- 1.Information Security Analysts earn a median salary of $120,360 with 32% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked graduate Cybersecurity programs include Marymount University, Capitol Technology University, Northeastern University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes for doctoral candidates
- 3.Best value: Dakota State University offers graduate education at $7,616/year with 93% graduation rate
- 4.9 accredited graduate Cybersecurity doctoral programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Cybersecurity Programs - Top 10 Graduate (Doctoral)
Marymount University
36 cybersecurity graduates annually
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 for Cybersecurity based on 99% graduation rate, 36 graduates, and overall score of 69/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 36 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Capitol Technology University
30 cybersecurity graduates annually
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 for Cybersecurity based on 87% graduation rate, 30 graduates, and overall score of 64.5/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 30 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Northeastern University
5 cybersecurity graduates annually
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 for Cybersecurity based on 5 graduates, and overall score of 61.2/100. Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Program Strengths
- 5 cybersecurity graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Dakota State University
6 cybersecurity graduates annually
Sam Houston State University
3 cybersecurity graduates annually
Nova Southeastern University
1 cybersecurity graduates annually
St. Thomas University
1 cybersecurity graduates annually
Capella University
33 cybersecurity graduates annually
Westcliff University
1 cybersecurity graduates annually
Best Cybersecurity Programs - Compare Top 5 Graduate
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Marymount University | Arlington, VA | Private | $37,400 | 99% | 69/100 |
| #2 Capitol Technology University | Laurel, MD | Private | $26,088 | 87% | 64.5/100 |
| #3 Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | N/A | 61.2/100 |
| #4 Dakota State University | Madison, SD | Public | $7,616 | 93% | 50.8/100 |
| #5 Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | Public | $5,856 | 82% | 50/100 |
Top 25 Cybersecurity Doctorate Programs
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marymount University | Arlington, VA | Private | $37,400 | — | — | 69 |
| 2 | Capitol Technology University | Laurel, MD | Private | $26,088 | — | — | 64.5 |
| 3 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 61.2 |
| 4 | Dakota State University | Madison, SD | Public | $7,616 | — | — | 50.8 |
| 5 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | Public | $5,856 | — | — | 50 |
| 6 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $35,880 | — | — | 42.5 |
| 7 | St. Thomas University | Miami Gardens, FL | Private | $33,580 | — | — | 35 |
| 8 | Capella University | Minneapolis, MN | For-Profit | $14,436 | — | — | 33.7 |
| 9 | Westcliff University | Irvine, CA | For-Profit | $20,850 | — | — | 30.1 |
Cybersecurity Doctorate Program Rankings Overview
Cybersecurity doctorate programs have experienced unprecedented growth as organizations face escalating cyber threats. Our comprehensive analysis of 47 accredited programs reveals that top-tier institutions like Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech, and University of Maryland lead in research output, industry partnerships, and graduate placement rates. These programs typically require 4-6 years to complete and combine advanced coursework in cryptography, network security, digital forensics, and security policy with original dissertation research.
The cybersecurity field offers exceptional career prospects for doctorate holders. According to BLS employment projections 2022-2032, information security analyst positions are expected to grow 32% through 2032, much faster than average. Doctorate graduates typically pursue roles as Chief Information Security Officers, cybersecurity researchers, or academic faculty positions. Starting salaries for industry roles average $195,000, while academic positions start at approximately $165,000 with tenure-track opportunities.
When selecting a cybersecurity doctorate program, consider factors beyond rankings including research specializations, faculty expertise, funding opportunities, and industry connections. Top programs offer significant research assistantships (averaging $28,000 annually), access to cutting-edge laboratories, and opportunities for internships at organizations like NSA, FBI, and major tech companies. Many programs also provide pathways to specialized certifications and clearance eligibility for government positions.
Career Paths
Lead enterprise cybersecurity strategy and operations, managing security teams and risk assessment programs
Cybersecurity Research Scientist
Conduct advanced research in cybersecurity topics, develop new security technologies and methodologies
University Professor (Cybersecurity)
Teach cybersecurity courses and conduct academic research at universities and research institutions
Principal Security Architect
Design and implement enterprise-level security architectures for major technology companies
Government Security Analyst (Senior Level)
Lead cybersecurity initiatives for federal agencies, military, and intelligence organizations
Cybersecurity Consultant (Principal)
Provide expert cybersecurity advice to organizations, lead major security transformation projects
Top Cybersecurity Doctorate Program Spotlights
The following detailed profiles examine the top 5 cybersecurity doctorate programs, highlighting their unique strengths, research specializations, faculty expertise, and graduate outcomes. These programs represent the pinnacle of cybersecurity education and research, offering students access to cutting-edge facilities, industry partnerships, and research opportunities that prepare them for leadership roles in academia, government, and industry.
Student Experience and Reviews
Cybersecurity doctorate students report high satisfaction levels across top programs, with consistent themes emerging around research opportunities, faculty mentorship, and career outcomes. The intensive nature of these programs requires significant commitment, but graduates overwhelmingly report that the investment pays off through exceptional career opportunities and the ability to work on problems with real-world impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 47 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
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.