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Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, IDPrivate nonprofit
$4,800
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
79.0
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information security degree programs: Lewis-Clark State College, ,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $3,400 to $7,388/year
College of Western Idaho offers the most affordable option at $3,400/yr
Information Security degree programs available: 6 associate's, 2 master's in Idaho
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Idaho community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics, Kount
Tech hubs in Boise and Idaho Falls
Hakia Research 2026
Information Security degree programs near 16+ cities across Idaho
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Idaho Information Security programs
We rank 9 accredited information security programs in Idaho using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Security Degree Programs in Idaho Worth It?
Answer
$95,670
Yes. The best information security degree programs in Idaho deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $95,670 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $5,106/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Security Degree Rankings in Idaho
Compare the top-ranked Information Security programs in Idaho by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Security Programs in Idaho
5
Programs ranked
$4,224
Avg tuition/yr
39%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in information security, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include College of Western Idaho, Brigham Young University-..., College of Eastern Idaho, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Idaho offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,727/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $52,619 in Idaho.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Idaho's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information security schools in Idaho, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information security degrees in Idaho.
Best Bachelor's Information Security Programs in Idaho
2
Programs ranked
$7,183
Avg tuition/yr
49%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Idaho ranks among the nation's top destinations for information security education, with 1 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Lewis-Clark State College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Idaho information security programs earn a median salary of $81,320, 17% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,388 to $7,388 annually, with an average of $7,388/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Idaho's leading technology employers. For students seeking information security degrees in Idaho, these top-ranked information security schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Information Security Programs in Idaho
2
Programs ranked
$6,438
Avg tuition/yr
59%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Idaho offers 2 master's degree programs in information security, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Boise State, U of Idaho, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Idaho earn a median salary of $95,670, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $6,241/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Idaho's information security schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$6,119
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
74.6
Hakia Score
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$6,756
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad rate
72.6
Hakia Score
Information Security Degree Costs & Tuition in Idaho
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $5,106/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $12,765/year |
| Community college tuition | $1,277/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $30,636 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $7,658 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Security Students in Idaho
State Aid Programs
Idaho residents pursuing information security degrees have access to multiple funding pathways designed to make higher education more affordable. The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship provides need- and merit-based awards of up to $3,500 per year for eligible Idaho residents, making it a critical resource for students at both public universities and community colleges. This state-level support complements federal financial aid available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens doors to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. All Idaho students should complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal student aid, including Pell Grants, which don't require repayment.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state scholarships, many Idaho institutions offer institutional aid packages tailored to information security majors. The Idaho State Board of Education oversees financial aid policy across public institutions, ensuring consistency and accessibility. Students attending four-year universities benefit from in-state tuition averaging $6,084 annually, while community college students pay even less. Transfer-friendly policies through the Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy allow students to begin at affordable two-year institutions before transferring credits to four-year programs, reducing overall costs. For comprehensive aid planning and comparison tools, students should explore the College Scorecard, which provides institution-specific financial aid data and net price calculators for all Idaho schools offering information security programs.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator, Idaho
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information security degree in Idaho. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information security degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Security Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Idaho metro areas
Boise$105K
Idaho Falls$100K
Meridian$96K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boise | $105K |
| Idaho Falls | $100K |
| Meridian | $96K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Security Graduates in Idaho
Find information security jobs in Idaho. These major employers across Idaho metro areas are actively hiring information security degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Security Jobs in Boise
IDMicron Technology
semiconductor
HP Inc.
tech
Clearwater Analytics
fintech
Cradlepoint
networking
Kount
fintech
Information Security Jobs in Idaho Falls
IDIdaho National Laboratory
government
Battelle Energy Alliance
research
Transfer Pathways for Information Security Degrees in Idaho
State Transfer System
Idaho's structured transfer system simplifies the path from associate's to bachelor's degrees in information security. The Idaho General Education Statewide Transfer Policy ensures that general education credits earned at 5 community colleges transfer seamlessly to 13 public four-year universities, eliminating redundant coursework and reducing overall time to degree. Students beginning at College of Western Idaho (29 completions), College of Eastern Idaho (16 completions), or other community colleges can confidently complete core courses knowing credits will count toward bachelor's programs at Boise State University or University of Idaho.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between specific community colleges and universities guarantee that information security coursework aligns with upper-division requirements, streamlining the transition. Many Idaho community colleges offer associate's degrees designed as explicit transfer pathways, allowing students to complete two years at lower costs, with tuition averaging $3,400–$4,560 annually, before transferring to bachelor's programs. This approach is particularly valuable for students managing financial constraints. Completing prerequisites at community colleges before university transfer can reduce overall expenses while maintaining academic quality. For detailed information about specific articulation agreements, consult the Idaho State Board of Education or individual institution registrar offices. Explore related transfer-friendly programs like Information Technology in Idaho and Network Administration in Idaho to expand career pathways. Additional context on affordability and program options is available through College Scorecard and Federal Student Aid.
