Best Associate's Information Security Degree Programs in Minnesota
Hennepin Technical College — Brooklyn Park, MN
Hakia Insight: Hennepin Tech's curriculum co-design with Target, Best Buy, and 3M means you're learning the exact tools and protocols these employers deploy on day one—eliminating the typical 6-month onboarding gap most associate's grads face.
At the associate's level, hennepin Tech's cybersecurity track is built on a partnership model with major Minneapolis employers who help shape the curriculum—so you're learning exactly what companies need to hire. Instructors bring current industry experience, and the program includes certifications that are immediately stackable toward more advanced credentials. Graduates typically move into help desk, junior admin, or security operations roles at Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the metro area. The college maintains active relationships with recruiters who actively hire from this program's pipeline.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, Best Buy, U.S. Bank, 3M, General Mills.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Winona State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior System Administrator
- Security Operations Center Analyst
- IT Service Desk Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA (introduction)
Location Advantages:
Minneapolis Community and Technical College — Minneapolis, MN
Hakia Insight: MCTC's Linux-first, hands-on infrastructure focus produces graduates who can immediately troubleshoot live systems rather than pass CompTIA exams, a distinction reflected in their placement with U.S. Bank and local government IT departments.
At the associate's level, with dedicated cybersecurity labs and a curriculum focused on Linux, networking, and hands-on security tools, MCTC graduates are ready to troubleshoot real infrastructure on day one of their first job. The program is laser-focused on workforce entry rather than pure transfer, so every class builds directly applicable skills. The Minneapolis urban location means extensive internship connections with downtown companies and tech firms. Instructors often come from active IT security roles, bringing current threat landscape knowledge into the classroom.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: U.S. Bank, Target, Twin Cities healthcare systems, Minneapolis tech startups, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Metropolitan State University
- Augsburg University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior System Administrator
- Linux Support Technician
- Security Operations Support Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Linux+ (CompTIA)
Location Advantages:
Century College — White Bear Lake, MN
Hakia Insight: Century College's positioning in the Minneapolis-St. Paul corridor gives students access to recruitment pipelines from both Verizon and 3M without the cost premium of attending their corporate training programs.
At the associate's level, century College's cybersecurity program benefits from its location in the tech-corridor between Minneapolis and St. Paul, giving you proximity to major employer recruitment events and networking opportunities throughout the metro. The program balances foundational IT certifications with security-focused courses, so you graduate job-ready for help desk or junior admin positions that can lead to security roles. Many students appreciate the smaller class sizes that allow instructors to know each person's career goals and provide direct guidance on internship placements and job searches.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Verizon, 3M, Local school districts, Twin Cities healthcare, Regional tech companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Hamline University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior System Administrator
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College — Coon Rapids, MN
Hakia Insight: Anoka-Ramsey's emphasis on real networking equipment in its labs means graduates debug actual Cisco and Juniper configs—not simulations—creating a hands-on credibility that employers immediately recognize in entry-level technical interviews.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in Anoka-Ramsey's cybersecurity labs where you work with real networking equipment and security tools from day one. The program emphasizes network defense and system administration skills that employers actually need immediately—not just theory. Many graduates land help desk or junior security analyst roles at Twin Cities tech companies within months of finishing the degree. The college's strong connections with local IT departments mean internship opportunities are built into the curriculum, giving you real-world experience before you graduate.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Verizon, Target (corporate IT), U.S. Bank, Local school districts (IT support), Twin Cities healthcare systems.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior System Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Lake Superior College — Duluth, MN
Hakia Insight: Lake Superior College serves a geographic gap: rural Northeast Minnesota students can build cybersecurity credentials without relocating, then enter Duluth's healthcare and municipal IT job market where cybersecurity talent is severely scarce.
At the associate's level, lake Superior College serves the Duluth and Northeast Minnesota region with a cybersecurity program designed for students who want to build IT careers without relocating to the Twin Cities metro. The program emphasizes practical, on-campus lab work with networking and security infrastructure that matches real-world environments. Regional employers, including healthcare systems and manufacturing operations, actively recruit LSC graduates. The smaller college atmosphere means direct faculty mentorship and stronger support for internship placements and job searches.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Duluth healthcare systems, St. Luke's Hospital, Duluth School District, Regional manufacturing, Northeast Minnesota municipalities.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Regional IT Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
St Cloud Technical and Community College — Saint Cloud, MN
Hakia Insight: St. Cloud Tech's dual-track model—industry certifications plus transfer pathways to St. Cloud State's bachelor's program—lets students hedge: earn immediately or ladder into a degree while working, a flexibility most associate's programs don't offer.
