Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Georgia
Gwinnett Technical College — Lawrenceville, GA
Key Distinction: First two-year college in Metro-Atlanta to receive the prestigious NSA/DHS CAE2Y designation, one of the most prestigious recognitions for cybersecurity excellence a college can receive.
Hakia Insight: Gwinnett's NSA/DHS CAE2Y designation as Metro-Atlanta's first two-year college to earn it means students train in a federally vetted curriculum that directly satisfies government contractor hiring requirements before many four-year programs even launch.
At the associate's level, gwinnett Technical College offers a Cybersecurity Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for Two-Year Education (CAE2Y) through 2030. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level cybersecurity positions and industry certification examinations.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Notable Faculty
- Andrew Gurbaxani — Cybersecurity Program Director and Point of Contact for Institute of Cyber Defense Education
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for Two-Year Education (CAE2Y)
Location Advantages: Two campus locations in Lawrenceville and Alpharetta-North FultonLocated in Georgia's technology corridorFlexible online learning options available
Chattahoochee Technical College — Marietta, GA
Key Distinction: Features a CISCO networking lab with cutting-edge technologies and a real world environment, with Cisco equipment for network security, voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and wireless connectivity
Hakia Insight: Chattahoochee's Cisco networking lab with live VoIP and wireless infrastructure teaches network security on equipment identical to what students will defend in their first job, collapsing the learning curve most graduates face during onboarding.
At the associate's level, the CIST Cybersecurity program at Chattahoochee Technical College provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to defend computer operating systems, networks and data from cyber attacks. The program features a CISCO networking lab with cutting-edge technologies and a real world environment, with Cisco equipment for network security, voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and wireless connectivity.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
Notable Faculty
- Charles Chapman — Cybersecurity
- Tony Evans — Cybersecurity
Location Advantages: Serving Georgia community for over 60 yearsStrong local business hiring networkMultiple campus locations plus online options
Augusta Technical College — Augusta, GA
Key Distinction: NSA and DHS designated Augusta Tech as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) with the validated Cybersecurity Associate of Applied Science Degree program of study
Hakia Insight: Augusta Tech's dual accreditation from NSA/DHS and direct partnerships with U.S. Army Cyber Command and NSA Cryptologic Centers creates a pipeline where graduates don't interview for government roles—they're pre-vetted through the curriculum itself.
At the associate's level, the Cybersecurity program provides students with hands-on and technical training in the concepts, principles, and techniques required to successfully prevent and/or mitigate security issues on computing devices in a networked environment. Students will learn best practices for the design of secure modern networks as well as how to secure existing computing devices and networks.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- U.S. Army Signal School (military)
- U.S. Cyber Center of Excellence (military)
- U.S. Army Cyber Command (military)
- NSA Cryptologic Centers (government)
- Cisco Systems Inc. (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Jason Edmondson — Department Head, Cybersecurity
Accreditations and Certifications
- CAE-CD
- Security+ (CompTIA)
- PEN+ (CompTIA)
- Network+ (CompTIA)
- ITF+ (CompTIA)
- Linux+ (CompTIA)
- Cisco CyberOps
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations across GeorgiaOnline education availabilityStrong regional industry connections
Columbus State University — Columbus, GA
Key Distinction: A cybersecurity program built around Fort Moore and defense industry proximity, giving students direct pathways to government and contracting sector careers that most regional competitors cannot match.
Hakia Insight: Columbus State's proximity to Fort Moore and U.S. Army Cyber Command isn't marketing—it's institutional reality; students can complete internships and full-time positions at the same employer while still enrolled, turning the degree into a paid pathway rather than a credential tax.
