Online Cybersecurity Programs In Kansas
When considering the online cybersecurity programs in Kansas it is crucial to know the differences between an associate’s and a bachelor’s degree. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree will take about two years to complete. It emphasizes basic to intermediate level subjects such as cybersecurity concepts, network security, and programming. This degree is suitable for those who want to work as soon as possible and can get positions like IT technician or entry-level cybersecurity analyst.
On the other hand, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree may take four years to complete and provides a more comprehensive learning experience. They learn about topics that include ethical hacking, digital forensics, and cybersecurity management. This degree provides an avenue for employment in higher positions such as the cybersecurity engineer or chief information security officer. Also, the bachelor’s programs tend to focus on skills that are important for career progression including critical thinking, project management and leadership.
Kansas has several reputed institutions which provide both the degrees and can be pursued online which makes it easier for working people to attend school. When choosing between the two, think about what you would like to achieve in your career, how much time you can give, and how much knowledge do you want to gain. Both degrees can result in good careers in cybersecurity and knowing the differences will assist in making the right decision.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in Kansas
Friends University
Wichita, KS - Private 4-year - friends.edu
Bachelor's - Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Friends University's Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security is a hybrid program, unique as the only private institution offering in Kansas. It prepares students for high-demand roles like information security analyst, with projected 35% job growth by 2031 and median salaries over $100,000. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on training using state-of-the-art cyber defense resources. As a bachelor's program, it does not specify ACT or SAT requirements, and the hybrid model combines online and in-person learning for flexibility.
- Only private Cyber Security BS in Kansas
- Hybrid learning with hands-on training
- Industry-recognized certification preparation
Master's - Master of Science in Cyber Security
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Friends University's Master of Science in Cyber Security is a 40-credit hour hybrid program designed for working professionals, combining online flexibility with in-person components. It emphasizes advanced leadership skills in information security, covering network security, digital forensics, cloud computing, and cyber law. A comprehensive capstone project provides practical experience. As a master's program, it does not specify an entrance exam requirement, and its hybrid format allows for adaptable scheduling to fit diverse professional backgrounds.
- Fully online and hybrid learning options
- 40-credit comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum
- Focuses on practical leadership skills
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Cyber Security - Online Learning - Visit Website
Friends University's MBA with a Cybersecurity concentration is an online program ranked #19 nationally, focusing on identifying vulnerabilities, developing security policies, and managing cyber risks. It equips professionals with practical skills in risk analysis and strategic security management for career advancement. As a master's program, it does not specify an entrance exam requirement, and the fully online delivery offers convenience for working adults in a technology-driven business environment.
- Develop practical security risk management skills
- Learn cyber policy and vulnerability mitigation strategies
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Change Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Friends University's MBA with a Cybersecurity concentration is an online program that ranks #19 nationally, focusing on combating digital threats through security risk analysis, legal considerations, and policy development. It targets mid-career professionals and aspiring tech leaders to enhance organizational digital resilience and protect information assets. As a master's program, it does not specify an entrance exam requirement, and the online format supports flexible learning for busy schedules.
- Practical tools for identifying digital vulnerabilities
- Legal and ethical cybersecurity policy development
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Health Care Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Friends University's MBA with a Cybersecurity concentration is an online program designed to equip professionals with skills in identifying and mitigating digital threats, including security risk analysis, legal and ethical aspects, and cyber protection policy development. It aims to boost technological and managerial expertise in digital business landscapes. As a master's program, it does not specify an entrance exam requirement, and the fully online structure accommodates professionals seeking advancement without campus visits.
- Learn cyber threat identification and mitigation.
- Develop practical security policy skills.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Kansas offers a fully online Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Cybersecurity, requiring 120 credit hours and designed for students with an associate's degree. This program emphasizes practical skills in network security, cyber defense, and information systems, with a curriculum aligned to industry demands. It includes a 3-credit capstone course and cybersecurity electives, supporting career growth in Kansas City's tech sector. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for bachelor's programs, and the program is delivered online through the Edwards Campus, catering to working professionals.
- Fully online bachelor's degree
- 120 total credit hours required
- Designed for associate degree holders
- 30 applied cybersecurity core credits
- 6 cybersecurity elective credits
- Application deadline: December 15
- Requires 60 prior credit hours
- Online courses at Edwards Campus
- Supports career growth in tech
- 3-credit capstone course
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity is designed for professionals advancing their digital defense expertise. As a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense accredited by NSA and DHS, this program prepares students for nine industry-leading certifications. The 30-credit hour curriculum covers comprehensive cybersecurity topics through flexible online learning. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, two recommendations, and a personal statement; no entrance exam is specified as required. This military-friendly program offers both online and on-campus options to accommodate working professionals.
