Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Ohio
MyComputerCareer at Columbus — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: MyComputerCareer specializes in fast-track cybersecurity training with the unique Cyber Warrior Program offering four CompTIA certifications in just 3 months, originally designed for military transitions but now available to all students.
Hakia Insight: MyComputerCareer's Cyber Warrior Program compresses four CompTIA certifications into 12 weeks—a velocity that matters for career changers, since most associate programs take two years to achieve the same credential stack, effectively halving both time-to-employment and tuition exposure.
At the associate's level, myComputerCareer at Columbus offers comprehensive cybersecurity training programs designed for career changers and IT professionals. The school provides multiple specialized tracks including the Cyber Warrior Program (3-month intensive with CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and CySA+ certifications), Cyber Security Specialist Program (interactive online learning with lab simulations), and Cyber Security Engineer Program (advanced security routing protocols for enterprise networks). Programs emphasize hands-on experience, industry certifications, and practical skills. The school maintains strong industry connections with employers actively seeking graduates with their specific certifications and training.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $90,000.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: not specified. Application Deadline: not specified.
Requirements: Prerequisites required for CSS and CSE programs - contact Admissions Advisor for details
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA CySA+
- CompTIA CASP+
- Cisco CCNA
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations across the USLive online learning optionsMilitary-friendly programsGI Bill acceptance
North Central State College — Mansfield, OH
Hakia Insight: North Central State's 40+ articulation agreements with four-year universities eliminate the typical friction of transferring from associate to bachelor's work; students don't shop for accepting universities—they're pre-committed to smooth progression.
At the associate's level, the Information Technology-Cyber Security program teaches students to detect and defend against network infrastructure attacks by learning ethical hacking techniques and penetration testing. Students gain hands-on experience with security tools and develop skills necessary for incident response, security auditing, and digital forensics.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
- EC-Council (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- VMware (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Private sector businesses, Public sector organizations, Government agencies.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: Not specified%. GPA Requirement: Not specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker
- Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator
- Cisco CCENT
- CompTIA Cloud+
- CompTIA Linux+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Installation, Storage, and Compute with Windows Server 2016
Location Advantages: Over 40 articulation agreements with four-year universitiesCentral Ohio locationSmall class sizes with 15:1 student to faculty ratio
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College — Cincinnati, OH
Hakia Insight: Cincinnati State's employer base (P&G, Kroger, Cincinnati Children's Hospital) represents verticals—consumer goods IT, supply chain security, healthcare infrastructure—that rarely recruit from coastal community colleges, making graduates genuinely local labor market assets.
At the associate's level, cincinnati State's cybersecurity program benefits from the college's heavy emphasis on technical excellence and its deep roots in the Cincinnati tech ecosystem—employers here actively participate in curriculum development, meaning you learn exactly what the market needs. The program combines CompTIA and Cisco certifications with hands-on labs in network security, ethical hacking fundamentals, and incident response. Graduates land roles at major Cincinnati employers (banks, tech firms, manufacturers) or transfer to UC, Xavier, or other four-year institutions. What makes Cincinnati State stand out is the sheer number of local tech employers within reach—you're training in a major tech hub, not a rural area, so internship and job opportunities are abundant.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Cincinnati financial institutions, Tech companies (P&G, Kroger IT, regional tech firms), Healthcare IT (Cincinnati Children's, UC Health), Manufacturing IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Cincinnati
- Xavier University
- Northern Kentucky University
- Ohio State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Security Analyst
- Network Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
- CEH basics (Certified Ethical Hacker)
Location Advantages:
Belmont College — St Clairsville, OH
Hakia Insight: Belmont's emphasis on lab-based network defense from day one means students spend less time in theory lectures and more time in actual lab environments compared to peers at community colleges that compress labs into final semesters.
