Best Information Security Degree Programs

Purdue University-Main Campus Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Purdue University-Main Campus as the #1 in information security degree program.

Purdue's Cybersecurity major runs through its School of Applied and Creative Computing as an on-campus Bachelor's, taught at West Lafayette or an Indianapolis location built around expanded internship and industry access. The curriculum names network defense, digital forensics, risk assessment, incident response, and cryptographic techniques, and points at named employers like Deloitte, Cisco, Crowe LLP, and West Monroe. The numbers are strong: an 83 percent graduation rate, a 50 percent admit rate, and a 96.1 Hakia Score, our top-ranked pick. In-state tuition of $9,718 is roughly 7.5 percent of the $129,180 national median salary for Information Security roles. The honest tradeoff is residency: out-of-state students pay $28,520, an $18,802 annual premium for the same ABET-accredited (per ABET) program. Best fit for Indiana residents wanting a proven on-campus program with two-city flexibility.

Program Strengths

Hakia Score 96.1, ranked #1 among Information Security programs
83% graduation rate, 50% admit rate
In-state $9,718 vs out-of-state $28,520 (an $18,802 residency gap)
Two locations plus named labs: Cybersecurity & Forensics and Cyber Security and Networking

🥈

University of South Florida

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Tampa, FLPublic

$129,180 median salary · 77% graduation rate

95.3

Score

$5K

Tuition/yr

77%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

University of South Florida Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of South Florida as the #2 in information security degree program.

USF's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is an on-campus program housed in the new Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing, and the page states it is ABET-accredited (Computing Accreditation Commission). The core mixes programming, databases and networks with policy and risk work, then lets you specialize in cryptography, forensics or cloud, with internships starting as early as sophomore year and a BS-to-MS accelerated pathway. A Hakia Score of 95.3 ranks it, backed by a 77% graduation rate and a 43% admit rate: attainable and likely to finish. The real decision is residency. Florida residents pay $4,559/year (about $18,236 over four years); out-of-state runs $15,473/year (about $61,892), roughly $43,656 more for the identical degree. Best fit: a Florida resident wanting an accredited, hands-on program in the Tampa tech market.

Program Strengths

Hakia Score 95.3 with a 77% graduation rate and a 43% admit rate: attainable and likely to finish
In-state tuition $4,559/yr vs out-of-state $15,473/yr, about $43,656 more over four years for the same degree
Page states the program is ABET-accredited (Computing Accreditation Commission)
BS-to-MS accelerated pathway plus internships starting as early as sophomore year, housed in the new Bellini College

🥉

Northeastern University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Boston, MAPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 91% graduation rate

95.2

Score

$65K

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Northeastern University Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Northeastern University as the #3 in information security degree program.

Northeastern's BS in Cybersecurity runs through Khoury College on the Boston campus, and it is built around two things you can't skip: a required co-op placement and the CY 4930 Cybersecurity Capstone. The technical spine is real (CY 2550 Foundations, CY 3740 Systems Security, CY 4740 Network Security, plus a cryptography course), but the program also forces breadth, with a "Cybersecurity and Social Issues" elective pulling from law, policy, and criminology. The numbers explain the fit: this is a 5% admit school where 91% of admitted students graduate, so the acceptance letter is the barrier, not the coursework. Tuition is a flat $64,990 with no in-state discount, and it earns the #3 slot on our Hakia Score of 95.2. Best for strong applicants who want co-op experience and an interdisciplinary security degree, not budget shoppers.

Program Strengths

Ranked #3 on a 95.2 Hakia Score
5% admit rate, but 91% of admits graduate
Required co-op plus CY 4930 Cybersecurity Capstone
Flat $64,990 tuition, no in-state discount

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

University Park, PAPublic

$129,180 median salary · 86% graduation rate

94.1

Score

$20K

Tuition/yr

86%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus as the #4 in information security degree program.

Penn State's BS in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations sits in the College of Information Sciences and Technology, and the name is the point: the curriculum leans on cybersecurity analytics, visualization, and risk analysis and management rather than general IT, pulling from statistics, data science, human behavior, and law and policy. At an 86% graduation rate, a 61% admit rate, and a 94.1 Hakia Score (our No. 4 ranking basis), it reads as a selective, finish-what-you-start program that fits students aiming at threat-analysis and risk roles over pure sysadmin work. The tradeoff is residency. In-state tuition runs $20,066 a year; out-of-state jumps to $41,212, a $21,146 gap and a 105% premium. Against the $129,180 national median for information security roles, in-state costs about 15.5% of one year's pay, out-of-state about 31.9%. Pennsylvanians get the strongest value here.

