Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in Connecticut 2025
United States Coast Guard Academy
20 cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Central Connecticut State University
38 cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
University of New Haven
34 cybersecurity graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Connecticut offers 5+ accredited cybersecurity programs across public and private universities
- 2.United States Coast Guard Academy leads with strong% graduation rate
- 3.Connecticut software developers earn median $105,050 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Stamford, Hartford, New Haven
- 5.Cost of living index: 111.2% of US average (above average)
Cybersecurity Education in Connecticut: Overview
Connecticut offers 5 accredited cybersecurity programs, producing approximately 110 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Stamford, Hartford, New Haven, with major employers including United Technologies, Cigna, Travelers.
With a median software developer salary of $105,050 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 111.2% compared to the US average, Connecticut offers competitive salaries that offset the higher cost of living.
The top cybersecurity programs in the state are led by United States Coast Guard Academy, Central Connecticut State University, University of New Haven, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 5 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Cybersecurity degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Connecticut-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Connecticut Cybersecurity Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States Coast Guard Academy | New London, CT | Public | $0 | — | 57.8 |
| 2 | Central Connecticut State University | New Britain, CT | Public | $6,664 | — | 53.3 |
| 3 | University of New Haven | West Haven, CT | Private | $44,100 | — | 51.1 |
| 4 | Fairfield University | Fairfield, CT | Private | $55,510 | 69% | 48.8 |
| 5 | Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT | Private | $50,400 | — | 45.1 |
Top 5 Cybersecurity Programs in Connecticut: Side-by-Side
| School | United States Coast... | Central Connecticut State | U of New Haven | Fairfield | Quinnipiac |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $0 | $6,664 | $44,100 | $55,510 | $50,400 |
| Graduation Rate | N/A% | N/A% | N/A% | 69% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 20 | 38 | 34 | 3 | 15 |
| Acceptance Rate | 24% | 76% | 81% | 45% | 77% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Private | Private |
| Score | 57.8/100 | 53.3/100 | 51.1/100 | 48.8/100 | 45.1/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Cybersecurity in Connecticut
Connecticut offers 3 bachelor's-level cybersecurity programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are United States Coast Guard Academy, Central Connecticut State University, University of New Haven. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $73,535 in the Connecticut 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 Connecticut
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 United States Coast... | $0 | N/A% | 20 | 57.8 |
| #2 Central Connecticut State | $6,664 | N/A% | 38 | 53.3 |
| #3 U of New Haven | $44,100 | N/A% | 21 | 46.8 |
Top Cybersecurity Schools for Master's Degrees in Connecticut
For graduate study, Connecticut offers 3 master's-level cybersecurity programs. Leading institutions include University of New Haven, Fairfield University, Quinnipiac University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Connecticut reaching $136,565 or more.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Master's Programs in Connecticut
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of New Haven | $44,100 | N/A% | 34 | 51.1 |
| #2 Fairfield | $55,510 | 69% | 3 | 48.8 |
| #3 Quinnipiac | $50,400 | N/A% | 15 | 45.1 |
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Colleges in Connecticut
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable cybersecurity programs in Connecticut are at Central Connecticut State University ($6,664/year), University of New Haven ($44,100/year), Quinnipiac University ($50,400/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Connecticut's competitive tech salaries.
At Central Connecticut State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $26,656 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $73,535, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years. See our Most Affordable Cybersecurity Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Programs in Connecticut (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Central Connecticut State | $6,664 | $26,656 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 U of New Haven | $44,100 | $176,400 | 4.6 years | Private |
| #3 Quinnipiac | $50,400 | $201,600 | 5.2 years | Private |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Cybersecurity Schools in Connecticut
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 cybersecurity programs in Connecticut, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
United States Coast Guard Academy
New London, CT • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $0 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 20 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 24%
- • Ranking Score: 57.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 20 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 57.8 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (20 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,050), and selectivity (24% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This program combines strong technical computing foundation with operational Coast Guard mission focus, offering access to state-of-the-art cyber labs and internships at premier national security organizations like NSA and U.S. Cyber Command. The curriculum is designed around NSA/DHS criteria for cyber defense education excellence.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Coast Guard Cyber Command (CGCYBER), U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBER), National Security Agency (NSA), MIT Lincoln Labs, Idaho National Labs
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,664 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 38 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 76%
- • Ranking Score: 53.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 38 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 53.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (38 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,050), and selectivity (76% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Central distinguishes itself as one of the few universities nationwide equipped with the expertise and curriculum to offer NSA Validated Programs of Study in both Cyber Operations and Cyber Defense. The program provides a strong foundation in both networking and computer science with concentrations aligned with NSA content focus areas.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •BS in an information technology field
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.70
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of New Haven
West Haven, CT • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $44,100 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 34 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 51.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 34 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 51.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (34 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,050), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Networks program is designed to prepare students for opportunities and challenges in cybersecurity and networking, offering a strong foundation in networking and Enterprise networks with special focus on securing and protecting those networks. The program is STEM-designated by the Department of Homeland Security and designed to accommodate students with no prior programming experience as well as those who already hold an undergraduate degree in computer science or information technology.
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Fairfield University
Fairfield, CT • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $55,510 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 69% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 3 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 45%
- • Ranking Score: 48.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 69% graduation rate
- 3 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 48.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (69%), program size (3 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,050), and selectivity (45% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Fairfield's MS in Cybersecurity offers both management and technical concentrations with 100% job placement within six months and salaries exceeding $100,000. The program provides flexible online learning and accelerated degree options, including a five-year BS/MS pathway for computer science students.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: greater than $100,000
- Job Placement: 100% placement rate six months after graduation
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $50,400 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 15 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 77%
- • Ranking Score: 45.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 15 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 45.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (15 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,050), and selectivity (77% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Connecticut with strong job growth.
Security Engineer
SOC 15-1212Security Engineer opportunities in Connecticut with strong job growth.
Penetration Tester
SOC 15-1299Penetration Tester opportunities in Connecticut with strong job growth.
Security Architect
SOC 15-1212Security Architect opportunities in Connecticut with strong job growth.
SOC Analyst
SOC 15-1212SOC Analyst opportunities in Connecticut with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Stamford, Hartford, New Haven
- You're seeking competitive salaries ($105,050 median)
- You want to work at companies like United Technologies or Cigna
- You prefer Connecticut's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Connecticut's 5)
- You're looking for lower cost of living (consider TX, NC, GA)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Connecticut
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Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Cybersecurity in Connecticut FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Connecticut salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
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.