- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best information security associate's degree programs reveals that associate's degree in information security costs 60-70% less than bachelor's programs—average $3,562/year at community colleges vs $12,000 at 4-year universities.
- 2.Our top-ranked associate's programs are Northern Virginia Community College, Collin County Community College District, Columbia Basin College—selected for transfer agreements and job placement rates.
- 3.33% of associate's graduates transfer to bachelor's programs, often with guaranteed admission to state universities.
- 4.Entry-level information security technician positions start at $42,000 median salary (BLS, 2024).
- 5.Complete in 2 years full-time, or 3-4 years part-time while working—many programs offer evening and weekend classes.
Source: An associate's degree in information security is worth it for students seeking affordable entry into tech careers. At ~$3,500/year (vs $40,000+ for bachelor's), you can enter the workforce in 2 years or transfer to a 4-year university with completed prerequisites. Entry-level technician roles start at $45,500.
Why Choose an Associate's Degree in Information Security?
An associate's degree in information security offers a cost-effective pathway into technology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Information Security Analysts earn a median salary of $124,910 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $69,660.
Key Benefits of the 2-Year Path
- Lower cost: Average $3,500-4,000/year at community colleges vs $11,000+ at 4-year schools (AACC)
- Strong job outlook: 29% projected growth from 2024-2034 (BLS)
- Large job market: 182,800 positions nationwide in this field
- Transfer-friendly: Credits typically transfer to bachelor's programs at state universities
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and online options for working adults
- Hands-on focus: Practical skills emphasized over theoretical coursework
Salary potential: Entry-level information security positions start at $69,660, with experienced professionals earning up to $186,420 (BLS OEWS, 2024).
Who succeeds with an associate's: Students seeking quick entry to tech careers, working adults balancing jobs and education, career changers looking for an affordable credential, and those planning to transfer to bachelor's programs.
Best Information Security Associate's Programs - Top 10
Northern Virginia Community College
NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in information security degree program.
Northern Virginia Community College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,550 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Multiple campus locations: Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Multiple campus locations: Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge
- •Online learning options available
- •Located in Northern Virginia with proximity to government and corporate cybersecurity opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Collin County Community College District
Collin County Community College District is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Collin County Community College District Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Collin County Community College District as the #2 associate's in information security degree program.
Collin County Community College District's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $3,450 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. McKinney, TX location
Hakia Insight: Students at Collin County Community College District benefit from active collaborations with North Texas ISSA and Handshake, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •McKinney, TX location
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Columbia Basin College
Columbia Basin College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Columbia Basin College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Columbia Basin College as the #3 associate's in information security degree program.
Columbia Basin College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,514 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Proximity to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Hanford Site contractors, Columbia Basin College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
- •Access to critical infrastructure security positions in Tri-Cities region
- •Federal contractor presence
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Edmonds College
Edmonds College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Edmonds College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Edmonds College as the #4 associate's in information security degree program.
Edmonds College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,073 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lynnwood, WA location
Hakia Insight: Lynnwood, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Lynnwood, WA location
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, Puget Sound Energy
Admissions
MiraCosta College
MiraCosta is located in San Diego County and has produced successful transfer students to UC Berkeley and other top universities.
MiraCosta College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #5 associate's in information security degree program.
MiraCosta College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. San Diego County location
Hakia Insight: MiraCosta College's AI Discovery Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with San Diego tech companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
artificial intelligence research and community engagement
Location Advantages
- •San Diego County location
- •Access to biotech and defense industries
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
San Diego tech sector, Defense contractors
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Whatcom Community College
Whatcom Community College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Whatcom Community College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Whatcom Community College as the #6 associate's in information security degree program.
Whatcom Community College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $3,633 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Bellingham, WA location
Hakia Insight: Bellingham, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Bellingham, WA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Olympic College
Olympic College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Olympic College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Olympic College as the #7 associate's in information security degree program.
