2026 Most Affordable 91成人 Cybersecurity Degrees
Affordable online cybersecurity degrees are evaluated by tuition and academic quality鈥攅xplore verified programs handpicked by 91成人.
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Find an affordable cybersecurity degree online from the list of accredited schools below.
Key Takeaways:
- Friends University leads with $4,740 annually for in-state students.
- West Virginia University at Parkersburg follows at $5,376/year.
- Kennesaw State University offers a major research university option at $5,700/year.
91成人 ranks schools by manually researched tuition for fully online degrees, applying the same standards to partner and non-partner schools. All tuition rates are clearly cited.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The 91成人 research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable 91成人 Cybersecurity Degrees
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friends University | $4,740 | $4,740 | 94% | N/A | |
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg | $5,376 | $5,376 | 100% | N/A | |
| Kennesaw State University | $5,700 | $5,700 | 86% | N/A | |
| Thomas Edison State University | $7,044 | $9,122 | 63% | N/A | |
| SUNY at Albany | $7,070 | $8,480 | 84% | N/A | |
| Bismarck State College | $7,122 | $10,684 | 50% | N/A | |
| Lewis-Clark State College | $7,876 | $22,798 | 100% | N/A | |
| Spokane Falls Community College | $7,877 | $10,459 | 33% | N/A | |
| University of Maine at Augusta | $8,040 | $14,070 | 75% | N/A | |
| Old Dominion University | $8,040 | $13,320 | 86% | N/A | |
| University of Wisconsin - Stout | $8,100 | $17,092 | 73% | N/A | |
| Columbia Southern University | $8,340 | $8,340 | 78% | N/A | |
| Indiana University - Indianapolis | $8,700 | $11,817 | 95% | $55,794 | |
| Ball State University | $8,948 | $15,908 | 94% | N/A | |
| Avila University | $9,000 | $9,000 | 86% | N/A | |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | $9,150 | $9,150 | 56% | N/A | |
| Minot State University | $9,496 | $113,961 | 33% | N/A | |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | $9,645 | $9,645 | 87% | N/A | |
| Eastern Oregon University | $9,858 | $9,858 | 90% | N/A | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $9,900 | $14,970 | 59% | $74,828 |
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- In the #1 spot for affordability, Friends’ online BS in Cybersecurity lists tuition at just $4,740. It's described as the only Kansas private institution offering a bachelor’s in cybersecurity.
- Friends built the program around an actual attack-and-defense environment through the Intrust Bank Cyber Security Laboratory, which the university describes as one of only three university labs of its kind nationwide.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Friends University are largely favorable, with most describing attentive professors, small classes, and a supportive environment that makes you feel known rather than anonymous. Many say the school accommodates working adults, athletes, and those balancing family responsibilities through flexible scheduling, online options, once-weekly meetings, and cohort formats. Several reviews highlight strong career preparation, practical experience, internships, networking, and close peer bonds. Common drawbacks center on high tuition, limited financial aid, year-round pacing with few breaks, and weak social or transportation options for some. One strongly negative review cites poor administration, tuition confusion, grading disputes, and unprofessional handling of complaints.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 121 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 61%
- Retention Rate: 70%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- WVUP anchors portions of the courses with Cisco-based networking instruction alongside Microsoft Windows and Linux systems administration. That's much harder to replicate through the typical online lecture content because it depends on iterative configuration practice, troubleshooting repetition, and systems interaction.
- The inclusion of courses like Advanced Routing, Multi-Layer Switched Network, and Directory Services Infrastructure suggests students are expected to work directly with the operational backbone of organizational systems (rather than only studying defensive theory conceptually).
- Undergraduate 91成人: 491 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 31%
- Retention Rate: N/A
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The January 2024 move into the Michael J. Coles College of Business says something important about the university’s interpretation of cybersecurity as a discipline. This reflects a very current workforce reality, which is that many cybersecurity professionals today operate at the intersection of technical implementation, governance, compliance, organizational risk, and operational continuity.
