When you earn a master’s degree in internet security, you enter the fast-growing field of cyber defense. Hacking and cyberattacks cost businesses millions of dollars every year, making careers in internet security careers essential — and projected to grow over 30% in the next decade. These 21st-century jobs evolve with the ever-changing pace of technology, making a career path in cybersecurity exciting for technology-minded individuals interested in keeping people and their information safe.
In 2023, the average tuition and fees for a master’s degree in internet security was $20,513. Graduates from internet security degree programs become leaders in information security and computer systems, making more than double the median annual wage. In 2023, the median yearly pay for computer systems analysts was $103,800, and information security analysts made a median wage of $120,360.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Internet Security degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 30 Accredited Internet Security Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Iowa State University
Intelligent Score: 99.66In-state: $8,042
Out-of-state: $23,230
In-state: $9,758
Out-of-state: $9,758
SAT: 1010-1310
ACT: 21-28
Resident: $782
Non-Resident: $1,746
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
Florida International University
Intelligent Score: 98.16In-state: $4,721
Out-of-state: $16,529
In-state: $8,912
Out-of-state: $8,912
SAT: 1110-1260
ACT: 23-29
Resident: $456
Non-Resident: $1,002
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
Indiana University-Bloomington
Intelligent Score: 98.09In-state: $9,815
Out-of-state: $36,194
In-state: $9,786
Out-of-state: $9,786
SAT: 1120-1350
ACT: 24-31
Resident: $750
Non-Resident: $1,393
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
University of North Carolina at Charlotte – North Carolina
Intelligent Score: 97.45In-state: $7,019
Out-of-state: $34,198
In-state: $10,552
Out-of-state: $10,552
SAT: 1280-1490
ACT: 28-33
Resident: $248
Non-Resident: $1,057
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
Old Dominion University
Intelligent Score: 96.61In-state: $7,029
Out-of-state: $26,664
In-state: $10,207
Out-of-state: $10,207
SAT: 960-1170
ACT: 18-25
Resident: $599
Non-Resident: $1,439
On-Campus, Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 94.68In-state: $14,448
Out-of-state: $30,160
In-state: $20,624
Out-of-state: $20,624
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 25-31
In-State: $1,226 Ou-of-State: $1,760
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
30-36
University of Houston
Intelligent Score: 93.79In-state: $8,449
Out-of-state: $20,665
In-state: $8,539
Out-of-state: $8,539
SAT: 1120-1310
ACT: 22-28
Resident: $428 - $579
Non-Resident: $938 - $1,089
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Intelligent Score: 93.62In-state: $34,627
Out-of-state: $51,815
In-state: $16,793
Out-of-state: $16,793
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
In-State: $468 Ou-of-State: $1,142
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
Syracuse University
Intelligent Score: 90.34In-state: $53,432
Out-of-state: $53,432
In-state: $40,392
Out-of-state: $40,392
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,945
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
30
Utah Valley University
Intelligent Score: 88.95In-state: $5,192
Out-of-state: $16,092
In-state: $8,541
Out-of-state: $8,541
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $449
Non-Resident: $1,083
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
30
DePaul University
Intelligent Score: 88.85In-state: $40,551
Out-of-state: $40,551
In-state: $19,370
Out-of-state: $19,370
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$955
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
48
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Intelligent Score: 87.93In-state: $7,770
Out-of-state: $24,900
In-state: $6,138
Out-of-state: $6,138
SAT: 1110-1320
ACT: 22-28
Resident: $368
Non-Resident: $1,029
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
33
Wright State University
Intelligent Score: 87.44In-state: $9,469
Out-of-state: $18,887
In-state: $14,298
Out-of-state: $14,298
SAT: 958-1220
ACT: 18-25
Resident: $680
Non-Resident: $1,145
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
Washington University in St. Louis
Intelligent Score: 87.21In-state: $56,300
Out-of-state: $56,300
In-state: $56,300
Out-of-state: $56,300
SAT: 1480-1560
ACT: 33-35
$2,688
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
30
Villanova University
Intelligent Score: 85.81In-state: $56,730
Out-of-state: $56,730
In-state: $20,619
Out-of-state: $20,619
SAT: 1320-1460
ACT: 30-33
$1,595
On-Campus, Online
Middle States Association Commission on Higher Education
30
Temple University
Intelligent Score: 81.89In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $28,992
In-state: $16,956
Out-of-state: $16,956
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,165
On-Campus, Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Nova Southeastern University
Intelligent Score: 80.47In-state: $32,370
Out-of-state: $32,370
In-state: $20,618
Out-of-state: $20,618
SAT: 1030-1240
ACT: 20-27
$979
On-Campus, Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Intelligent Score: 77.64In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $16,980
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 860-1060
ACT: N/A
Resident: $471
Non-Resident: $991
On-Campus, Online
Middle States Association Commission on Higher Education
33
How to Choose an Internet Security Degree Program
Choose your area of study
The most popular master’s degree in internet security is a Master of Science in Cyber Security. It covers the fundamentals of online defense and computer science with a heightened focus on the changing technological landscape.