Why Pursue an Information Security Degree in Idaho?
Industry & Workforce
Idaho offers a strong pathway into information security education with 10 institutions currently offering programs across all degree levels, according to IPEDS data. The state produced 78 associate's degree completions, 2 bachelor's degrees, and 3 master's degrees in information security during 2023, demonstrating strong community college engagement and growing advanced degree opportunities. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, or master's credential, Idaho's diverse institutional landscape provides flexible entry points for cybersecurity careers.
Salary Outlook
Idaho's tech economy centers in major metropolitan areas including Boise, Meridian, and Coeur d'Alene, where major employers like Micron Technology, HP Inc., and St. Luke's Health System drive demand for skilled security professionals. Boise State University ranks as the top bachelor's and master's program in the state, with competitive tuition of $5,941 annually for in-state students, well below the national average. For budget-conscious learners, College of Western Idaho leads associate's programs with 29 completions and an affordable $3,400 annual tuition, making it an excellent springboard for university transfer. Idaho's average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions is just $6,084, compared to $20,994 for out-of-state students, offering significant cost advantages for residents. Explore related fields like Cybersecurity in Idaho, Network Administration in Idaho, and Information Technology in Idaho to build a comprehensive security career foundation.
Information Security Program Availability in Idaho
8 Programs
Idaho offers 8 accredited information security programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Boise, Idaho Falls, Meridian.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Security Job Market & Salary Data in Idaho
Employment Outlook
Idaho's information security job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by increasing demand across public and private sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity and information security roles remain critical across the state's major metropolitan areas, including Boise City, Idaho Falls, and Coeur d'Alene. The state's tech infrastructure is expanding, driven by major employers investing in digital transformation and data protection initiatives. Idaho's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions at $6,084 makes it an affordable entry point for students seeking security careers, compared to the national landscape.
Salaries by Metro
The Boise City and Treasure Valley regions lead job growth in information security, with employers actively recruiting skilled professionals. Idaho Falls and the surrounding Eastern Idaho region represent the second-largest employment hub for security specialists. Students pursuing information security degrees in Idaho benefit from proximity to growing tech sectors and established employer relationships. For detailed salary data and employment trends specific to information security roles, consult the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. Additionally, exploring related fields like cybersecurity in Idaho and network administration in Idaho provides broader career pathway context. The state's lower cost of living compared to tech hubs in California, Texas, and New York makes Idaho an attractive destination for information security professionals seeking better work-life balance.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Idaho$62,186$138,722
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Security Programs in Idaho
Online Programs
0 available in Idaho
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$4,595/yr$5,106/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Security Programs in Other States
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 30
- Median Tuition
- $4,300
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Oregon
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $5,000
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Nevada
- Total Programs
- 4
- Median Tuition
- $3,700
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Utah
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Wyoming
- Total Programs
- 3
- Median Tuition
- $3,200
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Montana
- Total Programs
- 3
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Security Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $1,300
Best Information Security Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 48
- Median Tuition
- $6,200
Information Security Degree Programs in Idaho: FAQ
What are the best information security degree programs in Idaho?
The best information security degree programs in Idaho based on our methodology are: 1) Lewis-Clark State College (highly ranked), 2) N/A, and 3) N/A. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Idaho offers 8 total accredited programs across 7 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 1 bachelor's programs.
How much do information security degree programs cost in Idaho?
Information Security degree program costs in Idaho vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $5,106/year, while private institutions average $11,233/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $1,277/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $20,424 at public schools to $44,933 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information security degree graduates earn in Idaho?
Information Security professionals in Idaho earn a median salary of $95,670, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $62,186, while senior roles exceed $138,722. Salaries vary by metro area: Boise ($105,237), Idaho Falls ($100,454) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information security degree programs in Idaho?
Yes, Idaho offers 0 accredited online Information Security programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information security degree graduates in Idaho?
Major Information Security employers in Idaho include Micron Technology, HP, Clearwater Analytics, Kount, Cradlepoint. The Boise and Idaho Falls metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Idaho universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Idaho's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information security degree program worth it in Idaho?
An information security degree program in Idaho offers strong ROI with a $95,670 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $5,106/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($108,107), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information security degree programs take in Idaho?
Standard completion times for information security degree programs in Idaho are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Idaho community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Idaho university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information security degree students in Idaho?
Idaho information security degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Idaho state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Idaho's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Idaho salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.