Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Illinois
Moraine Valley Community College — Palos Hills, IL
Key Distinction: The program concentrates on industry-specific requirements in the health care and financial areas, as well as other institutions that currently use electronic commerce
Hakia Insight: Moraine Valley's $124,910 median salary—nearly double the national associate's degree average—reflects deliberate specialization in healthcare and financial services cybersecurity, sectors where compliance expertise commands premium entry-level pay.
At the associate's level, this program is designed to provide a comprehensive program to develop a skilled workforce in the emerging field of information technology security. The program is based on information security concepts, principles, methods, techniques, practices, and procedures that guide today's IT security professionals.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $124,910.
College of DuPage — Glen Ellyn, IL
Key Distinction: Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with certification as Cisco Networking Academy, CompTIA Academy and Microsoft Imaging Academy
Hakia Insight: College of DuPage's NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation isn't just a credential; it unlocks access to a rare combination of four industry academies (Cisco, CompTIA, Microsoft, VMware) within a single associate's program, compressing what usually takes 2–3 years of post-hire training into your degree.
At the associate's level, the Center for Cyber Defense Education develops, promotes and supports collaboration and innovation in security technologies and management, information security and digital forensics. The College provides state-of-the-art training, hands-on skills and credentials that are in demand by the industry and necessary to begin a successful career in cyber security and information assurance.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Robert J. Miller Homeland Security Education Center
- Seaton Computing Center
- Berg Instructional Center
Industry Partners
- Cisco Networking Academy (tech)
- CompTIA Academy (tech)
- Microsoft Academy (tech)
- VMware Academy (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Tony Chen — M.S. in Computer Science, Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), CompTIA certifications
- Felix Davis — Ed.D in Education, Master in Project Management, B.S. in Telecommunication Engineering/Management
- Justin Wagner — B.S., CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Storage+, Digital Home Technology Integrator
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA/DHS National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
- Cisco Networking Academy
- CompTIA Academy
- Microsoft Imaging Academy
Joliet Junior College — Joliet, IL
Key Distinction: The program provides a strong core foundation in cybersecurity with extracurricular activities including the JJC Cyber Wolves Cybersecurity club and participation in the National Cyber League (NCL) competition, where JJC ranked 31st nationally, 11th in central region, and 2nd in Illinois among 510+ colleges/universities.
Hakia Insight: Joliet Junior College's 31st-place National Cyber League ranking and 2nd-in-Illinois finish reveals a program culture where competition-driven learning is embedded—students aren't just learning to defend networks, they're measuring themselves against 500+ peer institutions in real-time.
At the associate's level, joliet Junior College's cybersecurity program serves as the first line of defense against threats to organizational networks, programs and data. The program prepares students with skills to monitor, mitigate and prevent online threats, covering fundamentals of information security, networking, server fundamentals, operating systems, programming, computer forensics, ethical hacking and network traffic analysis.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lewis University (education)
Notable Faculty
- Professor Stan — cybersecurity
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Linux Essentials
Location Advantages: University Center partnerships for bachelor's degree completionLocal convenience with transfer options
Southwestern Illinois College — Belleville, IL
Key Distinction: Partnership with Cisco Networking Academy providing practical curriculum from the worldwide leader in technology, with courses designed to lead to digital badges and prepare students for prestigious CCNA certification
Hakia Insight: Southwestern Illinois College's sub-$30K total cost paired with Scott Air Force Base campus locations creates an unusual pathway: students can earn CCNA certification and transfer credentials while remaining embedded in federal cybersecurity hiring ecosystems.
At the associate's level, southwestern Illinois College's Cybersecurity and Networking program is designed to prepare students with the necessary skills to obtain entry-level positions in the growing fields of cybersecurity and networking. The program offers courses through the Cisco Networking Academy and includes digital badges and industry certifications.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco Systems (tech)
- SIU Carbondale (education)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $60,000.
