Online Cybersecurity Programs In Colorado
Colorado has become one of the nation’s premier technology and cybersecurity hubs, with the Denver-Boulder corridor consistently ranking among the top markets for tech talent. From defense contractors and U.S. Space Command in Colorado Springs to aerospace giants like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace along the Front Range, the state’s diverse economy creates exceptional demand for cybersecurity professionals. Add Denver’s thriving financial sector, the growing startup ecosystem, and numerous federal installations, and Colorado offers unparalleled career opportunities for those protecting critical infrastructure and digital systems.
For Colorado residents seeking to enter or advance in cybersecurity, online degree programs provide an ideal pathway that doesn’t require relocating or leaving current employment. Whether you’re working full-time in Denver, balancing family responsibilities in Colorado Springs, or living in communities across the Western Slope or Eastern Plains, online programs deliver rigorous technical preparation on your schedule. Colorado’s high concentration of technology employers translates to abundant networking opportunities, internships, and direct employment pathways, which set the state apart from other markets.
This guide explores everything you need to know about pursuing online cybersecurity degrees in Colorado, from understanding program types and accreditation to evaluating career outcomes and choosing the right educational path. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, military veteran, or working professional seeking advancement, Colorado’s online cybersecurity programs offer accessible routes to rewarding careers in one of the fastest-growing fields in the state’s economy.
2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Programs in Colorado
University of Denver
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu
Master's - MS in Information and Communications Technology (Cybersecurity Management)
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Denver's online MS in Information and Communications Technology with a Cybersecurity Management concentration is a graduate-level program that does not require an entrance exam, such as the GRE or GMAT, as it is designed for working professionals. This 18-24 month program focuses on strategic leadership in cybersecurity, covering areas like regulatory compliance, ethical hacking, and networking. Recognized by the NSA and DHS as a Center for Academic Excellence, it offers flexible online study to prepare graduates for high-demand roles in cybersecurity management.
- NSA and DHS recognized academic excellence.
- Flexible 18-24 month full-time options.
- Comprehensive cybersecurity technical skills.
Master's - MS in Information and Communications Technology (Information Systems Security)
Concentration: Information Systems Security - Online Learning - Visit Website
For the online MS in Information and Communications Technology with an Information Systems Security concentration at the University of Denver, no entrance exam is required for this master's program. Spanning 18-24 months, it emphasizes advanced technical skills in digital defense, including ethical hacking and management techniques. As an NSA-recognized Center for Academic Excellence, the program provides comprehensive online learning to equip students for leadership and technical positions in cybersecurity.
- NSA-recognized cybersecurity master's program
- Flexible full-time options: 18-24 months
- Technical and strategic cybersecurity skills
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Denver's online Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Security is a graduate-level program that does not mandate an entrance exam. Completed in 6-9 months, it focuses on developing leadership and strategic skills for protecting digital infrastructures, with flexible online or evening options. Recognized by the NSA and DHS, this certificate prepares professionals for cybersecurity roles without the need for standardized testing.
- 6-9 months duration
- Online or evening options
- Leadership-focused cybersecurity training
- NSA and DHS recognized program
- Prepares for cybersecurity leadership roles
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Information Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Graduate Certificate in Information Security at the University of Denver is a graduate program that does not require an entrance exam. Lasting 6-9 months, it concentrates on cybersecurity management, governance, and strategic problem-solving through online or evening formats. As an NSA and DHS-recognized institution, it offers accessible training for advancing careers in cybersecurity leadership.
- Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management
- 6-9 months program length
- Online or evening campus options
- Leadership-focused cybersecurity training
- NSA and DHS recognized institution
- Prepares for cybersecurity leadership roles
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO - Public 4-Year - colostate.edu
Master's - Master of Computer Information Systems
Concentration: Cybersecurity - Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers an online Master of Computer Information Systems with a cybersecurity concentration, a 33-credit STEM-designated program that does not require an entrance exam. This flexible program can be completed in 18 months full-time or part-time, blending technical skills with business management. As an NSA Center of Academic Excellence, it provides validated cybersecurity training, leading to a 90% job placement rate and high-demand IT leadership roles. Start dates are in August and January, with options for online or on-campus study.