- Students can complete the bachelor’s, certificate, and minor fully online, then move into the Double Owl Pathway for an accelerated master’s in cybersecurity, IT, or software engineering.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Kennesaw State University are generally positive, with many describing caring, knowledgeable professors, practical instruction, and flexible online options that work well for people balancing jobs or family responsibilities. Students frequently praise approachable faculty, career-focused teaching, strong facilities, and a welcoming campus that still feels personal despite growth. Several also value clubs, research access, study-abroad opportunities, and useful professional networking. Criticism centers on rapid expansion outpacing infrastructure: parking shortages, limited class availability, inconsistent advising, financial aid confusion, and administrative errors. A smaller but notable group felt career services, online course quality, and student support were uneven or impersonal.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 7,532 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 79%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation, Cloud Security, and Homeland Security represent three very different interpretations of cybersecurity work, and they are all offered as potential concentrations. These kinds of roles are tied to institutional and government-adjacent labor markets.
- TESU positions cybersecurity education as both modular and stackable. Military training, industry experience, prior coursework, portfolio learning, and alternative credit pathways are all treated as legitimate inputs into the degree structure.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a highly polarizing online experience centered on flexibility, transfer friendliness, and uneven execution. Many students praise how easily prior college, military, professional, and exam-based credits apply, making completion faster, cheaper, and realistic while working full time. They also say the format rewards disciplined, independent learners and can strengthen writing, career mobility, and graduate school preparation. Criticism focuses on inconsistent mentoring, slow or missing feedback, confusing advising, rigid grading despite “flexible” marketing, and surprise fees. Several reviewers also cite outdated materials, high-stakes exams with poor study support, proctoring frustrations, administrative runarounds, and especially poor experiences in advanced nursing-related coursework.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 6,609 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UAlbany embeds cybersecurity inside The College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity. In this way, it treats cyber incidents as interconnected threats with operational, governmental, and societal consequences.
- UAlbany specifies authentic simulations, work with real-world clients, independent research, peer educator practica, community-support projects, and even a fully online cybersecurity internship option.
- The self-designed concentration is another genuinely distinctive feature that sets it apart.
Student Review Summary: Reviews for SUNY at Albany are broadly positive, with many describing strong academic rigor, affordable tuition, and abundant opportunities for involvement, research, internships, and networking, especially given the school’s size and capital-region location. Students frequently value supportive professors, accessible advisers, diverse peers, flexible online or evening options, and career-building experiences. The most consistent drawbacks center on very large, impersonal lecture classes, uneven teaching quality, limited guidance in some areas, and scheduling or placement issues. A smaller set of reviews raise sharper concerns about outdated curriculum, hostile or unhelpful faculty, weak recruiting, safety in the surrounding area, and heavy loan burdens.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 689 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 83%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a sharply divided experience. One reviewer praises the college for being highly affordable, with friendly, helpful staff and faculty, a pleasant centrally located campus, and useful opportunities to continue coursework through distance delivery on the same campus. Another reviewer reports a deeply disappointing academic experience, citing weak instructional quality, outdated course materials, recycled recorded lectures from former instructors, and little practical support when questions arose. The criticism also notes that many classes were delivered online rather than in person, which felt misleading. Taken together, cost, accessibility, and campus atmosphere stand out, while instructional consistency appears to be a major concern.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 1,467 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 71%
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Lewis-Clark State College as a small campus with a notably personal learning environment, where low student-to-teacher ratios make faculty accessible, supportive, and professionally invested in individual success. Students say the coursework is rigorous, practical, and effective in preparing them for advanced study, competitive opportunities, and career readiness. The close-knit community also stands out as part of the overall experience. Criticism is limited but meaningful: some students report administrative problems, especially around transfer-credit processing, which created unnecessary confusion and delays. One review also questions the value of continuing beyond the core credential in a field where earlier training already met workforce needs.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 786 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 64%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Old Dominion University are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students consistently praise the school’s diversity, flexible online, evening, and hybrid formats, and professors who are knowledgeable, accessible, and genuinely invested in student success. Many say advising, internships, clinical practice, and rigorous coursework prepared them well for careers or further study. Students also value affordability, transfer-friendly pathways, and abundant clubs and events. Recurring complaints center on inconsistent advising, disorganized administrative offices, limited financial aid, parking frustrations, course availability issues, and safety concerns in surrounding neighborhoods. 91成人 learners especially report uneven support and scheduling problems.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 5,614 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 44%
