- 1.Information Security professionals earn a median salary of $120,360/year, with 32% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
- 2.Our top-ranked information security programs are Carnegie Mellon University, Purdue University-Main Campus, and University of Southern California—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: University of South Florida offers information security degrees at just $4,559/year with a 85% graduation rate.
- 4.376 accredited information security programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.27 programs hold NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation—the gold standard for cybersecurity education recognized by federal agencies and employers.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2024
Best Information Security Programs - Top 10
These are the best information security programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 10
Carnegie Mellon University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
CMU operates CyLab, the world's largest university-based security and privacy institute with over 40 core faculty members, and holds the unique triple designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in cybersecurity education, research, and operations - making it one of the most comprehensive cybersecurity research environments globally.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon University's Master of Science in Information Security (MSIS) program stands at the epicenter of global cybersecurity innovation through the Information Networking Institute in the College of Engineering. This two-year program offers an intensely technical focus on security and computer systems, enhanced by extensive research opportunities within CyLab, the largest university-based security and privacy institute in the world. Students immerse themselves in Pittsburgh's rapidly emerging tech ecosystem, where companies like Google, Uber, Disney, and Facebook have established major operations, creating unparalleled networking and career opportunities.
The program uniquely combines rigorous technical training with real-world application through customizable pathways including the Cyber Ops Certificate and Cyber Forensics and Incident Response (CyFir) Track. Students benefit from CMU's triple designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance/Cyber Defense Education, Research, and Cyber Operations - a rare distinction that reflects the university's comprehensive leadership across all aspects of cybersecurity. The program also offers innovative bicoastal options, allowing students to split time between Pittsburgh's academic environment and Silicon Valley's industry epicenter.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
University-wide security and privacy research coordination with 40+ core faculty and 120+ affiliated faculty members
Privacy policy research and usable security systems
Facial recognition and biometric security systems
Location Advantages
- •Pittsburgh emerging as major tech innovation hub with Google, Uber, Disney, and Facebook expansions
- •Access to Silicon Valley through bicoastal program options
- •Rich cultural experience and lower cost of living compared to traditional tech centers
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Accenture, Amazon, Apple, Boeing, Booz Allen Hamilton
Certifications & Designations
Purdue University-Main Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Purdue's cybersecurity program uniquely integrates criminological studies with technical training, teaching students both how to build secure systems and understand cybercriminal behavior through courses like Cyber Criminology - a perspective that most programs overlook.
Program Overview
Purdue University operates one of the nation's most comprehensive cybersecurity programs through its School of Applied and Creative Computing within the Purdue Polytechnic Institute. The program offers a distinctive Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity that uniquely combines technical depth with criminological understanding, teaching students both how to build secure systems and understand the minds behind cyber threats. Students can pursue their degree on either the historic West Lafayette campus with its advanced research labs and traditional university atmosphere, or at the Indianapolis campus, which offers expanded internship opportunities in Indiana's capital city. The program distinguishes itself through hands-on learning in specialized facilities like the Cybersecurity & Forensics Lab and Cyber Security and Networking Lab, where students gain practical experience in digital forensics, incident response, and vulnerability assessment. What sets Purdue's approach apart is its integration of courses like Cyber Criminology alongside traditional technical coursework, providing graduates with a holistic understanding of cybersecurity that spans from secure coding and cryptography to understanding cybercrime motivations and legal frameworks.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Digital forensics and incident response training
Network security and infrastructure protection
Location Advantages
- •Dual campus options: traditional West Lafayette research environment or urban Indianapolis with expanded internship opportunities
- •Strong Indiana technology corridor with growing cybersecurity industry presence
- •Access to both academic research facilities and professional networks in state capital
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Cisco, Apple, FBI, Deloitte, West Monroe
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Southern California
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
USC's program stands out for its integration with the Information Sciences Institute (ISI), a pioneer in internet security research since the ARPANET era, and its emphasis on engineering secure systems from the ground up rather than just defending existing ones.
