Online Cybersecurity Programs In California
California stands at the forefront of the nation’s cybersecurity landscape, making it an ideal location for pursuing an online cybersecurity degree. Home to Silicon Valley’s tech giants, major defense contractors like Northrop Grumman and Raytheon, and countless startups driving innovation in digital security, the Golden State offers unparalleled opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. With cyber threats targeting everything from Hollywood studios’ intellectual property to the state’s critical infrastructure and massive healthcare networks, California’s demand for skilled cybersecurity experts continues to surge. The state’s robust regulatory environment, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and stringent data protection requirements, has created a thriving job market where cybersecurity graduates can immediately apply their skills.
California’s accredited universities and colleges offer comprehensive online cybersecurity degree programs at a variety of degree levels, providing foundational and advanced knowledge in areas like network security and ethical hacking, digital forensics, risk management, security architecture, cyber policy, advanced threat analysis, and more. Online cybersecurity boot camps are also popular pathways. Many of these programs are specifically designed to align with California’s unique cybersecurity ecosystem, incorporating case studies from major data breaches affecting California companies, state-specific compliance requirements, and emerging technologies being developed in the state’s innovation hubs. Students benefit from faculty who often work directly with California-based tech companies, government agencies, and cybersecurity firms, providing real-world insights into the challenges facing organizations from San Francisco to San Diego.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in California
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - sandiego.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of San Diego's online Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership is a 20-month program designed for working professionals seeking to advance into strategic leadership roles. This 100% online program combines advanced technical cybersecurity skills with essential leadership training, requiring no GRE or GMAT for admission. With a competitive tuition of $29,850 for 30 units ($995 per unit), students take two seven-week courses per semester. Graduates are prepared for high-paying positions, with average salaries ranging from $95,000 to $158,000, making it an accessible and impactful choice for career advancement in cybersecurity.
- 100% online, designed for working professionals
- Total tuition: $29,850 for 30 units
- No GRE or GMAT required for admission
Graduate Certificate - Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering
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The University of San Diego offers an online Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering, a 20-month program focused on equipping professionals with advanced engineering skills to tackle complex cyber threats. This program provides flexible online and on-campus options, requires 30 units at $1,290 per unit (total $38,700), and has no GRE or GMAT requirement. It includes hands-on training, a capstone project, and Cybersecurity Sandbox exercises, and is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence. With priority application deadlines and multiple start dates, it's ideal for technology practitioners aiming to mitigate advanced persistent threats in various sectors.
- 20-month master's degree program
- Online and on-campus options
- 30 total units required
- $1,290 per unit cost
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Priority application deadline March 7
- Next term starts May 6
- Designated National Center of Academic Excellence
- Capstone project included
- Cybersecurity Sandbox training
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA - Public 4-Year - sjsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity: Core Technologies (Computer Science)
Online Learning - Visit Website
San José State University's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity: Core Technologies provides a focused 9-unit curriculum in computer security, cryptography, and information assurance. This graduate-level program, offered by the Computer Science Department, equips technology professionals with advanced digital defense strategies aligned with national standards. It prepares graduates for high-demand roles in cybersecurity and software engineering without requiring an entrance exam, emphasizing practical skills for diverse industries.
- 9-unit graduate certificate
- Computer Science Department offered
- Advanced cybersecurity knowledge
- Aligns with national standards
- Topics include cryptography
- Valuable for computer engineers
- Prepares for information security roles
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate - Secure Software Engineering
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San Jose State University's online Graduate Certificate in Secure Software Engineering delivers advanced training in secure engineering principles to address complex cybersecurity challenges. This graduate program focuses on developing robust expertise for protecting digital infrastructure, ideal for professionals in technology and security sectors. No entrance exam is required, and it covers emerging cyber threats through comprehensive modules, enhancing capabilities for roles in software engineering and digital defense.
- Multiple Cybersecurity Certificate Options
- Graduate-Level Cybersecurity Programs
- Specialized Technology Focus
- Core Technologies Certificate
- Computer Science and Engineering Tracks
- Secure Software Engineering Certificate
- Secure Test Engineering Certificate
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate - Secure Test Engineering
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San Jose State University's online Graduate Certificate in Secure Test Engineering builds advanced technical skills for the evolving digital security field. This graduate-level certificate emphasizes strategic insights and industry-recognized expertise in cybersecurity technologies, training graduates to protect complex infrastructures against threats. No entrance exam is needed, and the program fosters critical problem-solving abilities, preparing professionals for roles in test engineering and security management.