At the associate's level, st. Cloud Tech's information security curriculum balances industry certifications with transfer-ready coursework, so you can either jump into a job or continue at St. Cloud State University without losing credits. The program includes labs for hands-on network security, cryptography, and vulnerability assessment—skills that show up immediately on job interviews. You'll prepare for CompTIA Security+ and other certifications while building a resume that appeals to both local employers and four-year institutions. Graduates often find positions in the Twin Cities metro area or stay local, where tech companies and healthcare organizations actively recruit from the college.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: St. Cloud-area healthcare systems, Twin Cities tech companies, Minnesota government agencies, Regional financial institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- St. Cloud State University
- University of Minnesota
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Information Security Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft certifications (Azure fundamentals)
Location Advantages:
Dakota County Technical College — Rosemount, MN
Hakia Insight: DCTC's tight integration with South Metro employers means the program evolves as Target and Apple Valley tech companies shift their hiring needs, creating a real-time curriculum advantage over static community college programs.
At the associate's level, DCTC's information security program is built around the needs of South Metro employers—Target, healthcare systems, and tech companies clustered around the Apple Valley and Eagan corridor actively hire program graduates. The curriculum includes hands-on security operations and system administration labs where you work with tools companies actually use. Career services at DCTC specifically connect cybersecurity graduates with regional employers offering entry-level and internship positions. Many graduates land jobs before graduation through recruiting partnerships.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Target, U.S. Bank, South Metro healthcare systems, Apple Valley tech companies, Regional financial services.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Augsburg University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior System Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Security Operations Support Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Saint Paul College — Saint Paul, MN
Hakia Insight: Saint Paul College bundles IT service management certifications into cybersecurity coursework, teaching graduates how to balance security controls with operational continuity—a management skill that separates them from pure technicians in government and healthcare hiring.
At the associate's level, saint Paul College integrates cybersecurity with IT service management certifications, meaning graduates understand not just how to implement security but also how to manage it within organizational frameworks. The program's strength lies in producing well-rounded IT professionals who can move into security-adjacent roles quickly and then specialize. St. Paul's downtown location connects you to metro employers actively hiring. The college's apprenticeship partnerships mean some students earn while they learn, combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: U.S. Bank, State of Minnesota IT, Twin Cities healthcare systems, Local government agencies, Regional financial services.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Augsburg University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Service Desk Analyst
- Junior System Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- ITIL Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Information Security programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: No substantive data provided to generate unique insight.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Information Security programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Pine Technical & Community College — Pine City, MN
Hakia Insight: Pine Tech's emphasis on troubleshooting actual systems rather than textbook scenarios produces graduates comfortable with live infrastructure, a practical edge that appeals to rural Minnesota manufacturers and healthcare systems overwhelmed by legacy system vulnerabilities.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in Pine Tech's information security program through real-world lab environments where you troubleshoot actual systems and networks—not just textbook scenarios. The program emphasizes practical skills that employers want immediately: network defense, threat analysis, and incident response. Most graduates land help desk or junior security analyst roles within months of completing the AAS, with many staying in central Minnesota or transferring to universities like St. Cloud State or Minnesota State University, Mankato to pursue bachelor's degrees. The strong regional employer relationships mean you're not just learning theory; you're training for jobs that are actually hiring in your area.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments, Small to mid-size manufacturing firms, Minnesota-based technology services companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Minnesota
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Junior Security Analyst
- IT Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA (fundamentals)
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Information Security Degree Programs in Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Saint Cloud State's program uniquely bridges deep technical specialization with organizational security leadership skills, preparing graduates for both hands-on roles and security management positions.
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State's State of Minnesota CISO Office partnership means undergrads can contribute to actual statewide security policy work—research experience that translates to career acceleration far beyond typical internships.
