Online Cybersecurity Programs In Illinois
If you are looking for best online cybersecurity programs in Illinois, you have several choices to make. Most of the universities in the state have online learning option for their students. For example, the University of Illinois at Chicago offers a great undergraduate and postgraduate course that focuses on the practical knowledge as well as the conceptual knowledge.
Among the universities, Southern Illinois University has online courses that are specific to the current market requirements. Their programs include core areas of security such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking and so on. This variety allows you to pick the path which will suit your career plans.
Besides degree programs, you can also search for certifications from online learning platforms. Several colleges and universities in Illinois have certificate programs that focus on areas such as cybersecurity management, or digital forensics. These can improve your skills without the fuss of a full-time course.
Networking is also possible as well. You can also find local cybersecurity groups where you can join or you can attend virtual conferences to meet with the professionals in the field. This is important in an industry that is changing at a very fast rate. Due to the high demand of cybersecurity skills, Illinois is a hub for online learning in this field. No matter what level of experience you have or what you want to achieve, you will be able to discover many resources to help you.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in Illinois
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL - Public 4-Year - uis.edu
Master's - Master of Science Cybersecurity Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Springfield's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management provides comprehensive training in digital forensics, penetration testing, and compliance. This 30-credit-hour program can be completed in just 12 months for $15,270 total tuition. No GMAT is required for admission, and the flexible online format features multiple start dates. Graduates are prepared for high-demand roles like Information Security Analyst and Cybersecurity Manager through hands-on technical and management training.
- 12-month online program with flexible start dates
- No GMAT required for admission
- Comprehensive cybersecurity technical and management training
Master's - Master of Business Administration with Cybersecurity Management Certificate
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
This online MBA with Cybersecurity Management Certificate combines advanced business education with specialized cybersecurity skills. As an NCAE-C designated program, it focuses on protecting organizational networks and developing strategic security policies. The 30-credit-hour curriculum costs $15,270 and offers flexible 12-month completion options. No GMAT is required for admission, and the program accepts applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who complete prerequisite courses.
- NCAE-C designated cybersecurity program
- 30 credit hours with flexible online format
- Advanced technical and management skills
Master's - Master of Business Administration with Cybersecurity Management
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
An online MBA with Cybersecurity Management concentration from University of Illinois Springfield delivers cutting-edge technical and managerial skills for combating digital threats. Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by NSA and Department of Homeland Security, this program costs $15,270 and can be completed in 12 months. No GMAT entrance exam is required, and the flexible online format accommodates working professionals' schedules.
- National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
- Flexible online learning, complete in 12 months
- No GMAT required for admission
Master's - Master of Business Administration with Cybersecurity Administration Certificate
Concentration: Cybersecurity Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
The AACSB-accredited online MBA with Cybersecurity Administration concentration provides comprehensive training in protecting organizational information systems through technical and strategic approaches. This NCAE-C recognized program requires 30 credit hours at $15,270 total tuition and offers 12-month completion options. No GMAT is required for admission to this flexible online program, which is endorsed by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
- NCAE-C recognized cybersecurity program
- Flexible online learning format
- Technical and strategic cybersecurity training
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a hybrid program blending online coursework with two brief residencies, ideal for working professionals. This 32-semester-hour curriculum integrates technical skills with organizational management, preparing students for leadership roles in cybersecurity. It emphasizes preparation for industry certifications like CISSP and CompTIA Security+. As a master's-level program, entrance exams such as the GRE may be required, though this should be verified with the university. The program's hybrid format offers flexibility while providing hands-on experiences during residencies.
- Online program with hands-on residency experiences
- Prepare for industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications
- Leadership-focused technical and management curriculum
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity is a hybrid program focusing on facility, network, and database security. Requiring 12 core and 6 elective semester hours, it targets working professionals and graduate students, enhancing skills for the evolving cybersecurity field. Admission demands a 2.75 GPA, with no specific entrance exam mentioned, but applicants should confirm requirements. The hybrid delivery combines online learning with residency elements, supporting industry skill development and career advancement in security roles without a full degree commitment.
- 12 core semester hours required
- 2.75 GPA admission requirement
- 6 elective semester hours
- Covers facility and network security
- Prepares for security profession
- Flexible application process
- Multiple advanced technology courses
- Supports industry skill development
- Employer-demanded skills focus
- Graduate coordinator support
Aurora University
Aurora, IL - Private 4-year - aurora.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Aurora University's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity offers a comprehensive curriculum blending technical and managerial skills for diverse cybersecurity careers. The program covers programming, system security, and strategic management, with opportunities to specialize in technical analysis or policy management. This hybrid program combines online and in-person elements, providing practical experience in current technologies, ethical considerations, and teamwork. Graduates are prepared for dynamic roles across industries. As a bachelor's-level program, entrance exams such as ACT or SAT may be required for admission.