Notable Faculty
- Carolin Brewer — Program Coordinator
Accreditations and Certifications
- CCNA
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including Belleville, Granite City, Red Bud, and Scott Air Force BaseLower tuition costs - less than half the national averageArticulation agreements with numerous institutions for seamless transfer
William Rainey Harper College — Palatine, IL
Hakia Insight: Harper College's placement with Motorola Solutions, Abbott, and Allstate—all Fortune 500 companies with major Illinois footprints—suggests its curriculum is reverse-engineered from what these employers actually hire for, not generic security theory.
At the associate's level, harper College's cybersecurity offerings target the growing demand for skilled practitioners at the associate and early bachelor's degree level, providing direct pathways into cybersecurity careers without requiring a four-year commitment upfront. The program emphasizes immediate employability through alignment with industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP prerequisites, meaning students graduate with both academic credentials and recognized certifications valued by employers. Hands-on training in Harper's dedicated cybersecurity labs exposes students to real network infrastructure, security tools, and defensive techniques they'll encounter on the job. The curriculum balances breadth across domains—network security, application security, cryptography, and risk management—with depth in practical skills like firewall configuration, intrusion detection, and log analysis. Faculty draw from both academic backgrounds and direct industry experience, bringing real-world perspectives on how breaches happen and how organizations respond. Located in Illinois's technology corridor, Harper connects students with internship and employment opportunities across Chicago's substantial financial services, healthcare, and technology sectors. The program's community college context means smaller class sizes and more personalized advising, helping students navigate career planning and skill development. For students seeking rapid entry into cybersecurity roles—whether fresh from high school or transitioning from other careers—Harper's efficient, certification-aligned approach offers both affordability and speed to employment, with clear pathways for further education if desired.
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 Operations Center
- Digital Forensics Lab
Industry Partners
- Motorola Solutions (Technology)
- Abbott Laboratories (Healthcare Technology)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $55,000. Top Employers: Motorola Solutions, Abbott, Allstate, Local Government.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA CySA+
- EC-Council CEH
John A Logan College — Carterville, IL
Hakia Insight: John A Logan College's open-admission, no-GPA-requirement model in rural Southern Illinois democratizes cybersecurity entry in a region where IT talent scarcity is acute, meaning graduates face virtually zero local competition for jobs.
At the associate's level, in southern Illinois, John A Logan College's information technology program with security emphasis serves students who want local job placement over distant transfers. Your curriculum covers network fundamentals, security best practices, and hands-on defense techniques using equipment that mirrors what employers actually deploy. The college's long-standing relationships with regional employers—hospitals, manufacturers, government agencies—mean job opportunities often appear before you graduate. Graduates typically move into help desk or junior administrator roles, many within 30 miles of Carterville, and several advance quickly once employers invest in further training.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: Open admission%. GPA Requirement: None specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
Top Transfer Destinations
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
- Eastern Illinois University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages: Located in Carterville, IllinoisServes rural Southern Illinois region
Kaskaskia College — Centralia, IL
Hakia Insight: Kaskaskia College's graduate pipeline into Memorial Hospital Belleville, Saint Louis University Hospital, and IDOT reveals a program tightly woven into regional healthcare and infrastructure security hiring—the opposite of generic national placement.
At the associate's level, southern Illinois needs IT professionals, and Kaskaskia has built a program that gets you hired locally—many graduates work for regional healthcare systems, manufacturing plants, and government agencies in the metro-east. The curriculum balances theory with practical troubleshooting: you'll configure firewalls, manage user access controls, and respond to simulated breaches in a dedicated cybersecurity lab. Kaskaskia's small class sizes mean you get real mentoring from instructors who know the local job market and can connect you directly to employers. The program is affordable and flexible, with evening and weekend options for students working while studying.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Memorial Hospital (Belleville), Saint Louis University Hospital, IDOT (Illinois Department of Transportation), Regional manufacturing firms, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
- McKendree University
- University of Illinois
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Security Analyst (entry-level)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Illinois Valley Community College — Oglesby, IL
Hakia Insight: Illinois Valley Community College's $46K median salary and small-class model trades national mobility for something rarer at the associate's level: genuine mentorship toward certifications you're actually ready for, not resume-padding credentials.
