University campus in Delaware
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Delaware, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top cybersecurity colleges in Delaware. 3 accredited cybersecurity schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Wilmington University to Wilmington University.

#1 ProgramWilmington
Avg Salary$112,340
Tuition From$12,270/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

4

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$112,340

Delaware median cybersecurity salary

BLS OEWS 2024

86.5/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

33%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best cybersecurity degree programs: Wilmington, ,

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $12,270 to $14,040/year

Wilmington offers the most affordable option at $12,270/yr

IPEDS 2024

Cybersecurity degree programs available: 2 associate's, 2 master's in Delaware

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

1 online cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2024

Delaware community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours, DuPont

Tech hubs in Wilmington and Newark

Hakia Research 2026

Cybersecurity degree programs near 10+ cities across Delaware

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Delaware Cybersecurity programs

We rank 5 accredited cybersecurity programs in Delaware using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Delaware Worth It?

Answer
$112,340
Yes. The best cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $112,340 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $13,345/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Cybersecurity Degree Rankings in Delaware

Compare the top-ranked Cybersecurity programs in Delaware by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Cybersecurity Programs in Delaware

1
Programs ranked
$12,570
Avg tuition/yr
20%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Delaware offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in cybersecurity, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Wilmington, Strayer University-Delaware, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Delaware offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $12,998/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $61,787 in Delaware.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Delaware's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Wilmington, Newark, Dover areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among cybersecurity schools in Delaware, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cybersecurity degrees in Delaware.

Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Programs in Delaware

1
Programs ranked
$12,570
Avg tuition/yr
20%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Delaware ranks among the nation's top destinations for cybersecurity education, with 1 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Wilmington, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Delaware cybersecurity programs earn a median salary of $95,489, 3% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Wilmington, Newark, Dover metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $12,270 to $12,270 annually, with an average of $12,270/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Delaware's leading technology employers. For students seeking cybersecurity degrees in Delaware, these top-ranked cybersecurity schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Cybersecurity Programs in Delaware

2
Programs ranked
$13,585
Avg tuition/yr
51%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Delaware offers 2 master's degree programs in cybersecurity, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Wilmington, U of Delaware, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Delaware earn a median salary of $112,340, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Wilmington, Newark, Dover creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $13,155/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Delaware's cybersecurity schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Cybersecurity Degree Costs & Tuition in Delaware

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$13,345/year
Average out-of-state tuition$33,363/year
Community college tuition$3,336/year
4-year savings for residents$80,072
2+2 transfer pathway savings$20,018

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students in Delaware

State Aid Programs

Delaware offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for cybersecurity students through the SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) Scholarship program, which covers tuition at Delaware Technical Community College for qualifying high school graduates (Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer). This initiative removes a significant barrier for students pursuing associate degrees in cybersecurity, making programs like those at Delaware Technical Community College-Terry accessible to talented students regardless of financial background. The SEED program also supports transfer pathways to four-year institutions, allowing students to complete their associate degree before advancing to bachelor's programs at the University of Delaware or Delaware State University (Delaware Department of Education).

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state programs, cybersecurity students in Delaware can access federal financial aid through FAFSA and the standard array of grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Many Delaware institutions offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid specifically for cybersecurity majors. The University of Delaware and Wilmington University, the state's top cybersecurity program leaders, both provide institutional financial assistance packages to qualified students. Students should also explore the College Scorecard to compare net price and aid availability across Delaware's nine institutions offering cybersecurity programs. Starting your financial aid search early through FAFSA ensures access to the maximum available support for your cybersecurity education in Delaware.

Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator, Delaware

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree in Delaware. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+801%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,482,166

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$123,810

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,517,574

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$130,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.5%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Cybersecurity Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Delaware metro areas

Wilmington$124K
Newark$118K
Dover$112K
View data table
CategoryValue
Wilmington$124K
Newark$118K
Dover$112K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Cybersecurity Graduates in Delaware

Find cybersecurity jobs in Delaware. These major employers across Delaware metro areas are actively hiring cybersecurity degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Cybersecurity Jobs in Wilmington

DE
JPMorgan Chase
finance
Bank of America
finance
Capital One
finance
DuPont
chemical
ChristianaCare
healthcare

Cybersecurity Jobs in Newark

DE
University of Delaware
education
SevOne
tech

Cybersecurity Jobs in Dover

DE
Dover Air Force Base
military
Delaware State University
education

Transfer Pathways for Cybersecurity Degrees in Delaware

State Transfer System

Delaware has established transfer pathways designed to support students beginning their cybersecurity education at two-year institutions and advancing to bachelor's and master's degree programs. The state operates 2 two-year institutions offering cybersecurity associate degrees, with Delaware Technical Community College-Terry being a primary provider. The Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer program facilitates seamless transitions from Delaware Tech to four-year institutions including the University of Delaware and Delaware State University, removing financial barriers and ensuring credit portability (Delaware SEED Scholarship & Transfer).

How Transfers Work

The SEED (Student Excellence Equals Degree) Scholarship covers tuition at Delaware Technical Community College for qualifying high school graduates, making the associate degree pathway highly affordable. Once students complete their associate's degree, articulation agreements allow them to transfer credits directly to bachelor's programs at the state's 7 four-year institutions. This pathway is particularly attractive for students seeking cost-effective entry into cybersecurity, as Delaware Tech tuition averages $4,575 annually, significantly lower than the $9,053 average for four-year public institutions (SEED Scholarship).

Transfer Planning Tips

Students completing bachelor's degrees at institutions like the University of Delaware and Wilmington University can seamlessly progress to 3 master's degree programs available in the state, many offering flexible online and evening options to accommodate working professionals. These transfer pathways create a comprehensive educational ecosystem supporting career advancement from entry-level technician roles to senior security architect positions. For additional information on related pathways, explore Information Technology in Delaware and Network Administration in Delaware.

Why Pursue a Cybersecurity Degree in Delaware?

Industry & Workforce

Delaware offers a strong cybersecurity education landscape with 9 institutions offering programs across associate, bachelor, and master degree levels (IPEDS). Students can choose from 4 bachelor's degree programs, 3 master's degree programs, and 2 associate's degree programs, providing flexible pathways for learners at all academic levels. The state produced 103 bachelor's degree completions and 388 master's degree completions in 2023, demonstrating strong workforce development in this critical field (IPEDS).

Salary Outlook

Delaware's strategic location in the Northeast places students near major financial and healthcare technology hubs. The state is home to significant employers including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, ChristianaCare, and the University of Delaware, all of which increasingly require cybersecurity professionals (BLS State Data). Top-ranked institutions like the University of Delaware and Wilmington University provide high-quality education at competitive costs. With average public in-state tuition of $9,053, Delaware cybersecurity programs remain accessible compared to national alternatives, making the state an attractive choice for aspiring security professionals.

Regional Tech Hubs

The state's commitment to education excellence is further supported by the Delaware SEED Scholarship, which covers tuition at Delaware Technical Community College for qualifying students (SEED Scholarship). This financial support removes barriers to entry and enables talented individuals to launch careers in cybersecurity. For more related opportunities in technology education, explore Information Security and Information Technology programs in Delaware.

Cybersecurity Program Availability in Delaware

3 Programs
Delaware offers 3 accredited cybersecurity programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Wilmington, Newark, Dover.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Cybersecurity Job Market & Salary Data in Delaware

Employment Outlook

Delaware's cybersecurity job market is experiencing strong growth, driven by the state's concentration of financial institutions and healthcare organizations. The Wilmington-Newark metro area and Dover region represent the primary employment hubs for cybersecurity professionals, with significant demand across both sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity roles in Delaware continue to expand as organizations prioritize digital security infrastructure. Major employers including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and ChristianaCare are actively recruiting cybersecurity talent, creating diverse career pathways for graduates of Delaware's 9 institutions offering cybersecurity programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels (IPEDS).

Salaries by Metro

The state's cybersecurity education pipeline supports workforce development through multiple educational pathways. Delaware awarded 103 bachelor's degrees, 388 master's degrees, and 9 associate's degrees in cybersecurity during the most recent reporting period (IPEDS). This output demonstrates strong institutional commitment to preparing professionals for emerging cybersecurity challenges. Graduates from top-ranked programs like the University of Delaware and Wilmington University are well-positioned to enter a competitive job market with strong salary prospects. The availability of affordable in-state options, with average public four-year tuition at $9,053, removes financial barriers for Delaware residents pursuing cybersecurity careers (IPEDS).

