University campus near Burlington, Vermont
Updated February 2026

Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont — 2026 Rankings

5 accredited cybersecurity programs near Burlington ranked by IPEDS data. 2 NSA-designated schools. Median cybersecurity salary: $102,000. An estimated 210 open positions in the metro area.

#1 ProgramUniversity of Vermont
Median Salary$102,000
Schools5
Job Growth+33%

Key Takeaways

5 cybersecurity programs from 2 public and 3 private institutions

2 schools physically in Burlington, plus 3 within 50 miles. Tuition ranges from $6,720 (Community College of Vermont) to $64,800 (Middlebury College).

IPEDS 2023

Median cybersecurity salary: $102,000 — 18% below the national median

Security engineers earn up to $110,160, while cybersecurity managers command $147,900 in the Burlington-South Burlington. Source: BLS OEWS Vermont state median, May 2024.

BLS OEWS May 2024

An estimated 210 open cybersecurity positions in the Burlington-South Burlington

Vermont has 1,000 total cybersecurity openings — 21% concentrated in the Burlington metro. Nationally, 26% of cybersecurity roles remain unfilled.

CyberSeek/CompTIA 2025

2 NSA Center of Academic Excellence designated schools

Champlain College, Norwich University hold NSA/DHS CAE designation — the federal gold standard for cybersecurity education. CAE students may qualify for CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service (full tuition + stipend).

NSA CAE Community

Updated February 2026

On This Page

Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

4 programs•$92,000 median salary•91% avg grad rate
4
Programs
$92,000
Median Salary
$43,260/yr
Avg Tuition
91%
Avg Grad Rate

Hakia ranks 4 accredited bachelor's cybersecurity programs within 50 miles of Burlington — 1 public and 3 private institutions. 2 are physically located in Burlington, with the rest accessible via short commutes. The top-ranked programs include University of Vermont, Champlain College, Middlebury College.

Annual tuition ranges from $16,280 to $64,800 (average: $43,260). A four-year cybersecurity degree covers core topics including network defense, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and security policy — preparing graduates for roles as security analyst, penetration tester, or incident response specialist. The average graduation rate across these programs is 91%.

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity from Burlington-area schools can expect starting salaries in the range of $89,760 to $96,900 in the local market, with roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, or incident response specialist. The Burlington metro area has an estimated 210 open cybersecurity positions, and the BLS projects +33% job growth through 2033.

Champlain College and Norwich University hold NSA Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation at this level — the federal gold standard for cybersecurity education. CAE students may qualify for the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program, covering full tuition plus a stipend.

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University of Vermont

Public
Burlington, VT
$16,280
Tuition/yr
$543
Per Credit
91%
Grad Rate
80.0
Score
Website
Visit University of Vermont
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Champlain College

PrivateNSA CAE
Burlington, VT
$45,100
Tuition/yr
$1,503
Per Credit
75.0
Score
Website
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Middlebury College

Private
Near Burlington, VT
$64,800
Tuition/yr
$2,160
Per Credit
70.0
Score
Website
#4

Norwich University

PrivateNSA CAE
Near Burlington, VT
$46,860
Tuition/yr
$1,562
Per Credit
65.0
Score
Website

Complete Cybersecurity Degree Program Rankings in Burlington, Vermont

Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

Hakia ranks **1 accredited associate's cybersecurity program** within 50 miles of Burlington — 1 public institution. The nearest programs are within 34 miles. The top-ranked programs include **Community College of Vermont**. Tuition for associate's programs ranges from **$6,720** to **$6,720** per year. Community colleges typically offer the most affordable entry into cybersecurity, and many have articulation agreements with nearby four-year universities for seamless credit transfer. Students can complete foundational coursework in networking, operating systems, and security fundamentals while earning industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CySA+. Graduates with a associate's degree in cybersecurity from Burlington-area schools can expect starting salaries in the range of **$66,300 to $79,560** in the local market, with roles such as SOC analyst, IT security technician, or network security associate. The Burlington metro area has an estimated **210 open cybersecurity positions**, and the BLS projects **+33% job growth** through 2033.

  1. #1. Community College of Vermont

    Hakia ranks Community College of Vermont as the #1 associate's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This public institution in Near Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $6,720 ($224/credit). Ranking score: 80.0.

Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

Hakia ranks **4 accredited bachelor's cybersecurity programs** within 50 miles of Burlington — 1 public and 3 private institutions. 2 are physically located in Burlington, with the rest accessible via short commutes. The top-ranked programs include **University of Vermont**, **Champlain College**, **Middlebury College**. Annual tuition ranges from **$16,280** to **$64,800** (average: $43,260). A four-year cybersecurity degree covers core topics including network defense, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and security policy — preparing graduates for roles as security analyst, penetration tester, or incident response specialist. The average graduation rate across these programs is **91%**. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity from Burlington-area schools can expect starting salaries in the range of **$89,760 to $96,900** in the local market, with roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, or incident response specialist. The Burlington metro area has an estimated **210 open cybersecurity positions**, and the BLS projects **+33% job growth** through 2033. **Champlain College and Norwich University** hold NSA Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation at this level — the federal gold standard for cybersecurity education. CAE students may qualify for the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program, covering full tuition plus a stipend.

  1. #1. University of Vermont

    Hakia ranks University of Vermont as the #1 bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This public institution in Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $16,280 ($543/credit) and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 80.0.

  2. #2. Champlain College

    Hakia ranks Champlain College as the #2 bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This private institution in Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $45,100 ($1503/credit). Ranking score: 75.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

  3. #3. Middlebury College

    Hakia ranks Middlebury College as the #3 bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This private institution in Near Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $64,800 ($2160/credit). Ranking score: 70.0.

  4. #4. Norwich University

    Hakia ranks Norwich University as the #4 bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This private institution in Near Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $46,860 ($1562/credit). Ranking score: 65.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

Hakia ranks **2 accredited master's cybersecurity programs** within 50 miles of Burlington — 1 public and 1 private institutions. 2 are physically located in Burlington, with the rest accessible via short commutes. The top-ranked programs include **University of Vermont**, **Champlain College**. Graduate tuition ranges from **$16,280** to **$45,100** per year. Master's programs typically take 18-24 months and focus on advanced topics like threat intelligence, security architecture, risk management, and leadership — designed for professionals looking to move into senior technical or management roles. Average completion rate: **91%**. Graduates with a master's degree in cybersecurity from Burlington-area schools can expect starting salaries in the range of **$110,160 to $124,440** in the local market, with roles such as security engineer, security architect, or cybersecurity consultant. The Burlington metro area has an estimated **210 open cybersecurity positions**, and the BLS projects **+33% job growth** through 2033. **Champlain College** holds NSA Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation at this level — the federal gold standard for cybersecurity education. CAE students may qualify for the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program, covering full tuition plus a stipend.

  1. #1. University of Vermont

    Hakia ranks University of Vermont as the #1 master's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This public institution in Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $16,280 ($543/credit) and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 80.0.

  2. #2. Champlain College

    Hakia ranks Champlain College as the #2 master's in cybersecurity degree program in Burlington, Vermont. This private institution in Burlington, VT has annual tuition of $45,100 ($1503/credit). Ranking score: 75.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

Why Study Cybersecurity in Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is home to a growing cybersecurity education ecosystem with 5 accredited programs across 1 associate's, 4 bachelor's, 2 master's degree levels within 50 miles. 2 of these institutions are physically located in Burlington, with the remaining schools accessible via short commutes from surrounding communities in the Burlington-South Burlington.

2 schools near Burlington hold NSA Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) designation: Champlain College, Norwich University. The CAE program, jointly sponsored by the NSA and DHS, certifies schools whose cybersecurity curricula meet rigorous federal standards aligned with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework. Students at CAE-designated schools may qualify for the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program, which covers full tuition plus a $25,000-$34,000 annual stipend in exchange for government service after graduation.

The Burlington-South Burlington cybersecurity job market is substantial, with an estimated 210 open positions and a median salary of $102,000 for information security analysts (BLS OEWS May 2024). The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects +33% job growth for cybersecurity roles through 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. economy. For students in Burlington, this translates to strong local hiring prospects upon graduation.

Among the top-ranked programs, University of Vermont (91% graduation rate) leads the bachelor's rankings. See our complete rankings below for detailed program comparisons across all degree levels.

$102,000
Median Cybersecurity Salary in Burlington
18% below the national median, but Burlington's lower cost of living can offset the difference. Entry-level analysts start around $89,760.