At the associate's level, if you're serious about hands-on security work from day one, Belmont's cybersecurity program emphasizes lab-based learning in network defense and systems administration. You'll work with real equipment and virtualized environments to understand how breaches happen and how to stop them—practical skills that employers actually want. Graduates typically land help desk and junior security analyst roles at regional manufacturing and healthcare firms in southeastern Ohio. The program's strength lies in its connections to local industry, meaning internship opportunities and job placement happen naturally. While Belmont isn't the largest CC in the state, that's actually an advantage: smaller class sizes mean instructors know your strengths and can recommend you directly to hiring managers.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional healthcare networks, Manufacturing facilities, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Ohio University
- Shawnee State University
- West Virginia University (regional option)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Cuyahoga Community College District — Cleveland, OH
Hakia Insight: Cuyahoga's Digital Forensics Center and direct partnerships with Cleveland Clinic and Progressive Insurance create internship pathways in two high-growth sectors—healthcare IT security and insurance fraud investigation—that most Ohio associate programs don't cultivate.
At the associate's level, cuyahoga Community College offers an associate degree in cybersecurity designed to meet the growing demand for information security professionals in Northeast Ohio. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through state-of-the-art labs and 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
- Cyber Range Lab
- Digital Forensics Center
Industry Partners
- Cleveland Clinic (healthcare)
- KeyBank (financial)
- Progressive Insurance (insurance)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $48,000. Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, KeyBank, Progressive, University Hospitals.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- GIAC Security Essentials
Clark State College — Springfield, OH
Hakia Insight: Clark State's partnership with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base creates a direct employment pipeline to one of the nation's largest defense contracting clusters, a geographic advantage that translates to higher median salaries than peer community colleges in less strategically located regions.
At the associate's level, clark State College's cybersecurity program prepares students for immediate employment in one of today's fastest-growing fields. Students gain hands-on expertise in network security, threat detection, ethical hacking, and incident response through labs that mirror real-world scenarios. The curriculum emphasizes industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA Security+, enabling graduates to enter the job market with credentials employers actively seek.
Graduates successfully transfer to four-year institutions like Wright State University and Central State University to complete bachelor's degrees, or move directly into cybersecurity roles with government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and managed security service providers throughout Ohio and beyond. The program's strong partnerships with local technology employers create internship opportunities that frequently convert to permanent positions.
What distinguishes this program is its focus on applicability—every concept connects to current threats and defense strategies. Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction, while the affordable tuition makes cybersecurity education accessible. For career-changers and high school graduates alike, Clark State's cybersecurity pathway offers the fastest route to a lucrative, stable career protecting critical infrastructure and organizational assets.
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
- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (government)
- Premier Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $45,000. Top Employers: Premier Health, Kettering Health, local IT firms.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Stark State College — North Canton, OH
Hakia Insight: Stark State's multi-decade placement track record in the Canton manufacturing and tech sector means employers there actively recruit from Stark—not because of brand prestige, but because Stark alumni consistently deliver in roles these specific employers need, reducing post-graduation job search friction.
At the associate's level, stark State's IT and cybersecurity programs are built on decades of success placing graduates into the Canton and greater Northeast Ohio manufacturing and tech sector—if you want a job waiting for you after graduation, this college's employer relationships deliver. The curriculum emphasizes network administration, systems security, and troubleshooting skills that manufacturing IT departments and regional tech companies actively recruit for. You'll earn industry certifications and have multiple pathways to transfer to Kent State, Youngstown State, or Ohio State if a bachelor's degree calls you later. The program's competitive edge is local: employers know Stark State graduates, they trust the preparation, and they hire them.
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: Not specified.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Kent State University
- Youngstown State University
- Ohio State University
- Cleveland State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCENT/CCNA basics
Location Advantages: Located in North Canton, Ohio with additional campuses in Akron and Canton
Sinclair Community College — Dayton, OH
Key Distinction: Combines cybersecurity education with criminal justice training, focusing on evidence procedures, computer forensics, and IT criminal investigation, while incorporating articulated credit for Law Enforcement and Corrections entities.
