University campus in Oklahoma
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Information Security Degree Programs in Oklahoma, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top information security colleges in Oklahoma. 5 accredited information security schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Oklahoma State University-Main Campus to Southern Nazarene University.

#1 ProgramSouthern Nazarene
Avg Salary$89,340
Tuition From$5,417/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

4

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$89,340

Oklahoma median information security salary

BLS OEWS 2024

87.1/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

33%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best information security degree programs: Southern Nazarene, U of Tulsa, Oral Roberts

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $5,417 to $46,932/year

Oklahoma State offers the most affordable option at $5,417/yr

IPEDS 2024

Information Security degree programs available: 1 associate's, 2 master's in Oklahoma

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

Oklahoma community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK, Love's Travel Stops

Tech hubs in Oklahoma City and Tulsa

Hakia Research 2026

Information Security degree programs near 50+ cities across Oklahoma

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Oklahoma Information Security programs

We rank 7 accredited information security programs in Oklahoma 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 methodology

Are Information Security Degree Programs in Oklahoma Worth It?

Answer
$89,340
Yes. The best information security degree programs in Oklahoma deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $89,340 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $26,261/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Information Security Degree Rankings in Oklahoma

Compare the top-ranked Information Security programs in Oklahoma by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Information Security Programs in Oklahoma

1
Programs ranked
$19,752
Avg tuition/yr
44%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in information security, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Mid-America Christian, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Oklahoma offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $18,456/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 $49,137 in Oklahoma.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Oklahoma's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK 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 Oklahoma, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information security degrees in Oklahoma.

Best Bachelor's Information Security Programs in Oklahoma

2
Programs ranked
$34,046
Avg tuition/yr
58%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma ranks among the nation's top destinations for information security education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Southern Nazarene, U of Tulsa, Oral Roberts, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Oklahoma information security programs earn a median salary of $75,939, 23% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $18,456 to $46,932 annually, with an average of $31,472/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 76%, with the highest reaching 96%. 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 Oklahoma's leading technology employers. For students seeking information security degrees in Oklahoma, these top-ranked information security schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Information Security Programs in Oklahoma

1
Programs ranked
$48,340
Avg tuition/yr
72%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Oklahoma 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, U of Tulsa, Oklahoma State, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Oklahoma earn a median salary of $89,340, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK 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 $26,175/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 Oklahoma's information security schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Information Security Degree Costs & Tuition in Oklahoma

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$26,261/year
Average out-of-state tuition$65,653/year
Community college tuition$6,565/year
4-year savings for residents$157,568
2+2 transfer pathway savings$39,392

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Security Students in Oklahoma

State Aid Programs

Oklahoma students pursuing Information Security degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways, beginning with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Through Federal Student Aid, students can explore federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to support their education costs. The federal government offers need-based grants like the Pell Grant and merit-based scholarships that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, many Oklahoma institutions offer institutional scholarships specifically for cybersecurity and information technology majors, making a degree more accessible regardless of financial background.

Key Programs & Amounts

Oklahoma's Promise is a transformational state grant program that covers tuition at any Oklahoma public institution for students who were enrolled in 8th through 10th grade in the state. This program has made higher education significantly more affordable for qualified students pursuing Information Security at public universities like the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus and Oklahoma State University-Main Campus. For more details about Oklahoma's Promise eligibility and application procedures, visit the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Students should also investigate federal and state loan options, employer sponsorships, particularly from major employers like Tinker Air Force Base and Integris Health, and institutional financial aid offices for additional scholarships and grants tailored to cybersecurity and information security programs.

Information Security Degree ROI Calculator, Oklahoma

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information security degree in Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma metro areas

Oklahoma City$98K
Tulsa$94K
Norman$89K
View data table
CategoryValue
Oklahoma City$98K
Tulsa$94K
Norman$89K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Information Security Graduates in Oklahoma

Find information security jobs in Oklahoma. These major employers across Oklahoma metro areas are actively hiring information security degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Information Security Jobs in Oklahoma City

OK
Paycom
tech
Tinker Air Force Base
military
Devon Energy
energy
Love's Travel Stops
retail

Information Security Jobs in Tulsa

OK
ONEOK
energy
Oseberg
data
Tulsa Remote
tech-incentive
QuikTrip
retail

Transfer Pathways for Information Security Degrees in Oklahoma

State Transfer System

Oklahoma provides a streamlined transfer pathway for information security students through the Oklahoma Course Transfer and Articulation system, which establishes statewide course transfer agreements between two-year and four-year institutions (Oklahoma Course Transfer and Articulation). Students beginning their studies at one of Oklahoma's 3 associate's-granting institutions offering information security, such as Oklahoma City Community College, Rose State College, or Seminole State College, can seamlessly transition to bachelor's degree programs at major universities like Oklahoma State University-Main Campus or the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus. This pathway significantly reduces time-to-degree and lowers overall education costs, as community college tuition averages approximately $3,300 per year compared to $5,487 at four-year public institutions.