- Multiple Cybersecurity Certificate Options
- Graduate-Level Cybersecurity Certificates
- Computer Science and Engineering Focus
- Core Technologies Certificate Available
- Secure Software Engineering Certificate
- Secure Test Engineering Certificate
University of California-Davis
Davis, CA - Public 4-Year - ucdavis.edu
Graduate Certificate - SWEEPS Secure Programming Training
Concentration: Secure Programming - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of California-Davis offers an online SWEEPS Secure Programming Training program, focusing specifically on secure programming. This NSA-funded program provides flexible learning through virtual workshops and advanced certificate tracks, targeting software engineers, IT professionals, and educators. Participants gain skills in secure programming techniques and data security standards, with durations ranging from 8 hours to one academic year. No entrance exam is required, and the program is entirely online, featuring options like a 45-hour intermediate course and a 12-credit certificate. It is military-friendly and supported by multiple universities.
- NSA-funded scholarship available
- Online and virtual classroom options
- 4 program levels: Workshop, Course, Summer Camp, Certificate
- Duration varies: 8 hours to 1 academic year
- Targeting early to advanced career professionals
- Learn secure programming techniques
- Focuses on reducing cybersecurity vulnerabilities
- Intermediate course is 45 hours
- Certificate is 12 semester credits
- Supported by multiple universities and organizations
Graduate Certificate - SWEEPS Secure Programming Training
Concentration: Advanced Secure Programming - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of California-Davis provides an online SWEEPS Secure Programming Training program with a concentration in advanced secure programming. Designed for mid-senior level professionals, this certificate program covers vulnerability reduction, compliance, and defense mechanisms over approximately one academic year, totaling 12 semester credits. No entrance exam is required, and the program is delivered in a flexible online format, including virtual classrooms. It is NSA-funded, military-friendly, and aims to enhance career opportunities in the growing cybersecurity field, with an industry-informed curriculum for all career stages.
- NSA-funded scholarship available
- Online flexible learning
- Advanced level certificate
- 1 academic year duration
- Approximately 12 semester credits
- Training for all career stages
- Focuses on secure programming
- Industry-informed curriculum
- Virtual classroom format
- Cybersecurity job market growth
National University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity is an online program that prepares professionals for securing digital infrastructures through advanced technical and managerial skills. It features flexible online learning with four specialization tracks and a 24-month average completion time. As an NSA Center of Academic Excellence, it offers a $0 application fee with no essays or exams required for admission. The program includes quarterly 4-week courses, allows up to 13.5 transfer credits, and is veteran-friendly, focusing on high-demand roles with competitive salary prospects.
- Online and hybrid options
- 24-month average completion time
- $0 application fee
- No essays or exams required
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence
- Four specialization tracks
- Quarterly 4-week course format
- 58.5 graduate units required
- 13.5 transfer credit allowance
- Veteran-friendly institution
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Enterprise Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity with an Enterprise Cybersecurity Management concentration trains professionals to protect critical infrastructure through network and cloud security, plus organizational risk management. The program requires an interview for admission but no specified entrance exam. It offers year-round enrollment with flexible 4-week courses, covering legal and regulatory requirements and practical project components. Designed for working professionals, it includes 13 courses (9 foundation and 4 specialization) to develop comprehensive cybersecurity strategies and robust security protocols.
- Year-round enrollment available
- 4-week course format
- Enterprise Cybersecurity Management specialization
- Network and cloud security focus
- Interview required for admission
- Covers legal and regulatory requirements
- 13 total courses (9 foundation, 4 specialization)
- Practical cybersecurity project components
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Concentration: Ethical Hacking and Pen Testing - Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity with an Ethical Hacking and Pen Testing concentration is an online program that transforms professionals into experts through advanced training in ethical hacking, network security, cloud security, and digital forensics. It has no application fee and no essays or exams required for admission. The program, which takes about 24 months to complete, offers online and hybrid options with four specialization tracks and a quarter-based structure featuring four-week courses. As an NSA Center of Academic Excellence, it prepares graduates for high-demand cybersecurity roles.