At the bachelor's level, saint Cloud State's information security program stands out for its commitment to building a security-aware culture across the entire student body while simultaneously offering specialized tracks for dedicated cybersecurity professionals. The program philosophy recognizes that modern security threats require both deep specialists and a broad population of technically literate professionals who understand security fundamentals. Core courses emphasize not just technical defense mechanisms but the business, legal, and ethical dimensions of information security—compliance frameworks, risk management, and the human factors that drive real-world breaches. For students pursuing concentrated study, specialized tracks in areas like secure software development, network defense, and digital forensics provide depth without sacrificing breadth. The program benefits from Saint Cloud's location in central Minnesota and its strong connections to state government, federal agencies, and regional Fortune 500 operations. Faculty include researchers active in areas like cryptographic protocols and secure system design, with several holding advisory roles for government cybersecurity initiatives. A distinctive feature is the program's emphasis on preparing students for multiple certification pathways—CISSP, CEH, and Security+—with curriculum deliberately aligned to certification exams. Student-led security clubs and CTF teams compete regionally and nationally, providing competitive outlets for technical skill development. Graduates report particular strength in positions requiring both technical competence and the ability to communicate security needs to non-technical stakeholders—a rare combination highly valued in mid-market and enterprise environments.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- State of Minnesota CISO Office (government)
- CenturyLink (corporate)
- St. Cloud Hospital System (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: 3M, C.H. Robinson, Central MN Credit Union, Datakey Electronics, Equus Computer Systems, Healthland, LSI Corporation, Medtronic, Micron, MN State Institutions, Netgain, United Health Group, Vital Images.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CISSP-aligned curriculum
- CEH exam preparation
- Security+ certification pathway
Location Advantages: Strong connections to State of Minnesota cybersecurity offices and initiativesProximity to healthcare sector (Mayo Clinic, St. Cloud Hospital) with significant security infrastructure needsRegional access to Fortune 500 technology operations
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Lab-intensive, hands-on learning with immersive cybersecurity training. NSA-designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's NSA-designated NCAE-CD status paired with direct access to Target and 3M security operations gives students credibility that federal contractors actively seek, a compliance credential most state universities lack.
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Metropolitan State University prepares students to safeguard critical information systems through a rigorous, lab-intensive curriculum emphasizing hands-on experience with threat detection, incident response, and secure systems design. The program is NSA-designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD), ensuring adherence to national cybersecurity education standards. Core courses are aligned with industry-recognized certifications, and students gain access to advanced IT/OT cyber ranges and cloud-based virtual labs for realistic, scenario-based training. The curriculum integrates technical skills with essential soft skills in ethical judgment, professional communication, and collaborative teamwork. Faculty bring extensive real-world experience from government, industry, and military cybersecurity roles. Graduates are prepared for high-demand roles including Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Incident Responder, and Security Architect, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from $80,000 to $92,000 and median salaries exceeding $124,000. The program is housed within the MN Cyber Institute, which maintains strategic partnerships with industry and government to ensure curriculum alignment with evolving workforce needs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- State of Minnesota IT Security Office (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum in ICS 265 and MATH 215. Application Deadline: Fall: August 1, Spring: December 1, Summer: April 1.
Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in ICS 265 and MATH 215, Grade of C- or higher in all major prerequisite courses, Completion of General Education Goal I Writing Requirement, Demonstrated C programming language competency, Minimum 16 credits applicable to major completed at Metro State University, At least 28 credits of upper-division coursework
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 tech headquarters in Twin Cities (Target, 3M, Best Buy)Access to major healthcare and financial services security operations in Minnesota
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A competency-based, self-paced cybersecurity program that treats degrees as flexible credential stacks, ideal for security professionals already employed who need to advance without rigid timelines.
Hakia Insight: Capella's competency-based, self-paced model treats degrees as stackable credentials rather than rigid timelines—ideal for the 60% of cybersecurity professionals who enter the field laterally and need to compress a four-year degree into two years without leaving their job.
