Online and Distance Learning

A computer security degree can lead to an exciting, challenging and rewarding career. With cyber crimes on the rise this is one of the fastest growing career fields in the world.

Although degree programs in this field may be listed under various names, the most relevant is a computer security program.  Other areas of study related to computer security education are: network security, information security, information technology, criminal justice, and computer systems analysis.  All of these fields deal with the same infrastructure designed around computers and the Internet which has become a worldwide information network.  This infrastructure has now become essential to the conduct of business, but it very vulnerable.   As a result, today, significsnt portions of governmental and corporate budgets are devoted to ensuring the protection of their computer systems against computer crime.

This page tell you more about studying these degrees and will help you to locate suitable schools and programs.

Which schools offer computer security degree programs online?

The following is a list of selected schools offering online computer security programs.  If you don't find what you want in the list, try the search box.

• Strayer University Online
  • BSIS: Computer Security; Database Developer
  • BSIS: Homeland Security and Information Systems
  • BSIS: Security Administration
  • MSIS: Computer Security Management

• DeVry University - Online
  • Associate - Electronics & Computer Technology
  • Bachelor's - Computer Engineering Technology
  • Bachelor's - Computer Information Systems

• The University of Liverpool
  • Master of Science in Information Technology (MSc in IT)
  • Master of Science in Computer Security 

• Colorado Technical University Online
  • Bachelor's (BSIT) - Security
  • Bachelor's (BSIT) - Software Systems Engineering

• Westwood College
  • Bachelor Degree - Information Technology: Major in Systems Security

• Virginia College
  • Master of Science - Cybersecurity

• Browse more schools and programs at the foot of the page.

• Search for computer and IT programs.

What do you study?

A typical bachelors degree may include foundation courses in: computer programming, data communications, telecommunication, control systems, and specific computer security courses in: security management, cryptography. computer operation security, network security, computer law, discovery recovery planning, analyzing security policies, evaluating risk assessment techniques, and creating and implementing disaster recovery plans. 

A typical masters will include courses in: network administration, information security, cryptography, cyber-law, cyber-terrorism, intrusion detection, forensics, viral activity, and firewall management.

What jobs do graduates get?

The attacks on vital computer systems continue to proliferate.  Hackers have become very sophisticated in recent years, doing everything from illegally entering banking systems to stealing credit cards. Studies have shown that there is a significant shortage of talent in this field to combat these attacks.  One of the newest jobs on the market today is cyber security. 

Computer or cyber security is a new and growing field.  It is one of the fastest growing areas is in the corporate sector due to the fact so much information is now kept within computers.  In Washington, DC alone an anticipated 30,000 jobs will be made available in the field next year.  As a result, job opportunities will continue to increase for the next several years. What this means for those with an education in this field is that the best paying jobs with the best working conditions will be available. For example, at a recent science fair in New York City, Boeing selected six graduates from a team and hired them on the spot as computer-security experts for their organization.

To enter the field some form of certification will be required.  Although some of the positions within this field require only associate degree or basic certifications, there are many others that will require bachelors, masters, or doctorate level education specific to computer security.  The degrees required will vary significantly depending on the positions selected. With a degree in this field graduates can pursue computer security careers (in areas such as disaster recovery analysis, network security engineering, IS security management) in law enforcement, utility companies, homeland security, federal law enforcement, and even in the military.  A masters graduate might seek jobs involving the security management of LAN, WLAN, and WAN environments.

This is a fairly new career and salary ranges are quite high. However, as more and more graduates exit programs it will become a much more competitive field. Currently with a computer security degree one can expect to earn at least $50,000 annually.  With a computer security masters one can earn up to $80,000. And at the doctoral level one could expect a three figure income every year.

List of schools and programs