Program Overview
The University of Southern California's Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering is a rigorous 28-unit program housed within the Viterbi School of Engineering that focuses on the fundamentals of developing, engineering, and operating secure information systems. Unlike generic cybersecurity programs, this degree emphasizes the engineering perspective—teaching students how security policy drives technology decisions and how to architect systems that are secure by design. The program is led by Associate Director Clifford Neumann, PhD, and draws on USC's extensive research infrastructure including the Information Sciences Institute (ISI), a world leader in cybersecurity research and development. Students gain hands-on experience through extensive laboratory work designed by current and former information security practitioners, covering secure operating systems, secure applications, secure networking, cryptography, and key management. The program is available both on-campus and online through USC's DEN@Viterbi platform, providing the same rigorous academic experience regardless of delivery method.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Pioneer in internet security research, cybersecurity, and advanced information processing
Systems security research and development
Location Advantages
- •Los Angeles tech ecosystem access
- •Proximity to major aerospace and defense contractors
- •Hollywood entertainment industry cybersecurity needs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bloomberg, Boeing, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Northrop Grumman
Admissions
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Georgia Tech offers the only interdisciplinary cybersecurity master's degree from a U.S. News Top 10 public university available entirely online for under $12,000 total tuition, making elite cybersecurity education accessible to working professionals worldwide.
Georgetown University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Georgetown uniquely offers cybersecurity education through both a professional risk management lens and a national security/international relations perspective, leveraging its position as Washington D.C.'s premier policy university with direct connections to federal agencies and the intelligence community.
New York University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
NYU Tandon is home to CSAW, the world's largest student-run cybersecurity event now in its third decade, and operates the NSF-funded OSIRIS Laboratory where students engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty who have earned 7 NSF CAREER awards.
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Penn State's cybersecurity program stands out through its integration with the Applied Research Laboratory, a Department of Defense-designated University Affiliated Research Center established in 1945, and the newly launched National Security Institute, positioning students at the intersection of academic research and real-world defense applications.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Masters: Larger Programs
UMGC operates the award-winning Cybersecurity Competition Team that ranks among the top 5 globally and was named 2023 Academic Partner of the Year by EC-Council, while utilizing the groundbreaking MARS AI-driven virtual learning platform for immersive cybersecurity training.
Syracuse University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Syracuse's cybersecurity program stands out for its interdisciplinary curriculum that draws courses from the College of Law, iSchool, and Maxwell School, offering a uniquely holistic approach to cybersecurity education that combines technical expertise with legal, policy, and management perspectives.
University of South Florida
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
USF's cybersecurity program operates within Tampa Bay's rapidly growing tech corridor, which has expanded 28.5% over five years, providing direct access to major employers like Apple, Lockheed Martin, Meta, and cybersecurity firms like ReliaQuest and Rapid7 for internships and recruiting.
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Information Security?
Information security is ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving, have strong attention to detail, and are interested in protecting organizations from evolving digital threats. You need analytical thinking skills and the ability to stay current with rapidly changing technology and threat landscapes.
- Problem solvers who enjoy investigating incidents and identifying vulnerabilities
- Detail-oriented individuals who can follow complex compliance requirements
- Ethical thinkers interested in protecting organizations and individuals from harm
- Continuous learners willing to stay current with emerging threats and technologies
- Strong communicators who can explain technical risks to non-technical stakeholders
- Career-focused students seeking high-demand, well-compensated positions
The field welcomes diverse backgrounds—many successful security professionals transition from IT, computer science, business, or even non-technical fields. What matters most is curiosity about security, ethical mindset, and willingness to continuously learn.
Information Security Degree Levels Compared
Information security degrees are available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and current experience levels.