At the associate's level, columbus State's cybersecurity program emphasizes hands-on technical skill development through a curriculum that balances foundational computer science with applied security practices. The program structure prioritizes real-world problem-solving, incorporating labs in network security, cryptography, and incident response that mirror professional environments. Students engage directly with defensive and offensive security techniques, guided by faculty with active industry experience. The proximity to Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) and the broader Columbus tech corridor creates natural partnerships with defense contractors and government agencies, offering internship and employment pathways that many peers lack. Graduates emerge with both theoretical depth and practical competency—employers value their ability to hit the ground running in security operations centers and infrastructure protection roles. The program's emphasis on ethics alongside technical rigor prepares students to navigate the increasingly complex legal and policy dimensions of cybersecurity work.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fort Moore and U.S. Army Cyber Command presenceAccess to regional defense contractors and government agencies
Central Georgia Technical College — Warner Robins, GA
Key Distinction: The Cybersecurity program at Central Georgia Technical College is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through 2028, recognition from the National Security Agency (NSA) that indicates CGTC is helping reduce threats to our national infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense.
Hakia Insight: Central Georgia Tech's CAE-CD designation through 2028 combined with Cisco, Microsoft, and CompTIA partnerships means the program's curriculum is actively shaped by industry standards committees, so students learn skills that are verified current before graduation day.
At the associate's level, the Cybersecurity degree program is a sequence of courses designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts, principles, and techniques required in computer information processing. Program graduates are qualified for employment as Cybersecurity Specialists or Information Security Analysts.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Cisco's Networking Academy (NetAcad) (tech)
- Microsoft's Azure Dev Tools for Teaching (tech)
- CompTIA's Academic Partner (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Jacqueline Farms — Program Chair
Accreditations and Certifications
- CAE-CD (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense)
West Georgia Technical College — Waco, GA
Hakia Insight: West Georgia Tech's $45,000 median salary and 2.0 GPA floor reveal the real value proposition: accessible entry for non-traditional students who can still reach mid-career pay within two years, particularly if they pivot to Atlanta's tech corridor.
At the associate's level, proximity to Atlanta means West Georgia Tech attracts students serious about relocating to Georgia's tech hub—the program is designed with that pipeline in mind. You'll earn your associates in cybersecurity with coursework that aligns to what Atlanta employers actually ask for: cloud fundamentals, virtualization, security operations, and the soft skills that get you promoted. The college maintains active partnerships with metro Atlanta IT firms and financial services companies, so internships often turn into full-time offers. If you want to stay in a smaller college setting but prepare for a big-city career, West Georgia Tech splits that difference.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Training Lab
Industry Partners
- Georgia Power (Utility)
- Local IT companies (Technology services)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $45,000. Top Employers: Georgia Power, Tanner Health System, Regional banks.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA A+
Top Transfer Destinations
- Georgia State University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Kennesaw State University
- University of West Georgia
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
- Junior Network Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Atlanta Technical College — Atlanta, GA
Hakia Insight: Atlanta Tech's open admission combined with AWS, Cisco, CompTIA, and Microsoft partnerships creates unusual optionality—students can enter with no prerequisites but immediately access industry certifications that carry more weight than the degree itself in hiring.
At the associate's level, comprehensive cybersecurity program offering diploma and certificate options focusing on network security, threat assessment, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Students can specialize in cybersecurity as part of the Computer Information Systems track.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- AWS (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: Open admission%. GPA Requirement: None specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
- TCSG
- Industry certifications available
Location Advantages: Located in Atlanta metro area with strong tech industry presence
Georgia Northwestern Technical College — Rome, GA
Hakia Insight: Georgia Northwestern's rural mountain location isn't a liability; it builds a tight alumni hiring network where program reputation travels faster than LinkedIn, creating outsized job placement power in a region where employer relationships still dominate hiring.
At the associate's level, working in a mountain region means you're training for cybersecurity roles in a tight-knit community where word-of-mouth reputation matters—Georgia Northwestern Tech's program leverages that advantage with strong local partnerships and job placement support. You'll earn industry certifications while learning defensive security fundamentals, network monitoring, and incident response in a cohort-based format where instructors know your name and your career goals. The college emphasizes transfer pathways to Georgia state universities and maintains internship relationships with regional employers in healthcare, government, and small manufacturing. Expect hands-on labs, real-world scenarios, and the kind of mentorship that makes the difference between passing a cert exam and understanding why security matters.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco Networking Academy (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- SACSCOC
- Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) - Networking and Cybersecurity
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
- Kennesaw State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations across Northwest GeorgiaModern computer labs and study resources
Albany Technical College — Albany, GA
Hakia Insight: Albany Tech's placement in south Georgia's healthcare and government employment corridor means cybersecurity graduates fill actual regional talent gaps rather than competing for generic IT security roles, resulting in faster placement at higher local salary floors.