Olympic College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,197 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Bremerton, WA location
Hakia Insight: Bremerton, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Bremerton, WA location
Career Outcomes
Naval Base Kitsap contractors, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard partners, Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments
Admissions
Clover Park Technical College
Clover Park Technical College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Clover Park Technical College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Clover Park Technical College as the #8 associate's in information security degree program.
Clover Park Technical College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,740 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lakewood Campus
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Lakewood Campus
- •South Hill Campus
- •Eastside Training Center
- •Evening and weekend scheduling for working adults
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Oxnard College
Oxnard College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Oxnard College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Oxnard College as the #9 associate's in information security degree program.
Oxnard College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,340 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Oxnard, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Oxnard, CA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Coastline Community College
Coastline Community College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Coastline Community College Associate's Information Security Program Overview
Hakia ranks Coastline Community College as the #10 associate's in information security degree program.
Coastline Community College's associate's Information Security program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Fountain Valley, CA location
Hakia Insight: Fountain Valley, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Fountain Valley, CA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Best Information Security Associate's Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Annandale, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,550/year | Score: 100.0
What makes Northern Virginia Community College stand out: NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers an Associate of Science in information security designed primarily for students who wish to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program prepares students for success in bachelor's degree programs or entry-level programmer positions. NOVA's ADVANCE transfer partnership with George Mason University provides a guaranteed pathway for Information Security students to complete their bachelor's degree, with students saving money at NOVA before seamlessly transferring to Mason.
Degree Programs: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cybersecurity (2 years); Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Cybersecurity (1 year)
Industry Partners: George Mason University, Virginia Tech
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum for ADVANCE program
Accreditations: SACSCOC, CAE-CD (National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense)
#2. Collin County Community College District Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Collin County Community College District as the #2 associate's in information security degree program. Location: McKinney, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,450/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Score: 98.5
What makes Collin County Community College District stand out: Collin County Community College District is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Students at Collin County Community College District benefit from active collaborations with North Texas ISSA and Handshake, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Collin County Community College District offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in McKinney, TX, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity; Associate of Applied Sciences in Cybersecurity
Industry Partners: North Texas ISSA, Handshake
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Damien Smith (Director of Cybersecurity); Professor Rajin Koonjbearry (National Cyber League team coach)
Admissions:
Accreditations: NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
#3. Columbia Basin College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Columbia Basin College as the #3 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Pasco, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,514/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 94.1
What makes Columbia Basin College stand out: Columbia Basin College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Hanford Site contractors, Columbia Basin College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Columbia Basin College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Pasco, WA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Security (2 years)
Industry Partners: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Hanford Site contractors
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: CompTIA Security+
#4. Edmonds College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Edmonds College as the #4 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Lynnwood, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,073/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 91.3
What makes Edmonds College stand out: Edmonds College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Lynnwood, WA location
Program Overview: Edmonds College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lynnwood, WA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: AAS in Cybersecurity (2 years); AS in Information Systems (with security track) (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, Puget Sound Energy, Regional healthcare systems | Common Roles: Help Desk Technician, Junior Security Analyst, Network Support Technician, IT Support Specialist, Junior System Administrator
Admissions:
#5. MiraCosta College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #5 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Oceanside, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Graduation Rate: 94% | Score: 90.6
What makes MiraCosta College stand out: MiraCosta is located in San Diego County and has produced successful transfer students to UC Berkeley and other top universities.
Hakia Insight: MiraCosta College's AI Discovery Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with San Diego tech companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: MiraCosta College in Oceanside, California offers an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) in information security that prepares students for seamless transfer to California State University campuses. Students learn programming fundamentals, data structures, and computer architecture while completing calculus and discrete mathematics requirements. Graduates are prepared for careers as software engineers, data scientists, and systems analysts.
