Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
276 Cybersecurity graduates annually, 87% graduation rate
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
97 Cybersecurity graduates annually, 56% graduation rate
Saint Francis University
6 Cybersecurity graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
- 1.Pennsylvania has 20+ accredited cybersecurity bachelor's programs with 8 NSA Centers of Academic Excellence designations
- 2.Carnegie Mellon University ranks #1 globally with its Information Security Institute and 94% graduation rate
- 3.Penn State offers top public cybersecurity education at $19,816 in-state tuition with government recruiting partnerships
- 4.Pennsylvania cybersecurity professionals earn median $89,570 annually—9% above the national median (BLS Pennsylvania 2024)
- 5.Philadelphia and Pittsburgh provide 15,000+ cybersecurity jobs with major employers including Comcast, UPMC, and PNC Bank
Cybersecurity Education in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania stands out as a premier destination for cybersecurity education, offering programs that range from world-renowned research institutions to accessible state universities. The state's strategic position between Washington D.C. and New York City, combined with major tech centers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, creates unique opportunities for cybersecurity students.
Pennsylvania's cybersecurity programs benefit from strong government connections, with many holding NSA Center of Academic Excellence designations. Students have access to internships at major corporations like Comcast and UPMC, as well as government agencies. For national comparisons, see our best cybersecurity bachelor's programs ranking. Those considering costs should review our most affordable cybersecurity programs guide.
The state also offers excellent pathways through cybersecurity bootcamps and professional certifications. Students interested in specific certifications can explore our guides to CompTIA Security+ and CISSP certification, both highly valued by Pennsylvania employers.
Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | — | 84.9 |
| 2 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $15,204 | 56% | — | — | 53.8 |
| 3 | Saint Francis University | Loretto, PA | Private | $41,020 | 97% | — | — | 49 |
| 4 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,293 | — | — | — | 48.7 |
| 5 | Neumann University | Aston, PA | Private | $35,420 | 98% | — | — | 48.3 |
| 6 | East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania | East Stroudsburg, PA | Public | $7,716 | 92% | — | — | 46.6 |
| 7 | Pennsylvania College of Technology | Williamsport, PA | Public | $15,450 | — | — | — | 44.4 |
| 8 | Geneva College | Beaver Falls, PA | Private | $32,350 | — | — | — | 44.4 |
| 9 | Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania | Slippery Rock, PA | Public | $7,716 | — | — | — | 44.3 |
| 10 | Immaculata University | Immaculata, PA | Private | $27,700 | 72% | — | — | 43.7 |
| 11 | Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg | Middletown, PA | Public | $15,388 | 79% | — | — | 42.8 |
| 12 | Mercyhurst University | Erie, PA | Private | $41,580 | — | — | — | 42.4 |
| 13 | Saint Vincent College | Latrobe, PA | Private | $39,978 | — | — | — | 41.6 |
| 14 | Seton Hill University | Greensburg, PA | Private | $40,864 | — | — | — | 38.6 |
| 15 | Messiah University | Mechanicsburg, PA | Private | $39,700 | — | — | — | 38.2 |
Showing 1–15 of 20
Top 5 Cybersecurity Programs in Pennsylvania: Side-by-Side
| School | Carnegie Mellon | Penn State | U of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh | Pennsylvania State... | Drexel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $62,260 | $19,672 | $20,154 | $15,204 | $58,293 |
| Graduation Rate | 98% | 87% | 88% | 56% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 183 | 276 | 113 | 97 | 64 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11% | 54% | 50% | 80% | 78% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 90.1/100 | 84.9/100 | 72.9/100 | 56.5/100 | 51.1/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers 21 bachelor's-level cybersecurity programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, Pennsylvania State University-World Campus. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $76,181 in the Pennsylvania market.
A bachelor's in cybersecurity typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Cybersecurity Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Penn State | $19,672 | 87% | 276 | 84.9 |
| #2 U of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh | $20,154 | 88% | 113 | 72.9 |
| #3 Pennsylvania State... | $15,204 | 56% | 97 | 56.5 |
Top Cybersecurity Schools for Master's Degrees in Pennsylvania
For graduate study, Pennsylvania offers 13 master's-level cybersecurity programs. Leading institutions include Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Pennsylvania reaching $141,479 or more.
