Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Minnesota
Hennepin Technical College — Brooklyn Park, MN
Hakia Insight: Hennepin Tech's placement into Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank from an associate's degree signals that their curriculum teaches what financial institutions actually test for in hiring—not a 2-year waiting room before 'real' security work begins.
At the associate's level, if you want to skip the general IT foundation and dive straight into security concepts, Hennepin Technical's focused curriculum moves fast without sacrificing depth. The program assumes some baseline tech knowledge, so it compresses 2 years of material in ways that challenge you to think like a security professional immediately. Hands-on labs use industry-standard tools—Wireshark, Metasploit, and enterprise firewalls—that you'll recognize when you walk into a job. Graduates frequently land junior analyst roles at Minneapolis-area banks and healthcare providers. The college's commitment to stackable credentials means you can earn certifications along the way, building resume credentials with each semester.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, Mayo Clinic, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis financial institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Metropolitan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Security Operations Center Analyst
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA (in some tracks)
Location Advantages:
Minneapolis Community and Technical College — Minneapolis, MN
Hakia Insight: MCTC's urban Minneapolis location creates a direct talent pipeline to both Fortune 500 ops centers and the startup scene simultaneously, a rare dual-market advantage that lets you choose between stability and equity upside before your first job interview.
At the associate's level, working in an urban environment means MCTC's cybersecurity program connects you with a diverse range of employers—from startups in Northeast Minneapolis to established corporations downtown—giving you multiple career pathways from day one. The college emphasizes inclusion and accessible education, so you'll study alongside peers from different backgrounds, which mirrors the reality of modern IT teams. You'll tackle real problems from local businesses and nonprofits, building a portfolio that demonstrates impact beyond classroom exercises. Graduates report strong job placement in support roles at healthcare systems, nonprofits, and small-to-medium businesses throughout the Twin Cities.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Hennepin Healthcare, Twin Cities nonprofits, Minneapolis startups, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Metropolitan State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Century College — White Bear Lake, MN
Hakia Insight: Century's Fortune 500 employer partnerships (Target, UnitedHealth, 3M) mean internship placements happen during the program, not after—you graduate with paid work experience already on your transcript and often a return offer in hand.
At the associate's level, strong partnerships with Fortune 500 companies in the Twin Cities give you direct pathways to internships and employment before you even graduate. Century's cybersecurity curriculum balances foundational IT knowledge with specialized security topics, ensuring you're not starting from zero if you're new to technology. You'll work on real-world case studies, participate in capture-the-flag competitions, and build a portfolio that impresses employers. Alumni report smooth transitions into help desk roles at major corporations, with many advancing to mid-level positions within 3–5 years. The program's advisory board includes security professionals from Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth, so what you learn stays current.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target Corporation, Best Buy, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, Minneapolis-based tech firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Winona State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Security Operations Center Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College — Coon Rapids, MN
Hakia Insight: Anoka-Ramsey's lab-first design fills a specific gap: most associate programs spend year one on theory; here you touch actual network equipment from semester one, so your hands are ready before your brain finishes absorbing the concepts.
At the associate's level, you'll spend significant time in hands-on labs working with actual network equipment and security tools rather than just theory. Anoka-Ramsey's cybersecurity program emphasizes practical troubleshooting and real-world scenarios, preparing you for immediate impact in entry-level roles. Students gain experience with firewalls, intrusion detection, and vulnerability assessment in a learning environment that mirrors what you'll encounter at work. Many graduates land positions at Twin Cities healthcare systems and financial institutions within months of completing the program. The college's proximity to major employers and strong industry relationships mean you're not just learning concepts—you're building connections.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: UnitedHealth Group, Target Corporation, Best Buy, Twin Cities healthcare systems.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Lake Superior College — Duluth, MN
Hakia Insight: Lake Superior's geographic isolation is strategic—Duluth's shipping, utility, and manufacturing sectors have acute infrastructure security gaps that larger metros already solved, creating entry-level demand for security roles that don't exist in oversaturated tech hubs.