Degree Programs: Associate in Science - Cybersecurity; Certificate of Achievement - Cybersecurity; Associate in Science - Information Technology; Associate in Science - Systems Administration
Research Labs: AI Discovery Lab - artificial intelligence research and community engagement
Industry Partners: San Diego tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: San Diego tech sector, Defense contractors
Notable Faculty: Steve Isachsen (Computer Studies and Information Technology Department Chair); Rick White (Computer Studies and Information Technology)
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum
Accreditations: CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Cyber Security Analyst+ (CySA+), PenTest+, EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Linux Professional, Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), Microsoft Office Specialist
#6. Whatcom Community College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Whatcom Community College as the #6 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Bellingham, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,633/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 89.9
What makes Whatcom Community College stand out: Whatcom Community College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Bellingham, WA location
Program Overview: Whatcom Community College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Bellingham, WA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Security (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#7. Olympic College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Olympic College as the #7 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Bremerton, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,197/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Score: 87.6
What makes Olympic College stand out: Olympic College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Bremerton, WA location
Program Overview: Olympic College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Bremerton, WA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Security (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Naval Base Kitsap contractors, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard partners, Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments | Common Roles: Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, Network Support Technician, Junior System Administrator
Admissions:
#8. Clover Park Technical College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Clover Park Technical College as the #8 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Lakewood, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,740/year | Graduation Rate: 62% | Score: 85.0
What makes Clover Park Technical College stand out: Clover Park Technical College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Program Overview: Clover Park Technical College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lakewood, WA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity (18 months); Network Operations & System Security AAT or AAS-T (6 quarters); Computer Help Desk Technician Certificate (1 quarter); Computer Support Technician Certificate (1 quarter); System Security Professional Certificate (4 quarters); Linux Server Administrator Certificate (2 quarters); Network Administrator Certificate (2 quarters)
Industry Partners: Amazon Career Choice
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Information System Security Officer, Penetration Tester, Security Analyst, Help Desk Technician, Network System Administrator, Server Administrator, Network Administrator
Admissions:
#9. Oxnard College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Oxnard College as the #9 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Oxnard, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,340/year | Score: 82.8
What makes Oxnard College stand out: Oxnard College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Program Overview: Oxnard College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Oxnard, CA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Security (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#10. Coastline Community College Associate's Information Security Program
Hakia ranks Coastline Community College as the #10 associate's in information security degree program. Location: Fountain Valley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Score: 82.2
What makes Coastline Community College stand out: Coastline Community College is a public institution known for information security education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Fountain Valley, CA location
Program Overview: Coastline Community College offers an associate degree program in information security designed for students seeking entry into the information security field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Fountain Valley, CA, the program provides foundational skills in information security with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Information Security (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Full Information Security Associate's Rankings 2026
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale, VA | Public | $5,550 | — | 100 |
| 2 | Collin County Community College District | McKinney, TX | Public | $3,450 | 89% | 98.5 |
| 3 | Columbia Basin College | Pasco, WA | Public | $5,514 | 97% | 94.1 |
| 4 | Edmonds College | Lynnwood, WA | Public | $4,073 | 93% | 91.3 |
| 5 | MiraCosta College | Oceanside, CA | Public | $1,104 | 94% | 90.6 |
| 6 | Whatcom Community College | Bellingham, WA | Public | $3,633 | 78% | 89.9 |
| 7 | Olympic College | Bremerton, WA | Public | $4,197 | 85% | 87.6 |
| 8 | Clover Park Technical College | Lakewood, WA | Public | $5,740 | 62% | 85 |
| 9 | Oxnard College | Oxnard, CA | Public | $1,340 | — | 82.8 |
| 10 | Coastline Community College | Fountain Valley, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 82.2 |
| 11 | Rio Hondo College | Whittier, CA | Public | $1,306 | 65% | 81.8 |
| 12 | Grossmont College | El Cajon, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 81.5 |
| 13 | Tidewater Community College | Norfolk, VA | Public | $4,818 | — | 81.4 |
| 14 | Montgomery College | Rockville, MD | Public | $8,190 | — | 80.9 |
| 15 | San Diego City College | San Diego, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 80.2 |
| 16 | Chaffey College | Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 79.8 |
| 17 | Riverside City College | Riverside, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 79.3 |
| 18 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville, FL | Public | $2,095 | 89% | 78.9 |
| 19 | Valencia College | Orlando, FL | Public | $1,984 | 86% | 77.9 |
| 20 | Mt San Antonio College | Walnut, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 77.7 |
| 21 | Gwinnett Technical College | Lawrenceville, GA | Public | $2,400 | — | 77.4 |
| 22 | SUNY Westchester Community College | Valhalla, NY | Public | $4,980 | — | 77.4 |
| 23 | Dallas College | Dallas, TX | Public | $4,050 | 71% | 77.4 |
| 24 | Moorpark College | Moorpark, CA | Public | $1,340 | — | 77.2 |
| 25 | Germanna Community College | Locust Grove, VA | Public | $4,788 | — | 77.1 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Transfer Pathways to Bachelor's Programs
Transfer pathways are critical for associate's degree students. According to NCES, about 34% of first-time community college students transfer to another institution within 150% of normal completion time.