How Transfers Work

The transfer system guarantees that courses completed at community colleges will transfer with full credit, allowing students to avoid redundancy and maintain progress toward their degree. Students should work with academic advisors at both institutions to ensure their associate's degree plan aligns with bachelor's program requirements. Many Oklahoma universities offer dedicated transfer admission pathways with competitive tuition rates for community college graduates. For more information on affordability, review our most affordable programs guide. Additionally, students considering information security transfers should explore complementary fields through our guides on cybersecurity in Oklahoma and network administration in Oklahoma, which often feature similar transfer-friendly structures. Oklahoma's Promise program may also support transfer students at public institutions, enhancing accessibility (Oklahoma's Promise).

Why Pursue an Information Security Degree in Oklahoma?

Industry & Workforce

Oklahoma offers a strong landscape for information security education with 10 institutions offering programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state includes 4 bachelor's-granting institutions and 2 master's-granting institutions dedicated to information security, providing students with diverse pathways to enter this high-demand field. The University of Tulsa leads the state with 37 completions, followed by Southern Nazarene University with 11 completions, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to cybersecurity workforce development. For students seeking advanced credentials, Oklahoma State University-Main Campus and the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus rank among the nation's top programs, as featured in our national best bachelor's programs rankings.

Salary Outlook

Oklahoma's major metropolitan areas. Oklahoma City and Tulsa, serve as growing tech hubs with significant employment opportunities in information security. Major employers including Tinker Air Force Base, Integris Health, and the University of Oklahoma actively recruit cybersecurity professionals. The state's affordable tuition structure, with average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions at just $5,487, makes Oklahoma an economically attractive option for pursuing information security degrees (Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education). Additionally, students may benefit from Oklahoma's Promise program, which covers tuition at Oklahoma public institutions for eligible students. For those interested in flexible learning, explore our national online programs rankings to compare Oklahoma's offerings with top-tier distance learning options.

Information Security Program Availability in Oklahoma

5 Programs
Oklahoma offers 5 accredited information security programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Information Security Job Market & Salary Data in Oklahoma

Employment Outlook

Oklahoma's information security job market is experiencing steady growth, with employment opportunities concentrated in major metropolitan areas and defense corridors. The state's strategic location and diverse industry base create demand for skilled security professionals across multiple sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Oklahoma's technology and cybersecurity sectors continue to expand, particularly in Oklahoma City and Tulsa metros. Students graduating from Oklahoma institutions have access to a growing pool of positions in both traditional IT security roles and emerging specializations like cloud security and threat analysis.

Salaries by Metro

The state's higher education system supports this job market with 10 institutions offering information security programs at various levels, from associate's degrees through doctoral programs (IPEDS Data). Oklahoma's public institutions offer competitive in-state tuition averaging $5,487 for four-year universities, making education accessible for future professionals. The presence of major employers in defense, healthcare, and aviation industries ensures consistent hiring demand. Prospective students should explore how programs like those at University of Oklahoma-Norman and Oklahoma State University align with regional job growth. For additional career planning resources, visit the College Scorecard to compare institutional outcomes and employment metrics across Oklahoma schools.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Oklahoma$58,071$129,543
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Information Security Programs in Oklahoma

Online Programs

0 available in Oklahoma

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$23,635/yr$26,261/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

Information Security Degree Programs in Oklahoma: FAQ

What are the best information security degree programs in Oklahoma?
The best information security degree programs in Oklahoma based on our methodology are: 1) Southern Nazarene University (81% graduation rate), 2) University of Tulsa, and 3) Oral Roberts University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Oklahoma offers 5 total accredited programs across 1 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do information security degree programs cost in Oklahoma?
Information Security degree program costs in Oklahoma vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $26,261/year, while private institutions average $57,774/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,565/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $105,044 at public schools to $231,097 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 Oklahoma?
Information Security professionals in Oklahoma earn a median salary of $89,340, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $58,071, while senior roles exceed $129,543. Salaries vary by metro area: Oklahoma City ($98,274), Tulsa ($93,807) 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 Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma?
Major Information Security employers in Oklahoma include Paycom, Devon Energy, ONEOK, Love's Travel Stops, Tinker AFB. The Oklahoma City and Tulsa metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Oklahoma universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Oklahoma's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information security degree program worth it in Oklahoma?
An information security degree program in Oklahoma offers strong ROI with a $89,340 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $26,261/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($100,954), 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 Oklahoma?
Standard completion times for information security degree programs in Oklahoma 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. Oklahoma community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Oklahoma university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information security degree students in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma 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. Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma'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

Oklahoma 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

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Information Security program profiles in Oklahoma

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Information Security programs

#1Mid-America Christian UniversityOklahoma City, OK

Hakia insight. Mid-America Christian University's associate program in Information Security provides an affordable on-ramp to the field without the time or debt commitment of a bachelor's, particularly valuable for career-changers in underserved markets where entry-level analyst roles don't require four-year degrees.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Information Security · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Information Security · 2 years · online

Best Bachelor's Information Security programs

#1University of TulsaTulsa, OK

Why it stands out. NSA designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Hands-on and project-based learning curriculum

Hakia insight. University of Tulsa's NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation combined with its dedicated School of Cyber Studies (the only one nationwide) signals that this program doesn't compete with general computer science departments for resources—it's a purpose-built pipeline to federal agencies and top-tier tech companies with specific security hiring mandates.

