Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in California 2025
Ashford University
64 Cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
National University
29 Cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Platt College-Los Angeles
7 Cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.California has 35+ accredited cybersecurity programs with 12 holding NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation
- 2.UC Berkeley leads state rankings with top-tier research and 93% graduation rate at public school pricing
- 3.California information security analysts earn median $134,630 annually—22% above the national median
- 4.Silicon Valley and Los Angeles metro areas provide 45,000+ cybersecurity jobs—most of any state
- 5.Top programs offer direct recruitment from Apple, Google, Microsoft, and major defense contractors
Cybersecurity Education Landscape in California
California leads the nation in cybersecurity education, offering more NSA-designated Centers of Academic Excellence than any other state. From UC Berkeley's world-renowned security research to Silicon Valley's industry-connected programs, California provides unmatched opportunities for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
With major tech companies, defense contractors, and financial institutions headquartered in California, students benefit from extensive internship opportunities and direct recruitment pipelines. The state's programs consistently rank among the nation's best, combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experience in cutting-edge security technologies.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national cybersecurity bachelor's rankings. Budget-conscious students should review our most affordable cybersecurity programs, while career-focused individuals can explore our cybersecurity analyst salary guide for California-specific compensation data.
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ashford University | San Diego, CA | For-Profit | — | $12,240 | — | 70.5 |
| 2 | National University | San Diego, CA | Private | — | $13,320 | — | 61.3 |
| 3 | Platt College-Los Angeles | Alhambra, CA | For-Profit | — | $14,804 | — | 51.8 |
| 4 | Laurus College | San Luis Obispo, CA | For-Profit | — | $0 | — | 51.8 |
Top 5 Cybersecurity Programs in California: Side-by-Side
| School | U of San Diego | USC | Middlebury Institute of... | UC San Diego | Ashford |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $55,690 | $66,640 | $46,556 | $11,834 | $12,240 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 92% | N/A% | 81% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 57 | 35 | 84 | 33 | 64 |
| Acceptance Rate | 47% | 10% | N/A | 25% | N/A |
| Type | Private | Private | Private | Public | For-Profit |
| Score | 85.4/100 | 81.8/100 | 78.3/100 | 75.5/100 | 74.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Cybersecurity in California
California offers 4 bachelor's-level cybersecurity programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Ashford University, National University, Platt College-Los Angeles. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $102,039 in the California 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 California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Ashford | $12,240 | N/A% | 64 | 74.0 |
| #2 National | $13,320 | N/A% | 29 | 61.3 |
| #3 Platt College-Los Angeles | $14,804 | N/A% | 7 | 51.8 |
Top Cybersecurity Schools for Master's Degrees in California
For graduate study, California offers 12 master's-level cybersecurity programs. Leading institutions include University of San Diego, University of Southern California, Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in California reaching $189,501 or more.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Master's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of San Diego | $55,690 | 97% | 57 | 85.4 |
| #2 USC | $66,640 | 92% | 35 | 81.8 |
| #3 Middlebury Institute of... | $46,556 | N/A% | 84 | 78.3 |
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Colleges in California
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable cybersecurity programs in California are at San Diego State University ($5,742/year), California State University-San Marcos ($5,742/year), California State University-Dominguez Hills ($5,742/year). These programs offer strong ROI given California's competitive tech salaries.
At San Diego State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,968 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $102,039, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Programs in California (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 San Diego State | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #3 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
California University System Overview
California's three major university systems each offer distinct advantages for cybersecurity students, from world-class research universities to affordable state colleges with strong industry connections.
University of California (UC) System: The UC system includes the state's most prestigious cybersecurity programs, with Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego leading in research and national recognition. These programs offer extensive research opportunities and direct pathways to top graduate programs. In-state tuition averages $14,000 annually.
California State University (CSU) System: CSU schools like San Jose State and Cal Poly Pomona provide excellent cybersecurity education with strong industry partnerships. Located in major tech hubs, these programs offer practical, career-focused training at very affordable tuition rates averaging $7,000 annually.
Private Universities: Schools like Stanford and USC offer elite cybersecurity programs with extensive resources and industry connections. While tuition exceeds $60,000 annually, these programs provide exceptional career outcomes and networking opportunities. Students considering cost factors should review our best value cybersecurity programs guide.