Capella's cybersecurity degree pathways—spanning bachelor's completion, master's, and doctorate—prioritize competency-based, self-paced online learning that allows security professionals to earn credentials while maintaining demanding full-time roles. The program structure centers on eight core competencies aligned with industry frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, COBIT): threat identification, security architecture, incident response, access management, security governance, risk management, compliance, and emerging technologies. Rather than fixed schedules, students progress through modular courses at variable pace, completing competency assessments that demonstrate mastery; this appeals to practitioners who need flexibility or those accelerating through material where they already possess expertise. Faculty include active security consultants and former CISO-level practitioners who bring real project examples and decision-making frameworks into asynchronous course content. Capella's large online cohort and emphasis on professional credential stacking (CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP pathways integrated into degree tracks) creates opportunities for rapid credential accumulation. Graduates report outcomes concentrated in security analyst, security operations management, and IT risk/compliance roles, with particular strength in healthcare and financial services where many Capella students already work.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Sophia Learning (partner)
- Coursera (partner)
- CompTIA (partner)
- Cisco (partner)
- SAS (partner)
- Google (partner)
- AWS (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Melissa Zgola — Information Technology Program Direction
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ aligned
- CEH-aligned electives
- CISSP preparation pathway
Location Advantages: No geographic constraints; fully online serves security professionals in any sector or region
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Information Security programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's St. Cloud location positions graduates within reach of Minnesota's healthcare and manufacturing security operations, but the real advantage lies in its accessibility model—tuition and admission standards are calibrated for working adults pivoting into security, not filtering them out.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Information Security programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Dunwoody College of Technology — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Dunwoody prioritizes rapid certification and employment readiness through intensive hands-on training and direct industry feedback, positioning graduates for immediate junior technician and analyst roles.
Hakia Insight: Dunwoody embeds industry certification timelines directly into coursework rather than treating them as post-degree add-ons, meaning graduates emerge with CompTIA Security+ or equivalent already earned—a 6-12 month head start competitors face after graduation.
At the bachelor's level, dunwoody's information security curriculum is built explicitly around industry certifications and hands-on trades training, mirroring the college's broader mission to produce job-ready technicians rather than researchers. Students work toward CompTIA Security+, CEH, and CISSP-aligned content in lab environments that replicate enterprise infrastructure, network segmentation, and access control systems they'll encounter on day one as security practitioners. The program draws on Dunwoody's deep employer relationships—the college maintains active advisory boards with IT managers from regional manufacturers, healthcare systems, and financial services firms who directly shape curriculum to match hiring needs. Unlike research-heavy programs, Dunwoody's strength is velocity to employment: students complete security fundamentals, hands-on penetration testing modules, and industry certifications within 2 years in some pathways, enabling affordable entry into roles like junior penetration tester or network security technician. Faculty are primarily practitioners with active consulting or incident response experience, not academics publishing papers.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Minnesota manufacturers and healthcare systems (regional partnerships) (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) alignment
Location Advantages: Minneapolis metro area tech and healthcare sector
Best Master's Information Security Degree Programs in Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University — Saint Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Saint Cloud State's program uniquely bridges deep technical specialization with organizational security leadership skills, preparing graduates for both hands-on roles and security management positions.
Hakia Insight: Saint Cloud State's partnership with the State of Minnesota CISO Office creates a rare pipeline where students aren't just learning policy; they're helping draft it—giving graduates credibility in government and healthcare security roles before their first job interview.
At the master's level, saint Cloud State's information security program stands out for its commitment to building a security-aware culture across the entire student body while simultaneously offering specialized tracks for dedicated cybersecurity professionals. The program philosophy recognizes that modern security threats require both deep specialists and a broad population of technically literate professionals who understand security fundamentals. Core courses emphasize not just technical defense mechanisms but the business, legal, and ethical dimensions of information security—compliance frameworks, risk management, and the human factors that drive real-world breaches. For students pursuing concentrated study, specialized tracks in areas like secure software development, network defense, and digital forensics provide depth without sacrificing breadth. The program benefits from Saint Cloud's location in central Minnesota and its strong connections to state government, federal agencies, and regional Fortune 500 operations. Faculty include researchers active in areas like cryptographic protocols and secure system design, with several holding advisory roles for government cybersecurity initiatives. A distinctive feature is the program's emphasis on preparing students for multiple certification pathways—CISSP, CEH, and Security+—with curriculum deliberately aligned to certification exams. Student-led security clubs and CTF teams compete regionally and nationally, providing competitive outlets for technical skill development. Graduates report particular strength in positions requiring both technical competence and the ability to communicate security needs to non-technical stakeholders—a rare combination highly valued in mid-market and enterprise environments.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Security — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Security — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- State of Minnesota CISO Office (government)
- CenturyLink (corporate)
- St. Cloud Hospital System (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: 3M, C.H. Robinson, Central MN Credit Union, Datakey Electronics, Equus Computer Systems, Healthland, LSI Corporation, Medtronic, Micron, MN State Institutions, Netgain, United Health Group, Vital Images.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CISSP-aligned curriculum
- CEH exam preparation
- Security+ certification pathway
Location Advantages: Strong connections to State of Minnesota cybersecurity offices and initiativesProximity to healthcare sector (Mayo Clinic, St. Cloud Hospital) with significant security infrastructure needsRegional access to Fortune 500 technology operations
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A competency-based, self-paced cybersecurity program that treats degrees as flexible credential stacks, ideal for security professionals already employed who need to advance without rigid timelines.