Source: BLS OEWS Vermont state median, May 2024

Cybersecurity Salaries by Role: Burlington vs. National Average

RoleBurlington MetroNational MedianDifference
Security Analyst
$89,760
$109,921
-18%
Penetration Tester
$96,900
$118,665
-18%
Security Engineer
$110,160
$134,903
-18%
Security Architect
$124,440
$152,390
-18%
Cybersecurity Manager / CISO
$147,900
$181,120
-18%

Source: BLS OEWS Vermont state median, May 2024. Role estimates derived from BLS SOC 15-1212 median.

Cybersecurity Salaries in Burlington: What to Expect by Role

Cybersecurity professionals in the Burlington-South Burlington earn a median salary of $102,000, which is 18% below the national median of $124,910 (BLS OEWS May 2024, SOC 15-1212: Information Security Analysts). This positions Burlington as a market where cybersecurity salaries are offset by Burlington's generally lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs.

Entry-level security analysts in Burlington can expect starting salaries around $89,760, making cybersecurity one of the highest-paying entry points in the tech sector. With 2-5 years of experience, penetration testers — who simulate cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities — earn approximately $96,900. Senior technical roles like security engineers command $110,160, while security architects who design enterprise defense systems earn up to $124,440.

At the management level, cybersecurity managers and CISOs in the Burlington-South Burlington can earn $147,900 or more — a 65% premium over entry-level positions. This career trajectory from analyst to manager typically spans 8-12 years, with certifications like CISSP (82,494 openings nationally), CompTIA Security+ (70,019 openings), and CISA (52,337 openings) significantly accelerating advancement and salary growth.

Security clearances provide an additional salary boost of approximately $25,000 per year. Professionals with Top Secret/SCI clearances can earn between $104,000 and $185,000 nationally, making this a particularly lucrative path for graduates near Burlington. For a deeper dive into cybersecurity compensation trends, see our Cybersecurity Analyst Salary Guide. You can also explore related fields like Information Security and Network Administration for adjacent career paths.

Top Cybersecurity Employers in Burlington

The Burlington cybersecurity job market spans 3 major sectors, with employers actively recruiting for roles ranging from entry-level SOC analysts to senior security architects. Here are the key employers driving cybersecurity hiring locally:

Technology

GlobalFoundries — Semiconductor manufacturing facility managing operational technology security and plant-wide cybersecurity.

Healthcare

University of Vermont Medical Center — Academic medical center managing healthcare IT security, patient data protection, and HIPAA compliance.

Vermont Health Care — Regional healthcare provider managing medical records security and clinical system protection.

Government

University of Vermont — Educational institution managing campus cybersecurity infrastructure and security research programs.

These employers represent a cross-section of the Burlington-South Burlington area's cybersecurity hiring market. Many maintain partnerships with local universities for internships, co-ops, and direct hiring pipelines — making a degree from a Burlington-area school particularly valuable for breaking into the field.

2
Notable Cyber Incidents Affecting Burlington Organizations
Including the University of Vermont Medical Center ransomware (2020). These incidents demonstrate why local employers urgently need trained cybersecurity professionals.

Notable Cyber Incidents in the Burlington Area

Cyber threats are not abstract risks for Burlington — they have directly impacted local organizations, underscoring the urgent need for trained cybersecurity professionals in the Burlington-South Burlington:

University of Vermont Medical Center (2020) — ransomware. Ransomware attack disrupted hospital operations and forced diversion of emergency patients to other facilities.

Vermont state government (2023) — data breach. Unauthorized access to state employee and citizen personal information in state databases.

These incidents represent just a fraction of the cyber threats facing Burlington-area organizations. According to CyberSeek data, the Burlington metro area has an estimated 210 open cybersecurity positions, and the nationwide supply-to-demand ratio stands at just 74% — meaning roughly one in four cybersecurity roles goes unfilled. For students considering a cybersecurity degree, these real-world incidents demonstrate that the skills learned in programs near Burlington directly translate to preventing and responding to threats that affect their own community.

Cybersecurity Programs Accessible from Nearby Communities

If you live in a community near Burlington, you can access the same cybersecurity programs without relocating. The greater Burlington area is well-connected, and many students commute from surrounding cities to attend programs locally. Here is how Burlington's cybersecurity schools are accessible from nearby areas:

- South Burlington → University of Vermont (3 mi), Champlain College (3 mi)

All of these schools are within commuting distance, and many offer evening, weekend, or hybrid class schedules designed for students who travel from outside Burlington. Several programs also offer fully online options — see our rankings with online filter above.