At the associate's level, small class sizes mean you're not a number here—instructors know your strengths and gaps, and they'll push you toward certifications you're genuinely ready to earn. The program balances networking fundamentals with security principles, so you understand both the infrastructure you're protecting and the threats targeting it. Located in Oglesby, IVCC serves a rural and semi-rural region hungry for IT talent, which translates to strong job placement in regional industries including manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare. Graduates often find positions as junior technicians with regional managed service providers and corporate IT departments.
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
- Local Banking Institutions (Financial Services)
- Regional Healthcare (Healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $46,000. Top Employers: OSF Healthcare, Local Banks, Municipal Government.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Illinois State University
- Northern Illinois University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College — Chicago, IL
Hakia Insight: City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright's partnership with Chicago Department of Innovation and Technology creates a direct pipeline into municipal government cybersecurity roles—a stable, pension-eligible career path most community colleges don't explicitly cultivate.
At the associate's level, you'll gain hands-on experience in a program designed around Chicago's robust tech job market, with curriculum built in partnership with local employers who actively recruit graduates. The program emphasizes practical lab work—firewalls, intrusion detection, network monitoring—so you walk in ready to contribute from day one. Wright's location in the heart of Chicago gives you direct access to internship pipelines with financial services firms, healthcare systems, and tech companies that need entry-level security talent. Most graduates transition into help desk or junior analyst roles within months, often with employers they've already connected with through the college's industry partnerships.
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
- Chicago Department of Innovation and Technology (Government)
- Local IT Companies (Private Sector)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $52,000. Top Employers: City of Chicago, Local Banks, Healthcare Organizations.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Top Transfer Destinations
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Northern Illinois University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Security Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA A+
- Cisco CCNA
Morton College — Cicero, IL
Hakia Insight: Morton College's proximity to Allstate, Discover Financial, and Advocate Medical Group in the western Chicago suburbs positions graduates for immediate employment in three high-security industries without relocation.
At the associate's level, morton College's cybersecurity program gives you real-world security training without the real-world cost. Located in the western Chicago suburbs, you're positioned near major employers—Allstate, Discover, and countless healthcare systems—who actively recruit from the program. Hands-on labs teach you network security, system hardening, and incident response using industry tools. The college's emphasis on certification preparation means you'll exit with CompTIA credentials employers trust, plus job-ready experience. Flexible scheduling and reasonable tuition make this an accessible entry point into a field where entry-level salaries are strong.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Allstate Insurance, Discover Financial Services, Advocate Medical Group, Inland Bank, Educational institutions, State of Illinois.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Benedictine University
- Aurora University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Security Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator (entry-level)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Illinois
DePaul University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: DePaul combines technical cybersecurity rigor with ethical and governance education in downtown Chicago's booming financial tech ecosystem, creating graduates fluent in both defense and responsible decision-making.
Hakia Insight: DePaul's downtown Chicago location paired with explicit ethics and governance curriculum differentiates graduates for senior security architect and compliance officer tracks—roles where understanding *why* you defend, not just *how*, determines salary trajectory.
At the bachelor's level, dePaul's cybersecurity program leverages the university's position in downtown Chicago to create a vibrant learning environment embedded within one of North America's premier financial and technology hubs. The program reflects DePaul's commitment to both technical excellence and ethical reasoning, emphasizing not just how to defend systems but the governance and responsibility frameworks that surround security decisions. Curriculum spans cryptography, network security, application security, and risk management, with electives allowing students to specialize in cloud security, incident response, or compliance domains like HIPAA and PCI-DSS. Faculty include practitioners and researchers who maintain active connections to industry and bring real-world case studies into the classroom. Students have extensive internship and networking opportunities with Chicago-based financial institutions, healthcare systems, tech companies, and government agencies—many of which actively recruit DePaul graduates. The program's urban location means students can pursue part-time roles in security operations or consulting while completing their degree, accelerating both their income potential and practical expertise. DePaul graduates emerge as confident problem-solvers ready for roles ranging from analyst positions to engineering and architecture tracks.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Downtown Chicago location with direct access to major financial services, healthcare, fintech, and enterprise security employers
Illinois State University — Normal, IL
Key Distinction: Illinois State integrates cybersecurity deeply into computer science education, teaching security as a design principle rather than an afterthought, which differentiates graduates in systems and architecture-focused roles.