- STEM-designated master's degree
- Online and on-campus options
- 18-month full-time completion
- 33 total credit hours
- Cybersecurity certificate available
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence
- August and January start dates
- 90% job placement rate
Master's - Master of Computer Information Systems
Concentration: IT Project Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Computer Information Systems at Colorado State University-Fort Collins focuses on IT project management, requiring no entrance exam. This 33-credit STEM program emphasizes strategic business integration with technical expertise, completable in 18 months. It features NSA validation, AACSB accreditation, and a 90% job placement rate, preparing graduates for roles with median wages around $169,000. Flexible online and on-campus options are available with start dates in August and January.
- 33-credit STEM-designated degree
- Online and on-campus options
- 18 months full-time completion
- Cybersecurity certificate available
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence
- Start dates: August and January
- 90% job placement rate
- Median wage $169K for CIS managers
- AACSB-accredited program
- U.S. News #1 IT program in Colorado
Master's - Master of Computer Information Systems
Concentration: Business Intelligence - Online Learning - Visit Website
At Colorado State University-Fort Collins, the online Master of Computer Information Systems with a business intelligence concentration does not mandate an entrance exam. This 33-credit STEM program includes skills in Python and Power BI, can be finished in 18 months, and offers a cybersecurity certificate. With NSA-validated curriculum and AACSB accreditation, it boasts a 90% job placement rate, supporting careers in high-growth IT leadership through full-time or part-time online study starting in August or January.
- 33-credit STEM-designated program
- 18-month accelerated completion
- Online and on-campus options
- Cybersecurity certificate available
- NSA-validated cybersecurity curriculum
- 90% job placement rate
- Start dates: August and January
- Full-time or part-time options
- AACSB-accredited program
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University-Fort Collins provides an online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity with no entrance exam required. This 12-credit program, part of the College of Business, focuses on digital security and enterprise risk management, equipping professionals to handle IT vulnerabilities. Designed for working adults, it offers flexible, fully online coursework to advance careers in technology and risk sectors without a lengthy time commitment.
- 100% Online Certificate
- 12 Total Credit Hours
- College of Business Program
- Digital Security Focus
- Enterprise Risk Management
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity provides a 120-credit interdisciplinary education blending technical skills with business and communication practices for careers in various sectors. This program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission, unless stated otherwise. It emphasizes real-world experience with state-of-the-art security techniques, offering a comprehensive pathway without a specific concentration, and is military-friendly with flexible online delivery.
- Interdisciplinary cybersecurity training across technology and policy
- Real-world experience with state-of-the-art security techniques
- Comprehensive 120-credit degree preparing diverse professional pathways
Master's - Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's online Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security prepares students for high-demand roles through rigorous coursework in areas like network forensics and offensive security. This 36-credit program, offered in flexible online and on-campus formats with 8-week terms, can be completed in 12-36 months and is recognized by the NSA and DHS. It requires an entrance exam such as the GRE or GMAT for admission, unless explicitly waived. Designed for working professionals, it includes scholarship opportunities and prepares graduates for median salaries around $112,000 as information security analysts.
- 36 total credit hours
- Online and on-campus formats
- 8-week term structure
- Multiple start dates annually
- NSA and DHS recognized
- Two specialization options
- No application fee
- Dean's Scholarship available
- No recommendation letters required
- Projected 32% job growth
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Essentials
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis University's online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Essentials is a 12-credit program that can be completed in 6-12 months, covering core areas like risk management and computer forensics. It requires an entrance exam such as the GRE for admission, unless exempted, and is designed for working professionals with financial aid eligibility and credits transferable to a master's degree. This flexible, generalist-focused certificate aids career advancement in cybersecurity with a 3.0 GPA requirement.