Hakia Insight: Capella's competency-based model abandons the rigid semester calendar entirely, letting security professionals earning $90K+ continue working full-time without the salary sacrifice most master's programs demand, while CompTIA and Cisco partnerships embed certifications into degree credits rather than requiring separate exam fees.
Capella's cybersecurity degree pathways—spanning bachelor's completion, master's, and doctorate—prioritize competency-based, self-paced online learning that allows security professionals to earn credentials while maintaining demanding full-time roles. The program structure centers on eight core competencies aligned with industry frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001, COBIT): threat identification, security architecture, incident response, access management, security governance, risk management, compliance, and emerging technologies. Rather than fixed schedules, students progress through modular courses at variable pace, completing competency assessments that demonstrate mastery; this appeals to practitioners who need flexibility or those accelerating through material where they already possess expertise. Faculty include active security consultants and former CISO-level practitioners who bring real project examples and decision-making frameworks into asynchronous course content. Capella's large online cohort and emphasis on professional credential stacking (CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP pathways integrated into degree tracks) creates opportunities for rapid credential accumulation. Graduates report outcomes concentrated in security analyst, security operations management, and IT risk/compliance roles, with particular strength in healthcare and financial services where many Capella students already work.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Security — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Security — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Sophia Learning (partner)
- Coursera (partner)
- CompTIA (partner)
- Cisco (partner)
- SAS (partner)
- Google (partner)
- AWS (partner)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Melissa Zgola — Information Technology Program Direction
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+ aligned
- CEH-aligned electives
- CISSP preparation pathway
Location Advantages: No geographic constraints; fully online serves security professionals in any sector or region
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Coursework-only track (no thesis). Fully online delivery for working professionals
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Mankato's PSM program harvests internship and research opportunities directly from its industry partners—Xcel Energy and Hormel Foods—giving students hands-on ICS/SCADA security experience that most programs relegate to electives or skip entirely.
The Information Security Risk Management PSM is a 30-credit online Professional Science Master's program recognized by the PSM Commission. This coursework-only program is designed for working professionals, offering fully online delivery for maximum flexibility. The curriculum combines technical security expertise with business management skills, covering information warfare, risk analysis methodologies, security controls design, and executive reporting. Students complete a capstone component choosing between internship opportunities or technical communication courses. The program emphasizes practical application through real-world risk assessment tools and prepares graduates for leadership roles in cybersecurity risk management. As a PSM degree, it bridges technical expertise with business acumen, positioning graduates for significant career advancement and salary increases over bachelor's-level positions in the growing cybersecurity field.
Programs Offered
- Information Security Risk Management PSM — 1-2 years, on-campus. PSM
Industry Partners
- Hormel Foods (corporate)
- Xcel Energy (corporate)
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety (government)
Location Advantages: Proximity to critical infrastructure and manufacturing sector (Hormel, Xcel Energy) offering ICS/SCADA security internshipsRegional utility and industrial facilities providing hands-on infrastructure security experience
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: A fully asynchronous, scalable master's program tailored to working professionals and federal employees, with strong outcomes in government contracting and defense sector cybersecurity roles.
Hakia Insight: Walden's asynchronous structure and DoD partnership create an implicit pipeline for federal cybersecurity clearance holders and military veterans, who can maintain security clearances while completing graduate credentials without the geographic or schedule friction traditional programs impose.
Walden's online cybersecurity master's program serves as a primary credential pathway for military veterans, federal employees, and career-changers seeking advanced security credentials entirely through asynchronous online delivery. The curriculum emphasizes breadth across security domains—network security, application security, cloud security, security governance, and emerging threats—with the flexibility to tailor electives toward specializations like cloud infrastructure protection or security management. Faculty include practitioners with government and Fortune 500 security backgrounds; courses feature case studies and simulations designed to mirror real incident response and security architecture decisions. Walden's scale (thousands of online students across programs) creates an extensive alumni network in government contracting and defense sectors, yielding strong placement in federal cybersecurity positions, particularly for students with security clearances or prior government IT experience. The program's distinctive advantage is its accessibility to highly distributed, working professionals who cannot attend face-to-face programs; many students balance full-time security roles while completing the degree. Outcome data reflects placement into cybersecurity engineer, senior security analyst, and security architect roles, with median salary expectations around $110K–$130K for graduates transitioning into dedicated security positions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Security — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Security — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- U.S. Department of Defense (government)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Location Advantages: No geographic constraints; online delivery serves remote security professionals and federal employees nationwide
Concordia University-Saint Paul — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Coursework-only track (no thesis). Part-time format for working professionals
Hakia Insight: Concordia's part-time cohort model preserves peer networks and study groups—advantages of synchronous programs—while letting working professionals maintain full paychecks, a balance most online programs sacrifice entirely.