Hakia Insight: Sinclair's dual focus on forensics and criminal justice creates a rare hybrid path—graduates emerge job-ready for either corporate incident response or law enforcement cybercrime units, a flexibility that widens employer options beyond typical IT roles.
At the associate's level, sinclair Community College's Cyber Investigation Technology program prepares students for careers in computer network protection, managing networks and operating systems, and IT criminal investigation, which includes evidence procedures and computer forensics. The program incorporates preparation for industry-recognized certifications and offers transfer opportunities to four-year degree programs.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- EC Council (cybersecurity training)
- CompTIA (IT certification)
- ISACA (cybersecurity certification)
- ISC2 (cybersecurity certification)
- Microsoft (technology)
Lakeland Community College — Kirtland, OH
Key Distinction: Program is approved by InfraGard, the FBI's premier public/private partnership, and is designated by the Department of Homeland Security/National Security Agency as a Center for Academic Excellence (CAE)
Hakia Insight: Lakeland's NSA CAE designation and FBI InfraGard partnership mean curriculum alignment with federal security standards, but the real advantage is direct pipeline access: InfraGard members actively recruit from programs like this, essentially giving students pre-vetted introduction to cleared defense contractors.
At the associate's level, lakeland's cybersecurity program focuses on designing, implementing and maintaining defensive and offensive strategies in the cybersecurity area. As cybersecurity specialists, graduates serve as digital guardians of our interconnected world, protecting organizations from cyber threats.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- InfraGard (FBI public/private partnership)
Notable Faculty
- Nick DiTirro — cybersecurity education content creator
Accreditations and Certifications
- Center for Academic Excellence (CAE)
- CompTIA
- Cisco
- RedHat
Location Advantages: Partnership programs for degree completionIndustry certification preparation
University of Northwestern Ohio — Lima, OH
Hakia Insight: UNWO's $47K median salary sits below national averages for cybersecurity roles, but the Information Security and Digital Forensics labs anchor employers like Marathon Petroleum and Mercy Health—regional companies with stable long-term careers that don't require relocation at graduation.
At the associate's level, if you're looking for hands-on cybersecurity training with a strong focus on real-world lab environments, UNWO's program emphasizes practical skill-building over theory alone. Students work with actual networking equipment and security tools in dedicated labs, preparing them for immediate contribution in entry-level roles. The program is structured to get you job-ready quickly—many graduates move directly into Help Desk or Systems Support positions at regional Ohio employers, while others use the degree as a bridge to Ohio State, Miami University, or similar four-year programs. The college's location in northwestern Ohio connects students with employers in the industrial and manufacturing sectors who increasingly need cybersecurity talent.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Information Security Lab
- Digital Forensics Lab
Industry Partners
- Marathon Petroleum (energy)
- Mercy Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $47,000. Top Employers: Marathon Petroleum, Mercy Health, ProMedica.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA A+
- CISSP Associate
Top Transfer Destinations
- Ohio State University
- Miami University
- University of Toledo
- Bowling Green State University
- Kent State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Support Associate
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Helpdesk Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Ohio
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — Cincinnati, OH
Key Distinction: Available in both onsite and online formats. Hands-on skills training with software and hardware security tools
Hakia Insight: UC's dual on-campus and online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity is uncommon at the bachelor's level; most programs force students to choose between traditional rigor or flexible delivery, but UC doesn't, making it accessible for Ohio students balancing work and study without sacrificing hands-on lab access.
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at University of Cincinnati prepares graduates for one of the fastest-growing careers in computing by combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills in software and hardware security tools. Students learn to design secure systems, protect enterprise information and network assets, and investigate computer-related crimes. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills required for positions such as vulnerability analyst, incident response specialist, penetration tester, intrusion detection specialist, and secure code auditor. Graduates gain expertise in applying security standards, models, and best practices to real-world IT infrastructure challenges, drafting security policies, and mitigating risks and threats. The program is designed to enable students to function effectively as individual contributors and team members, with pathways to technical or project management and leadership roles upon graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages:
Franklin University — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: Franklin's cybersecurity program uniquely combines accelerated, fully online delivery with practitioner-led instruction in high-demand specializations like cloud and application security, designed for working professionals.