- Retention Rate: 76%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Wisconsin-Stout as a largely practical, technology-forward school with small classes, accessible professors, and strong hands-on instruction. Many reviewers praise industry-experienced faculty, useful labs and equipment, laptop access, responsive online course delivery, and individualized support from instructors and staff. Several also value the welcoming, close-knit environment and flexible scheduling. Criticism centers on uneven academic rigor, with some saying coursework felt too basic or failed to prepare them for competitive careers. Cost is a recurring concern, along with limited financial aid, underfunding in some areas, inconsistent advising, transfer-credit frustrations, and serious complaints about administrative responsiveness and student support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 743 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 74%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Columbia Southern University are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and repeated praise for affordability, included textbooks, flexible pacing, and responsiveness from advisors and many instructors. Many reviewers, especially working adults, military members, and parents, say the format fit demanding schedules and helped them finish degrees, earn promotions, or change careers. Students often stress that coursework is writing-heavy, research-based, and more rigorous than expected, countering “degree mill” assumptions. Negative reviews focus on nationally accredited status limiting transfer or graduate-school options, uneven professor quality, generic feedback, financial aid delays, administrative inconsistencies, proctoring frustrations, and occasional concerns that grading emphasized APA over learning.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 12,213 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 59%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Indiana University - Indianapolis are broadly positive, with students most often praising accessible faculty, practical instruction, and the advantages of a downtown setting. Many say the school works especially well for commuters and working adults because of evening, weekend, hybrid, and online options. Students also value internships, research, clinical placements, networking, and employer connections that translate into jobs or further study. Recurring frustrations center on uneven professor quality, disorganized advising or administration, limited campus community at a commuter-oriented school, parking and safety concerns, and tuition or financial aid problems, including complaints about out-of-state residency decisions and insufficient funding.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 1,415 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $55,794
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 72%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Ball State University as a strong-value school with a welcoming, manageable campus, caring professors, and abundant activities, resources, and advising. Many praised hands-on learning, real-world projects, career preparation, and technology-rich instruction, saying they felt known rather than lost at a large university. 91成人 learners often valued flexibility, affordability, and the ability to work full time while studying. Criticisms focused on uneven program quality, especially in some online experiences with limited faculty engagement, unclear instructions, and slow communication. A smaller set of reviews cited weak administration, financial aid frustrations, housing or safety concerns, sexism in certain settings, and high graduate costs or clinical-placement challenges.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 1,178 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 77%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Avila University as a generally supportive, small-campus environment where accessible professors, close faculty relationships, and individualized attention help many learners build confidence, stay engaged, and prepare for careers quickly. Several reviewers valued flexible scheduling for working adults, practical instruction from experienced faculty, strong advising, and internship or hands-on opportunities. The most consistent concern is cost: tuition is frequently described as high, with limited scholarships or financial aid. A smaller set of negative reviews points to limited course availability, difficulty balancing full-time work with daytime scheduling, low diversity, weaker peer community in evening formats, and isolated concerns about inflexible or unsupportive leadership.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 266 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 68%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of University of Arkansas Grantham are sharply divided, though ratings lean positive overall. Supporters praise the flexible online format, eight-week courses, affordability, military-friendly scheduling, transfer credit for prior service, and advisors or instructors who helped them balance work, family, and deployments while advancing careers. Several say the school worked best for self-directed adults already established in their fields. Critics focus on administrative failures: delayed or mishandled financial aid, poor advisor communication, shifting graduation timelines, account holds, and inconsistent grading. Many also question academic depth, citing rushed courses, self-teaching, outsourced content, and limited transferability or employer recognition tied to accreditation concerns.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degrees
I have two classes left to earn my degree and presently am at a 3.7 GPA. My experience at Grantham has been very rewarding and although the workload is challenging since I have a family and work a full time job, the student success class I had when starting... Read More
- Undergraduate 91成人: 2,838 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 24%