Top 3 Cybersecurity Master's Programs in Pennsylvania
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Carnegie Mellon | $62,260 | 98% | 183 | 90.1 |
| #2 U of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh | $20,154 | 88% | 48 | 64.9 |
| #3 Penn State | $19,672 | 87% | 5 | 51.7 |
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Colleges in Pennsylvania
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable cybersecurity programs in Pennsylvania are at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania ($7,716/year), Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania ($7,716/year), Pennsylvania Western University ($7,716/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Pennsylvania's competitive tech salaries.
At East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, a 4-year degree costs approximately $30,864 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $76,181, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Cybersecurity Programs in Pennsylvania (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 East Stroudsburg... | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Slippery Rock University... | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 Pennsylvania Western | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,260 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 183 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 90.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 183 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 90.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (183 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $19,672 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 276 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 54%
- • Ranking Score: 84.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 276 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 84.9 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (276 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (54% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This cybersecurity program is supported by Penn State's College of IST and offers hands-on experience through required internships alongside online coursework. The program provides a foundation in programming and mathematics with focus on cyber defense and analytics to create holistic understanding of adversarial strategies and effective countermeasures.
Admission Prerequisites
- •CYBER 100S
- •IST 210
- •IST 220
- •IST 242
- •STAT 200
- •4 units English
- •3 units Science
- •Algebra I
- •Algebra II
- •Geometry
- •one-half unit of Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus
- •2 units World Language
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.00
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 123 credits
- Internship Required
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh, PA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $20,154 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 88% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 113 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 72.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 113 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 72.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (88%), program size (113 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $15,204 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 56% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 97 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 80%
- • Ranking Score: 56.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 56% graduation rate
- 97 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 56.5 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (56%), program size (97 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (80% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This program is supported by Penn State's College of IST and offers hands-on experience through internships alongside online coursework. The degree is highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report and provides comprehensive training in cybersecurity analytics and operations.
Admission Prerequisites
- •CYBER 100S
- •IST 210
- •IST 220
- •IST 242
- •STAT 200
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.00
Program Details
- Credits: 123 credits
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,293 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Cybersecurity Graduates: 64 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 78%
- • Ranking Score: 51.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 64 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 51.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (64 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (78% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Drexel's cybersecurity program holds a prestigious 20-year NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation and was ranked #1 online cybersecurity program nationally. The program combines hands-on technical training with extensive co-op opportunities at over 1,700 employers across 35 states and 45 international locations.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
Program Details
- Credits: 45.0 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $120,360
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor and protect organizational networks and systems from cyber threats
Information Security Manager
Lead cybersecurity teams and develop organizational security strategies
Penetration Tester
Conduct authorized attacks to identify security vulnerabilities
Security Architect
Design and implement secure technology infrastructure
Incident Response Specialist
Respond to and mitigate cybersecurity incidents and breaches
Pennsylvania University Systems and Cybersecurity Programs
Pennsylvania's higher education landscape offers diverse pathways into cybersecurity careers through several university systems and prestigious private institutions.
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) includes 14 universities offering affordable cybersecurity programs. Shippensburg University stands out with its NSA designation and strong government connections. West Chester University and Kutztown University also provide quality programs at under $13,000 annual tuition for in-state students.
Penn State's main campus leads the state university sector, but regional campuses like Penn State Harrisburg also offer cybersecurity programs with NSA designations. These campuses provide Penn State's academic reputation at slightly lower costs and with more flexible scheduling options for working professionals.
Private institutions like Carnegie Mellon, Drexel, and Villanova offer world-class programs with smaller class sizes and extensive industry connections. While more expensive, these programs often provide superior research opportunities and career placement services that justify the higher investment for many students.
For students considering broader technology education options, Pennsylvania also excels in related fields. Our computer science programs in Pennsylvania and information technology programs in Pennsylvania guides detail additional pathways into tech careers.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Virginia
Illinois
Massachusetts
Washington
Georgia
North Carolina
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to NSA-designated programs with government career pathways
- Proximity to major tech centers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh
- Strong alumni networks in both government and private sector
- Balance of prestigious private institutions and affordable public options
- Opportunities in financial services cybersecurity (Philadelphia) or healthcare security (UPMC)
- Lower overall cost of living (consider Texas or North Carolina)
- Larger tech industry presence (California or Washington)
- More sunshine and warmer weather (Florida or Arizona)
- Specific industry focuses like entertainment (California) or aerospace (Colorado)
Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Programs FAQ
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Cybersecurity degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific cybersecurity salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Cybersecurity Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics for 2023
Pennsylvania-specific salary data for cybersecurity professionals, May 2024
NSA/DHS designated cybersecurity programs and requirements, 2024
State financial aid programs and transfer articulation agreements
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.