At the associate's level, duluth's unique position—surrounded by manufacturing, shipping, and utility companies with heavy IT security needs—means your degree opens doors in industries other regions overlook. Lake Superior College's cybersecurity program emphasizes industrial control systems, operational technology, and infrastructure security, preparing you for specialized roles that pay well and have long career runways. You'll gain hands-on experience with systems protecting power grids, water treatment, and port operations. Graduates find strong employment locally and can leverage that experience to transfer anywhere; employers value specialized security backgrounds.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Minnesota Power, Duluth Port Authority, Manufacturing companies in Northeast Minnesota, Regional utility companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Wisconsin–Superior
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Industrial Control Systems Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
St Cloud Technical and Community College — Saint Cloud, MN
Hakia Insight: St. Cloud Tech's advertised 'active advisor recruitment pipelines' means employers aren't just hiring graduates; they're helping shape the curriculum, so your capstone project often turns into your first job posting.
At the associate's level, if you want a program with real industry recruitment pipelines already built in, St. Cloud Tech's cybersecurity track connects you directly with employers through active advisory boards and internship placements before graduation. The program balances technical depth—network protocols, encryption, threat analysis—with the soft skills employers actually care about: documentation, communication, and problem-solving under pressure. You'll find job opportunities both locally in central Minnesota and regionally, since St. Cloud Tech's reputation means employers across the state actively recruit their graduates for help desk, junior analyst, and junior administrator roles.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: St. Cloud area healthcare networks, State government IT, Regional financial institutions, Managed service providers (central Minnesota), Large regional employers in IT support.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota—Twin Cities
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- Systems Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA (introduction level)
Location Advantages:
Dakota County Technical College — Rosemount, MN
Key Distinction: Dakota County Technical College offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Dakota County Technical College's Rosemount location positions graduates within Twin Cities metro hiring range but outside the credential-inflation effects of downtown Minneapolis, creating favorable supply-demand dynamics for entry-level cybersecurity work.
Dakota County Technical College offers Cybersecurity programs in Rosemount, MN. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Saint Paul College — Saint Paul, MN
Hakia Insight: Saint Paul College's part-time industry instructors create an unusual learning advantage: your professors are solving today's security problems in the field while teaching, so last week's attack becomes this week's lab assignment.
At the associate's level, your instructors bring active industry experience—many work part-time in the field while teaching—so you get security knowledge grounded in what's actually happening in 2024 rather than textbook scenarios from five years ago. Saint Paul College's cybersecurity program emphasizes continuous learning and adaptability, teaching you how to keep your skills current as threats evolve. You'll develop troubleshooting mindsets and problem-solving habits that matter more than memorizing specific tools. The college's strong relationship with state government agencies and Minnesota-based corporations creates job opportunities in sectors with excellent benefits and stability.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: State of Minnesota IT departments, Saint Paul city government, Twin Cities healthcare systems, Regional financial institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Hamline University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Government IT Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Minnesota State College Southeast — Winona, MN
Key Distinction: Minnesota State College Southeast offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State College Southeast's Winona base connects you to regional healthcare and financial IT networks with minimal competition from larger program pipelines, creating outsized job placement leverage for an associate's graduate.
Minnesota State College Southeast offers Cybersecurity programs in Winona, MN. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's private model in St. Cloud offers flexible scheduling and outcomes-focused curriculum design, though prospective students should confirm whether employer recognition in the region matches larger Minnesota State system programs.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Cybersecurity programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Practicum-integrated curriculum with embedded real-world security operations projects starting in year one, rather than sequestering hands-on work to capstones.
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State embeds security operations center projects into coursework from freshman year rather than waiting for senior capstone—meaning you graduate with 3 years of portfolio work instead of a single capstone project, dramatically stronger for employers scanning portfolios.
At the bachelor's level, saint Cloud State's cybersecurity program distinguishes itself through a practicum-heavy curriculum that embeds real-world security operations into coursework from year one. Rather than deferring hands-on experience to capstones, students rotate through threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability assessment projects integrated directly into core classes, often using datasets and scenarios from regional organizations. The program emphasizes defensive security fundamentals—network defense, secure coding, cryptography, and system hardening—with electives allowing specialization in either cloud infrastructure security or application security. Faculty maintain active industry consulting relationships, which translates into current curriculum content; instructors regularly update case studies based on emerging threats and bring industry practitioners into seminars. A distinguishing feature is the Minnesota cybersecurity talent pipeline: the institution partners with Twin Cities tech firms and healthcare systems (major targets for ransomware) to create internship pathways, and roughly 70% of graduates secure positions within the region's growing security operations centers. The program also maintains a teaching lab environment—students often work on live (sandboxed) systems and compete in capture-the-flag events that feed directly into hiring conversations with employers. For students who value applied learning over pure theory, and who see cybersecurity as a craft requiring constant hands-on refinement, Saint Cloud State delivers accessibility to both education and employment without the premium price tag of larger research universities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Minnesota Department of Health (government)
- CenturyLink (now Lumen) (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: 3M, C.H. Robinson, Central MN Credit Union, Datakey Electronics, Equus Computer Systems, Healthland, LSI Corporation, Medtronic, Micron, MN State Institutions, Netgain, United Health Group, Vital Images.