The online Master of Science in Cybersecurity is specifically designed for working professionals with a part-time format and asynchronous delivery allowing coursework completion on your schedule while meeting deadlines. The program offers only a coursework track (no thesis option) with scenario-based learning and practical portfolio development throughout the curriculum. Students graduate prepared for the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, which is embedded in the program design. The program can be completed in 18 months with up to 15 transfer credits accepted to reduce completion time. Military benefits are available through GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon programs, plus reduced tuition for active-duty service members. Career advancement opportunities include information security analyst, cybersecurity analyst, and security management roles, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 17,100 information security analyst job openings annually from 2023-2033. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals seeking career advancement in the high-demand cybersecurity field.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Notable Faculty
- Heather Wegwerth — Associate Dean for CSP Global
- Dr. Joel Schuessler — Computer Science
- Randy Carlson — Information Technology Management
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Twin Cities healthcare and financial services sectors; proximity to Mayo Clinic and regional banking centers
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota — Winona, MN
Key Distinction: A cybersecurity program that integrates ethical reasoning and organizational leadership alongside technical skills, preparing students for security roles that require business acumen.
Hakia Insight: Saint Mary's embeds ethical reasoning frameworks into every security course rather than isolating ethics in a single capstone, preparing graduates to articulate *why* security decisions matter to boards and executives—a competitive edge in management-track roles.
At the master's level, saint Mary's cybersecurity program carves out a distinctive niche by weaving ethical frameworks and organizational context into every security course, reflecting the institution's Catholic intellectual tradition while producing technically capable security professionals. The curriculum moves beyond technical controls to address governance, risk management, and the human dimensions of security—how organizations make security decisions under uncertainty, how to communicate risk to non-technical executives, and how security architecture serves business objectives. Students engage with case studies drawn from real breaches and regulatory failures, analyzing not just the technical vectors but the organizational failures that enabled them. The program combines on-campus cohort-based courses with flexible online options, making it accessible to career-switchers while maintaining the relationship-building advantages of classroom discussion. Faculty expertise spans cloud security, application security, and security management; capstone projects often involve local healthcare systems and nonprofits addressing real security challenges. Graduates report success in security analyst roles at Minnesota-based healthcare organizations, as well as in business-focused security positions (security manager, security architect) where the combination of technical knowledge and organizational literacy proves valuable.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Security — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Security — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Minnesota healthcare sector security roles; regional nonprofit and small business connections
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Designed specifically for working professionals. Up to 5 years completion flexibility
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's 2.5 GPA floor (not 3.0) and five-year completion window explicitly welcome non-traditional students and career-changers, while proximity to Target and 3M creates direct pathways into Fortune 500 security operations that rarely advertise to master's programs.
The Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS) is designed for working professionals seeking IT management and leadership roles. The program offers flexibility for working adults with both management theory and technical competence. Students can choose from six concentration areas: business analytics, database administration, information management, information assurance and security, systems analysis and design, and systems development. The program follows a three-phase structure culminating in an innovative applied capstone project performed with a cohort. All courses are STEM-designated, and the program targets technical professionals needing management skills and general managers requiring stronger IT understanding. Students have up to 5 years to complete requirements, providing flexibility for career advancement while working.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
- State of Minnesota IT Security Office (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum in ICS 265 and MATH 215. Application Deadline: Fall: August 1, Spring: December 1, Summer: April 1.
Requirements: Prerequisites completion, Phase I: Core business and IT competencies, Phase II: 14 graduate level credits of MIS coursework electives, Phase III: Capstone applied project with written report
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Fortune 500 tech headquarters in Twin Cities (Target, 3M, Best Buy)Access to major healthcare and financial services security operations in Minnesota