At the associate's level, albany Tech's cybersecurity program sits at the intersection of healthcare security and regional government—two sectors actively hiring in south Georgia. You'll complete an associates degree focused on practical security operations, network fundamentals, and compliance frameworks that directly apply to HIPAA and government contractors in the region. The program emphasizes certifications over theory, so you'll finish with CompTIA credentials employers recognize immediately. Faculty connections with Phoebe Putney Memorial Health System and state agencies mean internships and job leads are part of your education, not something you hunt for after graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: Not specified%. GPA Requirement: Not specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Technical College System of Georgia
Top Transfer Destinations
- Georgia Southern University
- Valdosta State University
- Georgia State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Healthcare IT Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Located in Albany, Georgia serving the southwest Georgia region
Savannah Technical College — Savannah, GA
Hakia Insight: Savannah Tech's maritime and port security specialization targets a niche market—logistics, customs, and coastal infrastructure cybersecurity—where a two-year degree holders often compete against four-year graduates for the same security roles.
At the associate's level, port city advantage: Savannah Tech's cybersecurity program trains you for maritime logistics, port operations, and coastal healthcare—industries with serious security requirements and serious hiring. The curriculum blends foundational certifications with real scenarios from actual employers: how a port secures SCADA systems, how hospitals protect patient data, how government contractors maintain compliance. You'll work in labs that simulate these environments and graduate with both credentials and portfolio projects employers ask to see. Savannah's tight relationship between the college and its major employers means many graduates start their career within 30 days of finishing.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- TCSG (Technical College System of Georgia)
Top Transfer Destinations
- Savannah State University
- Georgia Southern University
- Georgia State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
- Port Operations IT Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Located in Savannah, Georgia with multiple campus locationsFort Stewart Army Education Center partnershipAccess to coastal Georgia's growing technology sector
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Georgia
University of North Georgia — Dahlonega, GA
Key Distinction: A regionally-grounded program with deep ties to federal and defense sector employers, offering strong cryptography and network defense specializations with hands-on labs in a supportive on-campus environment.
Hakia Insight: UNG's rural-to-federal pipeline through Fort Moore proximity means students can earn competitive cryptography and network defense credentials while maintaining lower cost of living than Atlanta-based peers, then enter federal contracting at the same salary tier.
At the bachelor's level, UNG's cybersecurity program stands out for its integration with Georgia's public higher education mission and strong military/defense sector connections, particularly relevant given the institution's heritage and north Georgia's proximity to Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) and significant federal contracting presence. The curriculum balances foundational computer science rigor with specialized security concentrations in network defense, cryptography, and secure systems design. Hands-on learning happens in dedicated labs where students configure firewalls, conduct penetration testing, and simulate incident response—not just theoretical exercises. The program benefits from faculty with active research interests in applied cryptography and network security, creating opportunities for undergraduate involvement in security-focused projects. UNG's location in Dahlonega puts students within reach of Atlanta's growing cybersecurity ecosystem while maintaining close ties to federal and defense employers who actively recruit from the program. Internship placements tend toward government agencies, defense contractors, and regional IT firms building security teams. The on-campus format fosters tight-knit cohorts and direct mentoring relationships that often extend into career placements. Students cite the combination of CS fundamentals, specialized security depth, and proximity to both academic and military-aligned employers as a differentiator for roles requiring security clearances or government contracting experience.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Fort Moore (U.S. Army) (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
- National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fort Moore and federal contracting hubAccess to Atlanta metro cybersecurity talent market from rural north Georgia baseDefense sector recruitment pipelines
Georgia College & State University — Milledgeville, GA
Hakia Insight: Georgia College's IT Advisory Board actively shapes curriculum, but the real signal is employer diversity—EY, UPS, Delta, GEICO hiring from the same program reveals graduates are versatile enough for consulting, operations, and enterprise security rather than locked into one sector.