Location Advantages: Central Minnesota tech corridor with growing cybersecurity hiring in healthcare and retailProximity to Twin Cities security operations centers and regional Fortune 500 headquarters
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Lab-intensive, hands-on learning with IT/OT cyber ranges and cloud-based virtual labs. Courses aligned with industry-recognized certifications
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's three dedicated cyber ranges (ICS, virtual, and cloud-based labs) sit in the Twin Cities' densest cluster of healthcare and financial sector hiring—students can prototype defenses against real attack surfaces while recruiters from those same employers actively source graduates from campus.
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Metropolitan State University is a lab-intensive program preparing students to safeguard critical information systems and respond to cyber threats. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through IT/OT cyber ranges and cloud-based virtual labs, with courses aligned to industry-recognized certifications and NSA Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD) standards. Students develop technical skills in threat detection, incident response, and secure systems design while building essential soft skills in ethical judgment, communication, and leadership. The program is taught by faculty with extensive government, industry, and military cybersecurity experience. Graduates are positioned for roles as Security Analysts, Penetration Testers, Incident Responders, and Security Architects, with entry-level salaries ranging from $80,000–$92,000 and median salaries exceeding $124,000. The program benefits from strategic oversight by the MN Cyber Advisory Board, which includes industry, government, and academic representatives, ensuring curriculum alignment with real-world workforce needs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
- Metro State's Virtual Lab
- MN Cyber ICS Range
- Metro State Cyber Flex Labs
- Metro State Cyber Range
- Minnesota Institute for Cybersecurity and Forensics
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA in ICS 265 and MATH 215.
Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in ICS 265 and MATH 215, Grade of C- or higher in all major prerequisite courses, Successful completion of General Education Goal I Writing Requirement, Competency in C programming language, Minimum 16 credits applicable to major completed at Metro State University, At least 28 credits of upper-division coursework (400-level or higher)
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
Location Advantages: Urban Twin Cities location with heavy presence of healthcare, finance, and government cybersecurity hiringProximity to major insurance, healthcare, and Fortune 500 compliance and audit departments
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A competency-based online cybersecurity program with flexible pacing, embedded labs, and specializations in security leadership, designed for mid-career professionals targeting leadership-track advancement.
Hakia Insight: Capella's competency-based model means a student who enters with CompTIA A+ can compress foundational material and redirect semesters toward advanced specializations in security leadership—a structural advantage over fixed-pacing programs when competing for mid-career advancement roles.
At the bachelor's level, capella's cybersecurity programs prioritize applied, competency-based learning with flexible pacing, enabling students to accelerate through material they've already mastered through work experience while spending focused time on new technical areas. The curriculum integrates emerging topics—cloud security, AI/ML in threat detection, zero-trust architecture—with traditional security fundamentals, positioned for graduates entering an evolving threat landscape. Programs offer concentration options in areas like security leadership and organizational risk management, appealing to professionals aiming for CISO-track careers rather than purely technical specialist roles. Capella's learning platform embeds practical exercises directly into coursework; students don't wait for labs to practice—labs are embedded throughout. The university maintains partnerships with industry organizations and cybersecurity certifying bodies, and many program pathways are structured to support CompTIA Security+, CEH, or CISSP preparation. The cohort-based structure, even within online delivery, creates peer accountability and knowledge-sharing networks among working security professionals.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Google (collaborator)
- CompTIA (collaborator)
- Cisco (collaborator)
- SAS (collaborator)
- AWS (collaborator)
- Coursera (collaborator)
- Sophia Learning (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Melissa Zgola — Information Technology and Cybersecurity Program Direction
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ aligned
- CEH preparation
Location Advantages: Global accessibility through fully online, competency-based delivery
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen University-Minnesota's St. Cloud location serves a regional market where generic 'comprehensive cybersecurity preparation' statements lack the specificity to reveal competitive positioning; without published data on labs, partnerships, or outcomes, prospective students cannot assess concrete differentiation.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Cybersecurity programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Dunwoody College of Technology — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Dunwoody's stacked-credential model lets students earn security certifications and enter SOC roles with an associate degree in 18–24 months, then continue to a bachelor's degree part-time.