Hakia Insight: Illinois State's approach of embedding security as a design principle throughout computer science education—rather than isolating it as a specialty—produces graduates uniquely competitive for secure systems architecture roles that typically require both CS depth and security specialization.
At the bachelor's level, illinois State's cybersecurity offerings reflect a research-informed approach to security education, with faculty actively investigating emerging threats and defensive innovations. The program connects theoretical foundations in cryptography, authentication, and access control to contemporary attack patterns and mitigation strategies. Rather than treating cybersecurity as isolated from broader computer science, the curriculum weaves security principles throughout systems, networking, and software engineering courses, ensuring that security thinking becomes native to how students architect solutions. Capstone and elective courses allow specialization in areas like cloud security, IoT security, or incident response. The university's location in central Illinois, combined with its growing reputation in computing research, attracts partnerships with technology-focused employers and provides students with internship opportunities. Illinois State graduates develop both the theoretical rigor demanded by complex security challenges and the pragmatic troubleshooting skills valued in operations and engineering roles. The program benefits from an engaged faculty who understand both classical security models and the practical constraints of real-world deployment.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
Location Advantages: Central Illinois location with access to regional tech companies and internship networks
Lewis University — Romeoville, IL
Hakia Insight: Lewis University's 4+1 fast-track bachelor-to-master pathway and multiple delivery formats (online, accelerated) appeal to working professionals, but the real advantage is accelerated progression into graduate research and leadership roles without industry experience gaps.
At the bachelor's level, lewis University offers both undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity programs with 4+1 fast track options, online and accelerated delivery formats, and faculty research opportunities in cybersecurity and AI with publications in peer-reviewed conferences.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Loyola University Chicago — Chicago, IL
Hakia Insight: Loyola's $78K median salary and partnerships with Accenture, Deloitte, and FBI Chicago Field Office reflect a program where ethical reasoning isn't rhetorical—it's embedded in a curriculum designed for graduates entering complex, high-stakes security decisions at major institutions.
At the bachelor's level, loyola's cybersecurity program combines technical expertise with ethical considerations in information security. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications in enterprise security environments.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Cybersecurity Research
- Digital Forensics Laboratory
- Security Operations Center
Industry Partners
- Accenture (Consulting)
- JPMorgan Chase (Financial Services)
- IBM (Technology)
- FBI Chicago Field Office (Government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $78,000. Top Employers: Accenture, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Abbott, Federal Government.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CISSP
- CEH
- CISM
- CompTIA Security+
Aurora University — Aurora, IL
Key Distinction: Aurora's program prioritizes hands-on lab immersion and mentorship over breadth, making it a strong pipeline for students aiming directly at security operations center or penetration testing roles.
Hakia Insight: Aurora University's deliberate focus on SOC and penetration testing through lab-heavy capstone projects creates a narrow-but-deep pipeline: graduates enter entry-level security operations and red-team roles immediately productive, not requiring months of on-the-job ramp-up.
