Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field, openings many excellent job opportunities. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of cybersecurity jobs will increase by 33% from 2020 to 2030, and the demand has only gone up due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You'll learn how to protect computer systems from cyber attacks with a cybersecurity degree. This is a constantly evolving field with lots of high-paying job opportunities. Many specialized roles within cybersecurity are emerging as cybersecurity becomes more important. Starting as a cybersecurity analyst can help you explore different areas within information security and figure out the best career path for you.

What Is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the process of protecting computer systems from attacks. The field began around 1970 when an engineer named Bob Thomas created the first computer virus. Since then, cybersecurity has become increasingly important as businesses rely more on cloud computing and attackers try to steal sensitive information or interrupt operations. If you have a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, you can become a consultant, information security analyst, or computer and information systems manager. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industries that employ information security analysts are computer systems designing and management companies. There is a huge demand for cybersecurity professionals, with a projected 33% growth in the field between 2020 and 2030. This is much higher than the national average for all occupations, and there are currently 141,200 information security analysts employed nationwide.

Why should you earn a Cybersecurity degree online?

Earning an online cybersecurity degree is a wise investment of time, energy, and money. With a cybersecurity degree, you can enter a job market that offers high-paying jobs in various industries. Cybersecurity is the right field if you enjoy working with technology and solving problems. Here are some reasons why you should consider pursuing a cybersecurity degree:

Opportunities: Protecting critical data from cyber-attacks, many companies are now hiring Cybersecurity professionals. This means you have many job opportunities in many industries and locations.
Challenge: As technology evolves, cyber attackers, use new methods to undermine computer systems. Cybersecurity professionals must keep up-to-date information with the latest tech trends to implement the required solutions. This makes the field engaging and challenging.
Earning Potential: According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts make a median salary of $102,600. Cybersecurity degree-holders can also work as IT managers, who earn a median salary of $159,010.

Overview of online degree options in Cybersecurity

BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY
The online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program at Bellevue University offers students a flexible way to complete their degree. The university is renowned for supporting working adult students, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking to earn an online cybersecurity degree while working full-time. With Bellevue's 54-week fast-track schedule, students can complete the program quickly. The program also offers flexible class schedules, allowing students to personalize their learning experiences to fit their busy lives.

Degree: BS in Cybersecurity

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Arizona State University's New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences offers a four-year standard online undergraduate degree program in cybersecurity. Graduates of ASU's program are equipped to protect the digital world against cyber threats. Through their coursework, they develop critical thinking skills and hone their risk assessment proficiencies. With a cybersecurity undergraduate degree, ASU graduates can pursue career opportunities as risk analysts, network engineers, or security officers.

Degree: BS in Applied Computing (Cybersecurity) or BSE in Computer Systems Engineering (Cybersecurity)

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
The University of Maryland University College offers an online cybersecurity degree program with three areas of concentration. The four-year undergraduate program in cybersecurity includes concentrations in Computer Networks & Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity Management & Policy, and Software Development & Security. UM is committed to maintaining a cutting-edge curriculum, making it one of the best cybersecurity undergraduate programs available. As part of the program, online course materials, including textbooks, software programs, and library resources, are provided to students at no cost.

Degree: Computer Networks & Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity Management & Policy, and Software Development & Security

TOWSON UNIVERSITY
Towson University offers a cybersecurity degree program in Maryland through its BS in Computer Science-Security Track. This program provides coursework in the latest security theory to prepare graduates for success in the field. Towson also offers master's degrees in computer science and mathematics, and students can complete their BS degree through internships and partnerships with public and private organizations. The program is designed to train critical thinkers and problem solvers and is considered one of the best online cybersecurity undergraduate programs.

Degree: BS in Computer Science – Security Track
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
The Bachelor of Applied Science Cyber Operations concentration by the University of Arizona is a top program for a cybersecurity degree in the Western region. Students are trained to safeguard the digital world against cyber threats through coursework over four years. The program covers defensive and offensive strategies to mitigate cyber risks. The University of Arizona uses a state-of-the-art Virtual Learning Environment for its cybersecurity coursework, providing hands-on experience for students to build confidence and demonstrate the application of conceptual knowledge.

Degree: BAS Cyber Operations
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-SPRINGFIELD
The University of Illinois-Springfield offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security (ISS) program as an online cyber security degree. The ISS program requires 120 semester hours and equips graduates with essential risk assessment, security design, and security ethics skills. This online cyber security undergraduate program prepares graduates for a successful career in computer science and related industries.

Degree: BS in Information Systems Security
PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS
The online division of the prestigious Penn State University provides the online cyber security degree program of Penn State World Campus. Students who earn a Security and Risk Analysis degree through this program receive the same high-quality education as those who attend on-campus programs. PSWC offers unparalleled learning opportunities by providing internships with nearby businesses and government agencies. The coursework of this program equips graduates with the necessary skills to mitigate cyber risks.

Degree: BS in Security and Risk Analysis
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
Syracuse University's online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Administration is a 120-semester hour program offered by one of the top private research universities in New York. This cybersecurity undergraduate degree addresses the growing demand for professionals who can safeguard networks and data against cyber threats. The coursework includes a combination of independent studies and lives interactive classes.

Degree: Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) – Cybersecurity Administration
DREXEL UNIVERSITY
The College of Computing and Informatics at Drexel University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology degree. With 120 hours of coursework, this program is one of the top cybersecurity undergraduate programs available and prepares graduates for corporate, non-profit, and government careers. Drexel's online curriculum is tailored to the needs of IT professionals who are working. CST graduates from Drexel University are equipped to assess issues and apply solutions, making them well-prepared for a career in cybersecurity.

Degree: BS in Computing and Security Technology
MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY
The cyber security undergraduate program at Maryville University is one of the best in the field, with a particular emphasis on specialized security areas. The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program at Maryville is divided into three main tracks: general security, defensive security, and offensive security. Students can choose the track that aligns with their goals and interests related to online security threats. Students' coursework and study areas depending on the specific program they pursue. By focusing on particular security tracks, students delve deeper into the subject matter and gain extensive skills before entering the professional workforce.

Degree: BS in Cyber Security

What are the common career pathways for Bachelor in Cybersecurity graduates?

A bachelor's degree in cybersecurity teaches students technical and business skills, including programming, database applications, and statistics. Advanced courses like artificial intelligence, cryptography, and ethical hacking are available. After graduation, you can find many job opportunities in government agencies, the military, hospitals, private corporations, and other business sectors.
Standard job titles for cybersecurity bachelor's degree holders include:

- Cybersecurity analysts
- Information security analysts
- Computer forensic analysts
- Cybersecurity specialist
- Penetration tester
- Risk analyst
- Cybersecurity manager
- Cybersecurity engineer

How to Start a Cyber Security Career

To begin a career in cybersecurity, you should take the following essential steps:

Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or a related field. Gain knowledge of firewalls and endpoint security.
Learn programming languages and tools such as C++, Java, Node, Python, Ruby, Go, or Power Shell to enhance your skills.
Be able to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
Possess strong attention to detail and exceptional problem-solving skills.
Keep up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity trends and hacker tactics.

The Final Words

If you're interested in working in information security, a degree in cybersecurity can prepare you with skills in digital forensics, cloud, mobile and network security, and cyber laws. But a computer science degree might offer a broader range of training in computer-related topics if you're considering careers like software or web development, database administration, or systems management.

With plenty of jobs available in this competitive market, now is a great time to pursue a career in cybersecurity. The demand for cybersecurity experts is rapidly growing, so it's important to seize the opportunity while it's hot!