Bachelor's degrees in cybersecurity
Cybersecurity has become a major consideration for organizations worldwide. With a bachelor's in cybersecurity, you can develop the skills to defend the most sensitive data and computer systems from a growing number of threats. Explore bachelor's in cybersecurity programs in more depth, along with the promising information technology (IT) careers to which these degrees could lead.
Explore cybersecurity degrees
Why pursue an online bachelor's in cybersecurity?
Join a fast-growing field
Pursue careers with faster-than-average projected growth rates to match rising cybercrime activity.
Develop in-demand skills
Build critical skills that organizations need to keep their information and computer systems secure.
Earn higher-than-average salaries
Qualify for high-paying computer and information technology occupations.
Find the right online bachelor's in cybersecurity program for you
What jobs can you get with an online master's in cybersecurity?
A bachelor's in cybersecurity can qualify you for various computer and information technology careers, particularly those related to systems security. Cybersecurity professionals typically work in an organization's IT department, monitoring systems for threats and ensuring that all users follow proper security protocols.
The more that organizations rely on information and computer systems, the more critical protecting those systems becomes. As a result, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 33% job growth for information security analysts from 2023-33. Cybersecurity graduates can also apply their systems analysis, development, and administration skills to several other careers, including:
- Computer systems analyst
- Software developer
- Computer hardware engineer
- Network and computer systems administrator
- Database administrator
- Computer and information systems manager
Salary expectations and career outlook for cybersecurity professionals
Cybersecurity professionals can access many careers with above-average wages. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $104,420 in May 2023, more than double the median wage of $48,060 for all occupations.
Below are median annual salaries and growth projections for several relevant IT careers with data from the BLS.
| Job | Median annual salary (2023) | Job outlook (2023-33) |
|---|---|---|
| Information security analyst | $120,360 | +33% |
| Computer systems analyst | $103,800 | +11% |
| Software developer | $132,270 | +18% |
| Computer hardware engineer | $138,080 | +7% |
| Network and computer systems administrator | $95,360 | -3% |
| Database administrator and architect | $117,450 | +9% |
| Computer and information systems manager | $169,510 | +17% |
What can you learn in an online bachelor's in cybersecurity program?
A bachelor's in cybersecurity program teaches students how to detect threats, analyze system vulnerabilities, and safeguard computer systems from attacks. Learners may study advanced databases and networks, cryptography, programming, and malware analysis.
Most bachelor's degrees require about 120 credits and four years of study. Courses vary by program, but curriculums often include courses in data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, database systems, cloud services, and object-oriented programming.
The programs may also include hands-on experiences via labs and virtual simulations.
Related bachelor's degrees in cybersecurity
Bachelor's in computer science
These programs take a broad and foundational approach to computer systems and operations. Students may study computational theory, data structures, and program and application design.
Bachelor's in artificial intelligence
These programs explore the processes, technologies, and applications of artificial intelligence. You can expect to learn about machine learning, neural networks, and data mining.
Bachelor's in information technology
These programs focus on the design, development, management, and applications of information systems and technology. Some courses you may encounter include networking and system administration, application development, and IT security.
Further education in cybersecurity
After completing a bachelor's in cybersecurity, you can advance your education through many pathways. Along with a , you could pursue a graduate degree in artificial intelligence, data science, or information technology. You might even transition into the business side of information technology with a (MBA).
You can also acquire a postgraduate certification in cybersecurity, such as the CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional certifications.