Hakia Insight: Dunwoody's 18–24 month associate-to-SOC pipeline lets students earn money and real incident response experience before returning part-time for the bachelor's degree—a financial and career acceleration route unavailable at four-year-only competitors charging full tuition upfront.
Dunwoody's cybersecurity offerings center on applied technical training tailored to students who learn best through direct equipment manipulation and systems interaction rather than theory-heavy coursework. The college's unique strength is its integration with active IT infrastructure labs where students configure firewalls, manage intrusion detection systems, and conduct hands-on penetration testing using industry-standard tools in realistic network topologies. Rather than a traditional four-year path, Dunwoody offers flexible credential stacking—students can earn short-form certificates in network security or ethical hacking that lead toward an associate degree, then bridge to a bachelor's degree if desired. This structure appeals to career-changers and working professionals who need faster entry into security roles. The curriculum emphasizes practical certifications (Security+, CEH, OSCP pathways) and direct employer feedback shapes course updates quarterly. Faculty are primarily practitioners who maintain active consulting or security roles, bringing current threat intelligence and emerging attack vectors into the classroom. Dunwoody's Minneapolis location and reputation in the trades create strong employer networks among regional banks, healthcare IT departments, and manufacturing firms seeking hands-on security talent.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
- EC-Council (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional banks, Healthcare IT departments, Manufacturing sector IT.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ pathway
- CEH preparation
- OSCP preparation
Location Advantages: Minneapolis metro access to banking and healthcare IT security rolesStrong ties to regional manufacturing cybersecurity initiatives
Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Minnesota
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A competency-based online cybersecurity program with flexible pacing, embedded labs, and specializations in security leadership, designed for mid-career professionals targeting leadership-track advancement.
Hakia Insight: Capella's embedded competency checkpoints and Google/Cisco partnerships mean a mid-career professional can skip redundant modules on foundational networking and apply that time to security leadership tracks—collapsing what typically takes two years into an accelerated timeline without sacrificing employer recognition.
At the master's level, capella's cybersecurity programs prioritize applied, competency-based learning with flexible pacing, enabling students to accelerate through material they've already mastered through work experience while spending focused time on new technical areas. The curriculum integrates emerging topics—cloud security, AI/ML in threat detection, zero-trust architecture—with traditional security fundamentals, positioned for graduates entering an evolving threat landscape. Programs offer concentration options in areas like security leadership and organizational risk management, appealing to professionals aiming for CISO-track careers rather than purely technical specialist roles. Capella's learning platform embeds practical exercises directly into coursework; students don't wait for labs to practice—labs are embedded throughout. The university maintains partnerships with industry organizations and cybersecurity certifying bodies, and many program pathways are structured to support CompTIA Security+, CEH, or CISSP preparation. The cohort-based structure, even within online delivery, creates peer accountability and knowledge-sharing networks among working security professionals.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Google (collaborator)
- CompTIA (collaborator)
- Cisco (collaborator)
- SAS (collaborator)
- AWS (collaborator)
- Coursera (collaborator)
- Sophia Learning (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Melissa Zgola — Information Technology and Cybersecurity Program Direction
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ aligned
- CEH preparation
Location Advantages: Global accessibility through fully online, competency-based delivery
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Part-time evening and online options; classes meet once weekly. Graduate assistantships available: up to $9,250 stipend per year plus tuition reimbursement for up to 8 credits per semester
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State's $9,250 annual graduate assistantship plus tuition reimbursement makes the MSIA effectively tuition-free for funded cohorts, a financial structure that inverts the typical cost-benefit calculation against part-time online degrees and is rare among master's programs in the region.