Student Review Summary: Reviews for Minot State University are mixed, with experiences shaped heavily by department support and administrative responsiveness. Positive feedback highlights small class sizes, personalized instruction, approachable professors, and meaningful faculty relationships that helped reviewers refine their interests, gain hands-on opportunities, and build strong peer communities. Several reviewers also appreciated the flexible structure and supportive academic environment, especially for online learning and long-term planning. Criticism centers on advising and administrative service: reviewers describe rude office staff, confusing financial aid and application processes, limited access to professors in some cases, weak internship or career guidance, and an overall feeling of being unsupported, invisible, or academically underchallenged.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 487 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 72%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Southern Illinois University Carbondale are largely favorable, with praise centered on caring, accessible professors, a welcoming campus, and a smaller-community feel within a larger university. Many reviewers say the school helped them grow personally, build confidence, and gain practical experience through research, clinics, internships, cohorts, and organizations. The campus is frequently described as beautiful, diverse, and rich in activities, with strong social opportunities if balanced well with academics. Criticism focuses on inconsistent advising, disorganization in some departments, limited career placement support, high costs or scarce scholarships, commuter limitations, safety concerns nearby, and uneven instructional quality across programs.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 1,492 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 69%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Eastern Oregon University are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students often praise the school’s affordability, flexible online format, small class sizes, and instructors who are accessible, caring, and knowledgeable. Several say the platform is easy to navigate and that the experience works especially well for transfers, working adults, and those in rural areas who need distance access. The setting and small-town atmosphere also stand out as safe, scenic, and community-oriented. Criticism centers on inconsistent advising, slow or unclear administrative guidance, limited options, heavy writing in online courses, and one severe report of unresolved academic and advising problems.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate 91成人: 1,269 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 67%
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a highly polarizing experience shaped by self-discipline, workload tolerance, and administrative reliability. Many students praise the flexible online format, accelerated terms, and career fit for working adults, military learners, and those needing schedule portability. Positive reviewers repeatedly note rigorous reading, frequent writing in APA style, useful research skills, and instructors who are knowledgeable, responsive, and professionally experienced. Negative reviews focus less on coursework and more on inconsistent professor quality, weak feedback, self-teaching, excessive discussion posts and group projects, and severe frustration with financial aid, advising, billing, transcript processing, and confusing enrollment systems. Several also question hands-on learning and broader reputation.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.9 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degrees
I loved being a student at UMGC. The ability to earn my degree entirely online was beyond convenient. All of the professors were engaging and available to answer questions. I hope to return to the school to earn my graduate degree in the future. For any... Read More
UMGC is a great school for anybody who is just trying to get a degree. I wouldn't say that the education is top tier, but it is sufficient. You really get out of it what you put into it. If you want to learn the content and understand it, you have to... Read More
UMGC, formerly UMUC, or University of Maryland Global Campus is a great institution for those adults who are willing and able to self-learn. There is no doubt that the overall material can be rather ambiguous and some instructors are 'absent', however,... Read More
- Undergraduate 91成人: 46,379 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $74,828
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 53%
Affordable 91成人 Cybersecurity Degrees: Tuition, Outcomes, and What Students Should Compare
Cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand fields today, and earning an online cybersecurity bachelor's degree can completely alter your career prospects.
Studying online also has some advantages in this field. Many cybersecurity jobs, including penetration testing, network security, and cloud security, rely on remote work capabilities. Earning a degree in an online setting allows cybersecurity students to develop the independent problem-solving and virtual collaboration skills essential to related roles. Additionally, online degrees often offer flexible learning schedules for working professionals who want to upskill without stepping away from their current jobs.
This article focuses on what you鈥檒l most likely want to know before you enroll: how low-cost programs compare, what makes the top schools distinctive, and which data points can help you avoid false bargains.
91成人 Cybersecurity Degree Cost vs. Outcomes
The list of the cheapest online cybersecurity programs above are all under $10,000/year, with the top five ranging from ~$4,800 to ~$7,000 in yearly tuition. That鈥檚 a pretty big difference for students trying to limit student debt after graduation.
Below is a graph that shows the annual tuition alongside the total 4-year tuition, so you can visually gauge the financial investment in full:
When low tuition is paired with high-quality markers, like how likely students are to stay enrolled, finish their degrees, and feel satisfied about their experience, those are the best options for a cybersecurity degree online.
For example, Friends University, ranks #1 with the cheapest tuition of $4,740, buy beyond that low price point, the data also shows encouraging student success signals. Its 61% graduation rate places it around the 79th percentile nationally, meaning it performs better than roughly four out of five institutions. Student feedback is also unusually strong, with a 97% recommendation rate based on students we've surveyed, suggesting that nearly all surveyed students would recommend the school to others considering the program.
Kennesaw State University (KSU), ranked #3 with tuition of $5,700, also stands out for its ability to keep students engaged and progressing through a cybersecurity program. The school reports a 79% retention rate, illustrating that most students continue from one year to the next. KSU also has a very large online student population of nearly 6,900 online students studying at the undergraduate level. This means it's in the top 3% nationwide for popularity among online students. Clearly, the institution has built substantial infrastructure and experience supporting online students at scale.
