Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in Arizona 2026
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
244 Cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
68 Cybersecurity graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
Northern Arizona University
1 Cybersecurity graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
- 1.Information Security Analysts earn a median salary of $120,360 with 32% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OEWS 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Cybersecurity programs include Arizona State University Digital Immersion, Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Northern Arizona University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: Arizona State University Digital Immersion offers Cybersecurity education at $11,308/year with strong outcomes
- 4.5 accredited Cybersecurity programs analyzed in Arizona using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Cybersecurity Education in Arizona
Arizona has emerged as a significant cybersecurity education hub, with 18 accredited bachelor's programs including 7 NSA/DHS designated Centers of Academic Excellence. The state's combination of major research universities, strong defense industry presence, and growing tech sector creates exceptional opportunities for cybersecurity students.
For national comparison, see our best cybersecurity bachelor's programs rankings. Students considering costs should review our most affordable cybersecurity degrees guide. Career-focused students can explore our cybersecurity analyst salary guide for Arizona-specific compensation data.
Arizona State University leads the state with its comprehensive cybersecurity program offerings and industry partnerships. The University of Arizona provides world-class research opportunities, while Northern Arizona University offers smaller class sizes with personalized attention. Community colleges like Maricopa provide pathway programs for transfer students.
Arizona Cybersecurity Programs Rankings 2026
| Rank | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University Digital Immersion | Scottsdale, AZ | Public | $11,308 | — | — | — | 72.7 |
| 2 | Arizona State University Campus Immersion | Tempe, AZ | Public | $11,308 | 81% | — | — | 55.1 |
| 3 | Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ | Public | $11,015 | 98% | — | — | 43.1 |
| 4 | University of Phoenix-Arizona | Phoenix, AZ | For-Profit | $9,552 | — | — | — | 42 |
| 5 | University of Advancing Technology | Tempe, AZ | For-Profit | $18,462 | 74% | — | — | 38 |
Top 5 Cybersecurity Programs in Arizona: Side-by-Side
| School | Arizona State University... | Arizona State University... | Grand Canyon | Northern Arizona | U of Phoenix-Arizona |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,308 | $11,308 | $16,390 | $11,015 | $9,552 |
| Graduation Rate | 81% | N/A% | 34% | 98% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 246 | 244 | 152 | 1 | 5 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90% | 64% | 60% | 91% | N/A |
| Type | Public | Public | For-Profit | Public | For-Profit |
| Score | 75.2/100 | 72.5/100 | 61.6/100 | 43.1/100 | 42.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Cybersecurity in Arizona
Arizona offers 5 bachelor's-level cybersecurity programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Arizona State University Digital Immersion, Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Northern Arizona University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $74,151 in the Arizona market.
A bachelor's in cybersecurity typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Cybersecurity Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Bachelor's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | N/A% | 244 | 72.5 |
| #2 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 68 | 57.9 |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | 98% | 1 | 43.1 |
Top Cybersecurity Schools for Master's Degrees in Arizona
For graduate study, Arizona offers 4 master's-level cybersecurity programs. Leading institutions include Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Grand Canyon University, Arizona State University Digital Immersion. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Arizona reaching $137,709 or more.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Master's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 246 | 75.2 |
| #2 Grand Canyon | $16,390 | 34% | 152 | 61.6 |
| #3 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | N/A% | 46 | 49.4 |
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Colleges in Arizona
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable cybersecurity programs in Arizona are at Aspen University ($6,210/year), University of Phoenix-Arizona ($9,552/year), Northern Arizona University ($11,015/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Arizona's competitive tech salaries.
At Aspen University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $24,840 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $74,151, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.6 years.
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Programs in Arizona (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Aspen | $6,210 | $24,840 | 0.6 years | For-Profit |
| #2 U of Phoenix-Arizona | $9,552 | $38,208 | 1 years | For-Profit |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | $44,060 | 1.1 years | Public |
Arizona University Systems Overview
Arizona's public university system consists of three major research universities, each offering distinct cybersecurity programs. Arizona State University provides the most comprehensive cybersecurity offerings with multiple degree tracks and the largest enrollment. The University of Arizona focuses on research-intensive programs with strong federal partnerships. Northern Arizona University emphasizes hands-on learning with smaller class sizes.