Program Strengths

86% graduation rate, 94.1 Hakia Score (No. 4)
Analytics and risk-management focus, not general IT
In-state $20,066 vs out-of-state $41,212 (105% premium)
Can begin at another Penn State campus, finish at University Park or World Campus

George Washington University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Washington, DCPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 84% graduation rate

93.6

Score

$67K

Tuition/yr

84%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

George Washington University Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks George Washington University as the #5 in information security degree program.

George Washington University's Information Security bachelor's is a degree-completion track, not a four-year start. It is built for adults who already hold an associate's or non-technical bachelor's and want into cybersecurity, taught on-campus at two Northern Virginia sites (Ashburn and Woodbridge) through evening and weekend courses, with a curriculum mapped to the NICE framework and a program page citing NSA/DHS recognition as a Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Research. GW's 84 percent graduation rate and 47 percent admit rate anchor a 93.6 Hakia Score, our top-five ranking basis. Tuition is a flat $67,420 with no in-state break, since GW is private. The honest catch, and it is decisive: GW's own page says new admissions are paused effective Fall 2026, so a prospective student cannot enroll today. Current students finish; newcomers are pointed to GW's cybersecurity master's instead.

Program Strengths

Admissions paused effective Fall 2026 (per GW's page); only current students can finish
84% graduation rate, 47% admit rate behind a 93.6 Hakia Score
Degree-completion track for adults with an associate's or non-technical bachelor's
Flat $67,420 tuition, no in-state discount; NICE-framework curriculum in Northern Virginia

Brigham Young University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Provo, UTPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 81% graduation rate

93.2

Score

$7K

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Brigham Young University Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Brigham Young University as the #6 in information security degree program.

BYU's Cybersecurity bachelor's, filed federally as Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance, is an on-campus Provo program built around competitive student teams: a 2024 first-place finish at the Rocky Mountain Region Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, a router-vulnerability disclosure at DEF CON, and an NSF CyberCorps Scholarship for Service track that the page says covers tuition, rent, and more for selected students. It ranks 6th on our list at a 93.2 Hakia Score, with an 81% graduation rate and a 68% admit rate. Tuition is $6,688 for in-state and out-of-state alike, roughly 5% of the $129,180 national median for information security occupations, and one of the lowest sticker prices among ranked programs. The honest catch: the 35,873 enrollment figure is BYU's whole university, so you can't size the major's cohort from this data. Best fit for hands-on applicants chasing competition experience on a tight budget.

Program Strengths

$6,688 tuition, same in-state and out-of-state
81% graduation rate, 68% admit rate
NSF CyberCorps track covers tuition and rent for selected students
1st place, 2024 Rocky Mountain Regional Cyber Defense Competition

United States Military Academy

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

West Point, NYPublic

$129,180 median salary · 87% graduation rate

93.0

Score

87%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

United States Military Academy Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks United States Military Academy as the #7 in information security degree program.

West Point's Cyber Science major, run out of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, lets cadets pick one of two tracks: Cyber Science or Cyber Operations, the latter forcing a choice between CY392 Defensive Cyber Operations and CY482 Offensive Cyber Operations before a two-course XE401/XE402 capstone. It ranks 7th here on a Hakia Score of 93. The numbers tell the real story: a 12% admit rate makes this the most selective path on the list, yet an 87% graduation rate means most who get in finish. Tuition sits blank in the dataset (in-state and out-of-state both null), normal for a federal service academy where civilian sticker-price math does not apply. It fits a narrow slice: applicants clearing that admit bar who want a structured offensive/defensive cyber track. Nationally, Information Security roles carry a $129,180 median (BLS), useful backdrop, not a promise for these graduates.

Program Strengths

12% admit rate, the most selective path on this list
87% graduation rate: hard to enter, most who enter finish
Cyber Operations track: choose CY392 Defensive or CY482 Offensive
Hakia Score 93, ranked 7th overall

Stevens Institute of Technology

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Hoboken, NJPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 87% graduation rate

92.5

Score

$61K

Tuition/yr

87%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Stevens Institute of Technology Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Stevens Institute of Technology as the #8 in information security degree program.