Cybersecurity Job Market in the Burlington-South Burlington

The cybersecurity job market in the Burlington-South Burlington reflects a broader national talent crisis. Vermont has approximately 1,000 open cybersecurity positions (CyberSeek, January 2026), with an estimated 210 concentrated in the Burlington metro area. Nationally, there are 514,359 unfilled cybersecurity roles across the United States, and the workforce gap continues to widen — the global shortfall reached 4.8 million positions in 2024, a 41% increase since 2022.

The supply-to-demand ratio for cybersecurity talent nationally is approximately 74% — meaning for every 100 cybersecurity jobs posted, only about 74 qualified candidates are available. This ratio has been declining steadily (from 116% in 2020 to 74% in 2025), which means cybersecurity graduates face increasingly favorable job prospects. For Burlington students specifically, this translates to strong local hiring demand and competitive starting salaries.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects +33% growth in information security analyst employment through 2033, compared to just 4% for all occupations. This makes cybersecurity the 6th fastest-growing occupation in the United States. Within Vermont, the combination of growing digital transformation across industries is driving sustained demand for cybersecurity talent.

Most in-demand certifications that complement a cybersecurity degree from Burlington schools include CISSP (82,494 job postings nationally), CompTIA Security+ (70,019 postings), and CISA (52,337 postings). Many of the top-ranked programs near Burlington integrate certification preparation into their curricula, giving graduates a competitive edge in this seller's market. For statewide job market trends and additional programs, see our Vermont Cybersecurity Rankings.

Cybersecurity Degree Costs in Burlington

Cybersecurity degree programs near Burlington range from $6,720/year at Community College of Vermont to $64,800/year at Middlebury College. Public institutions average $11,500/year (in-state), while private schools average $52,253/year.

Return on investment is compelling: with a median cybersecurity salary of $102,000 in the Burlington area versus a high school diploma median of $42,000 (BLS 2024), a four-year bachelor's degree at a typical tuition rate (approximately $173,040 total) can be recouped in roughly 2.9 years of the annual salary premium. Community college cybersecurity programs offer an even faster path — a two-year associate's degree for as little as $13,440 provides foundational credentials for entry-level SOC analyst or IT security roles paying $76,500+.

Ways to reduce costs: Federal financial aid (FAFSA), Vermont state grants, institutional scholarships, and cybersecurity-specific funding like the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program (full tuition + $25,000-$34,000 annual stipend). Many employers in the Burlington area also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing cybersecurity degrees — check with local employers listed in our employer section above.

Cybersecurity Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Not ready for a 2-4 year degree commitment? Cybersecurity bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into the field, typically lasting 3-9 months. While bootcamps cannot replace the depth of a formal degree, they can provide practical skills and certifications that help you land entry-level roles like SOC analyst or junior penetration tester — especially when combined with certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A cybersecurity bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program focused on practical security skills. Unlike degree programs, bootcamps emphasize hands-on labs, tool proficiency (Wireshark, Burp Suite, Metasploit), and industry certifications over academic theory. Most programs include career coaching and portfolio development to help graduates transition into cybersecurity roles.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers from IT, networking, or software development
  • Military veterans transitioning to civilian cybersecurity roles
  • IT professionals looking to specialize in security
  • Recent graduates who want practical skills alongside their degree

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • Cybersecurity demand is massive—skills shortage works in your favor
  • Certifications (Security+, CEH) often included in programs
  • Hands-on labs with real security tools and simulations
  • Many entry paths: SOC analyst, pentesting, GRC compliance
  • High-paying field once you get your foot in the door

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • Entry-level security often requires IT/networking experience first
  • Certifications matter more than bootcamp credentials in security
  • SOC analyst burnout is real—long hours monitoring alerts
  • Many roles require security clearances, limiting options
  • Bootcamp may not teach offensive security depth for pentesting
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Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington: Frequently Asked Questions

How We Rank Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 cybersecurity degree programs using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for cybersecurity graduates. Regional median salary is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

U.S. Department of Education institutional data: enrollment, completions, graduation rates, tuition, and institutional characteristics for all Title IV schools

BLS OEWS May 2024

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for Information Security Analysts (SOC 15-1212). National median: $124,910.