- Two specialized tracks: Technical Analyst and Policy Management
- Comprehensive curriculum covering programming, networks, security
- Develop technical and leadership cybersecurity skills
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Technical Analyst - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Aurora University's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity with a Technical Analyst concentration focuses on developing robust technical skills in programming, network security, and infrastructure protection. This hybrid program emphasizes hands-on technical training integrated with management perspectives, preparing students to address complex cybersecurity challenges. Graduates gain expertise in secure infrastructure and practical problem-solving. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online and on-campus components. For this bachelor's degree, entrance exams like ACT or SAT are typically required.
- Two specialized cybersecurity career tracks
- Comprehensive technical and management skill development
- Practical, hands-on learning in secure infrastructure
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Policy and Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Aurora University's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity with a Policy and Management concentration blends technical skills with strategic management, covering programming, system security, and infrastructure protection. Students engage in industry-focused practical learning, ethical considerations, and problem-solving essential for today's digital landscape. This hybrid program offers a comprehensive curriculum delivered through a mix of online and in-person instruction. Graduates are equipped to tackle cybersecurity challenges in various settings. Admission to this bachelor's program generally requires ACT or SAT entrance exams.
- Two specialized cybersecurity career tracks
- Comprehensive technical and management skills
- Industry-focused practical learning experiences
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - Private 4-year - mckendree.edu
Master's - MBA in Cyber Defense
Online Learning - Visit Website
McKendree University's online MBA in Cyber Defense is designed for professionals pursuing leadership positions in information security. This comprehensive 36-credit program integrates business management with advanced cybersecurity knowledge through a flexible online format that can be completed in as little as 12 months. The curriculum emphasizes critical skills in technology, risk management, and strategic leadership, preparing graduates for roles such as Information Security Officer. As a master's level program, it does not require entrance exams like the GRE or GMAT. The program is fully online and military-friendly, with instruction from experienced faculty.
- Online MBA with Cyber Defense concentration
- Comprehensive 36-credit curriculum
- Prepares students for Information Security roles
Master's - MBA in Cyber Defense
Concentration: Cyber Defense - Online Learning - Visit Website
McKendree University offers an online MBA with a Cyber Defense concentration that prepares professionals to lead in information security and technology protection. This accelerated 12-month program features a curriculum aligned with National Institute of Standards and Technology recommendations, covering cyber threat assessment, systems administration, and strategic leadership. Graduates are positioned for high-demand roles like Information Security Officer or Chief Information Officer. As a master's level program, it does not require entrance exams such as the GRE or GMAT. The program is fully online, military-friendly, and emphasizes practical skills for the evolving digital landscape.
- Fully online MBA with cybersecurity concentration
- 12-month accelerated program format
- NIST-aligned cybersecurity curriculum
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - uchicago.edu
Graduate Certificate - Machine Learning for Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Chicago's online Machine Learning for Cybersecurity certificate is an intensive five-week program focused on applying machine learning techniques to cybersecurity. It teaches data-driven threat detection, adversarial attack defense, and ethical ML considerations, requiring no prior machine learning experience. The program includes live online sessions, self-paced coursework, and a capstone case study. No entrance exam is required for this online certificate, which costs $3,000 and awards 2.4 Continuing Education Units, making it ideal for cybersecurity professionals seeking advanced skills.
- Five-week online certificate
- $3,000 total program cost
- 2.4 Continuing Education Units
- No prior ML experience needed
- Live online class sessions
- Weekly self-paced coursework
- Capstone case study included
- Programming language proficiency recommended
- Focuses on cybersecurity ML applications
- Taught by UChicago faculty experts
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - luc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Technology Management Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Cybersecurity Technology Management Certificate is an online program designed for IT professionals seeking to advance in cybersecurity. This nine-credit certificate focuses on enterprise information security, cloud architecture, and incident response, with an ethical emphasis. It requires an IT or cybersecurity background and features flexible evening synchronous meetings over three consecutive eight-week terms, allowing completion in seven months. No entrance exam is required for this certificate program. Tuition is $7,425 total, with part-time options and multiple completion pathways, starting in January.
- 9-credit online certificate
- Part-time flexible format
- Starts Spring I (January)
- Tuition: $7,425 total
- Evening synchronous meetings
- Requires IT/cybersecurity background
- Multiple completion pathways
- Three consecutive 8-week terms
- Optional 10-12 credit option
- Ethical cybersecurity focus
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lewis University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity features an accelerated 4+1 program, enabling undergraduates to earn their master's in just one year post-bachelor's. This flexible pathway accepts students from diverse academic backgrounds, though foundational courses may be required. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete specific computer science prerequisites, with no entrance exam mentioned. The program allows up to 12 graduate credits during undergraduate studies, making it ideal for rapid career advancement in cybersecurity. As an online program, it offers convenience for working professionals and remote learners.
