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New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RIPrivate nonprofit
$34,875
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
86.0
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best cybersecurity degree programs: New England Institute of ..., Roger Williams,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,856 to $65,656/year
Community College of Rhod... offers the most affordable option at $4,856/yr
Cybersecurity degree programs available: 2 associate's, 5 master's in Rhode Island
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Rhode Island community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global
Tech hubs in Providence and Warwick
Hakia Research 2026
Cybersecurity degree programs near 11+ cities across Rhode Island
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Rhode Island Cybersecurity programs
We rank 9 accredited cybersecurity programs in Rhode Island using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Rhode Island Worth It?
Answer
$103,450
Yes. The best cybersecurity degree programs in Rhode Island deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $103,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $33,330/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Cybersecurity Degree Rankings in Rhode Island
Compare the top-ranked Cybersecurity programs in Rhode Island by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Cybersecurity Programs in Rhode Island
1
Programs ranked
$34,875
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in cybersecurity, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Community College of Rhod..., New England Institute of ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Rhode Island offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $19,041/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $56,898 in Rhode Island.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Rhode Island's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Providence, Warwick, Cranston areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among cybersecurity schools in Rhode Island, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cybersecurity degrees in Rhode Island.
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Programs in Rhode Island
2
Programs ranked
$39,871
Avg tuition/yr
65%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island ranks among the nation's top destinations for cybersecurity education, with 2 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 2 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are New England Institute of ..., Roger Williams, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Rhode Island cybersecurity programs earn a median salary of $87,933, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Providence, Warwick, Cranston metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $33,225 to $42,336 annually, with an average of $37,781/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Rhode Island's leading technology employers. For students seeking cybersecurity degrees in Rhode Island, these top-ranked cybersecurity schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RIPrivate nonprofit
$34,875
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
79.0
Hakia Score
Best Master's Cybersecurity Programs in Rhode Island
4
Programs ranked
$40,746
Avg tuition/yr
75%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Rhode Island offers 5 master's degree programs in cybersecurity, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Brown, U of Rhode Island, Johnson & Wales Universit..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Providence, Warwick, Cranston creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $39,025/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Rhode Island's cybersecurity schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$68,612
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
92.7
Hakia Score
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New England Institute of Technology
East Greenwich, RIPrivate nonprofit
$34,875
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
74.6
Hakia Score
Cybersecurity Degree Costs & Tuition in Rhode Island
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $33,330/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $83,325/year |
| Community college tuition | $8,333/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $199,980 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $49,994 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students in Rhode Island
State Aid Programs
Rhode Island offers strong financial aid pathways for students pursuing cybersecurity degrees. The Rhode Island Promise program provides a valuable opportunity for qualifying recent high school graduates, covering tuition costs at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and enabling students to begin their cybersecurity education debt-free (Rhode Island Promise). This initiative removes a significant barrier to entry for students interested in two-year cybersecurity associate's degree programs, with 2 institutions in the state offering these credentials (IPEDS).
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state-specific programs, Rhode Island cybersecurity students have access to comprehensive federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Most four-year public institutions in Rhode Island, such as the University of Rhode Island, offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to cybersecurity majors. Students should explore both merit-based and need-based aid options through individual institutions, as tuition costs vary significantly across the state's 9 institutions offering cybersecurity programs. The College Scorecard provides detailed financial aid information by school (College Scorecard), helping students compare net prices and aid packages before enrolling in their chosen program.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator, Rhode Island
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree in Rhode Island. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+801%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,482,166
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$123,810
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,517,574
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$130,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Cybersecurity Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Rhode Island metro areas
Providence$114K
Warwick$109K
Cranston$103K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Providence | $114K |
| Warwick | $109K |
| Cranston | $103K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Cybersecurity Graduates in Rhode Island
Find cybersecurity jobs in Rhode Island. These major employers across Rhode Island metro areas are actively hiring cybersecurity degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Cybersecurity Jobs in Providence
RICVS Health
healthcare
Citizens Financial Group
finance
Fidelity Investments
finance
Infosys
consulting
Cybersecurity Jobs in Warwick
RIGTECH/IGT
gaming-tech
Amica Insurance
insurance
Transfer Pathways for Cybersecurity Degrees in Rhode Island
State Transfer System
Rhode Island provides structured transfer pathways that help movement from two-year to four-year cybersecurity programs, making education more accessible and affordable for many students. The state operates 2 two-year institutions offering cybersecurity associate's degrees, the Community College of Rhode Island and New England Institute of Technology, which serve as crucial stepping stones for students pursuing bachelor's degrees. The Rhode Island Transfer Agreements system formally coordinates articulation between community colleges and state universities, ensuring that credits earned in associate's programs transfer seamlessly to bachelor's degree tracks at institutions including the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College.
How Transfers Work
The Community College of Rhode Island, in particular, serves as a primary access point for cybersecurity education, with the Rhode Island Promise program covering tuition for qualifying recent high school graduates. This initiative removes financial barriers for students beginning their cybersecurity journey at the associate's level. Students completing 38 associate's degree completions annually can transition to four-year programs with junior-level standing, accelerating degree completion timelines. Transfer agreements specify which courses satisfy bachelor's degree requirements, preventing duplicate coursework and reducing overall time-to-degree.