CyberSeek

Cybersecurity workforce supply and demand data powered by CompTIA and NICE. Vermont: 1,000 openings. National: 514,359 openings, 26% vacancy rate.

NSA/DHS CAE

National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program designations. 2 designated schools near Burlington.

Last Updated: February 18, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 institutional data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024 release. Job market data from CyberSeek (January 2026). NSA CAE designations verified as of February 2026.
Taylor Rupe

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.

Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

Community College of Vermont — Near Burlington, VT

CCV's cybersecurity pathway emphasizes hands-on technical skills in network defense and system administration, positioning graduates for immediate workforce entry or seamless transfer to four-year programs. The program builds foundational competencies in operating systems, networking protocols, and basic penetration testing through lab-intensive coursework. Students often leverage CCV's flexible scheduling—including evening and online sections—to balance education with work, a reality for many Vermont learners. Graduates typically land help desk and junior security analyst roles at regional healthcare systems, state government agencies, and growing tech firms across the state. The college's strong relationships with Vermont employers create internship opportunities that frequently convert to full-time positions.

Programs Offered
  • AS in Cybersecurity / Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus, online, hybrid
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: University of Vermont Medical Center, State of Vermont government agencies, Local healthcare IT departments, Vermont-based tech and insurance companies.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Vermont (UVM)
  • Vermont Technical College
  • Champlain College
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Junior Systems Administrator
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Network Support Technician
  • Junior Security Analyst
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Network+

Location Advantages:

Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

University of Vermont — Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines cybersecurity with complex systems research through the Vermont Complex Systems Center and emphasizes formal methods and privacy-enhancing technologies with direct industry partnerships from Google, Amazon, and Mass Mutual.

The University of Vermont's cybersecurity program is embedded within the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS). The department offers multiple pathways including B.S. in Computer Science, B.S. in Computer Science and Information Systems, B.A. in Computer Science, and graduate programs including M.S. in Computer Science and Ph.D. in Computer Science. Cybersecurity research and education are led by faculty members James Eddy, Professor of the Practice specializing in cybersecurity and cryptography, and Joseph Near, Associate Professor focusing on data privacy and computer security. The program benefits from the Vermont Complex Systems Center which hosts centers of excellence funded by Mass Mutual, Google, and Amazon. The department has established the Center for Computer Security and Privacy, which focuses on new developments for security and privacy for information systems with emphasis on formal and foundational methods, programming languages, and privacy and security related to machine learning. Faculty member Yuanyuan Feng contributes expertise in usable privacy and security and privacy-enhancing technologies. The program is strengthened by interdisciplinary collaboration across UVM, including partnerships with the Larner College of Medicine and Rubenstein School of Environment. The department chair is Christian Skalka, who specializes in security and privacy in distributed systems. Graduate students can pursue thesis, project, or coursework-only options in the 30-credit M.S. program, with comprehensive exams and research opportunities.

Programs Offered
  • B.S. in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. Undergraduate program with cybersecurity concentration options
  • B.S. in Computer Science and Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. Combined program emphasizing both computer science and information systems
  • B.A. in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. Liberal arts approach to computer science education
  • M.S. in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus. 30-credit graduate program with thesis, project, or coursework options
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus. Doctoral program with research emphasis
  • Accelerated Masters Program (AMP) — 5 years, on-campus. Combined bachelor's and master's degree program
  • Certificate of Graduate Study in Complex Systems — 1 year, on-campus. Graduate certificate in complex systems applications
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Computer Security and Privacy
  • Vermont Complex Systems Center
  • Computational Story Lab
  • Social-Ecological Gaming and Simulation (SEGS) Lab
  • CREATE
Industry Partners
  • Google (sponsor)
  • Amazon (sponsor)
  • Mass Mutual (sponsor)
  • IBM (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. James Eddy — Cybersecurity and cryptography, embedded systems programming
  • Dr. Joseph Near — Data privacy, computer security, and programming languages
  • Dr. Yuanyuan Feng — Usable privacy and security, privacy-enhancing technologies
  • Dr. Christian Skalka — Programming languages and type theory, security and privacy in distributed systems
  • Dr. Peter Dodds — Complex systems and networks, sociotechnical phenomena

Location Advantages:

Champlain College — Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: Champlain College is NSA-designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity and ranked #1 by SC Magazine, offering hands-on experience with professional security tools from the first semester through its state-of-the-art Leahy Center.