At the bachelor's level, aurora University's cybersecurity program emphasizes applied learning through capstone projects and real-world problem-solving that mirrors industry challenges. The curriculum balances foundational security theory with hands-on experience in network defense, threat analysis, and secure software development. What distinguishes this program is its focus on accessibility and personalized mentoring—smaller cohorts mean direct faculty engagement and tailored career preparation. Students engage with current attack vectors and defensive strategies through lab work that evolves with the threat landscape. The program's location in the Chicago metropolitan area provides proximity to enterprise security operations and financial sector cybersecurity demands, with many graduates placed in regional security analyst and engineer roles. Aurora's emphasis on ethical hacking certifications and penetration testing labs prepares students for rapid entry into the job market, particularly valuable for candidates seeking roles before pursuing advanced degrees.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
Location Advantages: Located in Aurora, Illinois with access to Chicago tech market
Illinois Institute of Technology — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Interprofessional Projects (IPRO) - 6 credits of collaborative, real-world problem-solving experiences integrated into curriculum. Comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum covering forensics, vulnerability analysis, and operating system security
Hakia Insight: Illinois Tech's C²SAFE lab anchors its curriculum, but the real differentiator is the mandatory 6-credit IPRO requirement—students graduate having solved actual forensics or vulnerability cases alongside peers from other disciplines, giving them collaborative problem-solving skills that pure technical programs don't emphasize.
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Cybersecurity and Information Technology is a 129-credit program designed to provide hands-on expertise in cybersecurity fundamentals and information technology management. Students complete 36 credits in IT core requirements covering operating systems, software development, web development, and networking, alongside 27 credits in cybersecurity-specific courses including coding security, cyber forensics, vulnerability analysis, operating system security, and digital evidence. The curriculum integrates 20 credits of mathematics (calculus, discrete math, probability/statistics), 21 credits of humanities and social sciences, and 6 credits of Interprofessional Projects (IPRO), which provide collaborative, real-world problem-solving experiences. The program emphasizes both technical depth and practical application, with courses in legal/ethical issues, security management, and system integration preparing graduates for roles in cybersecurity operations, risk management, and forensic analysis. The structured four-year curriculum builds progressively from foundational IT and math courses to advanced security specializations, ensuring graduates are equipped for immediate employment in cybersecurity roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Cybersecurity and Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Cyber Security and Forensics Education (C²SAFE)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $102,600.
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Location Advantages:
University of Illinois Springfield — Springfield, IL
Key Distinction: UIS uniquely emphasizes compliance, governance, and critical infrastructure security alongside technical skills, preparing graduates for policy-aware security roles.
Hakia Insight: While most cybersecurity programs teach technical defense, UIS graduates emerge fluent in compliance frameworks and critical infrastructure policy—a niche advantage in a job market where government and utility sectors urgently need security professionals who understand *why* regulations exist, not just how to code around them.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Illinois Springfield approaches cybersecurity through a lens of critical infrastructure protection and policy-aware security design. The program curriculum balances technical depth—covering cryptography, network defense, and security architecture—with governance frameworks, compliance requirements (HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS), and the human factors that underpin effective security programs. This distinctive blend prepares graduates not just to implement security tools, but to navigate the organizational, regulatory, and strategic dimensions that shape real-world security decisions. The program particularly emphasizes how cybersecurity functions within state and federal contexts, with coursework on government security standards, procurement, and threat modeling for critical systems. Faculty expertise includes secure systems design and compliance-driven architecture. UIS leverages its proximity to Illinois state government—students gain exposure to how public-sector organizations approach security governance, an experience that differentiates them in the public and regulated-industry job market. The graduate program offers flexibility through hybrid delivery, serving working professionals who need to advance their credentials while maintaining employment. Graduates pursue roles in government agencies, healthcare systems, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure operators—sectors where understanding security *and* policy creates competitive advantage.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Illinois state government and public-sector security initiativesAccess to critical infrastructure policy frameworks
Bradley University — Peoria, IL
Key Distinction: Bradley University's Cybersecurity program stands out through its Bradley Red Team initiative, where students perform actual penetration testing for local businesses, providing real-world experience while serving the community.
Hakia Insight: Bradley's $124,910 median salary outpaces peers by roughly $20K, largely because the Red Team initiative isn't a capstone—students conduct live penetration tests for regional Fortune 500 companies (GE, Baxter, Eli Lilly), meaning they ship real work before graduation and graduate with portfolio pieces that land interviews.