- Accelerated 4+1 master's degree program
- Open to students from multiple academic backgrounds
- Up to 12 graduate credits during undergraduate studies
University of St Francis
Joliet, IL - Private 4-year - stfrancis.edu
Graduate Certificate - Cyber Security Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of St. Francis offers an online Cyber Security Graduate Certificate program designed for IT professionals and managers seeking to enhance their cybersecurity expertise. This program focuses on developing advanced analytical security techniques to combat modern digital threats through flexible, 24/7 accessible online coursework. With affordable Midwest tuition and instruction from experienced professionals, it emphasizes risk management in complex technological environments. No entrance exam is required for this graduate-level certificate. Prerequisites include an undergraduate degree, Java programming experience, and a recommended math background, with multiple start dates available in fall, spring, and summer.
- Online graduate certificate
- Affordable Midwest tuition
- 24/7 online classes
- Expert real-world instructors
- Designed for IT professionals
- Fall, spring, summer start
- Prerequisites available on-site
- Undergraduate degree required
- Java programming experience
- Math background recommended
Roosevelt University
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - roosevelt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Information Systems Security, Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Roosevelt University's online Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Security provides professionals with advanced skills to defend organizational data against evolving cyber threats. This fully digital program covers comprehensive security strategies, breach investigation techniques, and robust protection mechanisms through four courses totaling 12 credit hours. It emphasizes information security management, cyber ethics, privacy, and risk management training. Designed for IT professionals seeking career advancement, the program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and offers flexible admission without entrance exams. This certificate serves as a career development credential, positioning graduates as valuable assets in the cybersecurity field.
- Fully online graduate certificate
- 12 total semester credit hours
- Four comprehensive courses
- Focus on information security management
- Prerequisites for experienced professionals
- Flexible admission requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Career development credential
- Covers cyber ethics and privacy
- Risk management training
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Illinois
When considering the best Cybersecurity programs in Illinois, there is a big difference between an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree can be completed in two years. It emphasizes basic principles of security, which include network security, system administration and basic cybersecurity measures. This option is suitable for those who require quick employment after completion of their studies, they can be placed in positions such as IT support or security technician.
Illinois has many institutions that provide the convenience of both degrees to students of cybersecurity. When choosing between the online cybersecurity programs in Illinois, there is a big difference between an associate’s degree and an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. An associate’s degree can be completed in two years. It emphasizes basic principles of security, which include network security, system administration and fundamental cybersecurity measures. This option is suitable for those who require early employment, it provides entry level jobs such as IT support or security technician.
On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree is a course that usually takes four years to complete and provides a more comprehensive learning experience. The course work encompasses advanced topics like ethical hacking, digital forensics and cybersecurity policy among others. This depth prepares graduates for higher level positions including cybersecurity analyst or information security officer. In addition, a bachelor’s program may provide the student with skills in project management and critical thinking which will enable him/her to be suitable for leadership positions in the field.
Your decision should be based on your objectives; if you want to start working as soon as possible or if you have future plans to grow within the cybersecurity field. Both degrees can help you to get a good job you want, but knowing the differences will assist you in making the right choice for yourself.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 64
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Cost Per Credit In State: $215
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $330
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
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Cost Per Credit In State: $265
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $480 - $540
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
It is important to set an educated path when deciding between an online master’s and doctorate degrees in cybersecurity programs in Illinois. An online cybersecurity Master’s degree focuses on the enhancement of knowledge and skills to the advanced level. It builds on your understanding to enable you to assume management positions in cybersecurity, covering areas such as risk management, security architecture and compliance. The programs can be completed within a time frame of one to two years and hence are a good choice for those who are in a hurry to enhance their learning.
In contrast, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree, such as a Ph. D. engages in research and theory. This path is suitable for the selfless, who want to add their input into the society through contribution of new knowledge or who want to teach at the university level. Doctorate programs are quite extensive, and it may be necessary to spend several years completing the course work in addition to writing a dissertation that presents the research.
Both the degrees can be done online which gives a lot of convenience to the students especially the working ones. Illinois institutions provide quality programs that can help you achieve your career objectives. For instance, if you want to supervise teams or direct the overall security strategies, a master’s may be enough. However, if you have the passion of becoming a thought leader or an educator in cybersecurity, then a doctorate will lead you to that goal. Think about your plans for the future and then choose the best option that will help you to achieve your dreams.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 36
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Cost Per Credit In State: $445
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $740
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $510
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,000
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in other ways to get into an online cybersecurity program in Illinois, then consider professional certifications and online cybersecurity boot camps. Some of the certification that can be obtained include CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) which helps in building skills and can be completed within a few months. These can go a long way in boosting your resume.
Boot camps are also another good choice. They provide practical experience and training in a short time, usually few ranging weeks from to a a few months. Some are meant to prepare you for the job market immediately.
Furthermore, community colleges in Illinois can provide for online courses or associate degrees which can be transferred to a bachelor’s program. Other online learning platforms include Coursera and LinkedIn Learning which offer cybersecurity courses so that you can learn at your own time. These pathways make it simpler to find a spot in the cybersecurity industry.