The Master of Science in Information Assurance (MSIA) at Saint Cloud State University prepares cybersecurity professionals in an interdisciplinary program offered through the Herberger Business School. Students can complete the degree in 2–4 semesters with a bachelor's degree, or pursue a 5-year B.S./M.S. track as undergraduates. The program offers flexible scheduling with classes meeting once weekly in evenings or 100% online across multiple campuses. Graduate assistantships provide up to $9,250 stipends annually plus tuition reimbursement for up to 8 credits per semester. Five-year track students may apply for NSF STEM scholarships ($12,000 stipend over two years) or the Scholarship for Service (up to $34,000 stipend annually, full tuition, and professional development funds). The curriculum covers forensics, cryptography, intrusion detection, and risk management. As a National Center of Academic Excellence designated by the NSA and DHS, the program positions graduates for high-demand roles in cybersecurity, with placement in data analyst, systems administrator, network security, and enterprise architect positions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Assurance — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Minnesota Department of Health (government)
- CenturyLink (now Lumen) (corporate)
Location Advantages: Central Minnesota tech corridor with growing cybersecurity hiring in healthcare and retailProximity to Twin Cities security operations centers and regional Fortune 500 headquarters
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: A cybersecurity program emphasizing cloud security, infrastructure defense, and industrial control systems, with strong regional employer partnerships and real-world capstone collaborations.
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Mankato's AIMS lab explicitly pairs machine learning and biometrics research—led by faculty with active security authentication schemes—giving thesis-track students a rare bridge between academic AI research and the defensive operations curriculum most peers teach separately.
At the master's level, minnesota State Mankato's cybersecurity offerings integrate defensive operations with emerging threat landscapes through a curriculum that evolves with industry needs. The program emphasizes infrastructure security and cloud security architecture—areas where Midwest employers face acute skill gaps—alongside traditional network defense. Students benefit from partnership with the university's broader engineering and information technology ecosystem, enabling crossover knowledge in secure system design and industrial control system (ICS) security. The university maintains active connections to regional employers in manufacturing, energy, and government, creating internship pipelines and direct recruitment relationships. Mankato's location in south-central Minnesota places students within commutable distance of Twin Cities tech employers while serving as a hub for outreach to rural Minnesota organizations increasingly confronting cybersecurity demands. The program includes hands-on laboratory work in network security, system hardening, and vulnerability assessment, with capstone projects often developed in collaboration with regional organizations addressing real security challenges.
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
- Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning & Security Research Group (AIMS)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sarah Kruse — Department Chair & Professor
- Dr. Rushit Dave — Machine learning & Applications, Cyber Security, Biometrics Authentication schemes
- Dr. Suboh Alkhushayni — Associate Professor
Location Advantages: Proximity to Twin Cities tech employersRegional manufacturing and energy sector presenceConnections to government agencies
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: An online cybersecurity program designed for mid-career professionals, balancing technical depth with leadership skills and offering specialized tracks in ethical hacking and incident response.
Hakia Insight: Walden's IBM partnership and asynchronous design target career-changers, but the real edge surfaces in specialized tracks (ethical hacking, incident response) that let a mid-career professional pivot into a specific security domain rather than absorb a generic cybersecurity overview.
At the master's level, walden's online-first cybersecurity programs are engineered for mid-career professionals transitioning into security roles or advancing from entry-level positions, with asynchronous coursework accommodating complex work schedules across geographies. The curriculum balances technical security foundations with leadership and management competencies, recognizing that cybersecurity careers increasingly require professionals who can bridge technical and executive perspectives. Specialization tracks in areas like ethical hacking, incident response, and security governance allow students to deepen expertise aligned with their career trajectory. The university's online infrastructure itself serves as a living case study—students engage with security principles in platforms where distance education security is a practical concern. Walden emphasizes outcomes-based education with explicit connections between course competencies and employer needs, supported by career services designed for working adult placement. The student cohort spans international backgrounds and industry sectors, creating peer networks valuable for professionals seeking to understand security challenges across healthcare, finance, government, and technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
Location Advantages: Global accessibility through fully online delivery
Concordia University-Saint Paul — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Embedded CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) certification preparation—the predominant cybersecurity credential. Asynchronous online format designed specifically for working professionals with flexible deadline-based coursework
Hakia Insight: Concordia's embedded CISM preparation within the master's curriculum removes the post-degree certification grind—students enter the job market with both the degree and the industry-dominant credential already in hand, rather than stacking tuition and study time after graduation.
