Best Online Associate's Degree In Cybersecurity
Earning an online Associate’s Degree in Cybersecurity is a smart and accessible way to launch a career in one of today’s fastest-growing tech fields. In just two years or less, you’ll gain essential, hands-on knowledge in areas like network security, ethical hacking, risk management, and system administration. This foundational training prepares you for entry-level roles such as security analyst, IT support technician, or network administrator – positions that are in high demand across industries.
An associate’s degree also serves as a valuable stepping stone toward further education. Many programs are designed for easy transfer into a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or information technology, helping you build on your skills and qualify for more advanced roles and higher earning potential down the line.
Beyond technical training, these programs offer opportunities to connect with instructors and peers who are already immersed in the cybersecurity world. With flexible online learning, practical coursework, and clear career pathways, an associate’s degree in cybersecurity provides the tools and momentum you need to break into this critical and growing profession.
2026 Best Online Associate's in Cybersecurity Programs
Metropolitan Community College Area
Omaha, NE - Public 2-Year - mccneb.edu
Associate - Associate in Applied Science: Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan Community College's Cybersecurity Associate in Applied Science provides students with cutting-edge skills to manage digital risks in today's interconnected world. This comprehensive program prepares professionals to defend networks, implement robust security policies, and protect critical information assets. Students gain hands-on experience through practical training, learning to identify vulnerabilities, respond to threats, and develop secure infrastructure. Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security, the program offers valuable transfer pathways and prepares graduates for high-demand cybersecurity careers.
- Associate in Applied Science degree
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence
- Hands-on cybersecurity training
- Transfer pathways available
- Ethical Hacking Club
- Multiple student competition opportunities
- Career paths in security architecture
- Quarterly club meetings
- Network defense strategies
- Professional ethics focus
Associate - Associate in Applied Science: Cybersecurity
Concentration: Career Certificate: Ethical Hacking - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan Community College offers a dynamic Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Cybersecurity designed to equip students with critical skills for defending digital landscapes. The program provides comprehensive training in network security, risk management, and information protection, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in cybersecurity. Students learn practical skills through hands-on experiences, gaining expertise in defending against cyber threats, implementing security policies, and managing information assets. The program is recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year Education.
- Associate in Applied Science Degree
- NSA/DHS Designated Program
- Hands-on Cybersecurity Training
- Transfer Pathways Available
- Ethical Hacking Club
- Multiple Career Certificates
- Cyber Defense Specialization
Associate - Associate in Applied Science: Cybersecurity
Concentration: Career Certificate: Network Security - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan Community College's Cybersecurity program equips students with critical skills to manage digital risks in today's interconnected world. Students gain hands-on experience defending networks, implementing security policies, and protecting information assets. Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence by the NSA and DHS, the program offers a comprehensive Associate in Applied Science degree with transferable pathways to four-year universities. Graduates are prepared for exciting careers as security architects, analysts, and specialists in a rapidly growing field with strong job market potential.
- Associate in Applied Science degree
- NSA and DHS designated program
- Transfer pathways available
- Hands-on cybersecurity training
- Ethical Hacking Club opportunity
- Cybersecurity career certificates
- National cybersecurity competitions
Cosumnes River College
Sacramento, CA - Public 2-Year - crc.losrios.edu
Associate - Online Cybersecurity Certificate Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dive into the dynamic world of cybersecurity with a cutting-edge certificate program designed to launch your tech career. This intensive, fully online course prepares students for high-demand entry-level cybersecurity jobs in less than a year. With zero textbook costs and comprehensive training, you'll gain critical skills in risk assessment, threat identification, and system defense. Entry-level positions start at $40,000, with potential earnings ranging from $75,000 to over $100,000 annually. Perfect for IT professionals, career changers, and tech enthusiasts seeking rapid professional growth in a rapidly expanding field.