The Arizona Community College system, particularly the Maricopa County Community College District, offers excellent transfer pathways into four-year cybersecurity programs. Many students begin at community colleges to complete general education requirements before transferring to ASU, U of A, or NAU for their final two years.
Private institutions like Grand Canyon University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University provide alternative pathways, with Embry-Riddle offering specialized aerospace cybersecurity focus. Students should consider our online cybersecurity degrees guide for additional flexible options.
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 246 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 90%
- • Ranking Score: 75.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 246 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 75.2 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (246 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (90% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
ASU's cybersecurity program is certified as a National Center of Academic Excellence by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security, with accelerated degree options allowing students to complete both bachelor's and master's degrees in as little as five years. Domestic students are eligible for prestigious federal fellowships including Department of Defense scholarships.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 244 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 64%
- • Ranking Score: 72.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 244 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 72.5 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (244 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (64% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
ASU's cybersecurity program is nationally recognized with dual NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designations and offers federal scholarship opportunities for domestic students. The program provides accelerated bachelor's to master's options and ABET accreditation ensuring industry-standard education quality.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $16,390 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 34% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 152 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 61.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 34% graduation rate
- 152 cybersecurity graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 61.6 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (34%), program size (152 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (60% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,015 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 1 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 43.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 1 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 43.1 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (1 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
NAU's Cybersecurity program combines technical cybersecurity skills with criminal justice, intelligence studies, and business management coursework to prepare students for the legal and social context of cybersecurity practice. Students gain over 200 hours of hands-on experience in small classes while learning from faculty experts in cybersecurity and related fields.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MAT 121 or MAT 136 with a grade of C or better
- •MAT 226
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,552 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 42.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 5 cybersecurity graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 42.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational networks and systems from cyber threats. Strong demand in Phoenix metro area.
Penetration Tester
Conduct authorized security testing for organizations. High demand with defense contractors.
Cybersecurity Consultant
Provide expert security advice to organizations. Excellent opportunities in Phoenix and Tucson.
Security Architect
Design secure systems and networks. High-paying positions with large enterprises.
Incident Response Specialist
Respond to and investigate security incidents. Growing field with strong job security.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Arizona
Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Should You Study Cybersecurity in Arizona?
- Strong defense industry connections and job opportunities
- NSA designated programs with government recognition
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- Year-round pleasant weather and outdoor recreational opportunities
- Growing tech sector with companies like GoDaddy, Honeywell, and Raytheon
- Proximity to major defense installations and federal contractors
- Hands-on learning opportunities with state-of-the-art cyber labs
- Strong alumni networks in Southwest cybersecurity community
- More diverse tech industry beyond defense contracting
- Higher starting salaries in expensive coastal markets
- Larger cybersecurity job markets with more specialized roles
- Access to major financial or healthcare cybersecurity sectors
- More prestigious program rankings for graduate school applications
- International business and cybersecurity opportunities
- Venture capital and startup cybersecurity ecosystem
- More extensive public transportation and urban amenities
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Cybersecurity Programs
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Cybersecurity degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific cybersecurity salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Cybersecurity Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database of college and university data including graduation rates, tuition, and enrollment statistics
Official employment and wage data for Arizona cybersecurity occupations
National Security Agency database of designated Centers of Academic Excellence in cybersecurity
Official data on Arizona public university programs and outcomes
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Arizona
Next Steps for Arizona Cybersecurity Students
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for your target Arizona universities. Most require completion of college algebra and basic computer science courses.
Visit Campus Cybersecurity Labs
Schedule tours of ASU, U of A, or NAU cybersecurity facilities to see their labs, equipment, and meet faculty members.
Apply for Financial Aid
Submit FAFSA and research Arizona-specific scholarships. Many cybersecurity programs offer industry-sponsored scholarships.
Start Building Technical Skills
Begin learning fundamental concepts through our [cybersecurity curriculum guide](/degrees/cybersecurity/curriculum-guide/) and consider entry-level certifications.
Connect with Industry
Join local cybersecurity groups like DefCon Phoenix or attend industry meetups to network with Arizona cybersecurity professionals.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.