Concordia University-Saint Paul's online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit, 1.5-year program designed for working professionals. The asynchronous format allows flexible completion around your schedule with online access anytime and assignment deadlines. The curriculum embeds preparation for the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, the predominant credential in the field. Students build professional portfolios through scenario-based learning in compliance, incident detection, and security operations. The program covers business strategy, IT ethics, project management, vulnerability management, and cyber defense using a DevOps/Agile perspective. Graduates advance into high-demand roles—the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 17,100 annual information security analyst job openings (2023-2033). Tuition is $525 per credit hour with scholarships available. Military members receive GI Bill eligibility, Yellow Ribbon support, reduced tuition, and military service transfer credits. Up to 15 transfer credits accepted to reduce completion time and costs. Employer tuition benefits available.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Twin Cities financial institutions (corporate)
- Healthcare systems (Minneapolis-Saint Paul region) (corporate)
Location Advantages: Twin Cities financial and healthcare sector proximityStrong employer connections in compliance-heavy industries
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota — Winona, MN
Key Distinction: 100% online with no set class times. Six start dates per year for flexibility
Hakia Insight: Saint Mary's six annual start dates and truly asynchronous (not just online) format—no set class times—is a structural rarity that accommodates shift workers and on-call incident responders who cannot commit to weekly cohort schedules, even flexible ones.
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 33-credit, fully online program designed for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling with no set class times but instructor-led courses. The program can be completed in one year and features six start dates annually (September, October, January, March, May, June). A major advantage is embedded preparation for high-value professional certifications including CISSP, CISM, CompTIA Network+, Security+, and CySA+. The curriculum combines hands-on technical training in cloud security, intrusion detection, and ethical hacking with business leadership and management skills. Two graduate certificates are embedded within the master's program (Cybersecurity Management and Technology). No computer science background is required, and GRE/GMAT scores are waived. Saint Mary's partners with regional and national employers through their Trusted Partnership Program for tuition assistance. Graduates typically earn $90,520-$126,900 in roles like Information Security Analyst or Computer Network Architect, with the cybersecurity field projected for 32% growth through 2032.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- State-of-the-Art Cybersecurity Lab
Industry Partners
- CompTIA (partner)
- Booz Allen Hamilton (employer)
- AT&T (employer)
- JP Morgan Chase (employer)
- Microsoft (employer)
- Boeing (employer)
- Lockheed Martin (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Microsoft, Boeing.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75 minimum. Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines: Spring I: Dec. 19, Spring II: Feb. 16, Summer I: April 20, Summer II: June 15.
Requirements: Undergraduate degree from regionally accredited institution, Minimum 2.75 GPA, Completion of prerequisite coursework or waiver
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ aligned
- CEH preparation
- CISSP preparation
Location Advantages: Regional connections in healthcare and finance sectors
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Accelerated combined BS + MS format: earn both degrees in 140 credits, reducing time and tuition cost. NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO) designation alignment
Hakia Insight: The combined BS + MS in 140 credits at Metropolitan State eliminates the credential gap that typically plagues four-year undergrads entering the workforce; students graduate with both degrees in five years rather than spending two additional years and tuition on a standalone master's after working entry-level SOC roles.
The Master of Science in Cyber Operations at Metropolitan State University is part of an accelerated combined BS + MS program in Cybersecurity Operations, allowing students to earn both degrees in 140 credits. The MS curriculum aligns with the NSA's Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO) and emphasizes advanced cyber operations—including offensive and defensive strategies, malware analysis, reverse engineering, threat intelligence, and risk management. The program is designed for working professionals and students seeking leadership roles, with hands-on, lab-intensive coursework and access to IT/OT cyber ranges. Graduates are positioned for careers in government, military, defense contracting, and private industry. Median salaries for cybersecurity professionals exceed $124,000, with employment projected to grow 33% over the next decade. The combined degree structure accelerates career entry while enhancing professional credibility and competitiveness for advanced roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cyber Operations — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
- Metro State's Virtual Lab
- MN Cyber ICS Range
- Metro State Cyber Flex Labs
- Metro State Cyber Range
- Minnesota Institute for Cybersecurity and Forensics
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: intel, Intel.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA in ICS 265 and MATH 215.
Requirements: Completion of pre-major foundation courses with minimum GPA requirements, Maintenance of 3.0 cumulative GPA through completion of bachelor's degree, Advanced coursework in cyber operations aligned with NSA NCAE-CO knowledge units, Hands-on lab-based learning and cyber range training, Coursework in offensive and defensive strategies, malware analysis, reverse engineering, threat intelligence, and risk management
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
Location Advantages: Urban Twin Cities location with heavy presence of healthcare, finance, and government cybersecurity hiringProximity to major insurance, healthcare, and Fortune 500 compliance and audit departments