- 100% online instruction
- Eight total course modules
- Zero textbook cost
- Less than one year completion
- Entry-level jobs start $40k
- Cohort learning model
- First cohort begins June 2021
- Collaboration between colleges
- Veterans encouraged to enroll
- Pathway to advanced certifications
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Business in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's Associate of Applied Business in Cybersecurity offers a dynamic online pathway for aspiring tech professionals. This comprehensive two-year program equips students with cutting-edge skills in network security, cyber defense, and risk management. Designed for flexible learning, the program prepares graduates for entry-level IT security roles, with an affordable tuition ranging from $14,800-$15,400 for Ohio and non-Ohio residents. Students benefit from a robust curriculum covering ethical hacking, security policies, and incident management, making it an ideal launchpad for a high-demand career in cybersecurity.
- 100% online degree
- 60 total credit hours
- Graduate in 2 years
- Tuition $14,800-$15,400
- Open enrollment options
- Entry-level cybersecurity focus
- 12 major IT requirement courses
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Covers network security
- Ethical hacking curriculum
Eastern Iowa Community College District
Davenport, IA - Public 2-Year - eicc.edu
Associate - Networking for Systems and Security, AAS
Concentration: Networking for Systems and Security - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Iowa Community College District offers a dynamic Cybersecurity pathway designed for tech-savvy students seeking cutting-edge career opportunities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees in Networking and Cybersecurity, preparing for high-demand roles in protecting digital infrastructure. The program provides comprehensive training in network security, system protection, and industry-recognized certifications, enabling graduates to safeguard critical data across banking, healthcare, government, and retail sectors.
- Multiple cybersecurity tracks available
- Industry-recognized certifications
- Earn credits during high school
- Prepare for cybersecurity careers
- Technical skills in network protection
- AAS and Certificate options
- Learn Python programming
- TCP/IP networking fundamentals
- Windows systems training
- Hands-on security training
Moorpark College
Moorpark, CA - Public 2-Year - moorparkcollege.edu
Associate - Associate in Science: Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the cutting-edge world of cybersecurity with Moorpark College's dynamic Associate in Science program. Recognized by the National Security Agency as a National Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense, this rigorous degree transforms students into security professionals. Learn to protect networks through penetration testing, digital forensics, and strategic security planning. Students gain hands-on skills in network security, Windows and Linux systems, intruder detection, web protocols, and cloud security. Prepare for exciting careers as security analysts with comprehensive training that bridges theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
- NSA Recognized Cybersecurity Program
- Multiple Industry Certifications
- Comprehensive Network Security Training
- Online and Hybrid Course Formats
- Digital Forensics Specialization
- Cloud Security Curriculum
- Ethical Hacking Courses Available
- Internship Opportunities
- Total Major Units: 33-37
- Multiple Certification Exam Prep
Clovis Community College
Fresno, CA - Public 2-Year - cloviscollege.edu
Associate - Information Systems – Cyber Security – Certificate of Achievement
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Clovis Community College's online Cybersecurity Certificate of Achievement delivers intensive technical training for immediate workforce entry. This hybrid program emphasizes network protection, penetration testing, and cyber threat mitigation, preparing students for CompTIA certifications. Hands-on learning in computer forensics and security assessments equips graduates for roles as security analysts across business, government, and education sectors. The three-semester pathway requires 10-11 units, focusing on career-ready skills without requiring entrance exams.
- Certificate of Achievement program
- CompTIA certification preparation
- Network security focus
- Three-semester pathway
- 10-11 total program units
- Computer forensics included
- Hands-on technical training
- Career-ready skills
- Multiple course options
- Workforce entry preparation
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Lexington, KY - Public 2-Year - bluegrass.kctcs.edu
Associate - AAS in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Bluegrass Community and Technical College offers an online AAS in Cybersecurity, blending virtual coursework with some in-person requirements for a hybrid learning experience. This program prepares students for the rapidly expanding cybersecurity field, with information security analyst roles projected to grow 31% by 2029. It covers essential areas like hardware, software, user, and data security, equipping graduates to design and maintain secure systems across various industries. As an associate's degree program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. Students can also pursue multiple certificate options, enhancing their career readiness in defending against cyber threats.
- 31% Job Growth Projected
- Associates Degree Available
- Multiple Certificate Options
- Covers Hardware/Software Security
- Statewide Campus Locations
Forsyth Technical Community College
Winston-Salem, NC - Public 2-Year - forsythtech.edu
Associate - IT - Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the dynamic world of cybersecurity with Forsyth Tech's Associate in Applied Science degree. This comprehensive two-year program equips students with cutting-edge skills in cyber defense, forensic investigation, and network security. Designed for tech enthusiasts and career changers, the program provides flexible learning options including day, evening, and online classes. Students gain practical knowledge from an NSA and DHS-recognized center of excellence, preparing them for critical roles in defending digital infrastructures against evolving cyber threats.