Stevens Institute of Technology runs an on-campus BS in Cybersecurity out of the Computer Science department in the Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering and Science, blending computer science and math with information-assurance coursework and a hands-on course every semester. Fit for students who want lab-driven, in-person work: access to the MakerCenter and Prototype and Object Fabrication Lab, undergraduate research with faculty, and the Innovation Expo senior design pitch. The numbers are strong: an 87% graduation rate, 48% admit rate, and a 92.5 Hakia Score that anchors its No. 8 ranking. The honest tradeoff is price. As a private school, Stevens charges a flat $61,028 whether or not you are a New Jersey resident, so there is no in-state discount, and that one-year sticker equals roughly 47% of the $129,180 national median salary for information security roles before aid.

Program Strengths

87% graduation rate, 48% admit rate
92.5 Hakia Score anchors its No. 8 rank
Hands-on course every semester plus MakerCenter and Fabrication Lab access
Flat $61,028 tuition, no in-state break (private school)

Tulane University of Louisiana

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

New Orleans, LAPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 86% graduation rate

92.2

Score

$64K

Tuition/yr

86%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Tulane University of Louisiana Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks Tulane University of Louisiana as the #9 in information security degree program.

Tulane's School of Professional Advancement runs this as an ABET-accredited B.S. in Information Technology, not a standalone security major. The 120-credit build is telling: 18 credits in the major plus a 24-credit concentration, with named courses like Advanced IP Networking, Automation and Bot Development, and Technology and Ethics. The numbers are strong. An 86% graduation rate and a 14% admit rate signal a selective, finish-what-you-start program, and the 92.2 Hakia Score is what puts it at No. 9. As a private nonprofit, tuition is a flat $64,372/year with no in-state break, so residency saves you nothing. It fits a disciplined student who wants an accredited IT credential with a security concentration. The honest catch: the page advertises $600 per credit hour ($72,000 total), which does not match the $64,372/year figure, so confirm your actual pricing track before enrolling.

Program Strengths

86% graduation rate, selective 14% admit rate
ABET-accredited B.S. in Information Technology (per the program page)
24-credit concentration atop 18 major credits; 120 total
Hakia Score 92.2, ranked No. 9

#10

United States Coast Guard Academy

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

New London, CTPublic

$129,180 median salary · 93% graduation rate

91.9

Score

93%

Grad Rate

$129K

Median Salary

Explore Best Information Security Programs - Bachelor's

United States Coast Guard Academy Information Security Program Overview

Hakia ranks United States Coast Guard Academy as the #10 in information security degree program.

The Coast Guard Academy's Cyber Systems BS is a service-academy major, first offered to the 2018 class with its first cohort graduating in 2022, built around NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence criteria and pursuing ABET Cybersecurity accreditation. Cadets work in a 2018-built cyber lab and a dedicated research enclave for malware analysis, network attack and defense, and industrial control systems, with senior-year internships the page cites at Coast Guard Cyber Command, US Cyber Command, and the NSA (most requiring a clearance). It ranks 10th here on a 91.9 Hakia Score, backed by a 93% graduation rate. The honest tradeoff: at the page's writing, both the CAE and ABET designations were still pending 2023 decisions, not credentials in hand, and the 22% admit rate makes this one of the hardest programs on this list to enter. It fits cadets committed to a Coast Guard commission, not civilians seeking a standard degree.

Program Strengths

93% graduation rate against a 22% admit rate: selective and effective
Field median pay is $129,180/year nationally for Information Security roles
2018-built cyber lab plus a research enclave for malware and network defense work
Senior internships cited at Coast Guard Cyber Command, US Cyber Command, and the NSA