- Online and hybrid options
- Finish in 24 months
- No application fee
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence
- Four specialization tracks
- Total 58.5 graduate units
- $0 application fee
- No essays or exams required
- Quarter-based academic structure
- Four-week course format
California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA - Public 4-Year - csusm.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-San Marcos offers an online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, designed as a degree-completion track for tech professionals and career changers with 60+ transferable units. This program provides cutting-edge skills to defend digital assets through a fully online format, completable in five semesters at $530 per unit, with potential military discounts. It includes real-world capstone projects and may offer credit for prior tech certifications. As a bachelor's program, it does not explicitly require ACT or SAT exams for admission, focusing on flexible entry for qualified candidates.
- 100% Online, Complete in 5 Semesters
- Real-world Capstone Project Experience
- Credit for Prior Tech Certifications
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-San Marcos delivers a fully online Master of Science in Cybersecurity tailored for working professionals aspiring to leadership roles. This Professional Science Master's program integrates advanced technical cybersecurity training with business management insights, preparing graduates to counter sophisticated digital threats. As an NSA and DHS designated Center of Academic Excellence, it emphasizes real-world capstone project experience. Priced at $875 per unit with no thesis requirement, completion is possible in five semesters. Admission requires an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field; no entrance exam is specified.
- 100% Online, Designed for Working Professionals
- NSA and DHS Designated Center of Academic Excellence
- Real-World Capstone Project Experience
Graduate Certificate - Cybersecurity Technologies Certificate
Concentration: Technologies - Online Learning - Visit Website
California State University-San Marcos provides a fully online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Technologies, concentrating on technologies for tech professionals seeking specialized knowledge. Covering operating system security, network protection, secure software development, and cryptography, this graduate-level program requires no GRE and costs approximately $10,725. With 13 units, cohorts begin in fall, and credits can apply toward a Master of Cybersecurity. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and two letters of recommendation, making it a strategic step for career advancement without an entrance exam.
- Fully online program
- No GRE required
- Total cost $10,725
- 13 total program units
- Graduate-level courses
- Cohorts begin fall semester
- Can apply to master's degree
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Two letters of recommendation
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
California Baptist University's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is a 16-month, 48-unit program with flexible start dates every 8 weeks. It prepares students for tech careers by teaching critical IT skills to protect networks and systems, aligning with NSA and Department of Homeland Security standards. CompTIA certifications are integrated into the curriculum, enhancing job readiness. Priced at $520 per unit, this program is military-friendly and does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams, making it accessible for diverse learners seeking an online education in cybersecurity.
- NSA and DHS recognized cybersecurity curriculum
- CompTIA certification pathways integrated
- Fully online, flexible 16-month program
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA - Public 4-Year - csudh.edu
Graduate Certificate - Cyber Security Fundamentals Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Dominguez Hills offers a Cyber Security Fundamentals Certificate in a hybrid online/on-campus format, ideal for career changers and tech enthusiasts. This program focuses on essential cybersecurity skills through three fundamental courses completed in under five months, with convenient Friday evening classes for working adults. At a total cost of $4,338, it requires no strict prerequisites or entrance exams and awards a digital certificate. Successful completion can serve as a pathway to the university's Master of Science in Cyber Security program, making it an accessible option for foundational cybersecurity education.
- Less than 5 months long
- Hybrid online/on-campus format
- Total cost $4,338
- Convenient Friday evening classes
- No strict prerequisites
- Preparatory courses for MS program
- Digital certificate awarded
- Three fundamental cyber courses
- Suitable for working adults
- Technical skills development
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Massachusetts Global's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity provides a comprehensive education tailored for working professionals, focusing on protecting digital infrastructure through risk management, network defense, and security policy development. This 100% online program offers flexible coursework at approximately $500 per credit, requiring a high school diploma or equivalent for admission, with transfer students needing a minimum 2.0 GPA. The curriculum blends theoretical and practical training led by IT experts, preparing graduates for diverse cybersecurity careers. Note that entrance exams like ACT or SAT are not mentioned as required, and the program is military-friendly.