- NSA and DHS accredited cybersecurity program
- Prepare for 9 industry-leading certifications
- Flexible online and on-campus learning
Ottawa University-Online
Overland Park, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University's online Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Cybersecurity provides professionals with advanced skills to safeguard digital assets in complex business environments. This graduate-level program focuses on managerial cybersecurity, teaching frameworks, risk analysis, and data governance aligned with privacy regulations. The curriculum includes network security, incident response, and emerging technologies, enhanced by hands-on Cyber Range Simulator training. Designed for working professionals, it features flexible 8-week accelerated terms and does not require an entrance exam. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, it includes a practicum and prepares for career advancement in cybersecurity management.
- Online Graduate Certificate
- Cyber Range Simulator training
- Managerial cybersecurity focus
- 8-week accelerated terms
- Higher Learning Commission accredited
- Career growth potential
- Multiple cybersecurity courses
- Practicum requirement
- Prerequisites for MBA courses
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Kansas
It is useful to look at the online cybersecurity programs in Kansas and a the bachelor’s differences degree between to an shape associate one’s and career. An associate’s degree will take two years of study and will help the student gain knowledge on areas such as network security, system administration and basic cybersecurity concepts. This option is suitable for those who are looking to join the workforce immediately afterwards, it yields positions such as IT support or cybersecurity technician.
On the other hand, a bachelor’s degree is more a advanced course which usually takes four years to complete and delves deeper into the subject matter. They learn about ethical hacking, digital forensics and cybersecurity policies in order to become a cybersecurity analyst or security manager, for instance. A bachelor’s degree also focuses on developing problem solving skills and leadership skills which are advantageous for those who plan to work in senior level positions.
There are several reputed universities in Kansas which provide online courses in both the degrees that is associate as well as bachelor’s degree, which makes education convenient for the students. When deciding which of the two is better, think about what you would like to achieve in your career. Although both degrees can result in good careers, knowing the differences assist you in making the right decision when it comes to your education; you are able to pick the right path that will help you in the future when practicing cybersecurity.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60
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Cost Per Credit In State: $73
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $163
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
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Cost Per Credit In State: $181
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $530
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
It is crucial to look at the online cybersecurity programs in Kansas when deciding between master’s and doctorate degrees. Both have their advantages and are suitable for various objectives. An online cybersecurity master’s degree focuses on specific skills and it ready the student for positions of security analyst or security architect among others. This program can be completed in a period of about two years. It is a good choice for those who want to advance in their careers within a short time.
However, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree goes a step further to provide more depth in research and theory. This path is longer and may take four to six years and is recommended for those with vision of taking leadership roles or even going to teach in a university. If you want to contribute to the advancement of the field of cybersecurity as a researcher or an educator, then one should pursue a PhD.
In Kansas, most of these institutions have their programs delivered online to enable students to study while they work. It is therefore important to consider factors such as curriculum, faculty expertise and networking opportunities when comparing one school to another. It is also important to consider where you would like to be in the future. A master’s degree will help you get a better job, while a doctorate will help you get a better job ten years from now. In the long run, the decision you make should be in a way that will be most suitable for you and your schedule and goals. Both of the degrees can provide you with a good employment opportunity in the field of cybersecurity which is still growing rapidly.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 33
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Cost Per Credit In State: $636
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $820
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $607
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,175
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in other ways to get into an online cybersecurity program in Kansas, there are several possibilities. Community colleges are one of the best as they offer associate degrees or online cybersecurity certificates which help the student gain the required knowledge in a short time. These programs are especially effective in that they concentrate on practical skills that students learn in class. Online cybersecurity Bootcamps are also another option, and these are short-term training that can be completed within a few months.
They place you in the middle of practical training and can therefore get you into the labor market within a short time. Furthermore, there are many online platforms that provide courses which are flexible and can be taken at one’s own pace. These can be a good way to learn particular skills, for instance, ethical hacking or network security. It is also possible to complement your learning by connecting with local professionals and attending workshops. Learn more about these options to choose the right direction for your cybersecurity career.