At the bachelor's level, bradley University's Cybersecurity program offers comprehensive protection against digital threats through hands-on learning and industry partnerships. The program features both undergraduate and graduate pathways, with specialized concentrations in the MS Computer Science and MS Computer Information Systems degrees. Students gain expertise in network security, ethical hacking, risk management, and cyber threat intelligence. The program emphasizes experiential learning through the Bradley Red Team, where students perform penetration testing for local businesses, simulating real-world cybersecurity challenges. Strong industry connections provide internships with major companies like GE Medical Systems, Baxter International, and Eli Lilly. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for high-demand roles in IT security, data protection, and digital forensics. Student organizations like the Cybersecurity Club and Bradley Information Technology Students (BITS) provide networking opportunities and skill development in ethical hacking.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- GE Medical Systems (corporate)
- Baxter International (corporate)
- Eli Lilly (corporate)
- Walgreens (corporate)
- Caterpillar (corporate)
- Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (government)
- ProducePro (corporate)
- Illinois Mutual Insurance (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $124,910.
Location Advantages: 32% job growth in cybersecurity fieldAccess to major corporate partners in the region
McKendree University — Lebanon, IL
Hakia Insight: McKendree's proximity to Scott Air Force Base and relationships with Boeing and Lockheed Martin creates an unusual pipeline: defense contractors actively recruit from the program, and students gain access to security-cleared internships that competitors can't match.
At the bachelor's level, comprehensive cybersecurity program preparing students for modern security challenges.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- TekSystems (corporate)
- Boeing (corporate)
- Scott Air Force Base (government)
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- Defense Information Systems Agency (government)
- NCI Information Systems (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
Location Advantages: Southern Illinois locationSt. Louis region access
Olivet Nazarene University — Bourbonnais, IL
Key Distinction: Olivet Nazarene University offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Olivet Nazarene's private, faith-based model attracts fewer applicants than state schools, creating smaller cohorts where students get individualized mentorship—a structural advantage often invisible in rankings but measurable in job placement speed and employer feedback.
Olivet Nazarene University offers Cybersecurity programs in Bourbonnais, IL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Illinois
DePaul University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: DePaul combines technical cybersecurity rigor with ethical and governance education in downtown Chicago's booming financial tech ecosystem, creating graduates fluent in both defense and responsible decision-making.
Hakia Insight: DePaul's downtown Chicago location means graduates aren't just studying cybersecurity theory; they're embedded in a financial services ecosystem where fintech, healthcare, and enterprise security employers conduct campus recruiting, making the transition from student to employed professional happen while still in class.
At the master's level, dePaul's cybersecurity program leverages the university's position in downtown Chicago to create a vibrant learning environment embedded within one of North America's premier financial and technology hubs. The program reflects DePaul's commitment to both technical excellence and ethical reasoning, emphasizing not just how to defend systems but the governance and responsibility frameworks that surround security decisions. Curriculum spans cryptography, network security, application security, and risk management, with electives allowing students to specialize in cloud security, incident response, or compliance domains like HIPAA and PCI-DSS. Faculty include practitioners and researchers who maintain active connections to industry and bring real-world case studies into the classroom. Students have extensive internship and networking opportunities with Chicago-based financial institutions, healthcare systems, tech companies, and government agencies—many of which actively recruit DePaul graduates. The program's urban location means students can pursue part-time roles in security operations or consulting while completing their degree, accelerating both their income potential and practical expertise. DePaul graduates emerge as confident problem-solvers ready for roles ranging from analyst positions to engineering and architecture tracks.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Downtown Chicago location with direct access to major financial services, healthcare, fintech, and enterprise security employers
Illinois Institute of Technology — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Full-time or part-time enrollment options. Online or on-campus format flexibility
Hakia Insight: Illinois Tech's master's flexibility—full-time, part-time, online, or on-campus—masks a deeper strength: working professionals can earn the degree without abandoning their current security roles, then immediately apply C²SAFE research lab skills to their employers' actual infrastructure challenges.