Best Information Security Programs - Top 10, Complete Program Data

#1. Purdue University-Main Campus — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Purdue University-Main Campus's bachelor's information security program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: West Lafayette, IN | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,718/year | Graduation Rate: 83% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 96.1
#2. University of South Florida — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks University of South Florida's bachelor's information security program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,559/year | Graduation Rate: 77% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 95.3
#3. Northeastern University — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Northeastern University's bachelor's information security program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $64,990/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 95.2
#4. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's bachelor's information security program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: University Park, PA | Type: Public | Tuition: $20,066/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 94.1
#5. George Washington University — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks George Washington University's bachelor's information security program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Washington, DC | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $67,420/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 93.6
#6. Brigham Young University — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Brigham Young University's bachelor's information security program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Provo, UT | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $6,688/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 93.2
#7. United States Military Academy — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks United States Military Academy's bachelor's information security program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: West Point, NY | Type: Public | Graduation Rate: 87% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 93.0
#8. Stevens Institute of Technology — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Stevens Institute of Technology's bachelor's information security program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Hoboken, NJ | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $61,028/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 92.5
#9. Tulane University of Louisiana — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks Tulane University of Louisiana's bachelor's information security program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New Orleans, LA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $64,372/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 92.2
#10. United States Coast Guard Academy — Bachelor's Information Security
Hakia ranks United States Coast Guard Academy's bachelor's information security program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New London, CT | Type: Public | Graduation Rate: 93% | Median Salary: $129,180 | Score: 91.9

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

Best Information Security Programs - Bachelor's

Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide

Best Information Security Programs - Master's

Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement

Explore Best Information Security Programs - Master's

Online Information Security Degrees

Flexible online programs for working professionals

Explore Online Information Security

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

🥇 #1

Purdue University-Main Campus

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

West Lafayette, INPublic

$129,180 median salary · 83% grad rate · 144 grads/yr

$10K

Tuition/yr

83%

Grad Rate

96.1

Score

🥈 #2

University of South Florida

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Tampa, FLPublic

$129,180 median salary · 77% grad rate · 124 grads/yr

$5K

Tuition/yr

77%

Grad Rate

95.3

Score

🥉 #3

Northeastern University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Boston, MAPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 91% grad rate · 22 grads/yr

$65K

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

95.2

Score

View All Bachelor's Programs →

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

🥇 #1

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Master's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Atlanta, GAPublic

$129,180 median salary · 94% grad rate · 297 grads/yr

$11K

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

95.9

Score

🥈 #2

Johns Hopkins University

Master's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Baltimore, MDPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 94% grad rate · 85 grads/yr

$65K

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

95.1

Score

🥉 #3

New York University

Master's in Information SecurityFully online

New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 88% grad rate · 252 grads/yr

$63K

Tuition/yr

88%

Grad Rate

95.1

Score

View All Master's Programs →

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

🥇 #1

Syracuse University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityFully online

Syracuse, NYPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 84% grad rate · 6 grads/yr

$64K

Tuition/yr

84%

Grad Rate

91.6

Score

🥈 #2

Excelsior University

Bachelor's in Information SecurityFully online

Albany, NYPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 30 grads/yr

$0K

Tuition/yr

Grad Rate

87.4

Score

🥉 #3

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Bachelor's in Information SecurityFully online

Cincinnati, OHPublic

$129,180 median salary · 75% grad rate · 103 grads/yr

$12K

Tuition/yr

75%

Grad Rate

86.2

Score

View All Online Programs →

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

🥇 #1

Miami Dade College

Associate's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Miami, FLPublic

$129,180 median salary · 46% grad rate · 69 grads/yr

$2K

Tuition/yr

46%

Grad Rate

93.6

Score

🥈 #2

Santa Fe College

Associate's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Gainesville, FLPublic

$129,180 median salary · 53% grad rate · 20 grads/yr

$2K

Tuition/yr

53%

Grad Rate

92.9

Score

🥉 #3

Fox Valley Technical College

Associate's in Information SecurityFully online

Appleton, WIPublic

$129,180 median salary · 65% grad rate · 31 grads/yr

$4K

Tuition/yr

65%

Grad Rate

92.5

Score

View All Associate's Programs →

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

🥇 #1

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Master's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Atlanta, GAPublic

$129,180 median salary · 94% grad rate · 297 grads/yr

$11K

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

95.9

Score

🥈 #2

Johns Hopkins University

Master's in Information SecurityOn-campus

Baltimore, MDPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 94% grad rate · 85 grads/yr

$65K

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

95.1

Score

🥉 #3

New York University

Master's in Information SecurityFully online

New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$129,180 median salary · 88% grad rate · 252 grads/yr