Meanwhile, SUNY at Albany (UAlbany), ranked #5 with annual tuition of $7,070, offers one of the strongest persistence profiles among the affordable cybersecurity schools on this list. The university reports an 83% retention rate and a 64% graduation rate, which falls roughly in the 82nd percentile. Student satisfaction also remains high, with an 86% recommendation rate.
These examples show that for students comparing affordable online cybersecurity degrees, the lowest tuition is not always the best indicator of true overall value. In many cases, paying slightly more for a program with stronger retention and graduation outcomes can improve your likelihood of finishing your degree, which ultimately has a far greater impact on career prospects in the field of cybersecurity.
Below, we also include on this page student reviews about cybersecurity programs so you can read about the firsthand experiences of those who have participated in programs from the list above.
Unsure about pursuing a degree in cybersecurity? Explore similar fields. 91成人 has pages dedicated to affordable online computer science degrees as well as affordable online IT degrees.
Cybersecurity Career Paths and Salary Outlook for 91成人 Bachelor鈥檚 Graduates
One of the most obvious reasons students pursue an online bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity is to enter this workforce and become a cybersecurity professional. This role protects organizations from data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other digital threats 鈥� making them essential across industries that range from finance and healthcare to government and technology sectors.
The cybersecurity programs in the ranking above are designed to prepare students for entry-level and early-career cybersecurity roles that focus on monitoring networks, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents. Graduates commonly move into positions such as an information security analyst ( per year). Below are some other options:
- Security operations center (SOC) analyst
- Network security specialist
- Cybersecurity consultant
- Digital forensics investigator
- Cloud security analyst
- IT security administrator
Many of the bachelor's programs in cybersecurity also align their coursework with industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Network+, and Linux+, which are widely recognized credentials for entry-level cybersecurity professionals. These certifications can help graduates demonstrate expertise in network defense, system hardening, threat detection, and incident response, to name a few.
UMGC reports median earnings of $74,828 among its cybersecurity bachelor's graduates, which places it around the 88th percentile nationwide.
While not every institution publicly reports graduate earnings, two schools in the dataset provide the earning potential tied to their cybersecurity programs:
Indiana University - Indianapolis, ranked #13, reports median earnings of $55,794 for graduates of its cybersecurity program, but that's just four years after graduation. It suggests that alums from this program typically move into early-career cybersecurity roles where salaries grow with experience and certifications.
At the higher end, the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) reports median earnings of $74,828 among its cybersecurity bachelor's graduates, which places it around the 88th percentile nationwide. This level of earnings suggests graduates may be progressing more quickly into more specialized roles with more responsibility, such as cybersecurity analysts, security engineers, or government cybersecurity contractors.
For prospective students comparing affordable online cybersecurity degrees, the key takeaway is that career readiness 鈥� hands-on labs, certification preparation, and practical security training 鈥� often matters just as much as a degree's price. Programs that integrate real-world simulations, cyber ranges, or applied security projects can help students graduate with the technical skills employers look for when hiring cybersecurity professionals.
From Teenage Hacker to CISO: Steve Tcherchian on Building a Cybersecurity Career with an 91成人 Degree
Cybersecurity & AI Executive
"I've never been afraid of technology. I was curious and enjoyed taking risks. I was the kid who would break things just to see how they worked before attempting to put them back together. I wasn't always successful, and I occasionally got in trouble for it.
I got my first computer when I was about 9 years old. It's a Packard Bell 286. I was constantly tinkering with it. I'd take it apart and see if I could reassemble it. I began writing computer programs at a young age. I used to spend my afternoons and evenings learning, sharing my creations, and meeting other people who shared my interests on iRC, AOL, and Usenet groups.
This broadened my perspective on what was possible, both good and bad. I started joining 'groups.' As the internet became more accessible, we would have more fun online. We were annoying and occasionally disruptive, but we didn't harm anyone. It wasn't on the scale of today's social engineering. We were just a bunch of kids who had no idea what we were doing.
"Surround yourself with people who inspire you and who you admire."
Some of my friends actively pursued that type of lifestyle as we grew older and learned more, and they began to attract attention... legal attention. I witnessed some of my friends get into mischief. I needed to figure out where I was going with this.
I remember talking with a family member who was a deputy sheriff: 'You already believe that the best criminals can make the best cops,' he said. That statement stuck with me, and I saw it as a watershed moment in my career. I was familiar with the majority of the tactics and strategies for preventing hackers. He's right; I knew how cybercriminals thought. Following that discussion, I made the deliberate decision to educate and assist rather than harm and disrupt. There are no regrets in my life.