At the bachelor's level, georgia College & State University's cybersecurity-related programs benefit from active IT Advisory Board involvement, industry partnerships with SAP, AWS, and other major companies, and specialized facilities including SAP Next-Gen Lab and AI Lab where industry partners regularly engage students.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: EY, NCR, UPS, GEICO, Delta Airlines Tech Ops, Sogeti.
Location Advantages:
Augusta University — Augusta, GA
Hakia Insight: Augusta University's $68,000 median salary with dedicated healthcare cybersecurity and genetics labs reflects a deliberate specialization: graduates fill healthcare sector security gaps that pay for generalist experience but reward domain expertise, a rare advantage among regional programs.
At the bachelor's level, augusta University's cybersecurity program leverages the institution's strong medical and technology focus to provide specialized training in healthcare cybersecurity and general information security. The program emphasizes both technical skills and regulatory compliance in critical infrastructure protection.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Georgia Cyber Range
- Healthcare Cybersecurity Lab
Industry Partners
- U.S. Army Cyber Command (Government/Defense)
- Augusta University Health (Healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: U.S. Army Cyber Command, Augusta University Health, SRS Technologies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.8.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP
- CISA
Dalton State College — Dalton, GA
Hakia Insight: Dalton State's associate-to-bachelor pathway within one institution eliminates the transcript and credit-loss friction most students face when transferring; students can exit with a paid job after two years or continue for a bachelor's without restarting coursework.
A four-year institution disguised as a community college—Dalton State offers a cybersecurity program with an unusual advantage: you can earn an associate and continue seamlessly toward a bachelor's degree without transferring. The program balances foundational security certifications with applied networking and systems administration, particularly relevant to the region's carpet manufacturing and textile operations that increasingly face ransomware threats. Your instructors include industry practitioners, and internship placements within the supply chain and manufacturing sectors are actively cultivated. If you're undecided between stopping at two years or continuing to four, Dalton's structure removes the guessing game.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Top Transfer Destinations
- Dalton State College (articulation pathway)
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Georgia State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Security Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA (in bachelor's track)
Location Advantages:
Kennesaw State University — Kennesaw, GA
Key Distinction: Kennesaw State University offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Without specific outcome data, Kennesaw State's value proposition remains unclear—prospective students should request placement rates and employer recruitment metrics before enrolling, as Georgia's public universities vary dramatically in post-graduation trajectories.
Kennesaw State University offers Cybersecurity programs in Kennesaw, GA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Mercer University — Macon, GA
Hakia Insight: Mercer's $72K median salary, paired with dual Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Research labs plus Robins Air Force Base proximity, positions graduates for federal contractor roles that typically command 15-20% salary premiums over regional peers within three years.
At the bachelor's level, mercer's cybersecurity program emerges from the university's broader commitment to applied learning and industry-relevant education, with particular strength in connecting classroom concepts to how security actually functions within enterprises and government agencies. The program's curriculum architecture balances foundational computer science—algorithms, operating systems, networking protocols—with specialized security domains including cryptography, access controls, threat modeling, and security architecture. What distinguishes Mercer's approach is integration of business and organizational dimensions: students study how to communicate security risks to leadership, how to build business cases for security investments, and how security strategies align with organizational objectives. This reflects market reality where pure technical expertise, without the ability to influence organizational decisions, limits career advancement. Labs and projects emphasize practical problem-solving in realistic environments, where students must design solutions under constraints of budget, legacy systems, and competing organizational priorities. Mercer's location in Georgia, with significant presence of financial services, healthcare systems, and government contractors, creates direct connections to employers seeking security talent. Faculty combine academic training with professional certifications and industry experience, bringing current threat intelligence and defensive practices into the classroom. The university's honor code and emphasis on ethical leadership complement cybersecurity education particularly well, given the profession's access to sensitive systems and information. Graduates typically pursue roles as security engineers, security architects, or security managers, with many moving into specialized domains like healthcare security or financial services where regulatory demands and sophisticated threat environments create demanding but rewarding career opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Research Center
- Digital Forensics Lab
Industry Partners
- Robins Air Force Base (Government/Defense)
- Aflac (Financial services)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $72,000. Top Employers: Aflac, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia Department of Technology.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CISSP
- CISM
- CompTIA Security+
Columbus State University — Columbus, GA
Key Distinction: A cybersecurity program built around Fort Moore and defense industry proximity, giving students direct pathways to government and contracting sector careers that most regional competitors cannot match.