Hakia Insight: Franklin's practitioner-led model means your instructors are actively working in cloud and application security—rare for accelerated online programs where adjuncts often teach outdated content—so you're learning tools and threats from people currently defending production systems.
At the bachelor's level, franklin University has built a cybersecurity program specifically designed for working professionals and career-changers, leveraging its strength in flexible, accelerated online delivery without compromising technical rigor. The curriculum progresses from foundational concepts in networking and systems administration through specialized tracks in cloud security, application security, and enterprise security operations—allowing students to tailor their learning to emerging job markets. The program integrates real-world scenarios such as responding to ransomware attacks, securing remote infrastructure, and implementing zero-trust architectures, reflecting current industry challenges. Faculty include practitioners who continue active roles in security operations and consulting, ensuring course content remains aligned with what employers actually hire for. Franklin's online model attracts working security professionals seeking advancement without interrupting their careers, creating cohorts with diverse experience levels that enhance peer learning. Graduates report rapid advancement into senior analyst, security architect, and security operations center (SOC) leadership roles within 2–3 years. The program's emphasis on cloud and application security—areas where talent shortages are acute—positions graduates competitively in both startup and enterprise environments. Partnerships with cloud providers and security tool vendors mean students gain hands-on experience with platforms and technologies they'll encounter immediately on the job.
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
- authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education
Location Advantages:
Kent State University at Trumbull — Warren, OH
Hakia Insight: Kent State Trumbull offers a regional campus advantage: full bachelor's degree pathways without the commute or cost of main-campus attendance, yet students access the same faculty expertise and can tap into Kent State's broader research labs across the system.
At the bachelor's level, kent State University's Associate of Applied Business in Cybersecurity provides students with technical skills and knowledge necessary to protect organizations from cyber threats through hands-on experience and industry-relevant coursework covering network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and risk management. Graduates are well-equipped for entry-level positions in IT security, network administration, and information security.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
University of Akron Main Campus — Akron, OH
Key Distinction: Akron's cybersecurity program uniquely emphasizes engineering rigor and systems-level security design, supported by a strong co-op network that integrates paid professional experience throughout the curriculum.
Hakia Insight: Akron's engineering-first approach to cybersecurity is distinctive—most programs treat security as IT bolted onto CS, but Akron's co-op network with manufacturing and defense contractors in northeast Ohio creates paid internships where students solve actual systems-level vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.
At the bachelor's level, akron's cybersecurity program leverages the university's strong engineering and computer science traditions to deliver technically rigorous training in system security, network defense, and secure software development. The curriculum emphasizes the engineering principles underlying security—understanding threat models, designing resilient systems, and implementing controls at multiple layers—rather than treating security as an afterthought to IT operations. Students engage with real-world attack surfaces through labs in network penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and secure coding practices. The program benefits from Akron's location in northeast Ohio's manufacturing and technology corridor, where employers increasingly need security expertise to protect industrial systems, supply chains, and digital assets. Faculty include professionals with backgrounds in systems security, cryptography, and enterprise architecture, bringing depth to both foundational and advanced courses. Akron's co-op and internship network, a strength across the university, extends into cybersecurity roles, enabling students to alternate classroom study with paid professional experience before graduation. This earn-while-you-learn model makes the program particularly accessible and provides early career visibility to potential employers. Graduates typically enter roles as security engineers, systems security analysts, or security architects at manufacturing companies, tech firms, and defense contractors—positions that reward the program's emphasis on engineering fundamentals and systems-level thinking.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to manufacturing and industrial sectors in northeast OhioAccess to technology firms and defense contractors in the region
Tiffin University — Tiffin, OH
Key Distinction: Tiffin University offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Tiffin University provides limited public data on program specifics, making it difficult for prospective students to assess faculty expertise, lab resources, or employer outcomes compared to peer institutions—transparency gaps like these should prompt direct outreach before enrollment.