My advice to others 鈥�
-
Force yourself into uncomfortable situations. Learn from it.
-
Be flexible.
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Study the examples of others (good and bad). Listen.
-
Don't get caught up in social media.
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Request assistance and demonstrate your abilities.
You'll get opportunities if you work hard and put in the extra effort. Don't pass up these opportunities. Say yes to everything when you're young and [figuring] it out. It doesn't matter if they don't all work; learning how to make better decisions in the future is part of the process.
Above all, don't let your ego or pride get in the way. It is not a race to the mountain's summit. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and who you admire. Success will come to those who work for it, not those who believe they deserve it.
When I first started out, I thought I could handle everything on my own. My early achievements fueled my ego. I planned to conquer the world by myself, and if others couldn't keep up, they were in my way. Those early big wins quickly turned into long hours, burnout, and a feeling of being unsatisfied and empty.
Fortunately, I realized that once something was begun, the work, knowledge, and successes could and should be shared. Reaching a goal together, sharing high fives with my team, and seeing that we can accomplish something far greater collectively than I could on my own gave me a sense of fulfillment in my work that I had never felt before. You cannot succeed as a CISO solely on your own. You must learn to be a team player and to lead.
The best advice I can give is to slow down, gather your team around you, and let them own a piece of the struggle (and the success), and you'll see results that far outweigh anything you could achieve on your own."
EXPERT TIP
"I've discovered that most long-term success is rarely achieved alone. For an idea to thrive, it requires the support and innovation found in teamwork. 'If you want to run fast, run alone,' says an old African proverb. 'Run together if you want to go far.'"
FAQs About an Affordable Cybersecurity Degree 91成人
How Does 91成人 Rank the Most Affordable 91成人 Cybersecurity Bachelor鈥檚 Degrees?
To be considered for this ranking, the following must apply:
- A school must offer at least one fully online bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity or a closely related field, such as cyber operations, information security, cyber defense, cybersecurity management, or network security.
- All eligible institutions must hold institutional accreditation and report online enrollment data to the U.S. Department of Education.
91成人 evaluates affordability using a standardized methodology designed to support apples-to-apples comparisons among the cheapest online cybersecurity bachelor鈥檚 degrees. Both partner and non-partner institutions are evaluated using the same criteria, meaning advertising relationships never influence rankings.
Final rankings are determined solely by annual in-state tuition since most students end up attending college in their state. All tuition figures are manually collected and verified from the official school sources.
What Is An 91成人 Cybersecurity Degree?
Threats from data breaches, viruses, and scams have become all too common given the increasing reliance on digital interactions in our personal and professional lives. The field of cybersecurity directly counters these risks in this new technological landscape, ensuring that individuals and organizations can continue using information networks safely and securely. A bachelor's degree provides students with up-to-date knowledge of how to conduct digital forensics, map networks, develop web security, and work with emerging technologies.
Students learn how to analyze threats, generate protective measures, and maintain crucial security systems. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity are involved in one of the fastest growing job markets in the country. New threats 鈥� whether it's viruses or information hacking 鈥� are constantly emerging, putting cyber analysis and forensics skills in high demand.
While admission requirements can vary depending on how competitive a bachelor's program is, prospective students often need a minimum high school GPA of 2.75, along with a B grade in a STEM class that covers advanced math concepts. Applicants also typically need to submit high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal essays with their application.
How Much Does an 91成人 Cybersecurity Degree Cost?
Multiple factors can affect the cost of a cybersecurity bachelor鈥檚 degree. Where tuition is concerned, our ranked programs this year range from $4,740 to $9,900 per year, which is actually less expensive than the list last year. 91成人 students can further reduce the cost of their education by applying for financial assistance, including federal and state scholarships as well as private grants.
Tuition is the bulk of a degree's price, but you'll typically also pay fees for a range of services that include upkeep for technology and infrastructure. 91成人 cybersecurity programs usually have minimum technology requirements, such as stable Wi-Fi and a laptop with a certain amount of processing power.
Financial aid is any form of educational funding besides personal savings. This includes loans and gift aid, such as need-based grants, merit- or need-based scholarships, and need-based work-study programs. Gift aid is ideal because it doesn't need to be repaid, so it lowers the total cost of a degree and can reduce future student loan debt.