- Associate in Applied Science
- Two-year program completion
- Day, evening, online classes
- NSA and DHS recognized
- Skills: cyber defense, forensics
- Career tracks: Cyber Specialist
- Cyber Analyst opportunities
- Forensic Investigator path
- Multiple semester curriculum
- Comprehensive technical courses
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, WI - Public 2-Year - nwtc.edu
Associate - Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College's Associate in Cybersecurity offers a cutting-edge pathway into the dynamic world of information technology protection. Students gain comprehensive skills in network security, cyber defense, and digital threat mitigation. The program prepares professionals to safeguard critical data across industries, with hands-on training in firewall administration, system analysis, and ethical hacking. With flexible online and campus delivery options, the program accommodates diverse learner needs. Total credits of 63 and multiple delivery formats make this an accessible and practical route into a high-demand technology career.
- Associate Degree in Cybersecurity
- 63 total credit program
- Multiple delivery formats
- Online and campus options
- 100% graduate employment
- 40% employment in field
- Day, evening, full-time options
- Vendor certification preparation
- Internship potential
- Career experience included
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN - Public 4-Year - usi.edu
Associate - Cybersecurity Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dive into the high-demand world of cybersecurity with USI's cutting-edge certificate program. Designed for tech enthusiasts and career changers, this 12-credit credential prepares you for critical roles in protecting digital infrastructures. Learn from industry-focused courses that build practical skills in network defense, security assessment, and risk management. Gain knowledge for certifications like CompTIA Security+ while exploring specialized cybersecurity career paths. Perfect for students and professionals seeking to enter this rapidly growing technology field with robust job prospects.
- 12 total credit hours
- Prepares for CompTIA Security+
- Multiple cybersecurity career paths
- Industry-relevant curriculum
- Network defense training
- Risk management focus
- Forensics and cyber assessment
Who Should Get a Cybersecurity Associate's Degree?
High School Students
If you are the type of person wanting to get into the tech field fast, then this degree will give you the basic skills that are needed. It is ideal for recent high school graduates who are interested in pursuing a challenging career without having to commit to a four year program.
Career Changers
A cybersecurity associate’s degree is suitable for career changers – people who want to move from other sectors to cybersecurity. If you have an interest in technology and want to be in the information security field, this degree will get you started.
Network Administrators
Anyone interested in hands-on jobs like security technicians or network administrators will benefit from this degree type. An associate degree offers the practical skills that are coveted by employers. If you want to begin your journey in the field of cybersecurity and need a good foundation, this can be a great pathway.
Admissions Requirements
Admission requirements for associate degrees in cybersecurity are fairly straightforward. Most colleges require:
- A high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED
- Minimum GPA, such as 3.0 or 3.5, may be required
- Some may require prerequisite courses such as math or computer science
- SAT or ACT scores may be required; however, more schools are now dropping this requirement
- Sometimes, a personal statement or essay that explains your interest in cybersecurity can help your application
- An interview or letters of recommendation may also be required
Finally, it is important to note that you should complete the application form and pay the required fees before the deadline. In general, the process was developed to enable you to verify that you are ready, as well as eager to begin your career in this rapidly growing field.
Online Associate's In Cybersecurity Curriculum
The common curriculum for a two-year associate’s degree in cybersecurity is intended to provide a solid theoretical and skills-based learning environment. General education and basic courses that introduce the nature of computer systems and networks are taken first. This is, in essence, the foundation upon which all other knowledge builds.
After that, you’ll move into cybersecurity fundamentals, and learn about risk management and security policies, including how to protect sensitive information. Ethical hacking and penetration testing are also usually covered, and you’ll be taught how to look for system vulnerabilities.
Labs with more hands-on perspectives are also often included, allowing you to work with security measures such as setting up firewalls. Some curricula may even include legal and ethical issues in cybersecurity.
In general, this curriculum provides comprehensive training for entry-level positions in the field.