- 12-credit online program
- 6-12 months completion time
- Flexible online learning
- Financial aid eligible
- Credits transfer to master's
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Four-year completion window
- Four core courses
- Minimum 'C' grade per course
- Cybersecurity generalist focus
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - uccs.edu
Master's - Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Concentration: Cybersecurity Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs offers an online MBA with a Cybersecurity Management concentration, tailored for professionals aiming to integrate business acumen with cybersecurity expertise. This program, available fully online, does not require an entrance exam like the GRE or GMAT, making it accessible. It focuses on developing skills in managing digital threats, governance, and enterprise security, with flexible options for students from diverse backgrounds. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in high-demand technology sectors, addressing critical workforce needs in cybersecurity management.
- MBA with Cybersecurity Management Track
- Online and on-campus options
- Flexible for various backgrounds
- Develops cybersecurity business skills
- Meets industry workforce needs
Master's - Masters in Business Administration (MBA) - Cybersecurity Management Track
Online Learning - Visit Website
At the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, the online MBA program emphasizes cybersecurity management, providing a 36-credit-hour curriculum that includes specialized courses in technologies and governance. This fully online program requires no entrance exam, such as the GRE or GMAT, and is designed to equip students with the knowledge to mitigate organizational cyber risks. Through core business and cybersecurity electives, it enhances career prospects in information security leadership, offering flexible learning options for professional advancement.
- 100% Online MBA Program
- Cybersecurity Management Emphasis
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- Four Specialized Cybersecurity Courses
- Flexible Course Options
- Professional Career Enhancement
- Technologies and Governance Focus
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 36-credit hybrid program that blends computer science, criminal justice, and business analytics to address the cybersecurity skills gap. It employs a sociotechnical approach, covering network security, forensics, and cyber laws, with flexible evening classes for working professionals. Resident tuition is $500 per credit hour, and admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. As a master's program, it may require an entrance exam like the GRE, though this is not explicitly stated. The program is partially online, offering a strategic path to high-demand careers.
- Multidisciplinary curriculum integrating technology and human behavior
- 36-credit program with flexible evening class options
- Strong industry demand and career opportunities
Master's - Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity as a hybrid program, emphasizing a multidisciplinary curriculum from criminal justice, computer sciences, and information systems. This 36-credit program prepares students for technical and management roles without requiring a technical background, featuring flexible evening options. Admission is competitive, needing a bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA; an entrance exam such as the GRE might be required but is not specified. Partially online, it focuses on cyberlaws, risk management, and forensics to meet industry demands.
- Multidisciplinary approach combining technology and human behavior
- 36-credit program with flexible evening class options
- No technical background required for admission
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - Private 4-year - ccu.edu
Bachelor's - Cyber Security, B.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is a 120-credit program blending technical training with Christian ethics to prepare students for high-demand tech careers. It includes preparation for industry certifications like CISSP and features small class sizes with direct professor access. As a bachelor's level program, it may require ACT or SAT entrance exams, though this is not explicitly stated. The online format supports working professionals, and the university is military-friendly with generous transfer credit policies.
- 100% online cybersecurity bachelor's degree
- CISSP certification preparation pathway
- Biblical perspective integrated with technical training
Master's - Master of Science in Cyber Security
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit program that can be completed in 15 months, designed for professionals seeking advanced digital defense skills. It focuses on strategic knowledge and technical expertise to combat sophisticated cyber threats, with 10 specialized courses offered entirely online. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and may consider relevant work experience or certifications; no entrance exam is explicitly mentioned as required. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is military-friendly, providing flexible learning for working adults.
- 100% online, complete in 15 months
- 10 specialized cybersecurity courses
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
Red Rocks Community College
Lakewood, CO - Public 4-Year - rrcc.edu
Bachelor's - Cyber Security BAS Degree
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Red Rocks Community College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity as a hybrid program, blending online and in-person elements for flexibility. This 120-credit degree focuses on practical skills in network security, digital forensics, cyber operations, and threat intelligence, preparing graduates to address modern cyber threats. As a bachelor's-level program, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and industry relevance, with no specific concentration noted.
