with collaborative learning opportunities, it is not necessary if all you want is to switch careers. You can work anywhere with a Master’s Degree in Information Technology or Information Assurance.
While PhDs can also benefit your career development, a master’s degree is most common. That degree provides hands-on experience in fields like security engineering and cyber security management, and you’ll gain an edge in the job market.
Additional Reading About Information Assurance
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PhD in Information Assurance FAQ
Yes, you can enroll in an information assurance PhD program without prior degrees in STEM. While many schools prefer candidates with a computer science or information technology background, students from other fields can enroll in the program. You’ll have to complete specific prerequisites and bridge courses to prepare you for the program and it’ll take you longer to graduate than candidates with a STEM background.
No, you do not need a Doctorate in Information Assurance to work in leadership positions at the National Security Agency or the Department of Homeland Security. However, candidates with an advanced degree in the field have a slight advantage, so you might want to consider it. Alternatively, you can start in a junior role and work your way up if you don’t want to obtain a PhD.
You can start working as a network security analyst, become an information security manager, and rise to the position of chief information security officer. Professional development varies for each professional, so you must decide what paths you want to follow to achieve your career goals.
Yes, you can obtain a dual degree in information assurance. Some universities offer dual degree programs in information technology and assurance, where you get a master’s degree and your doctorate. This option is excellent for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who want to get two advanced degrees quickly and efficiently.
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