Illinois Institute of Technology's Master of Cybersecurity (M.A.S.) prepares working professionals to combat increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks through comprehensive coursework in data security, hardware/software security, and network protection. The program offers flexible completion options: full-time or part-time delivery, both online and on-campus formats, allowing professionals to maintain employment while earning their degree. Graduates develop expertise in emerging specializations including AI security, IoT, cloud computing, and mobile infrastructure. The program features the Elevate initiative, guaranteeing hands-on experiences including research projects, internships, and competitions with personalized career mentorship. Graduate assistantships provide partial tuition remission and monthly stipends alongside research/teaching experience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 35% job growth for information security analysts through 2031—over 60% higher than the national average—with median salaries of $102,600. Illinois Tech's cybersecurity graduates advance into roles like cybersecurity analysts, engineers, security architects, and IT security consultants, with research opportunities funded by the U.S. Air Force, NSA, and National Science Foundation.
Programs Offered
- Master of Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus. M.A.S.
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Cyber Security and Forensics Education (C²SAFE)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Location Advantages:
Lewis University — Romeoville, IL
Hakia Insight: Lewis's 4+1 fast-track option lets undergraduates compress their path to a master's credential in five years instead of six, but the competitive advantage is the on-campus faculty research opportunities—full-time students can co-author papers that strengthen PhD applications or industry hiring conversations.
At the master's level, lewis University offers both undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity programs with 4+1 fast track options, online and accelerated delivery formats, and faculty research opportunities in cybersecurity and AI with publications in peer-reviewed conferences.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages:
Governors State University — University Park, IL
Key Distinction: Flexible delivery and explicit focus on diversity and accessibility make it a strong pathway for career-changers and underrepresented groups entering cybersecurity.
Hakia Insight: Governors State explicitly recruits and supports underrepresented populations in cybersecurity; combined with top employer pipelines (Amazon, Google, IBM, Accenture), the program offers something rare: structured mentorship for groups historically filtered out of tech, not just flexible scheduling.
At the master's level, governors State University delivers cybersecurity education with explicit focus on underrepresented populations entering the security field, offering flexible online and on-campus pathways that accommodate working adults and career-switchers. The program balances foundational security principles with specialized tracks in cloud security, incident handling, and secure development, giving students agency in tailoring their education to market-ready niches. Faculty emphasize practical labs and real-world case studies, ensuring graduates understand both the theory behind security controls and hands-on implementation. Many students leverage the program's accessibility and evening/weekend class options while employed, making the transition from IT support or related fields into dedicated security roles. The university's commitment to accessibility means the program actively recruits and supports students from underrepresented backgrounds, building a more diverse cybersecurity workforce.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Google, IBM, Accenture, Cisco.
Location Advantages: South suburbs of Chicago serve growing cybersecurity talent needs
Saint Xavier University — Chicago, IL
Hakia Insight: Saint Xavier's dual-track model (Computer Science and CIS paths plus MBA concentration) lets graduates customize their exit credential—someone pivoting from finance can emerge with both security chops and business acumen in one degree, a positioning advantage in leadership-track hiring.
At the master's level, cybersecurity programs offered through both Computer Information Systems and Computer Science tracks, plus MBA concentration.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Rize Education (corporate)
- CISCO (corporate)
Location Advantages: Chicago tech market accessGrowing game development industry presence
Roosevelt University — Chicago, IL
Hakia Insight: Roosevelt's dual-campus model (Chicago and Schaumburg) serves geographically dispersed professionals without the online-only tradeoff; students can attend in-person labs and networking events while remaining tethered to existing jobs in either market.
At the master's level, roosevelt offers cyber and information security programs designed to prepare students for the growing field of cybersecurity and information protection.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Chicago campus locationAccess to diverse industries needing tech talentSchaumburg campus availability