Preparation is Key: Success in transfer requires strong foundations and careful planning. Students should complete prerequisite courses at their community college and verify course equivalencies through official articulation agreements before transferring.
State Transfer Systems
- California: The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) guarantees CSU admission. Use ASSIST.org to verify course-by-course transfer equivalencies.
- Washington: Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) programs provide guaranteed pathways to state universities.
- North Carolina: The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement ensures seamless credit transfer to UNC System schools.
- Texas: The Texas Common Course Numbering System facilitates transfer between community colleges and state universities.
Key to Success: Research from PPIC shows successful transfer students share common traits: they start planning early, attend colleges with strong transfer partnerships, and choose universities with robust support services for transfer students.
Community College Advantages
Community colleges are experiencing a significant resurgence. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, community college enrollment increased 5.4% between Fall 2023 and Fall 2024 (+288,000 students)—the largest growth among all institutional sectors.
As Dr. Walter Bumphus, president of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), noted: "Community colleges have always been gateways to opportunity, but in 2025, they are increasingly engines of innovation in workforce development."
Why Community Colleges Excel for Technology Programs
- Smaller class sizes: Community college classes average 25-35 students, compared to 100+ in university introductory courses (Community College Review)
- Industry-connected instructors: Many instructors work in tech and teach part-time, bringing current industry practices to the classroom
- Lower cost: Average public community college tuition is $3,990/year vs $11,260 at public 4-year schools (AACC Fast Facts 2024)
- Open access: No SAT/ACT requirements—community colleges serve all students regardless of prior academic performance
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and hybrid options designed for working adults
- Transfer pathways: State articulation agreements provide guaranteed transfer to 4-year universities
2-Year Curriculum Overview
Information Security associate's programs typically require 60-65 credit hours completed over 2 years full-time. The curriculum balances technical skills with general education requirements, preparing students for both employment and transfer to bachelor's programs.
Core Information Security Courses
- Security Fundamentals
- Network Defense
- Risk Assessment
- Compliance (HIPAA/PCI)
- Security Tools
- Incident Handling
Typical Course Sequence
- Year 1: Programming fundamentals, math requirements (algebra/statistics), English composition, introductory technical courses
- Year 2: Advanced technical courses, electives in specialization area, capstone project or internship
Transfer Requirements: Most courses will transfer to 4-year universities through articulation agreements. A grade of C or better is typically required for technical courses. Check your state's transfer agreements (e.g., ASSIST.org for California, Direct Transfer Agreement for Washington).
Accelerated & Online Options
Online learning has become mainstream in higher education. According to NCES, 53% of U.S. students were enrolled in at least one online course in 2022-23. BestColleges research found that 60% of institutions reported online classes filling first in 2024—indicating strong student preference for flexible formats.
Enrollment Trends: The National Student Clearinghouse reports associate degree enrollment grew 6.3% in Spring 2025. Notably, older first-year students are driving growth—enrollment among those aged 25+ increased 19.7% compared to the prior year.