$63K

Tuition/yr

88%

Grad Rate

95.1

Score

View All Graduate Programs →

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	Program & School	Delivery	Annual Tuition	Grad Rate	Median Salary	Hakia Score
#1	Bachelor's in Information Security Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN · Public	On-campus	$9,718	83%	$129,180	96.1
#2	Bachelor's in Information Security University of South Florida Tampa, FL · Public	On-campus	$4,559	77%	$129,180	95.3
#3	Bachelor's in Information Security Northeastern University Boston, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$64,990	91%	$129,180	95.2
#4	Bachelor's in Information Security Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA · Public	On-campus	$20,066	86%	$129,180	94.1
#5	Bachelor's in Information Security George Washington University Washington, DC · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$67,420	84%	$129,180	93.6
#6	Bachelor's in Information Security Brigham Young University Provo, UT · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$6,688	81%	$129,180	93.2
#7	Bachelor's in Information Security United States Military Academy West Point, NY · Public	On-campus	—	87%	$129,180	93.0
#8	Bachelor's in Information Security Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$61,028	87%	$129,180	92.5
#9	Bachelor's in Information Security Tulane University of Louisiana New Orleans, LA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$64,372	86%	$129,180	92.2
#10	Bachelor's in Information Security United States Coast Guard Academy New London, CT · Public	On-campus	—	93%	$129,180	91.9
#11	Bachelor's in Information Security Florida International University Miami, FL · Public	On-campus	$4,721	74%	$129,180	91.8
#12	Bachelor's in Information Security Syracuse University Syracuse, NY · Private nonprofit	Online	$63,710	84%	$129,180	91.6
#13	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Miami Coral Gables, FL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$60,720	84%	$129,180	91.2
#14	Bachelor's in Information Security Bentley University Waltham, MA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$61,000	87%	$129,180	90.7
#15	Bachelor's in Information Security University of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington, NC · Public	On-campus	$4,443	71%	$129,180	89.9
#16	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Richmond University of Richmond, VA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$65,230	85%	$129,180	89.9
#17	Bachelor's in Information Security Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$58,260	70%	$129,180	89.6
#18	Bachelor's in Information Security Marist University Poughkeepsie, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$46,920	80%	$129,180	89.5
#19	Bachelor's in Information Security Touro University New York, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$19,472	72%	$129,180	89.4
#20	Bachelor's in Information Security The University of Tampa Tampa, FL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$32,096	64%	$129,180	88.8
#21	Bachelor's in Information Security Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$50,636	75%	$129,180	88.8
#22	Bachelor's in Information Security Citadel Military College of South Carolina Charleston, SC · Public	On-campus	$8,356	75%	$129,180	88.6
#23	Bachelor's in Information Security Excelsior University Albany, NY · Private nonprofit	Online	—	—	$129,180	87.4
#24	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Tulsa Tulsa, OK · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$48,340	72%	$129,180	87.1
#25	Bachelor's in Information Security Drexel University Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$60,042	78%	$129,180	87.1
#26	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati, OH · Public	Online	$11,685	75%	$129,180	86.2
#27	Bachelor's in Information Security University at Albany Albany, NY · Public	On-campus	$7,070	61%	$129,180	86.0
#28	Bachelor's in Information Security Hallmark University San Antonio, TX · Private nonprofit	On-campus	—	66%	$129,180	85.9
#29	Bachelor's in Information Security American Public University System Charles Town, WV · Private for-profit	Online	$8,400	57%	$129,180	85.7
#30	Bachelor's in Information Security Hofstra University Hempstead, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$56,545	69%	$129,180	85.6
#31	Bachelor's in Information Security The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL · Public	On-campus	$11,380	73%	$129,180	85.1
#32	Bachelor's in Information Security University of West Florida Pensacola, FL · Public	On-campus	$3,735	59%	$129,180	85.1
#33	Bachelor's in Information Security Mercer University Macon, GA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$31,265	70%	$129,180	84.6
#34	Bachelor's in Information Security DePaul University Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$44,601	68%	$129,180	84.3
#35	Bachelor's in Information Security St. John Fisher University Rochester, NY · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$40,090	74%	$129,180	84.2
#36	Bachelor's in Information Security Anderson University Anderson, SC · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$34,020	66%	$129,180	83.9
#37	Bachelor's in Information Security Emmaus Bible College Dubuque, IA · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$20,800	83%	$129,180	83.5
#38	Bachelor's in Information Security Lipscomb University Nashville, TN · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$37,460	72%	$129,180	83.5
#39	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Central Missouri Warrensburg, MO · Public	On-campus	$8,550	54%	$129,180	83.4
#40	Bachelor's in Information Security CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice New York, NY · Public	On-campus	$6,930	56%	$129,180	83.1
#41	Bachelor's in Information Security Mississippi State University Mississippi State, MS · Public	On-campus	$10,052	67%	$129,180	82.7
#42	Bachelor's in Information Security University of New Haven West Haven, CT · Private nonprofit	Online	$45,644	63%	$129,180	82.6
#43	Bachelor's in Information Security Union University Jackson, TN · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$36,005	66%	$129,180	82.6
#44	Bachelor's in Information Security Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit	On-campus	$52,230	73%	$129,180	82.3
#45	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Michigan-Dearborn Dearborn, MI · Public	On-campus	$15,240	58%	$129,180	82.2
#46	Bachelor's in Information Security University of Missouri-St Louis Saint Louis, MO · Public	Online	$15,120	57%	$129,180	82.0
#47	Bachelor's in Information Security Sullivan University Louisville, KY · Private for-profit	Online	$15,480	71%	$129,180	81.8
#48	Bachelor's in Information Security University of North Texas Denton, TX · Public	On-campus	$8,319	61%	$129,180	81.5
#49	Bachelor's in Information Security NUC University Bayamon, PR · Private for-profit	On-campus	$11,885	54%	$129,180	81.4
#50	Bachelor's in Information Security Southeast Missouri State University Cape Girardeau, MO · Public	On-campus	$8,559	58%	$129,180	81.3