- 120-credit comprehensive cybersecurity degree
- Flexible learning formats: online, hybrid, traditional
- Advanced courses in digital forensics, cyber defense
Colorado State University Global
Aurora, CO - Public 4-Year - csuglobal.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado State University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity that provides a flexible, accelerated path to a high-demand career. This 100% online program features 8-week courses, allowing students to transfer up to 90 credits and prepare for industry certifications without out-of-state tuition fees. At $375 per credit, it is an affordable option, with no ACT or SAT entrance exam required. The curriculum is designed to align with industry needs, targeting roles in information protection that are projected to grow 35% by 2031, with median salaries over $102,000.
- 100% online, flexible 8-week courses
- Prepare for key industry certifications
- No out-of-state tuition, transfer-friendly
Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - pikespeak.edu
Bachelor's - Cybersecurity
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Pikes Peak State College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity as a hybrid program, blending online and in-person elements to prepare students for advanced digital defense roles in Colorado Springs. The curriculum focuses on network security, ethical hacking, and digital forensics through real-world simulations and partnerships with the National Cybersecurity Center. As a bachelor's program, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam. This training addresses high-demand career opportunities by equipping graduates with skills to protect digital assets across various sectors.
- Advanced cybersecurity training in Colorado Springs hub
- Partnerships with National Cybersecurity Center
- Prepares students for high-level cyber defense roles
Comparing Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees in Colorado
It is important to consider the differences between undergraduate online cybersecurity degrees in order to make an informed decision. An online cybersecurity associate’s degree will take about two years to complete and the focus will be on core skills that are necessary for cybersecurity. Some of the topics you will cover include network security, ethical hacking, and database management, among others. This degree is suitable for those would like to enter the workforce quickly and can lead to entry-level positions such as IT technician or cybersecurity support specialist.
For those with a little more time, the online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree takes about four years and will afford the student with more detailed learning. Topics that are discussed in detail include digital forensics, risk management, and security architecture. Graduates of this traditional degree pathway are often employed in positions that include cybersecurity analyst or security engineer, which usually come with higher salaries and more responsibilities.
Both of these degrees can be pursued in online programs and are thus suitable for busy students and working professionals in Colorado. The choice between undergraduate pathways depends on your personal career goals, what kind of time commitment you are able to give, and what kind of educational trajectory you are anticipating.
Associate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 65
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $164 - $280
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $674 - $700
Bachelor's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 120
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $412 - $500
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $700 - $1,000
Comparing Graduate Degrees: Master's and Ph.D.
For those who wish to embark on a graduate degree in cybersecurity, Colorado has options. An online cybersecurity Master’s degree can be completed within 2 years and covers topics that are more advanced in nature such as network security, risk management, and incident handling. This degree is suitable for those working professionals who are interested in advancing their knowledge and experience and break into management positions like cybersecurity manager or cybersecurity consultant.
Alternatively, an online cybersecurity doctorate degree is the highest degree level you can achieve in this field. It usually takes three to five years to complete and is suitable for those who want to engage in research or teach in a university. Ph.D. doctoral programs entail extensive research on Cybersecurity theory and principles, and the program culminates in a dissertation that adds knowledge to the field. Doctoral grads can work as university professors, researchers, or at high leadership levels within a company.
Like undergrad cybersecurity programs, these graduate pathways are regularly offered online, which provides students with flexibility and convenience. When comparing graduate cybersecurity programs in Colorado, look for accredited schools with extensive faculty experience, research options, and networking resources.
Master's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 30 - 48
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $610 - $740
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Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $700 - $800
Doctorate's Degree
At a Glance-
AVG. Credits: 60 - 72
-
Cost Per Credit In State: $700 - $1,000
-
Cost Per Credit Out Of State: $1,000 - $1,500
Other Degree Pathways
Interested in other cybersecurity educational pathways in Colorado? Many colleges now offer graduate certificates in cybersecurity, which are short (one-year on average) programs designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Professional online cybersecurity boot camps are also an excellent way to receive immersive and practical training to enhance your skills in an accelerated timeframe. Attending local tech meetups or being part of online forums will enable you meet people in the field to help guide you and make industry connections.