Tiffin University offers Cybersecurity programs in Tiffin, OH. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Kent State University at Ashtabula — Ashtabula, OH
Key Distinction: Kent State's Cybersecurity A.A.B. program uniquely combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, featuring comprehensive coverage of Cisco networking technologies and enterprise risk management in a flexible online or on-campus format.
Hakia Insight: Kent State Ashtabula's Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics Lab (CIA) is a rare research resource at a regional campus, and pairing it with open enrollment admission means capable students without top GPAs can still access cutting-edge analytics work typically gated behind selective admissions.
At the bachelor's level, kent State University at Ashtabula offers a comprehensive Cybersecurity program through its Associate of Applied Business (A.A.B.) degree. This 61-credit hour program provides students with an applied approach to information security concepts, covering critical areas including risk identification, security testing and monitoring, enterprise risk management, networking, hardware and operating systems, Cisco networking technologies, cyber defense methods, cyber ethics, incident management and security policies. The program is designed to address the ever-growing threat to sensitive and critical data in information technology, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in cybersecurity and IT security management. Available both online and on-campus, the program emphasizes practical skills needed to secure networks, prevent cyberattacks, and protect sensitive data. Students gain expertise in core cybersecurity competencies while developing the ability to identify, analyze and mitigate security risks in professional environments.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics Lab (CIA)
- Advanced Information Security and Privacy (AISP) Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Shawn Golden — Cybersecurity
- Dr. Younghun Chae — Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics
Location Advantages: Regional campus with open enrollment admissionAccess to Kent State's broader research infrastructure
Kent State University at Stark — North Canton, OH
Key Distinction: Kent State's cybersecurity program combines hands-on technical training with comprehensive enterprise risk management, offering both online and on-campus delivery options across multiple regional campuses.
Hakia Insight: Kent State Stark's multi-campus design with shared labs (AISP, CIA) and rotating faculty like Dr. Chae across locations means students at smaller regional campuses get research exposure usually reserved for main-campus peers—an equity advantage often invisible in rankings.
At the bachelor's level, kent State University's Cybersecurity program offers comprehensive education in information security through multiple degree pathways. The Associate of Applied Business (A.A.B.) in Cybersecurity provides students with applied approaches to information security concepts, covering risk identification, security testing and monitoring, enterprise risk management, networking, hardware and operating systems, Cisco networking technologies, cyber defense methods, cyber ethics, incident management and security policies. The program is designed to address the ever-growing threats to sensitive and critical data in information technology, preparing graduates with technical skills needed to secure networks, prevent cyberattacks, and protect sensitive data. Students gain competency in cybersecurity-related topics and learn to identify, analyze and develop plans to mitigate security risks while understanding professional, legal and ethical behavior in the field.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Advanced Information Security and Privacy (AISP) Lab
- Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics Lab (CIA)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Shawn Golden — Cybersecurity education
- Dr. Younghun Chae — Cybersecurity and intelligence analytics
- Dr. Angela Guercio — Cybersecurity research
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem, Stark, Trumbull and TuscarawasOpen enrollment admission at regional campuses
Shawnee State University — Portsmouth, OH
Key Distinction: Shawnee State University offers comprehensive Cybersecurity programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Shawnee State University provides minimal differentiated data on its cybersecurity offering, leaving prospective students without clear insight into faculty credentials, employment outcomes, or specialized research areas—this lack of public detail is itself a red flag when evaluating program maturity.
Shawnee State University offers Cybersecurity programs in Portsmouth, OH. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Wright State University-Main Campus — Dayton, OH
Key Distinction: Features a unique blend of faculty who balance theory, practice, hardware, and software in their courses, with access to a state-of-the-art Virtual Cyber Security Lab (VCSL) that allows students to work in a safe environment while practicing what they learn
Hakia Insight: Wright State's Virtual Cyber Security Lab (VCSL) is significant because it's sandbox-based, meaning students can break things, recover, and iterate—a learning mode impossible in shared enterprise networks—and partnerships with Amazon Web Services and Booz Allen Hamilton create direct hiring pathways for graduates.