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Delaware$73,021$162,893
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Cybersecurity Programs in Delaware

Online Programs

1 available in Delaware

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$12,011/yr$13,345/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Cybersecurity Programs in Other States

Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Delaware: FAQ

What are the best cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware?
The best cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware based on our methodology are: 1) Wilmington University (highly ranked), 2) N/A, and 3) N/A. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Delaware offers 3 total accredited programs across 1 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 1 bachelor's programs.
How much do cybersecurity degree programs cost in Delaware?
Cybersecurity degree program costs in Delaware vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $13,345/year, while private institutions average $29,359/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,336/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $53,380 at public schools to $117,436 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can cybersecurity degree graduates earn in Delaware?
Cybersecurity professionals in Delaware earn a median salary of $112,340, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $73,021, while senior roles exceed $162,893. Salaries vary by metro area: Wilmington ($123,574), Newark ($117,957) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware?
Yes, Delaware offers 1 accredited online Cybersecurity programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Strayer University-Delaware. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire cybersecurity degree graduates in Delaware?
Major Cybersecurity employers in Delaware include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Chemours, DuPont, AstraZeneca. The Wilmington and Newark metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Delaware universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Delaware's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a cybersecurity degree program worth it in Delaware?
A cybersecurity degree program in Delaware offers strong ROI with a $112,340 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $13,345/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($126,944), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do cybersecurity degree programs take in Delaware?
Standard completion times for cybersecurity degree programs in Delaware are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Delaware community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Delaware university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for cybersecurity degree students in Delaware?
Delaware cybersecurity degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Delaware state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Delaware's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Delaware salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Cybersecurity program profiles in Delaware

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Cybersecurity programs

#1Wilmington UniversityNew Castle, DE

Why it stands out. Delivers rigorous cybersecurity training through flexible online/hybrid formats specifically architected for employed professionals and mid-career changers.

Hakia insight. Wilmington's deliberate design for employed professionals—hybrid/online delivery specifically architected around work schedules—converts what could be a financial burden into a program structure that lets banking sector employees upskill without leaving their jobs.

At the associate's level, wilmington University's cybersecurity offerings reflect its practical, working-professional orientation—the program is deliberately designed for students balancing employment, family, and education, without sacrificing technical depth. Online and hybrid delivery options allow working cybersecurity professionals to pursue degrees and specializations on their schedule, with asynchronous components that don't require synchronous attendance but maintain interactive labs and capstone projects. The curriculum emphasizes applied scenarios: students work through incident response simulations, build intrusion detection systems, and conduct security audits in contexts mirroring SOC environments and enterprise defense roles. Notably, the program attracts mid-career professionals seeking to formalize their security experience or pivot into security-focused roles, creating cohorts where peer learning involves practitioners sharing real-world context. Wilmington's location in the Delaware-Philadelphia corridor positions it well for students at the numerous financial services, insurance, and healthcare organizations headquartered in the region—many send employees to pursue degrees while continuing employment. The program's flexibility model proves especially effective for military veterans and those with security clearances transitioning into civilian cybersecurity roles. Graduate outcomes trend toward security operations, risk management, and compliance positions where domain experience combines with credential value, particularly within regulated industries.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cybersecurity · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity · 2 years · online

Location advantage: Proximity to Fortune 500 financial services (Wilmington is major banking hub) Access to insurance and healthcare cybersecurity employment (large regional clusters) Philadelphia tech corridor within commuting distance

Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity programs

#1Wilmington UniversityNew Castle, DE

Why it stands out. Mandatory experiential learning through internship (SEC 490/491) or cooperative education option. Cooperative education alternative: two consecutive semesters with same employer (requires 60+ credits and 2.5+ GPA)

Hakia insight. Wilmington's cooperative education mandate—two consecutive semesters with the same employer—is structurally different from typical internships; students return as semi-internal resources, often converting to full-time offers before graduation.