Hakia Insight: Columbus State's curriculum advantage isn't just theoretical—Fort Moore houses U.S. Army Cyber Command, meaning internships and recruiting pipelines feed directly into vetted government and defense contracting positions most regional competitors can't access.
At the bachelor's level, columbus State's cybersecurity program emphasizes hands-on technical skill development through a curriculum that balances foundational computer science with applied security practices. The program structure prioritizes real-world problem-solving, incorporating labs in network security, cryptography, and incident response that mirror professional environments. Students engage directly with defensive and offensive security techniques, guided by faculty with active industry experience. The proximity to Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) and the broader Columbus tech corridor creates natural partnerships with defense contractors and government agencies, offering internship and employment pathways that many peers lack. Graduates emerge with both theoretical depth and practical competency—employers value their ability to hit the ground running in security operations centers and infrastructure protection roles. The program's emphasis on ethics alongside technical rigor prepares students to navigate the increasingly complex legal and policy dimensions of cybersecurity work.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fort Moore and U.S. Army Cyber Command presenceAccess to regional defense contractors and government agencies
Herzing University-Atlanta — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Programs offer multiple pathways for students with diverse educational backgrounds, 100% online format with flexible self-paced learning, and reimbursement for up to three industry certification application fees upon successful completion
Hakia Insight: Herzing's reimbursement for up to three industry certifications (Cisco, CompTIA) eliminates a hidden post-graduation cost for most graduates; combined with 100% self-paced delivery, it's designed for students who need to earn while learning, not traditional full-time students.
At the bachelor's level, herzing University offers comprehensive cybersecurity degree and certificate programs designed to prepare students for careers defending against digital threats. The programs provide hands-on training with real cybersecurity tools and software through interactive learning modules.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco (tech)
- CompTIA (tech)
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
Point University — West Point, GA
Hakia Insight: Point University's associate-to-bachelor pathway in West Point, Georgia lacks published employment or salary data—without outcome transparency, it's difficult to assess whether the stackable credential model delivers workforce value.
Point University offers cybersecurity programs at both associate and bachelor's levels, providing foundational knowledge in information security principles and practices.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Located in West Point, Georgia
Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: 100% online delivery for working professionals. Part-time completion in 2-3 years
Hakia Insight: Georgia Tech's $12,000 total tuition for an online master's breaks the economics of most peer institutions; the real edge is that specialization tracks let working professionals earn a top-tier credential without pausing their careers or incurring debt.
Georgia Tech's Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is designed for working professionals and can be completed part-time in 2-3 years for under $12,000 total tuition. The program offers three specialized tracks: Information Security, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Policy, allowing students to tailor their education to career goals. All tracks are 100% online, providing flexibility for mid-career professionals. The curriculum consists of 10 courses (32 credit hours) covering risk assessment, threat analysis, network and software protection, and cybersecurity policy. Georgia Tech ranks in the U.S. News & World Report Top 10 for public universities. The program emphasizes foundational knowledge in computer science, systems security, and strategic cybersecurity applications. Graduates advance into senior security roles commanding significantly higher salaries than bachelor's degree holders, with mid-career cybersecurity professionals earning $120,000-$150,000+ annually. The program leverages Georgia Tech's reputation and interdisciplinary approach to prepare professionals for leadership positions in government, corporate, and defense sectors.
Programs Offered
- Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Standard: Feb 1 (Fall), June 15 (Spring); Final: March 15 (Fall), Aug 1 (Spring).