Is an 91成人 Cybersecurity Degree Worth It?
One of the strongest advantages of a cybersecurity degree is job security. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a through the next decade, cybersecurity remains one of the fastest-growing fields, ensuring steady employment opportunities for graduates. Additionally, a degree in cybersecurity provides a well-rounded skill set, covering everything from risk assessment to security policy development, which can lead to diverse career paths and specialization opportunities.
However, a bachelor鈥檚 degree alone may not be enough to secure certain cybersecurity roles. Many employers require industry certifications 鈥� such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP 鈥� to validate specialized skills. While these certifications can significantly improve job prospects, they require additional time and financial investment beyond the degree itself. For some students, cybersecurity bootcamps may offer a faster and more affordable alternative, providing hands-on training in a matter of months rather than years. While bootcamps lack the in-depth theoretical foundation of a degree, they can be a viable option for those looking to break into the field quickly.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a cybersecurity degree depends on individual strengths and career aspirations. Cybersecurity professionals tend to excel in organization, attention to detail, and structured environments, as their work requires methodically assessing risks, implementing security measures, and responding to incidents with precision. Those drawn to investigative work may find cybersecurity particularly engaging, as it involves analyzing threats, uncovering vulnerabilities, and developing proactive security solutions. Independence and critical thinking are also valuable traits, as cybersecurity professionals must navigate evolving challenges, question existing security measures, and develop innovative defense strategies.
If you possess these qualities and are intrigued by the challenge of securing digital assets against cyber threats, a cybersecurity degree could be a highly rewarding investment. With growing demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, this field offers a dynamic career path for those who thrive in fast-paced, problem-solving environments.
Student Reviews of 91成人 Cybersecurity Programs
DO NOT GO TO THIS SCHOOL IF YOU ARE USING VRE (CHP 31 VA BENEFITS) they do not certify the last week of class which means you will NEVER get your full BAS Entitlement. I lost roughly 100-400 a month from my BAS depending on the schedule which adds up to quite a substantial amount lost over a 4 year period. I tried time and time again to bring this up and escalated the issue but they told me too bad we will not change anything.
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
So far everything seems to be good. Not sure how this all plays out in that career field but I gather I will find out soon enough. For a guy who hasn鈥檛 been in school for over 30 years and wasn鈥檛 a really good student because of various factors, I am pleasantly surprised by how well I am doing here.
Review Date: 7/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have really enjoyed attending University of Phoenix. The flexibility of classes as well as learning real life skills in every class has been great! The instructors have been wonderful as well, answering any questions I have had as well as giving helpful feedback on every assignment. It has been an absolute treat being a student at UoPx!
Review Date: 5/14/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Phoenix has been an incredible institution for my journey toward earning a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity. Now 10 months into my first year, I can confidently say that the university has exceeded my expectations in terms of flexibility, academic support, and the depth of its cybersecurity curriculum.
One of the greatest advantages of studying at the University of Phoenix is its commitment to working professionals and non-traditional students. The online format has allowed me... Read More
Review Date: 6/12/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It has been very beneficial and help me learn a lot of new things. Each class helps you get a better understanding for your future career. The staff will always get back to you in a timely manner and make sure you have the tools to be successful. I would most definitely recommend these online classes.
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The best thing I like about UoP is all staff is so helpful to help me graduate. Also, there is a lot of flexibility for people who lead busy lives. They give one every tool they need to be successful. UoP is always thinking and implementing ways to make things better for the student.
Review Date: 5/1/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
While I think that Northwood University is a wonderful school over all, especially for the degrees they offer in finance, their technical degrees for computer science are somewhat irrelevant. Myself as well as others are having a difficult time finding employment with this degree.
The cost of attendance is also significantly more than the price of taking courses through a community College, such as Delta College.
Review Date: 3/19/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has been frustrating, particularly with their Financial Aid department. SNHU overpaid my financial aid, and since then, I鈥檝e been bombarded with harassing emails demanding an 鈥渙verpayment resolution letter.鈥� However, they provide no guidance or explanation for what such a letter should contain. Despite multiple attempts to reach out for clarification, my emails were ignored.
Worse, there's a complete lack of communication between the different... Read More
SNHU doesn鈥檛 seem to care about the impact their mistakes have on students, especially when those students are relying on financial aid to better their lives. Instead of offering support, they add unnecessary stress with their lack of oversight and failure to take responsibility.