Wilmington University's B.S. in Cybersecurity is a rigorous 120-credit program designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security through 2028. The program combines a 39-credit Security Core covering hardware, Linux, Windows, cryptography, networks, and firewalls with 39 credits of general education and 9 credits of support courses. Students complete hands-on experiential learning through either internships (SEC 490/491, 6 credits) or cooperative education placements (two consecutive semesters with same employer, requiring 60+ credits and 2.5+ GPA). The Digital Forensics Concentration allows students to specialize by selecting six elective courses in cyber investigations, mobile device forensics, and malware analysis. Graduates are prepared for roles including Information Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Forensic Analyst, and Security Engineer. The program emphasizes both technical skills and soft skills (critical thinking, communication) needed to communicate cybersecurity risks to non-technical stakeholders. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security positions are projected to grow 33% between 2020-2030, much faster than average. The program is ranked in the top 20 online cybersecurity bachelor's programs nationally.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity · 4 years · on-campus

Location advantage: Proximity to Fortune 500 financial services (Wilmington is major banking hub) Access to insurance and healthcare cybersecurity employment (large regional clusters) Philadelphia tech corridor within commuting distance

Best Master's Cybersecurity programs

#1University of DelawareNewark, DE

Why it stands out. Thesis vs. non-thesis track options. NSA-accredited Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE) with embedded certificate

Hakia insight. University of Delaware's partnership with DuPont—headquartered in Wilmington and responsible for protecting critical chemical/industrial infrastructure—creates an unusual pipeline: students work thesis research on real DuPont security challenges, then graduate into the same company's cyber roles.

The M.S. in Cybersecurity at University of Delaware is an NSA-accredited Center of Academic Excellence program designed for working professionals seeking advanced training in securing computers, systems, and networks. The program offers both thesis (24 credits coursework + 6 credits thesis) and non-thesis (30 credits coursework) tracks, with an online format available for working adults completable in as few as two years. Students gain expertise in cybersecurity fundamentals, secure design, defensive hardening, attack detection, incident response, and analytics. The program emphasizes design, development, and management of secure systems and software, preparing graduates for security roles across industries. Four concentration areas—Secure Software, Secure Systems, Security AI and Analytics, and Security Management—allow professionals to specialize. Graduates develop skills applicable to architectural design, policy documentation, engineering audits, and incident response, positioning them for advancement into senior security roles and specialized positions in the expanding cybersecurity industry.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cybersecurity · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Distributed Systems and Networking Lab — Network security, intrusion detection, and distributed system resilience

Industry partners

DuPontNSA

Notable faculty

  • null

Accreditation & certifications

NSA Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)

Location advantage: Proximity to DuPont headquarters (chemical/industrial cybersecurity demand) Near major pharmaceutical and financial services clusters (Delaware banking corridor) 30 minutes from Baltimore tech and government contracting hub

#2Wilmington UniversityNew Castle, DE

Why it stands out. 100% online format for working professionals. Classes start every 8 weeks for flexible enrollment

Hakia insight. Starting a new cohort every 8 weeks means no waiting for fall enrollment; working professionals can begin cybersecurity graduate study the month they decide to switch careers, compressing the typical 6-month admissions cycle into immediate entry.

Wilmington University's M.S. in Cybersecurity is a 36-credit, 100% online master's program designed for working professionals who need flexibility. Students can complete the degree in as little as one year with classes starting every 8 weeks. The program emphasizes offensive security tactics, threat modeling, cyber forensics, and defense scenario construction through coursework taught by industry leaders. Two specialized concentrations are available: Cyber Terrorism and SCADA Cybersecurity. While specific salary data isn't provided, the program emphasizes strong job growth in a field with critical talent shortages and significant salary potential. Tuition is $1,653 per 3-credit course, allowing professionals to pay only for required coursework. The Cyber Wildcats Club provides hands-on experience through capture-the-flag competitions and real-time security challenges, ensuring immediate workplace application of skills.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Cybersecurity · 1-2 years · on-campus

Location advantage: Proximity to Fortune 500 financial services (Wilmington is major banking hub) Access to insurance and healthcare cybersecurity employment (large regional clusters) Philadelphia tech corridor within commuting distance