Online Cybersecurity Programs In Maine
If you are interested in searching for online cybersecurity programs in Maine, then you have some great options to choose from. Several universities provide convenient online degree programs to suit the various needs of learners. Some of the degree programs include associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees to suit your schedule.
An online cybersecurity associate degree can be a good starting point and can be completed in a relatively short time, usually about 2 years. Some of the topics that it addresses include network security and cyber threats. While a bachelor’s degree offers a broader education, it goes into more details, learning about topics such as ethical hacking and information assurance for instance. This degree will be useful if you have you intentions of pursuing the middle management positions.
If you want to further your education, an online cybersecurity master’s degree provides more in-depth knowledge and expertise, including leadership skills, to help you to take on management positions in cybersecurity. Most of these programs also focus on practical skills where you get to work on practical projects.
Besides degree programs, there are online cybersecurity certification courses. These can help you to develop and broaden your skills and therefore increase your employability. Online cybersecurity studies in Maine are a way of getting a quality education that will help you to build a successful career in this field.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in Maine
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu
Master's - Cybersecurity, M.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Southern Maine's online M.S. in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit program delivered jointly with the University of Maine at Augusta, designed for professionals advancing in digital security. It offers thesis or capstone tracks for research or career-focused paths, covering network security, cyber laws, and investigative techniques. No entrance exam is required for this master's program, and it is military-friendly, providing flexibility for working adults to tackle evolving cybersecurity threats.
- Online master's degree in cutting-edge cybersecurity field
- Flexible thesis or capstone project options
- 30-credit comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity, Certificate of Graduate Study
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Southern Maine's Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity is a 15-credit online program focusing on cybersecurity fundamentals, network security, and cyber laws. It includes 12 required and 3 elective credits, equipping students with skills to prevent attacks and defend systems. No entrance exam is needed, and this military-friendly certificate is ideal for tech-savvy individuals seeking rapid career advancement in information security through a flexible, fully online format.
- 15 total graduate credits
- Fully online program
- Jointly offered USM/UMA
- 12 credits required courses
- 3 credits elective options
- 4 required core courses
- 3 elective course choices
- Covers cybersecurity fundamentals
- Focuses on network security
- Includes cyber laws, ethics
University of New England
Biddeford, ME - Private 4-year - une.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New England's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity prepares professionals to bolster digital defense capabilities through an accelerated one-trimester full-time format. This program offers flexible online and on-campus options, with domestic students benefiting from Commonwealth Supported Places starting at $4,656. No entrance exam is required for admission, which only necessitates a bachelor's degree. Multiple annual start dates and part-time options up to two years make this accessible for IT professionals and career changers entering the high-demand cybersecurity field.
- 1 trimester full-time duration
- Online and on-campus options
- 4 units total
- Commonwealth Supported Places available
- Fees from $4,656 domestically
- Part-time up to 2 years
- Multiple start dates annually
- Entry requires bachelor's degree
- CRICOS code: 113713E
- International and domestic options
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity and Computing
Online Learning - Visit Website
UNE's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity and Computing provides a comprehensive pathway into cybersecurity, requiring no prior IT background. Students gain cutting-edge skills in computing and cyber defense, with flexible online and on-campus delivery. The program can be completed in one year full-time or up to four years part-time, featuring competitive pricing from $9,312 for Commonwealth Supported Places and FEE-HELP loan options. No entrance exam is required for admission, which is based on a bachelor's degree, and multiple start dates accommodate various schedules.
- 1-year full-time or 4-year part-time
- 8 units total (48 credit points)
- Bachelor's degree entry requirement
- Online and on-campus options
- Commonwealth Supported Place available
- Multiple start dates annually
- CRICOS code: 113714D
- No prior IT background needed
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Maine
When considering the differences between the associate and bachelor degrees in the online cybersecurity programs in Maine, it is crucial to know certain factors. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree is a two year program which is a good choice for those who are starting their career in this field. Some of the core areas that it covers include network security, system administration and basic cyber defense mechanisms. Graduates can easily get positions as help desk technician or junior security analyst after completion of the course.
However, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree, which lasts for about four years, provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the concepts of cybersecurity. This degree covers topics like risk management, digital forensics, incident response etc. They are ready for middle level positions like cybersecurity consultant or security architect and can even move to managerial positions.
All these degrees are offered online which allows the students to study at their own pace and convenience especially for the working class. If you wish to join the workforce as soon as possible then an associate’s degree would be suitable. But if you have plans for future career progression and higher salaries then a bachelor’s degree is the way to go. In the end, it is up to you to choose the direction that will help you meet your goals and achieve the desired position in the field of cybersecurity in the shortest possible time.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $220 - $275
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $600
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120 - 124
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $330
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $750
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
When deciding between the online master’s and doctorate degrees in cybersecurity programs in Maine, it is crucial to think about what you want to achieve in your career. An online cybersecurity master’s degree can be completed within 2 years and builds on the skills learned in the undergraduate program to provide advanced technical skills and management studies. It helps the students to get ready for positions such as cybersecurity manager or information security officer. This degree is perfect for those who wish to deepen their knowledge and skills in the field and be able to assume higher roles and responsibilities.
On the other hand, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree offers a more in-depth study on the research and theory aspect of the course which usually takes for four to six years. This program is recommended for those who want to make a mark in the field through research or even through teaching in academic institutions. If you have an interest in acquiring knowledge on cybersecurity policy or coming up with new technologies then a doctorate is the right choice.
Both the programs are available online which makes it convenient for the students to attend the classes. The master’s programs tend to focus on the real world implementation of the course while the doctorate programs tend to focus on theory and creative thinking. Think about how you see yourself in the future and then decide which one is better for you. For instance, if you plan to rise through the ranks and take on leadership positions in the near future then a master’s might suit you best. But if you have the goal of advancing the research or educating others in the field of cybersecurity then a doctorate will give you the right base. Every degree has its particular advantages and disadvantages depending on the future career.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $647
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,013
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 90
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $607
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,175
Other Degree Pathways
If you are interested in looking for other ways to get an online cybersecurity program in Maine there are a few possibilities. Community colleges provide associate degrees and certificate programs which give the students foundational knowledge in cybersecurity but in a shorter time. Such programs are relatively affordable and one can complete them within a short time and be employed.
Another opportunity is online cybersecurity boot camps which emphasize on practical knowledge on cybersecurity. These programs are usually concise and last for a few months and are cumulative.
Further, you can search for online courses on websites such as edX or LinkedIn Learning for self-paced courses. These courses enable you to gain knowledge on certain skills at your own time. It also helps to get involved in industry events or local meetups which will also help you in your learning process and may even help you find a job in the future.