If you're considering SNHU and value your financial stability or peace of mind, I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere. This school does not prioritize its students' well-being when it comes to financial matters.
Review Date: 9/10/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Potential Students, I am writing to provide you with an honest and informative perspective on my experience as a student in National University's Cyber Security program. My journey began in 2020, and while I have encountered some excellent instructors and valuable learning opportunities, there are significant challenges within the program that warrant your consideration. First and foremost, I must address the issue of certain staff professors having excessive power and lacking accountability. Throughout... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I would recommend PG to any working adult trying to better themselves while juggling all of life's obligations and pitfalls. The advisors were supportive, and the professors were accessible and willing to help. My internship was fulfilling, and I made new friends along the way.
Review Date: 7/13/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I took advantage of Purdue Global's Excel Track program for my Bachelors in Cybersecurity. The classes were well designed and pertained to relevant information in the field. I've been in my field for a long time, and was a little apprehensive about what I was going to see; I was impressed. I didn't find the classes to be redundant, and I found myself enjoying them. I initially thought I'd go into the program and simply see things I already knew or experienced, this wasn't always the case. Sure there... Read More
Review Date: 5/29/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have read about 30 of these reviews and most of them are negative so far. I know many will read this and just pass it by or look at the length and say no thank you, but please if you are struggling ask for help if you are on the fence find a friend or a councilor, help is available and there are far far worse schools and educational experiences that will leave you wanting. I can completely understand being frustrated and even hurt when you believe your expectations are not being met and I would... Read More
Review Date: 2/23/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Attending college at Western Governors University was one of the best things I ever did for my career. Going to school here allowed me to get college work done at a faster pace so that I could transition to a career based job quicker. The only qualms I had with this school was that the academics were not nearly as intensive as they could have been, which is important in STEM fields. As far as internship opportunities (Also very important in STEM fields), there were not very many opportunities through... Read More
Review Date: 4/2/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
not for me. Wrong subject for 80 year old disabled person. No subject choice ideas from administration as to what would be a better educational choice for me and wat my goals really were. Do believe that enrollment counselors should take more time with new students especially older people to find out what their goals are.
Review Date: 5/1/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Western Governors University was a great school and experience for me. It allowed me to learn at my own pace to ensure I comprehended what I was studying. It offered many different avenues of self study including video recorded classes. The courses also provided real world experience which I was able to use to understand my job better.
Review Date: 8/8/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a recent graduate of Full Sail University, I can confidently say that my experience here has been incredibly rewarding. What sets Full Sail apart is its hands-on, fast-paced, and industry-focused approach. The curriculum is intense, but it's designed that way to simulate real-world environments. I was consistently challenged to apply what I was learning immediately, which helped build both technical skills and confidence.
One thing I appreciated most was the accessibility of instructors and staff.... Read More
Review Date: 4/17/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The B.S. in Cybersecurity - Excel Track degree program online from Purdue Global is an excellent choice for students who are fast learners and work at their own pace. I recently graduated from Purdue University Global, and overall I am extremely satisfied with my experience. As a disabled student, I struggled to find a university or college teaching cybersecurity that could accommodate my disabilities. Purdue Global's Excel Track is a self-paced degree program where students engage in hands-on labs,... Read More
Review Date: 11/10/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
First of all, I would like to state that FHSU is not a terrible school by any means, in fact, there are many redeeming qualities to this school. For example, both mentors I had were on top of it and even helped me graduate a semester early. I also have no complaints with the administrative departments. Not once did I have to wait an excessive amount of time to receive an answer to a question I might have, or trouble enrolling in courses. Even after I took a semester off I was able to jump back into... Read More
Review Date: 5/23/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I had a lot of concerns when I started my journey at Purdue, but they were quickly dissolved. The curriculum is really smooth, in each class the weekly requirement is pretty repetitive so once you get a good time management plan established it was easy to keep up. Each class I had was enjoyable, the class matter really helped me understand my major, and all of my teachers were very helpful and focused on the students' success.
Review Date: 4/27/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Cybersecurity division of this school is really bad. I've gotten good grades but quality of education is poor and professors take forever to grade. Most of the courses outsource textbooks/labs to ucertify which constantly has issues. Also, they still reference Windows 10 in all of the readings, when Windows 11 has been out a couple years now. It shows that they do not update the text to the newest changes in the industry. At UMGC, you essentially pay for a degree and class flexibility. If you... Read More
Review Date: 1/30/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No