- 100% online, flexible coursework for working professionals
- Industry-relevant curriculum taught by IT experts
- Diverse cybersecurity career preparation
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in California
Online associate degrees in cybersecurity in California typically serve as an entry point into the field, offering a focused two-year curriculum that covers fundamental concepts like network security, basic ethical hacking, and incident response. These programs are particularly popular among students looking to quickly enter California’s competitive job market, often leading to positions such as security technician, IT support specialist, or junior security analyst at the state’s numerous tech companies, healthcare systems, or government agencies. California community colleges like those in the extensive California Community Colleges system offer these programs at significantly lower costs than four-year institutions, making them an attractive option for career changers or those seeking to establish foundational credentials before advancing their education.
Bachelor’s degrees in cybersecurity provide a more comprehensive four-year education that delves deeper into advanced topics such as digital forensics, security architecture, risk management, and compliance frameworks like those required by California’s strict data protection laws. These programs often include specialized coursework relevant to California’s unique landscape, such as entertainment industry security (protecting intellectual property in Hollywood), financial services security (serving the state’s major banking centers), or critical infrastructure protection. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees are better positioned for mid-level roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, or cybersecurity consultant, and typically command higher starting salaries in California’s high-cost-of-living markets.
While associate degree holders can enter the workforce more quickly and at lower educational costs, bachelor’s degree graduates generally have access to more advanced career opportunities and higher earning potential in California’s competitive cybersecurity market. Many professionals start with an associate degree to gain immediate employment and practical experience, then pursue a bachelor’s degree while working, taking advantage of California employers’ tuition reimbursement programs and the state’s robust online education infrastructure.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 70
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Cost Per Credit In State: $200 - $500
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $300 - $600
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120 - 130
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Cost Per Credit In State: $300 - $600
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $500 - $1,00d0
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
Online master’s degrees in cybersecurity in California are designed for working professionals seeking to advance into leadership and specialized roles within the state’s dynamic tech ecosystem. These programs typically focus on strategic cybersecurity management, advanced threat intelligence, and compliance with California-specific regulations like the CCPA and SB-327 (IoT security law). California universities often structure these programs to accommodate the demanding schedules of professionals working at major tech companies, defense contractors, or state agencies, with evening and weekend coursework options. Master’s graduates are well-positioned for roles such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Security Architect, Compliance Manager, or Penetration Testing Lead at companies ranging from Silicon Valley startups to established corporations.
Online Ph.D. programs in cybersecurity in California are research-intensive degrees that prepare graduates for the highest levels of the field, including executive leadership, academic positions, and cutting-edge research roles. These programs often focus on emerging areas crucial to California’s innovation economy, such as AI security, quantum cryptography, or securing autonomous vehicles being developed by companies like Tesla and Waymo. Given California’s position as a global leader in cybersecurity research and development, Ph.D. graduates frequently collaborate with national laboratories like Lawrence Livermore, tech giants’ research divisions, or contribute to policy development at the state level. Cybersecurity career opportunities at this level include Chief Technology Officer (CTO), University Professor, or Senior Research Scientist at organizations such as the RAND Corporation, Stanford Research Institute, or major defense contractors.
While master’s degree holders can advance to senior management positions and specialized technical roles within 3-7 years of experience, Ph.D. graduates are uniquely qualified for the most senior executive positions, research leadership roles, and academic careers. In California’s competitive market, Ph.D. holders often command significantly higher salaries and have access to exclusive opportunities in strategic consulting, government advisory roles, and leading cybersecurity innovation at the state’s world-renowned research institutions and technology companies.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 36
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Cost Per Credit In State: $500 - $1,200
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,000 - $1,800
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 90
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Cost Per Credit In State: $600 - $1,000
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,000 - $2,500
Other Degree Pathways
If you are looking for an alternative path to a cybersecurity degree in California, you have several options. Some schools provide one-year online cybersecurity graduate certificates to those who already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, which can help you learn the basics of the field without having to attend a whole degree program. There are also online cybersecurity boot camps, which train you with practical skills and help you get a job quickly. Those who want to demonstrate expertise in niche areas of the industry, cybersecurity certifications can enhance existing qualifications.