Champlain College's cybersecurity program is housed within the Division of Information Technology & Sciences and has achieved significant national recognition as a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) by the National Security Agency (NSA). The program has been ranked #1 by industry experts in SC Magazine, establishing it as a premier destination for cybersecurity education. The college offers multiple cybersecurity-focused degree programs including Computer Networking & Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, and related minors, emphasizing hands-on learning from the first semester. Students work with the same professional tools used in industry while gaining real-world experience through the state-of-the-art Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity. The program's faculty includes experienced professionals with backgrounds at organizations like the Department of Defense, PwC, Deloitte, and various government agencies. Faculty members hold advanced certifications including CISSP, CISA, CHFI, and serve on organizations like SWGDE. The college's learning philosophy centers on experiential education, with students working on real security projects with actual clients rather than just theoretical coursework. This approach has proven successful in preparing graduates for a cybersecurity industry that faces over $8 trillion in annual cyber attack costs and desperately needs qualified professionals. The program spans multiple specializations including incident response, digital forensics, network security, threat intelligence, offensive security, and cybersecurity policy.

Programs Offered
  • BS in Computer Networking & Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. Hands-on cybersecurity program focusing on protecting digital systems, building secure networks, detecting attacks, and incident response
  • BS in Digital Forensics — 4 years, on-campus. Specialized program in digital forensics and incident response with expert instructors who are authors of books, software, and best practices
  • Cybersecurity Minor, on-campus. Minor program available for students in other majors
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Adam Goldstein — Cybersecurity Operations, Network Security, Cloud Security
  • Dr. Mariam Khader — Digital Forensics with specializations in Windows Forensics and Mobile Forensics
  • Dr. Mackenzie Marsocci — Threat Intelligence, Offensive Security
  • Dr. Furkan Paligu — Digital Forensics, Web Browser Security, Malware, Secure Software Development, Penetration Testing
  • Dr. Tomas Castrejon — Cybersecurity, Cybercrime, Digital Forensics and Incident Response
  • Dr. Jim Hoag — Networking, Security, Programming, Databases
Accreditations and Certifications
  • NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C)

Location Advantages: Burlington, VT location

Middlebury College — Near Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: The program uniquely approaches cybersecurity through a global lens, integrating international security policy with technical cybersecurity skills while leveraging proximity to Silicon Valley and strong connections to government and private sector organizations.

The cybersecurity program at Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey is housed within the broader framework of international security studies, with a distinctive global perspective on cyber threats. The program is anchored by the Cyber Collaborative, launched in May 2013 under founding director Dr. Itamara Lochard and later directed by Dr. Elaine Korzak, with generous support from Middlebury Trustee George Lee. The Institute offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree through a Cyber Defense and Intelligence track, requiring 36 credits over 2 years at $850 per credit hour. The program is delivered by a CompTIA Authorized Academy Partner and provides students access to Recorded Future's leading threat intelligence platform. Faculty include notable experts such as Dr. Philipp Bleek, Co-Coordinator of the Cyber Collaborative, and Professor Karen Nershi, Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity and Co-Director of the Cyber Collaborative. The program integrates with several research centers including the Center on Terrorism, Extremism, and Counterterrorism (CTEC), the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS), and the Mixed-Methods Evaluation, Training, and Analysis (META) Lab. Students regularly compete in the prestigious Atlantic Council Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge, achieving notable results including second place in 2019 and Best Written Memo award in 2018. The Institute's proximity to Silicon Valley and relationships with academic, government, and private sector organizations provide unique advantages. The program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of cyber threats, combining technical expertise with policy analysis and international relations perspectives.

Programs Offered
  • MS in Cybersecurity (Online) — 2 years, online. Cyber Defense and Intelligence track with 36 credits, global perspective on cyber threats
  • MA in Threat Intelligence. Integrated cyber content in curriculum
  • MA in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies. Integrated cyber content in curriculum
  • Financial Crime Certificate. Certificate program with cyber-related content
  • Terrorism Studies Certificate. Certificate program with cyber-related content
  • Nonproliferation Studies Certificate. Certificate program with cyber-related content
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Cyber Collaborative
  • Center on Terrorism, Extremism, and Counterterrorism (CTEC)
  • James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS)
  • Mixed-Methods Evaluation, Training, and Analysis (META) Lab
  • Digital Learning Commons
Industry Partners
  • CompTIA (partner)
  • Recorded Future (partner)
  • Atlantic Council (collaborator)
  • Naval Postgraduate School (collaborator)
  • Spectrum Labs (partner)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Philipp Bleek — Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies, Cyber policy
  • Karen Nershi — Cybersecurity
  • Jason Blazakis — Terrorism Studies
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CompTIA Authorized Academy Partner
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA CySA+
  • ISC2