Showing all 50 ranked programs.

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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.

$65,000

Starting Salary

$120,360

Mid-Career

+32%

Job Growth

18,200

Annual Openings

Career Paths

Cybersecurity Specialist

SOC 15-1299

+28%

Develop and implement security protocols, conduct risk assessments, and respond to security incidents.

Median Salary:$115,000

Security Consultant

SOC 15-1299

+25%

Advise organizations on security best practices, conduct penetration testing, and design security architectures.

Median Salary:$135,000

Penetration Tester

SOC 15-1299

+30%

Conduct authorized simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks.

Median Salary:$125,000

Security Architect

SOC 15-1299

+20%

Design and build secure computer systems and networks, establishing security standards and protocols.

Median Salary:$165,000

Chief Information Security Officer

SOC 11-3021

+15%

Oversee enterprise-wide information security programs, manage security teams, and report to executive leadership.

Median Salary:$285,000

Information Security Curriculum Overview

Information security programs 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

Best Information Security Programs in California

Total Programs: 45
Median Tuition: $15,200

Best Information Security Programs in Connecticut

Stanford, UC Berkeley

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $16,800

Best Information Security Programs in Florida

Yale, UConn

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $8,900

Best Information Security Programs in Georgia

UF, FIU

Total Programs: 20
Median Tuition: $11,500

Best Information Security Programs in Illinois

Georgia Tech

Total Programs: 24
Median Tuition: $16,800

Best Information Security Programs in Indiana

Northwestern

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $10,200

Best Information Security Programs in Maryland

Purdue, IU Bloomington

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $10,900

Best Information Security Programs in Massachusetts

UMD, Johns Hopkins

Total Programs: 22
Median Tuition: $19,400

Best Information Security Programs in Minnesota

MIT, Northeastern

Total Programs: 32
Median Tuition: $14,600

Best Information Security Programs in Missouri

U of Minnesota

Total Programs: 32
Median Tuition: $11,300

Best Information Security Programs in New Jersey

Wash U, Mizzou

Total Programs: 42
Median Tuition: $15,200

Best Information Security Programs in New York

Rutgers, Princeton

Total Programs: 35
Median Tuition: $18,500

Best Information Security Programs in Oregon

Columbia, NYU

Total Programs: 25
Median Tuition: $12,400

Oregon State, U of Oregon

Best Information Security Programs in Pennsylvania

Total Programs: 25
Median Tuition: $22,000

Best Information Security Programs in Tennessee

Carnegie Mellon

Total Programs: 30
Median Tuition: $9,800

Best Information Security Programs in Texas

Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville

Total Programs: 38
Median Tuition: $12,100

Best Information Security Programs in Utah

UT Austin, Texas A&M

Total Programs: 22
Median Tuition: $8,900

Best Information Security Programs in Virginia

U of Utah, BYU

Total Programs: 22
Median Tuition: $13,700

Best Information Security Programs in Wisconsin

Virginia Tech

Total Programs: 28
Median Tuition: $10,700