Other degree options in internet security include:
- Master of Science in Information Security
- Master of Science in Cyber Defense
- Master of Science in Computer Systems and Software Design
- Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance
- Master of Science in Technology, Cybersecurity and Policy
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems
- Master of Science in Computer Science and Cybersecurity
Research schools and programs
Your internet security degree program and the institution you attend should be accredited to ensure that your education adheres to academic and professional standards. Accreditation also makes it easier to transfer credits and degrees between programs and schools. Agencies like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) assess institutions for academic rigor and focus on student needs, while the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) keeps a list of accredited programs in engineering and technology.
After you’ve made a list of accredited programs and schools, consider any additional needs you’ll encounter during your education. Housing, transportation, educational materials, and location are important factors to consider when choosing the right school for you. Tour your prospective school to learn more about it, and contact program representatives for information about their internet security degree program.
Prepare for tests and applications
Most internet security degree programs require minimum test scores on graduate admissions tests, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Like many technology-based degree programs, entrance requirements for internet security degrees may also include English proficiency exams, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Schedule your tests several weeks or months before your application deadline to give yourself time to study and retake exams as necessary.
Other standard requirements for internet security programs include letters of recommendation from professors or employers, sealed transcripts from previous degree programs, and a resume that shows a depth of experience in technology and computer systems.
Select your program
Consider your academic needs and desired career path before choosing an internet security degree program. For a more computer-science based degree with mathematics-based coursework, find programs in colleges of computing or engineering. Internet security degree programs from colleges of business prepare students to apply technological skills in many industries.
For more information, talk to a program representative at your desired school. Ask about the coursework they offer for a degree in internet security and what careers their students often join after graduating.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Start your financial aid research by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You’ll learn how much aid you can apply toward your internet security program before pursuing other forms of financial assistance, such as grants, scholarships, and programs like employer tuition assistance. Contact the school’s financial aid office for additional ways to pay for your degree.
What Can You Expect From an Internet Security Degree Program
An internet security degree focuses on emerging cases and crimes in cybersecurity. It applies past best practices and critical thinking skills to solve problems in today’s cyber defense world and predict technological security issues in the future. Students participate in class discussions, hands-on projects, research assignments, and internships with industry partners.
Potential courses you’ll take in an internet security degree program
- Computing and Information Science. In computing and information science courses, students apply the fundamentals of computer science theory and information systems to real-world cybersecurity situations.
- Cyber Risk Management. Cyber risk management classes teach students to assess security risks in various information systems. They also practice strengthening data resources and implementing different forms of cyber defense.
- Digital Forensics. Students in digital forensics classes use investigative skills and strategic thinking to collect and protect digital evidence. They master encryption techniques and common hacking strategies to consider innovative and effective protection measures.
- Cyber Law. A cyber law course teaches students about the role of the internet and digital law in the 21st century. It explores how the legal world has shifted to incorporate modern cyber crimes, such as data breaches and cyberwarfare, and where gaps in the current laws may pose problems for businesses and individuals.
Internet Security Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an internet security degree program?
Check your school’s program admission page for their specific application requirements. Like many postgraduate degrees, internet security master’s degree programs require a minimum GPA, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Experience and expertise in computer systems can set your application apart.
Be sure to note application deadlines and collect all materials well in advance. Apply early if possible, and ask your school’s admissions office about possible early application and acceptance so you can hear about your acceptance as soon as possible.
How much does an internet security degree cost?
In 2023, the average cost of a master’s degree in internet security was $20,513, including tuition and application fees, but not additional expenses such as housing, transportation, or instructional materials. Before you plan to attend your internet security degree program, create a budget with these factors in mind. Talk to your school’s financial aid office for more information on ways to afford tuition and other educational costs.
How long does it take to earn an internet security degree?
A typical postgraduate degree in internet security requires between 30 and 60 graduation credits. Full-time students can complete the program in two years, taking between 15 and 30 units per year. Attending a part-time internet security program may take more than three or four years to complete. Accelerated programs allow students to graduate in one year if they complete all the necessary graduation units on time.