Online Cybersecurity Programs In Hawaii
Hawaii’s digital infrastructure is rapidly expanding, creating unprecedented demand for cybersecurity professionals across military installations, government agencies, healthcare systems, and the tourism industry. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, organizations throughout the islands are seeking skilled experts to protect sensitive data, secure networks, and defend against evolving attacks. For Hawaii residents looking to enter this high-demand field or advance their careers, pursuing an online cybersecurity degree offers the flexibility to gain cutting-edge skills while managing work and family commitments.
Online cybersecurity programs provide Hawaii-based students with access to top-tier education without relocating to the mainland. These degrees cover essential topics including network security, ethical hacking, risk management, digital forensics, and compliance, preparing graduates for roles like security analyst, penetration tester, information security manager, and cybersecurity consultant. With Hawaii’s unique position as a Pacific hub for military operations and international business, cybersecurity professionals in the state can expect competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities.
This guide explores the best online cybersecurity degree options for Hawaii residents, from associate and bachelor’s programs to master’s degrees and professional certifications. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking advancement, you’ll find information on program formats, costs, career outcomes, and how to choose the right path for your goals in Hawaii’s growing cybersecurity landscape.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - hpu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Hawaii Pacific University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a flexible 30-credit program designed for working professionals, with no GRE or GMAT required for admission. Students can complete the degree in 12 to 24 months, focusing on threat intelligence, cloud security, and ethical cybersecurity practices. The curriculum prepares learners for industry certifications like CompTIA CySA+ and PenTest+, and admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA. With three annual start dates and no prerequisite courses, this program offers practical skills for advancing in digital defense roles entirely online.
- No prerequisite courses required
- Prepare for multiple certification exams
- Flexible online learning options
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Hawaii
When comparing undergraduate online cybersecurity programs in Hawaii, it’s important to note that there is a big difference between an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree will take about two years to complete. It provides fundamental knowledge on cybersecurity concepts, network security, and system administration, among others. This route is suitable for those who want to join the workforce as soon as possible. Some of the positions that this degree can lead to include cybersecurity consultant or IT support.
An online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree may take four years to complete and covers more in-depth topics including risk management, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity policies. Bachelor’s graduates are often eligible for more senior positions including cybersecurity analyst or security architect. Another advantage of a bachelor’s degree is that the curriculum is more comprehensive, and it focuses on developing critical thinking and management skills in the students, which are useful for those who plan to work their way up in the field.
Both undergraduate degrees can be completed online, which makes it especially convenient for working students. Make sure any program you choose in Hawaii is properly accredited. Finally, your decision should depend on your objectives, the time you have at your disposal, and the level of skill you want to gain in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60
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Cost Per Credit In State: $182 - $235
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $468 - $580
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
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Cost Per Credit In State: $250 - $350
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $600 - $800
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
If you’re considering graduate-level online cybersecurity programs in Hawaii, it is relevant to consider the differences between master’s and doctorate degrees. An online cybersecurity Master’s degree focuses on building skills taking your knowledge to a more complex level. Students are exposed to topics such as threat analysis, cybersecurity policy, and risk management, among others. This degree suits the working professional who aims at enhancing his or her learning to progress in the field, and it prepares graduates for positions in management and niche areas of cybersecurity.
On the other hand, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree, such as a Ph.D., takes things a step further. It focuses on research, theory, and complex decision making. Doctoral students, for instance, conduct research and add new knowledge into the cybersecurity field. This path is recommended for those who are passionate about teaching, seeking research oriented jobs, or want to get into professional advising.
Both graduate degrees can be pursued online, which makes it easier for students to balance their studies with work. A master’s degree can be completed in one to two years, while a doctorate may require three to seven years, depending on the research component. The decision between the two comes down to the student’s career objectives.
If the student wants to occupy a leadership position or to gain particular technical skills, then a master’s degree might be enough. If the student has the goal of becoming a professor or a researcher in the field of cybersecurity, then a Ph.D. doctoral degree may be the most appropriate choice. It is therefore important to consider your goals and objectives to make the right decision about your future studies.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30
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Cost Per Credit In State: $350 - $650
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $600 - $800
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $450 - $750
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $900 - $1,500
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in looking for other ways to get into an online cybersecurity program in Hawaii, there are several possibilities. Many schools offer short online cybersecurity graduate certificates, which are open to students who already hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Others offer cybersecurity bootcamps, which provide training on particular topics such as ethical hacking or network security.
Taking an alternative path to cybersecurity training can be advantageous in certain situations. Be sure to explore all options to make sure you choose the right pathway for your career aspirations.