Information Security Programs by Degree Level
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Information Security Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in information security is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
Purdue University-Main Campus
121 graduates, 83% grad rate, Score: 75.5
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
276 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 71.8
University of South Florida
92 graduates, 85% grad rate, Score: 68.8
4. Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, NY) - Score: 67.5, Tuition: $55,784
5. University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD) - Score: 67.2, Tuition: $7,632
6. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 66.6, Tuition: $61,310
7. CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice (New York, NY) - Score: 66.1, Tuition: $6,930
8. University at Albany (Albany, NY) - Score: 64.7, Tuition: $7,070
9. Western Governors University (Salt Lake City, UT) - Score: 62.8, Tuition: $7,710
10. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 61.1, Tuition: $62,000
Best Information Security Programs - Master's
A master's degree in information security prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 3 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
143 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 90.1
University of Southern California
35 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 74.1
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
285 graduates, 76% grad rate, Score: 73.5
4. Georgetown University (Washington, DC) - Score: 72.4, Tuition: $64,896
5. New York University (New York, NY) - Score: 72.3, Tuition: $60,438
6. University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD) - Score: 71.1, Tuition: $7,632
7. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 70.0, Tuition: $61,310
8. University of San Diego (San Diego, CA) - Score: 65.8, Tuition: $55,690
9. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 65.4, Tuition: $62,000
10. Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Score: 65.3, Tuition: $62,840
Best Information Security Programs - Online
Online information security programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 3 Online
Carnegie Mellon University
143 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 90.1
Purdue University-Main Campus
121 graduates, 83% grad rate, Score: 75.5
University of Southern California
35 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 74.1
4. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus (Atlanta, GA) - Score: 73.5, Tuition: $10,258
5. Georgetown University (Washington, DC) - Score: 72.4, Tuition: $64,896
6. New York University (New York, NY) - Score: 72.3, Tuition: $60,438
7. University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD) - Score: 72.2, Tuition: $7,632
8. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (University Park, PA) - Score: 71.8, Tuition: $19,672
9. University of South Florida (Tampa, FL) - Score: 68.8, Tuition: $4,559
10. Western Governors University (Salt Lake City, UT) - Score: 67.8, Tuition: $7,710
Best Information Security Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in information security provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Columbia Basin College
28 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 55.4
Florida State College at Jacksonville
57 graduates, 89% grad rate, Score: 51.7
Edmonds College
19 graduates, 93% grad rate, Score: 51.0
4. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 50.4, Tuition: $1,104
5. Valencia College (Orlando, FL) - Score: 48.5, Tuition: $1,984
6. Columbus State University (Columbus, GA) - Score: 48.5, Tuition: $4,371
7. Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) - Score: 48.4, Tuition: $4,197
8. Saint Leo University (Saint Leo, FL) - Score: 48.1, Tuition: $26,240
9. Pasco-Hernando State College (New Port Richey, FL) - Score: 47.7, Tuition: $2,297
10. Southern New Hampshire University (Manchester, NH) - Score: 46.9, Tuition: $15,450
Best Information Security Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in information security (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Information Security Programs - Top 3 Graduate
Marymount University
36 graduates, 99% grad rate, Score: 69.0
Capitol Technology University
30 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 64.5
Northeastern University
5 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 61.2
4. Dakota State University (Madison, SD) - Score: 50.8, Tuition: $7,616
5. Sam Houston State University (Huntsville, TX) - Score: 50.0, Tuition: $5,856
6. Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL) - Score: 42.5, Tuition: $35,880
7. St. Thomas University (Miami Gardens, FL) - Score: 35.0, Tuition: $33,580
8. Capella University (Minneapolis, MN) - Score: 33.2, Tuition: $14,436
Most Affordable Information Security Programs
Looking for quality information security education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Information Security Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | 137.6 | 85% |
| 2 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | 127.2 | 93% |
| 3 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | 118.0 | 76% |
| 4 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | $3,540 | 115.8 | 84% |
| 5 | University of North Georgia | Dahlonega, GA | $4,230 | 113.6 | 100% |
Information Security Career Outcomes
Information security graduates enter one of the fastest-growing job markets in technology. The BLS projects 32% job growth for information security analysts through 2032—much faster than the 3% average for all occupations. A critical skills shortage means 3.5 million cybersecurity positions remain unfilled globally. For detailed compensation data, see our cybersecurity analyst salary guide.
Career Paths
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor networks for security breaches, investigate violations, and implement security measures to protect computer systems.