Transfer Planning Tips
For students seeking alternative pathways, New England Institute of Technology offers integrated associate-to-bachelor's tracks within a single institution, providing seamless credential advancement. Working professionals might consider Johnson & Wales University-Online, which accommodates non-traditional students. Students should consult with their institution's transfer advisor and review College Scorecard data to understand specific articulation agreements and transfer credit policies before enrolling.
Why Pursue a Cybersecurity Degree in Rhode Island?
Industry & Workforce
Rhode Island offers a strong ecosystem for cybersecurity education with 9 institutions currently offering cybersecurity programs at various degree levels (IPEDS). Students can pursue associate's degrees (2 institutions, 38 completions), bachelor's degrees (2 institutions, 48 completions), and master's degrees (5 institutions, 56 completions), providing diverse pathways for entry and advancement in the field. The state's commitment to cybersecurity education is reflected in strong completion rates across all credential levels, positioning Rhode Island as a competitive destination for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
Salary Outlook
The state's major employment hubs, particularly the Providence-Warwick metropolitan area, host significant employers including Brown University, CVS Health, Lifespan, and Care New England, creating strong job opportunities for graduates. Top-ranked institutions like Brown University and the University of Rhode Island provide nationally recognized cybersecurity programs. For budget-conscious students, Rhode Island offers excellent affordability options with public in-state tuition averaging $11,799 for four-year institutions (College Scorecard). Additionally, the Rhode Island Promise program covers tuition at the Community College of Rhode Island for qualifying recent high school graduates, lowering barriers to entry into cybersecurity education.
Regional Tech Hubs
Prospective students should also explore complementary programs in the region. Related degree paths like Information Security in Rhode Island, Network Administration in Rhode Island, and Computer Science in Rhode Island provide additional specialization options that enhance cybersecurity expertise.
Cybersecurity Program Availability in Rhode Island
6 Programs
Rhode Island offers 6 accredited cybersecurity programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Providence, Warwick, Cranston.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Cybersecurity Job Market & Salary Data in Rhode Island
Employment Outlook
Rhode Island's cybersecurity job market is supported by a strong educational pipeline with 9 institutions offering cybersecurity programs across associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree levels (IPEDS). The state produced 142 cybersecurity completions in 2023, with 48 bachelor's degrees, 38 associate's degrees, and 56 master's degrees awarded (IPEDS). This diverse credential landscape reflects growing demand for cybersecurity professionals at all career stages. The Providence-Warwick metro area serves as the geographic hub for much of this activity, positioning graduates for immediate employment opportunities in the region's tech and healthcare sectors.
Salaries by Metro
For current salary data and detailed job market insights, the Bureau of Labor Statistics State Data for Rhode Island provides comprehensive occupational employment statistics. Graduates from programs like University of Rhode Island's cybersecurity bachelor's degree and Brown University's offerings enter a market with established employers actively hiring. Prospective students should also explore related career paths through programs in information security, network administration, and information technology to understand the full scope of cybersecurity-adjacent opportunities in the state.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Rhode Island$67,243$150,003
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Cybersecurity Programs in Rhode Island
Online Programs
0 available in Rhode Island
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$29,997/yr$33,330/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $44,500
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $44,100
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $4,300
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $6,200
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 65
- Median Tuition
- $18,600
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $15,000
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Colorado
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $8,900
Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Rhode Island: FAQ
What are the best cybersecurity degree programs in Rhode Island?
The best cybersecurity degree programs in Rhode Island based on our methodology are: 1) New England Institute of Technology (highly ranked), 2) Roger Williams University, and 3) N/A. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Rhode Island offers 6 total accredited programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 2 bachelor's programs.
How much do cybersecurity degree programs cost in Rhode Island?
Cybersecurity degree program costs in Rhode Island vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $33,330/year, while private institutions average $73,326/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,333/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $133,320 at public schools to $293,304 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can cybersecurity degree graduates earn in Rhode Island?
Cybersecurity professionals in Rhode Island earn a median salary of $103,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,243, while senior roles exceed $150,003. Salaries vary by metro area: Providence ($113,795), Warwick ($108,623) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online cybersecurity degree programs in Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island offers 0 accredited online Cybersecurity programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire cybersecurity degree graduates in Rhode Island?
Major Cybersecurity employers in Rhode Island include Fidelity Investments, CVS Health, Citizens Bank, FM Global, Textron. The Providence and Warwick metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Rhode Island universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Rhode Island's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a cybersecurity degree program worth it in Rhode Island?
A cybersecurity degree program in Rhode Island offers strong ROI with a $103,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $33,330/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($116,898), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do cybersecurity degree programs take in Rhode Island?
Standard completion times for cybersecurity degree programs in Rhode Island are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Rhode Island university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for cybersecurity degree students in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island cybersecurity degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Rhode Island state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Rhode Island's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Rhode Island salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.