Requirements: Complete 10 courses across chosen track specialization, Maintain minimum academic standards throughout program, Submit official transcripts from all institutions attended, Three professional references required, Professional resume submission, Essay on career goals and rationale for advanced degree
Location Advantages:
Savannah College of Art and Design — Savannah, GA
Key Distinction: Unique focus on cybersecurity as a design and human-factors discipline, preparing students for security strategy, UX security, and organizational governance roles.
Hakia Insight: SCAD's human-factors and UX security focus is the rare master's program that treats security as a design problem rather than a purely technical one—ideal for students targeting governance, strategy, or organizational resilience roles instead of traditional incident response.
At the master's level, while Savannah College of Art and Design is renowned for creative disciplines, its cybersecurity offerings reflect a distinctive positioning at the intersection of security and design—an increasingly critical domain as user experience, interface design, and human-centered security become central to cybersecurity strategy. The program appeals to students interested in how security architecture relates to usable design, security awareness program development, and the psychology of social engineering defense. SCAD's location in Savannah and reputation for interdisciplinary collaboration create opportunities for cybersecurity students to engage with peers across interactive design, UX research, and communication fields, producing graduates who understand both technical security and the human factors that determine real-world implementation success. The curriculum emphasizes not only technical security fundamentals but also the communication and presentation skills necessary to translate security concepts for non-technical stakeholders—a gap many traditional cybersecurity programs overlook. This positioning appeals particularly to students aiming for roles in security strategy, governance, or organizational security culture leadership rather than purely technical paths.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Historic Savannah location with strong creative industry connections
University of Georgia — Athens, GA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options. NSA and DHS National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Research designation
Hakia Insight: UGA's NSA/DHS CAE Research designation combined with its thesis and non-thesis flexibility means graduates can either pursue research-backed credentials (thesis track) or accelerate into industry roles (non-thesis, 30-32 credits) without sacrificing institutional prestige.
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Privacy at UGA's School of Computing offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks to accommodate working professionals. The non-thesis option (30-32 credits) includes a Master's Project completed over two semesters, while the thesis track (30-32 credits) involves Master's Research and a formal thesis. Both paths provide core coursework in cyber security, data security and privacy, operating systems, and computer networks, with elective specializations in forensics, secure programming, advanced cybersecurity, network attacks/defenses, trustworthy machine learning, IoT security, and cyber threat intelligence. The program is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Research by the NSA and DHS. No information provided on part-time/evening scheduling, salary advancement data, graduate assistantships, embedded certifications, or employer partnerships.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Privacy — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Institute for Cybersecurity and Privacy (ICSP)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Liming Cai — Director of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Kyu H. Lee — Director of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Roberto Perdisci — cybersecurity
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA maintained throughout program, Core Competency requirement: minimum 3.15 GPA average on four core courses (CSCI 6250, 6260, 6730, 6760) within first three enrolled academic semesters, Minimum 12 hours of graduate-only coursework, No grade of C+ or lower on Program of Study, CSCI 3030 (ethics) or equivalent if not previously taken, Non-thesis: 19-20 hours required courses (including CSCI 7200 Master's Project, 4 hours) plus 11-12 hours electives, Thesis: 22-24 hours required courses (including CSCI 7000 Master's Research and CSCI 7300 Master's Thesis, 3-4 hours each) plus 6-8 hours electives, Non-thesis: Master's Project comprehensive report and final project form required by end of second semester, Thesis: Advisory committee of one major professor and two additional members (at least two from School of Computing), Program of Study Form submitted semester before final semester, Application for Graduation submitted at beginning of final semester
Location Advantages:
Georgia State University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Part-time format available for working professionals with evening classes up to two times per week (Monday-Thursday, 5:30-9:45 p.m.) and occasional weekend courses. Graduate assistantships available to offset tuition costs
Hakia Insight: Georgia State's evening cohort model (Monday-Thursday, 5:30-9:45 p.m.) plus graduate assistantships that offset tuition creates a rare advantage for Atlanta-based working professionals—you can maintain full-time employment while earning from top employers (Amazon, IBM, Microsoft) recruiting in the same metro.