Location Advantages: Proximity to Silicon ValleyAccess to Naval Postgraduate SchoolRelationships with government and private sector organizations

Norwich University — Near Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: Norwich University is one of the first colleges to offer cybersecurity degrees and leads a consortium of six senior military colleges for Department of Defense cybersecurity talent development, with over $90 million in federal funding for cyber programs.

Norwich University's cybersecurity program is housed within the Senator Patrick Leahy School of Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing and has been a pioneer in cybersecurity education since 1999. The university was one of the first colleges to offer a cybersecurity degree and has maintained the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation since 2001. Norwich is also designated as a National Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence (CDFAE) since 2012 by the Defense Cyber Crime Center. The program is centered around the Center for Cybersecurity and Forensics Education and Research (CyFER), which serves as a formally established entity for developing emerging, advanced and next-generation computing technologies. The university has received over $90 million in federal funding for cyber centers and programs, including recent grants of $19.5 million for the Defense Department Cyber Institute program, $5.3 million from the National Science Foundation, and $16.4 million for the Cyber Fusion Research and Development Center. Norwich leads a consortium of six senior military colleges designed to grow the nation's pipeline of cybersecurity talent for Department of Defense roles. The program emphasizes both theory and hands-on experience using state-of-the-art forensic tools, with the Cyber Leader Development Program providing experiential learning through internships with 19 military and intelligence organizations. The university has established partnerships with U.S. Cyber Command through an Educational Partnership Agreement signed after a visit from 4-star General Paul Nakasone.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Security and Information Assurance (CSIA) — 4 years, on-campus. Program combining theory with hands-on experience, including concentrations in Digital Forensics
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity & Advanced Technology — 4 years, on-campus. Program with specialized concentrations in Artificial Intelligence and Information Warfare
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, online. Online degree completion program
  • Master of Science in Cybersecurity, online. 30-credit program focusing on business acumen, management skills, and information security best practices
  • Master of Science in Information Security & Assurance, online. Graduate program ranked #3 among cybersecurity graduate programs in the U.S.
  • Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate, online. Graduate certificate program
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cybersecurity and Forensics Education and Research (CyFER)
  • Global Cyber Threat Observatory
  • Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Center
  • Cyber Fusion Research and Development Center
Industry Partners
  • U.S. Cyber Command (partner)
  • National Security Agency (sponsor)
  • Department of Homeland Security (sponsor)
  • Defense Cyber Crime Center (sponsor)
  • Department of Defense (sponsor)
  • Air Force Research Lab (sponsor)
  • U.S. Department of Justice (sponsor)
  • FEMA (sponsor)
  • National Science Foundation (sponsor)
  • Allied Telesis K.K. (partner)
  • Santa Clara Police Department (collaborator)
  • Army Reserve (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Department of Defense, military organizations, intelligence organizations, hospitals, schools, major corporations.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Michael E. Battig — Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing
  • Dr. Huw O. L. Read — Cybersecurity and forensics research
  • Dr. Matthew Bovee — Computer Security and Information Assurance
  • Dr. Jonathan Adkins — Cybersecurity
  • Kris Rowley — Cyber scholarship programs
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CAE-CD
  • CDFAE
  • NECHE

Location Advantages:

Best Master's Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Burlington, Vermont

University of Vermont — Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines cybersecurity with complex systems research through the Vermont Complex Systems Center and emphasizes formal methods and privacy-enhancing technologies with direct industry partnerships from Google, Amazon, and Mass Mutual.