Cybersecurity Specialist
SOC 15-1299Develop and implement security protocols, conduct risk assessments, and respond to security incidents.
Security Consultant
SOC 15-1299Advise organizations on security best practices, conduct penetration testing, and design security architectures.
Penetration Tester
SOC 15-1299Conduct authorized simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks.
Security Architect
SOC 15-1299Design and build secure computer systems and networks, establishing security standards and protocols.
Chief Information Security Officer
SOC 11-3021Oversee enterprise-wide information security programs, manage security teams, and report to executive leadership.
Information Security Curriculum Overview
Information security programs typically blend technical skills, risk management, and business knowledge. Core coursework covers security fundamentals, while advanced courses allow specialization in high-demand areas.
- Security Fundamentals: CIA triad, threat modeling, security frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001)
- Technical Skills: Network security, cryptography, operating system security, secure coding
- Risk Management: Risk assessment, business continuity, disaster recovery, compliance
- Incident Response: Digital forensics, malware analysis, incident handling procedures
- Governance: Security policies, awareness training, vendor management, audit processes
- Specialization Areas: Penetration testing, cloud security, mobile security, IoT security
Many programs include hands-on labs, capture-the-flag competitions, internships, and capstone projects. Industry certifications like Security+ or CISSP are often integrated into coursework. For detailed curriculum information, explore our best information security master's programs.
Information Security Programs by State
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Information Security vs Related Fields
Information security takes a broader view than cybersecurity, encompassing policy, governance, risk management, and compliance alongside technical security controls. InfoSec professionals often work on security programs rather than individual technical problems.
The GRC (governance, risk, compliance) side of information security suits people who prefer process and policy work over technical implementation. Roles like security analyst, compliance officer, and security manager emphasize communication and documentation.
Certifications like CISSP, CISM, and CRISC are particularly important in information security, often required for management positions. The field has clearer career ladders than some technical roles.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want to focus specifically on protecting data and information assets
- You're interested in risk management and compliance frameworks
- You want a blend of technical skills and business knowledge
- You're drawn to policy development and security governance
- You want broader coverage of digital security including networks and systems
- You're interested in more hands-on technical security work
- You want to focus on threat detection and incident response
- You prefer a more technical approach to security
- You want broad technical foundations beyond just security
- You're interested in software development and systems design
- You want maximum career flexibility across all tech fields
- You enjoy algorithms and theoretical computer science
- You want to focus on managing and supporting technology infrastructure
- You prefer operations and administration over security specialization
- You're interested in broader IT management roles
- You want less specialized, more generalist IT skills
Is an Information Security Degree Worth It?
For most students interested in cybersecurity careers, absolutely. The combination of exceptional job growth (32% vs 3% average), strong salaries ($120,360 median), massive skills shortage (3.5M unfilled positions), and career stability makes information security one of the highest-ROI degrees available.
When it's worth it: You're interested in protecting organizations from digital threats, comfortable with continuous learning (threats constantly evolve), and want a career that combines technical skills with business impact. The degree provides structured learning, industry connections, and credibility that certifications alone cannot match.
When to consider alternatives: You're only interested in one narrow technical area (consider specialized cybersecurity bootcamps instead), you have significant budget constraints (start with security certifications), or you're already working in IT and need specific skills rather than foundational knowledge.
The skills shortage means demand far exceeds supply, creating exceptional job security and advancement opportunities. Most graduates find employment before graduation, often with multiple job offers.
Alternative Paths to Information Security Careers
While a degree is the most comprehensive path, alternatives exist for those with different goals, timelines, or budgets
- Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps — 12-24 week intensive programs for career switchers
- CompTIA Security+ Certification — Entry-level security credential
- CISSP Certification Guide — Advanced security management certification
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) — Penetration testing and ethical hacking credential
- CISA Certification Guide — Information systems auditing certification
Many professionals combine paths—starting with certifications, gaining experience, then adding a degree for advancement into management roles. The skills shortage means employers are often willing to hire based on demonstrated skills and certifications, especially for technical roles.
Information Security Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of information security graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
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.