At the bachelor's level, wright State's cybersecurity program develops knowledge and skills applicable to protecting computer systems and networks. The program offers flexibility to complete coursework online or on campus using state-of-the-art Virtual Cyber Security Lab facilities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Virtual Cyber Security Lab (VCSL)
- Cyber Research and Education Center (CREC)
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) (tech)
- Booz Allen Hamilton (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Booz Allen Hamilton.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Computer programming, Computer organization, Data structures and algorithms, Programming languages, Operating systems
Kent State University at Tuscarawas — New Philadelphia, OH
Key Distinction: Kent State's Cybersecurity program uniquely combines applied security concepts with comprehensive coverage of enterprise risk management and cyber ethics, delivered entirely online with multiple regional campus support options.
Hakia Insight: Kent State Tuscarawas' fully online format paired with access to Dr. Golden and Dr. Chae's research labs is unusual; most online-only programs operate in isolation, but Kent State's multi-campus ecosystem means you're genuinely connected to faculty research despite never stepping foot on a physical campus.
At the bachelor's level, kent State University's Cybersecurity program offers comprehensive education in information security through an Associate of Applied Business degree delivered 100% online. The program provides students with applied approaches to information security concepts, addressing the ever-growing threats to sensitive and critical data in information technology. Students gain technical skills needed to secure networks, prevent cyberattacks, and protect sensitive data while understanding the impact of security issues on businesses and individuals. The curriculum covers risk identification, security testing and monitoring, enterprise risk management, networking, hardware and operating systems, Cisco networking technologies, cyber defense methods, cyber ethics, incident management and security policies. The program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in cybersecurity and IT security management, building upon a solid knowledge base with practical applications.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Cybersecurity — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Advanced Information Security and Privacy (AISP) Lab
- Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics Lab (CIA)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Shawn Golden — Cybersecurity
- Dr. Younghun Chae — Cybersecurity and Intelligence Analytics
Location Advantages: Multiple regional campus locations including TuscarawasOnline delivery format provides flexibility
Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Ohio
The University of Findlay — Findlay, OH
Key Distinction: Findlay's program uniquely combines certification-aligned curriculum with an operational security lab where students run and defend actual networks, preparing them for SOC and incident response roles immediately upon graduation.
Hakia Insight: Findlay's operational security lab where students defend live networks is rare at the master's level—most programs teach threat theory, but Findlay's approach compresses the typical 6-12 month entry-level SOC ramp-up into coursework, accelerating time-to-senior-analyst roles by years.
At the master's level, the University of Findlay's cybersecurity program emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and real-world threat simulation from day one. Students engage with network intrusion detection, vulnerability assessment, and incident response in a dedicated security operations center environment before advancing to specialized tracks in cloud security, application security, or infrastructure defense. The curriculum integrates CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP-aligned content, giving graduates industry-recognized credentials alongside their degree. Faculty bring direct industry experience—many maintain active consulting relationships or hold certifications themselves—which shapes a program that stays current with emerging threats like ransomware, supply chain attacks, and zero-trust architecture. The university's location in Northwest Ohio creates partnerships with regional financial institutions and healthcare systems that regularly host internships and collaborate on capstone projects. Graduates report strong placement rates in Fortune 500 companies' security operations centers and mid-market firms building out their first dedicated security teams, with many completing their first certification within months of employment.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Location Advantages: Proximity to regional financial and healthcare sectors in Ohio
Franklin University — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: Franklin's cybersecurity program uniquely combines accelerated, fully online delivery with practitioner-led instruction in high-demand specializations like cloud and application security, designed for working professionals.
Hakia Insight: Franklin's practitioner-led master's for working professionals in cloud and application security fills a real gap: most cybersecurity master's programs teach broad enterprise security, but Franklin specializes in the two domains where shortage is most acute and salaries highest.