The University of Vermont's cybersecurity program is embedded within the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS). The department offers multiple pathways including B.S. in Computer Science, B.S. in Computer Science and Information Systems, B.A. in Computer Science, and graduate programs including M.S. in Computer Science and Ph.D. in Computer Science. Cybersecurity research and education are led by faculty members James Eddy, Professor of the Practice specializing in cybersecurity and cryptography, and Joseph Near, Associate Professor focusing on data privacy and computer security. The program benefits from the Vermont Complex Systems Center which hosts centers of excellence funded by Mass Mutual, Google, and Amazon. The department has established the Center for Computer Security and Privacy, which focuses on new developments for security and privacy for information systems with emphasis on formal and foundational methods, programming languages, and privacy and security related to machine learning. Faculty member Yuanyuan Feng contributes expertise in usable privacy and security and privacy-enhancing technologies. The program is strengthened by interdisciplinary collaboration across UVM, including partnerships with the Larner College of Medicine and Rubenstein School of Environment. The department chair is Christian Skalka, who specializes in security and privacy in distributed systems. Graduate students can pursue thesis, project, or coursework-only options in the 30-credit M.S. program, with comprehensive exams and research opportunities.

Programs Offered
  • B.S. in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. Undergraduate program with cybersecurity concentration options
  • B.S. in Computer Science and Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. Combined program emphasizing both computer science and information systems
  • B.A. in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. Liberal arts approach to computer science education
  • M.S. in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus. 30-credit graduate program with thesis, project, or coursework options
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus. Doctoral program with research emphasis
  • Accelerated Masters Program (AMP) — 5 years, on-campus. Combined bachelor's and master's degree program
  • Certificate of Graduate Study in Complex Systems — 1 year, on-campus. Graduate certificate in complex systems applications
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Computer Security and Privacy
  • Vermont Complex Systems Center
  • Computational Story Lab
  • Social-Ecological Gaming and Simulation (SEGS) Lab
  • CREATE
Industry Partners
  • Google (sponsor)
  • Amazon (sponsor)
  • Mass Mutual (sponsor)
  • IBM (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. James Eddy — Cybersecurity and cryptography, embedded systems programming
  • Dr. Joseph Near — Data privacy, computer security, and programming languages
  • Dr. Yuanyuan Feng — Usable privacy and security, privacy-enhancing technologies
  • Dr. Christian Skalka — Programming languages and type theory, security and privacy in distributed systems
  • Dr. Peter Dodds — Complex systems and networks, sociotechnical phenomena

Location Advantages:

Champlain College — Burlington, VT

Key Distinction: Champlain College is NSA-designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity and ranked #1 by SC Magazine, offering hands-on experience with professional security tools from the first semester through its state-of-the-art Leahy Center.

Champlain College's cybersecurity program is housed within the Division of Information Technology & Sciences and has achieved significant national recognition as a designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) by the National Security Agency (NSA). The program has been ranked #1 by industry experts in SC Magazine, establishing it as a premier destination for cybersecurity education. The college offers multiple cybersecurity-focused degree programs including Computer Networking & Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, and related minors, emphasizing hands-on learning from the first semester. Students work with the same professional tools used in industry while gaining real-world experience through the state-of-the-art Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity. The program's faculty includes experienced professionals with backgrounds at organizations like the Department of Defense, PwC, Deloitte, and various government agencies. Faculty members hold advanced certifications including CISSP, CISA, CHFI, and serve on organizations like SWGDE. The college's learning philosophy centers on experiential education, with students working on real security projects with actual clients rather than just theoretical coursework. This approach has proven successful in preparing graduates for a cybersecurity industry that faces over $8 trillion in annual cyber attack costs and desperately needs qualified professionals. The program spans multiple specializations including incident response, digital forensics, network security, threat intelligence, offensive security, and cybersecurity policy.

Programs Offered
  • BS in Computer Networking & Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. Hands-on cybersecurity program focusing on protecting digital systems, building secure networks, detecting attacks, and incident response
  • BS in Digital Forensics — 4 years, on-campus. Specialized program in digital forensics and incident response with expert instructors who are authors of books, software, and best practices
  • Cybersecurity Minor, on-campus. Minor program available for students in other majors
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Adam Goldstein — Cybersecurity Operations, Network Security, Cloud Security
  • Dr. Mariam Khader — Digital Forensics with specializations in Windows Forensics and Mobile Forensics
  • Dr. Mackenzie Marsocci — Threat Intelligence, Offensive Security
  • Dr. Furkan Paligu — Digital Forensics, Web Browser Security, Malware, Secure Software Development, Penetration Testing
  • Dr. Tomas Castrejon — Cybersecurity, Cybercrime, Digital Forensics and Incident Response
  • Dr. Jim Hoag — Networking, Security, Programming, Databases
Accreditations and Certifications
  • NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C)

Location Advantages: Burlington, VT location