Flexible Format Options
- Fully online: Complete your degree from anywhere with asynchronous courses—many community colleges now offer 100% online associate's degrees
- Hybrid programs: Mix of online coursework and in-person labs—ideal for hands-on technical practice
- Accelerated tracks: Complete in 18 months with year-round enrollment at schools offering quarterly or trimester calendars
- Evening/weekend programs: Designed for working adults; many community colleges offer courses starting at 6pm or on Saturdays
Tip: Look for programs with asynchronous course delivery if your work schedule is unpredictable. Synchronous (live) classes require logging in at specific times.
Associate's vs Bootcamp vs Certificate
Choosing between an associate's degree, bootcamp, or certificate depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path has trade-offs.
Coding Bootcamp Outcomes: According to the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR), 71% of coding bootcamp graduates find a job within 6 months of completion. Course Report's 2025 survey found 79% of alumni land programming jobs within six months, with a 51% average salary increase over pre-bootcamp income.
Comparison
- Associate's degree (2 years, $7-15K total): Regionally accredited credential, transfers to bachelor's programs, qualifies for federal financial aid, recognized by employers across industries
- Coding bootcamp (3-6 months, $10-20K): 71% job placement within 6 months (CIRR), fastest path to specific dev roles, but limited to certain job titles and employers
- Industry certificate (6-12 months, $2-5K): CompTIA, AWS, or vendor-specific certifications focus on specific skills; best for career changers with some tech background
Key difference: Only associate's degrees are regionally accredited and qualify for federal student aid. Bootcamps typically require full upfront payment or income share agreements. As The Century Foundation notes, always read the fine print on any education program's outcomes claims.
Our recommendation: Choose an associate's degree if you want maximum flexibility—transfer options, employer recognition, and financial aid eligibility. Choose a bootcamp if you're confident about a specific developer role and can afford the upfront cost.
Financial Aid & Employer Tuition Assistance
Community college programs qualify for federal financial aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance. With average tuition under $4,000/year, many students graduate debt-free.
Federal Pell Grants: The maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2024-25 is $7,395 (minimum $740). Since this exceeds typical community college tuition, eligible students may have funds left for books and fees. Lifetime eligibility is limited to 12 semesters.
Free Community College Programs: Over 300 promise programs now operate at state and local levels, including:
- California: California College Promise provides free tuition for first-time students at participating community colleges
- Maryland: Community College Promise Scholarship covers up to $5,000/year in tuition
- Oregon: Oregon Promise Grant covers tuition for recent high school graduates
- Maine: Free College Scholarship covers tuition at all 7 Maine community colleges for classes 2020-2025
Employer Tuition Assistance: In 2023, 80% of large U.S. employers offered tuition reimbursement, spending $28 billion annually (Learn & Work Ecosystem Library). Key programs:
- Amazon Career Choice: Pre-pays 100% of tuition, books, and fees for associates and bachelor's degrees at participating schools. Available to hourly employees after 90 days.
- Target Dream to Be: 100% tuition coverage for 250+ programs at 40 partner schools, or up to $5,250/year for other programs
- Starbucks College Achievement Plan: 100% tuition coverage for Arizona State University online bachelor's programs after 3 months of 20+ hours/week
Tax benefits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit provides up to $2,500/year in tax credits for the first four years of higher education.
Top States for Information Security Associate's Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in California | 2 | $14,800 | Ashford University |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Texas | 10 | $6,200 | The University of Texas at San Antonio |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in New York | 22 | $21,200 | Rochester Institute of Technology |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Florida | 14 | $14,300 | University of South Florida |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Virginia | 9 | $27,900 | University of Richmond |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Pennsylvania | 20 | $27,700 | Pennsylvania State University |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Maryland | 6 | $26,100 | University of Maryland Global Campus |
| Best Information Security Associate's Programs in Illinois | 15 | $37,000 | DePaul University |
Cybersecurity Career Track
+$11K avg salary increase·6 months
- CompTIA Security+ certification prep included
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
Affiliate link · We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Data Sources
Federal database of U.S. postsecondary institutions
May 2024 salary data by occupation and location
Department of Education outcomes data
Related Information Security Resources
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.