At the master's level, franklin University has built a cybersecurity program specifically designed for working professionals and career-changers, leveraging its strength in flexible, accelerated online delivery without compromising technical rigor. The curriculum progresses from foundational concepts in networking and systems administration through specialized tracks in cloud security, application security, and enterprise security operations—allowing students to tailor their learning to emerging job markets. The program integrates real-world scenarios such as responding to ransomware attacks, securing remote infrastructure, and implementing zero-trust architectures, reflecting current industry challenges. Faculty include practitioners who continue active roles in security operations and consulting, ensuring course content remains aligned with what employers actually hire for. Franklin's online model attracts working security professionals seeking advancement without interrupting their careers, creating cohorts with diverse experience levels that enhance peer learning. Graduates report rapid advancement into senior analyst, security architect, and security operations center (SOC) leadership roles within 2–3 years. The program's emphasis on cloud and application security—areas where talent shortages are acute—positions graduates competitively in both startup and enterprise environments. Partnerships with cloud providers and security tool vendors mean students gain hands-on experience with platforms and technologies they'll encounter immediately on the job.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
- authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education
Location Advantages:
Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management — Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Hakia Insight: AFIT's $95K median salary for military-exclusive cybersecurity graduates understates the true compensation picture—most graduates transition into NSA and Cyber Command roles where security clearances unlock six-figure trajectories that civilian programs can't replicate.
AFIT offers an elite master's program in cybersecurity exclusively for military and DoD personnel. The program focuses on advanced cyber operations, national security applications, and cutting-edge research in cyber warfare and defense.
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
- Center for Cyberspace Research
- Information Assurance Lab
Industry Partners
- NSA (government)
- DARPA (government)
- Cyber Command (military)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: U.S. Air Force, NSA, Cyber Command, defense contractors.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
Wright State University-Main Campus — Dayton, OH
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. project track options available. Flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals
Hakia Insight: Wright State's thesis-or-project flexibility matters most for its embedded advantage: the Virtual Cyber Security Lab lets working professionals conduct research on live infrastructure problems from their current employers, turning night-school study into immediate workplace impact.
Wright State University's Master of Science in Cyber Security is designed for working professionals seeking flexible degree completion. The program requires 30 semester hours including 12 core hours, with students choosing between a thesis or project track (CS7960). Courses are offered on-campus in well-equipped computer engineering labs and feature a state-of-the-art Virtual Cyber Security Lab for safe, practical skill development. The program balances theory and practice across hardware and software domains, with faculty expertise spanning multiple cybersecurity specializations. Students can complete the degree within six years, accommodating part-time enrollment. The curriculum develops skills in identifying and resolving cyber threats, protecting computer systems and networks, and conducting cybersecurity research. Graduates advance into specialized cybersecurity roles with increased earning potential and career opportunities in critical infrastructure protection and enterprise security.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cyber Security — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Virtual Cyber Security Lab (VCSL)
- Cyber Research and Education Center (CREC)
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) (tech)
- Booz Allen Hamilton (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Booz Allen Hamilton.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: 12 hours of core courses, 18 additional semester hours of coursework, Completion of project or thesis option (CS7960), Project presentation and defense to advisory committee, Successful project committee approval for graduation
University of Toledo — Toledo, OH
Hakia Insight: Toledo's extension partnership with Lorain County Community College creates an unusual pathway for manufacturing technicians to stack credentials—entry-level IT skills at a community college, then a master's degree without relocating, in a region where industrial automation demand far outpaces talent supply.
At the master's level, graduate certificate program designed to upgrade skills in computer and network security for professionals in healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and government sectors.
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
- Digital Logic Design Lab
- Electronics Lab
- Embedded Systems Lab
- Energy Conversion Lab
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Healthcare, Manufacturing, Finance, Government.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: not specified.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Strong regional manufacturing baseGrowing automation industryExtension program availability at Lorain County Community College