NSA-Designated Centers of Academic Excellence in California
California leads all states with 12 NSA Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, a designation that recognizes programs meeting rigorous national standards for cybersecurity education. These designations are highly valued by employers, particularly in government and defense sectors.
- UC Berkeley - Research university with world-class cybersecurity labs
- Stanford University - Elite program with Silicon Valley connections
- USC - Strong government and industry partnerships
- UCLA - Comprehensive cybersecurity research and education
- UC San Diego - Leading-edge security research
- Cal Poly Pomona - Hands-on cybersecurity education
- San Jose State - Heart of Silicon Valley location
- Cal State Long Beach - Strong industry partnerships
- San Diego State - Growing cybersecurity program
- Cal State Fullerton - Affordable NSA-designated option
- Cal State San Bernardino - Regional cybersecurity leader
- Cal State Sacramento - Government sector focus
NSA designation requires programs to meet strict curriculum standards, maintain qualified faculty, and demonstrate strong student outcomes. Graduates from these programs often have preferential hiring for government positions and security clearance eligibility. For more information about cybersecurity curriculum requirements, see our comprehensive guide.
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $55,690 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 57 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 47%
- • Ranking Score: 85.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 57 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 85.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (57 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (47% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USD offers two distinct cybersecurity master's programs (Engineering and Operations & Leadership) with both online and on-campus options. The 30-unit MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership can be completed in 20 months with flexible semester start dates including fall, spring, and summer.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 units
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 35 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 81.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 35 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 81.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (35 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USC offers interdisciplinary cybersecurity programs combining international relations with technical IT expertise at both undergraduate and graduate law levels. The programs prepare students for emerging fields with comprehensive coverage from ethical hacking to cyber law and policy.
Admission Prerequisites
- •first degree in law (LLB, JD, LLM or equivalent)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 51-54 units for BA, 24 units for LLM
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon, Apple Inc., Google/Alphabet Inc., Microsoft, Adobe, Bloomberg L.P., BlackRock, Inc., Activision Blizzard, Netflix, Tesla
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey
Monterey, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,556 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 84 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 78.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 84 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 78.3 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (84 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This program presents cybersecurity through a global lens with access to leading threat intelligence platforms and prepares students for CompTIA Security+ and CySA+ certification exams. The Cyber Collaborative enriches education by exploring implications of the cyber domain for national and international security while providing networking opportunities.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Bachelor's degree in any field (STEM-related degree is recommended)
Program Details
- Credits: 36 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Facebook
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 33 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 75.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 33 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 75.5 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (33 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (25% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Monitor security systems, investigate incidents, and implement protective measures for California organizations.
Information Security Manager
Lead cybersecurity teams and develop security strategies for major California tech companies.
Penetration Tester
Conduct authorized security testing for Silicon Valley startups and Fortune 500 companies.
Security Consultant
Provide cybersecurity expertise to diverse California businesses and government agencies.
Cloud Security Engineer
Secure cloud infrastructure for California's leading technology companies.
Other Tech Degree Programs in California
Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the nation's largest tech job market with 45,000+ cybersecurity positions
- World-class research opportunities at UC Berkeley, Stanford, or USC
- Direct recruiting pipelines to Apple, Google, Meta, and other tech giants
- NSA-designated programs with government career pathways
- Highest cybersecurity salaries nationally (median $134,630)
- Entrepreneurial opportunities in Silicon Valley's startup ecosystem
- Year-round networking events and cybersecurity conferences
- Lower cost of living (California housing costs are 2-3x national average)
- More affordable tuition options (though CSU system is competitive)
- Less competitive admission (top California programs are highly selective)
- Closer proximity to family in other regions
- Government cybersecurity focus (consider Virginia/Maryland for DC area)
- Financial services security (consider New York)
- Energy sector security (consider Texas)
Frequently Asked Questions About California Cybersecurity Programs
Based on 20 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 statistics including graduation rates, tuition, and enrollment data
State-specific salary data for cybersecurity professionals in California
Official directory of NSA-designated cybersecurity programs
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.