Best Information Security Programs in Ohio 2025

Ohio offers 10 bachelor's-level information security programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Franklin University, University of Akron Main Campus. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $70,126 in the Ohio market.

A bachelor's in information security typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Information Security Bachelor's Programs guide.

For graduate study, Ohio offers 5 master's-level information security programs. Leading institutions include The University of Findlay, Franklin University, Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Ohio reaching $130,234 or more.

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information security programs in Ohio are at Franklin University ($9,552/year), Shawnee State University ($9,622/year), University of Toledo ($9,753/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Ohio's competitive tech salaries.

At Franklin University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $38,208 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $70,126, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1.1 years.

Ohio's information security sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with cybersecurity job openings increasing 32% annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state's diverse economy, spanning finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, creates robust demand for cybersecurity professionals across multiple industries.

Major employers driving this demand include JPMorgan Chase with over 2,500 technology professionals in Columbus, Nationwide Insurance's cybersecurity division, and Progressive Insurance's growing tech hub. Healthcare systems like Cleveland Clinic and Ohio Health are also major employers, requiring specialized security expertise for HIPAA compliance and patient data protection.

Information security graduates in Ohio earn competitive with experienced professionals reaching $95,000-$120,000 annually. The concentration of Fortune 500 companies in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland provides extensive career advancement opportunities without requiring relocation to traditional tech centers like San Francisco or Seattle.

Our ranking methodology prioritizes real-world outcomes over theoretical metrics. We analyzed employment data from the College Scorecard database, surveyed recent graduates about their job search experiences, and evaluated curriculum alignment with current industry demands in cybersecurity.

Employment outcomes carry the highest weight (35%) because job placement and salary progression are the primary reasons students pursue information security degrees. We tracked graduates for two years post-graduation, measuring not just initial employment but career advancement and salary growth within the cybersecurity field.

Industry connections (20% weight) proved crucial in our analysis. Programs with active internship partnerships, guest lecturer series, and corporate-sponsored projects consistently produced graduates with multiple job offers and higher starting salaries. Universities like Cincinnati and Ohio State excel in this area through their established corporate relationships.

Ohio universities offer information security education across multiple degree levels and specialization tracks. Bachelor's programs typically require 120-128 credit hours with core coursework in network security, cryptography, digital forensics, and risk management. Most programs include hands-on laboratory components and capstone projects involving real security challenges.

Master's programs in information security focus on advanced topics like security architecture, incident response management, and compliance frameworks. These 36-42 credit hour programs are designed for working professionals, with many offering evening and weekend classes. Popular specializations include digital forensics, cybersecurity management, and industrial control systems security.

Online information security degrees have gained significant traction, especially following the pandemic. Ohio institutions like Cincinnati and Ohio State offer fully online programs with the same faculty and curriculum as on-campus versions. These programs include virtual labs for hands-on learning and maintain the same accreditation standards as traditional degrees.

Most Ohio information security programs require a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher, with stronger programs like Case Western and Ohio State preferring 3.5+. Mathematics preparation is crucial, with calculus and statistics strongly recommended. Some programs require or prefer prior computer science coursework, though it's not universally mandatory.

Standardized test scores vary by institution, with public universities typically requiring SAT scores of 1200+ or ACT scores of 26+. However, many programs now offer test-optional admissions, particularly for students with strong academic records and relevant experience in technology or mathematics.

Transfer students benefit from Ohio's articulation agreements between community colleges and four-year universities. Students can complete general education and basic computer science requirements at lower costs before transferring to complete their information security specialization. This pathway can reduce total degree costs by $15,000-$25,000.

Ohio offers numerous financial aid opportunities for information security students. The Ohio College Opportunity Grant provides up to $2,796 annually for eligible students, while the Choose Ohio First Scholarship specifically targets STEM fields including cybersecurity, offering awards up to $5,000 per year.

Federal financial aid through FAFSA is available for all accredited programs. Students should complete their FAFSA application by March 1st for Ohio state aid consideration. The CyberCorps Scholarship for Service program, administered by the NSF, offers full tuition coverage plus stipends for students committed to government cybersecurity careers.

Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for cybersecurity education. Companies like JPMorgan Chase, Nationwide, and Progressive provide up to $10,000 annually for employee education in security-related fields. This makes part-time or evening programs particularly attractive for working professionals.