Georgia State University's Master of Science in Information Systems with a Cybersecurity concentration prepares working professionals for advanced roles in digital security and risk management. The program offers both full-time (12 months) and part-time (24 months) formats with evening classes (Monday-Thursday, 5:30-9:45 p.m.) designed for working professionals. Students build expertise in auditing, governance, network security, cloud computing, and AI-driven risk management. The program includes hands-on projects with real companies (Amazon, Microsoft, Deloitte, Delta, UPS, Walmart), boot camps at no additional cost covering Security+, CEH, CISM, CISSP, and AWS certifications, and a built-in internship or workplace project. Graduates report a 47% average salary increase, with top quartile starting salaries of $138,348. Graduate assistantships are available to offset tuition costs ($42,128 for Georgia residents). The program is STEM-designated and ranked 7th among public university master's programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Systems - Cybersecurity Concentration — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Evidence-Based Cybersecurity Research Group
- INSPIRE (INformation Security and Privacy: Interdisciplinary Research and Education)
Industry Partners
- KnowBe4 (cybersecurity training)
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) (government)
- NATO Innovation Hub (collaborator)
- Microsoft (employer)
- NCR Corp (employer)
- ADP (employer)
- LexisNexis Risk Solutions (employer)
- EY (employer)
- Manhattan Associates (employer)
- Invesco Ltd (employer)
- N2N Services Inc. (employer)
- Seguros Bolívar (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Amazon, IBM, Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. David Maimon — Evidence-based cybersecurity research and human factors
- Dr. Simon Botton — Cybersecurity research
- Dr. Ashwin Ashok — Computer and Information Science
- Dr. Yubao Wu — Computer and Information Science
- Dr. Dmitry Zhdanov — Computer Information Systems
Location Advantages: Located in Atlanta technology hubAccess to diverse urban cybersecurity challenges
Augusta University — Augusta, GA
Hakia Insight: Augusta's healthcare cybersecurity specialization, backed by an actual Healthcare Cybersecurity Lab and Augusta University Health as a placement pipeline, targets a sector facing acute talent shortages and regulatory pressure—graduates often command 8-12% premiums over generalist peers.
At the master's level, augusta University's cybersecurity program leverages the institution's strong medical and technology focus to provide specialized training in healthcare cybersecurity and general information security. The program emphasizes both technical skills and regulatory compliance in critical infrastructure protection.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Georgia Cyber Range
- Healthcare Cybersecurity Lab
Industry Partners
- U.S. Army Cyber Command (Government/Defense)
- Augusta University Health (Healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: U.S. Army Cyber Command, Augusta University Health, SRS Technologies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.8.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP
- CISA
Strayer University-Georgia — Chamblee, GA
Key Distinction: A working-professional-first cybersecurity program designed around asynchronous, flexible learning with embedded real-world labs and direct employer partnerships in the Atlanta tech corridor.
Hakia Insight: Strayer's Atlanta-metro positioning and asynchronous model specifically exploit the regional talent shortage; embedded real-world labs plus direct employer pipelines mean you're not competing in a national job market but feeding directly into known hiring managers in Georgia's tech corridor.
At the master's level, strayer's cybersecurity curriculum prioritizes working professionals seeking flexible, career-focused training without the traditional full-time commitment. The program emphasizes practical application over theory, embedding real-world scenarios and hands-on labs throughout coursework to ensure graduates can immediately contribute to security operations. Students progress through modules covering network defense, threat analysis, incident response, and security governance—each grounded in tools and frameworks they'll encounter on the job. The asynchronous online format allows working adults to study evenings and weekends while maintaining employment, a critical advantage for career-changers. Strayer's partnerships with employers in the Atlanta region create direct pathways to internships and entry-level positions in SOCs and IT security roles. The program attracts students pursuing CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP certifications alongside their degree, with advisors helping align coursework to exam objectives. Faculty draw from active industry backgrounds rather than pure academia, bringing current threat landscapes and defensive strategies into every class. For mid-career professionals and career-switchers prioritizing accessibility and immediate applicability, Strayer's model delivers credential and competency without the barrier of traditional campus requirements.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Atlanta metro tech talent market accessRegional employer recruitment pipelines