The University of Tulsa's Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security is offered through the first and only dedicated School of Cyber Studies nationwide. The program features hands-on and project-based learning experiences, with faculty expertise across wide-ranging fields. UTulsa has been designated a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security since 2000. The curriculum adheres to CAE-CD guidelines and combines technical skills in network security, cryptography, and cyber defense with critical soft skills development. Students gain practical experience through internships and industry collaborations, preparing them to address evolving cyber threats. The program encourages experiential learning and faculty help students explore partnerships with employers. Alumni work for elite cyber industry leaders including Amazon, Google, IBM X-Force Red, and the NSA. UTulsa offers a job placement guarantee through CaneCareers, promising students will land entry-level jobs in their field within six months of graduation or receive a free semester of graduate school. The program maintains a 9:1 student-faculty ratio and addresses the high demand for cyber security professionals, with over 200,000 unfilled positions in the United States.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Institute for Information Security — Information security research
  • Institute of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology — Bioinformatics and computational biology
  • Critical Infrastructure Protection Lab — Critical infrastructure cybersecurity
  • Computational Neuroscience and Adaptive Systems Lab — Computational neuroscience and adaptive systems
  • In Silico Research Group — Computational research

Industry partners

AmazonGoogleIBM X-Force RedNational Security AgencyDepartment of Homeland SecurityU.S. Air ForceU.S. ArmyDefense Advanced Research Projects AgencyNational Institute of Justice

Career outcomes

$102 median salary

Top employers: Amazon, Google, IBM

Notable faculty

  • Dr. John Hale (Cybersecurity, bioinformatics, cyber-physical systems)
  • Dr. Weiping Pei (Cyber security)
  • Dr. Tyler Moore (Cyber security)
  • Dr. Yi Ting Chua (Cyber security)

Accreditation & certifications

Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security

Location advantage: Growing Tulsa tech ecosystem with increasing cybersecurity job market Regional proximity to government and energy sector cybersecurity demand

#2Mid-America Christian UniversityOklahoma City, OK

Hakia insight. Mid-America Christian University's bachelor's in Information Security serves a regional faith-based talent pipeline often overlooked by secular recruitment—creating a niche advantage for employers seeking candidates with strong ethical frameworks and institutional loyalty.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Security · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Security · 4 years · online

Best Master's Information Security programs

#1University of TulsaTulsa, OK

Why it stands out. TU's information security program stands out for embedding hands-on cybersecurity competitions and lab-intensive training directly into its curriculum, creating a pipeline of operationally ready graduates.

Hakia insight. TU's embedding of cybersecurity competitions directly into the master's curriculum rather than as extracurriculars means every graduate has real competition experience on their resume, dramatically shortening the ramp to operational roles at federal agencies and defense contractors who screen for this specific credential.

At the master's level, the University of Tulsa's information security program emphasizes hands-on cybersecurity training grounded in both defensive and offensive security practices, preparing students for immediate impact in operational security roles. The curriculum is structured around a core foundation in network security, cryptography, and systems administration, with flexible specialization tracks allowing students to concentrate in areas like cloud security, incident response, or secure software development. What sets TU apart is its integration of capture-the-flag (CTF) competitions and cybersecurity labs into the academic experience—students don't just learn security theory in classrooms but actively compete and practice in realistic environments alongside peers. The program benefits from faculty with active industry engagement and research interests spanning vulnerability assessment, malware analysis, and secure systems design. TU's location in Tulsa provides a growing tech ecosystem with increasing cybersecurity demand, and the program maintains connections with regional enterprises and government agencies seeking talent. Graduates have moved into security analyst, network security engineer, and security operations roles at mid-sized and Fortune 500 companies. The program also supports professional certification pathways, with many students pursuing CompTIA Security+, CEH, or CISSP credentials during or immediately after their studies. For students seeking a balance between rigorous technical depth and practical, competitive cybersecurity training at a school where they won't be a number, TU's approach delivers both.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Information Security · 1-2 years · on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Information Security · 1-2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Institute for Information Security — Information security research
  • Institute of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology — Bioinformatics and computational biology
  • Critical Infrastructure Protection Lab — Critical infrastructure cybersecurity
  • Computational Neuroscience and Adaptive Systems Lab — Computational neuroscience and adaptive systems
  • In Silico Research Group — Computational research

Industry partners

AmazonGoogleIBM X-Force RedNational Security AgencyDepartment of Homeland SecurityU.S. Air ForceU.S. ArmyDefense Advanced Research Projects AgencyNational Institute of Justice

Career outcomes

$102,000 median salary

Top employers: federal agencies

Notable faculty

  • Dr. John Hale (Cybersecurity, bioinformatics, cyber-physical systems)
  • Dr. Weiping Pei (Cyber security)
  • Dr. Tyler Moore (Cyber security)
  • Dr. Yi Ting Chua (Cyber security)

Accreditation & certifications

Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security

Location advantage: Growing Tulsa tech ecosystem with increasing cybersecurity job market Regional proximity to government and energy sector cybersecurity demand