Best Information Security Programs in Virginia 2025

Virginia offers 9 bachelor's-level information security programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are ECPI University, University of Richmond, Old Dominion University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $88,270 in the Virginia 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, Virginia offers 6 master's-level information security programs. Leading institutions include Marymount University, ECPI University, Old Dominion University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Virginia reaching $163,930 or more.

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information security programs in Virginia are at Norfolk State University ($5,926/year), Old Dominion University ($7,590/year), Radford University ($8,401/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Virginia's competitive tech salaries.

At Norfolk State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $23,704 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $88,270, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years.

Virginia stands as a cybersecurity powerhouse, ranking among the top states for information security career opportunities. The Commonwealth hosts over 75,000 cybersecurity professionals, with the Northern Virginia region alone accounting for nearly 60% of these positions due to its proximity to Washington D.C. and concentration of federal agencies and defense contractors.

Information security analysts in Virginia earn a median salary of $89,420, which is 12% higher than the national median of $79,970 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state's cybersecurity job market is projected to grow by 35% through 2032, significantly outpacing the national average of 32% for the profession.

Major employers in Virginia's cybersecurity sector include government agencies like the Department of Defense, CIA, and NSA, alongside defense contractors such as Booz Allen Hamilton, Lockheed Martin, and General Dynamics. The private sector also offers significant opportunities with companies like Amazon Web Services, Capital One, and numerous cybersecurity startups concentrated in the Northern Virginia tech corridor.

• Government sector: 45% of cybersecurity positions, offering job security and comprehensive benefits
• Defense contractors: 30% of positions, with competitive salaries and clearance requirements
• Private sector: 25% of positions, including fintech, cloud services, and consulting firms

Virginia's leading information security programs distinguish themselves through specialized research centers, industry partnerships, and comprehensive curriculum design. George Mason University stands out for its location in Fairfax, placing students at the heart of the nation's cybersecurity ecosystem with direct access to federal agencies and major contractors.

Virginia Commonwealth University has invested heavily in its cybersecurity infrastructure, featuring state-of-the-art labs equipped with the latest security testing tools and threat simulation environments. The program emphasizes practical skills development through partnerships with local healthcare systems and financial institutions, providing students with real-world experience in protecting critical infrastructure.

Old Dominion University's information security program leverages the Hampton Roads region's unique position as a major naval and maritime hub. Students gain specialized knowledge in maritime cybersecurity, industrial control systems, and port security - skills highly valued by both military and civilian maritime organizations.

• All top 5 programs maintain active Cybersecurity Clubs and competitive teams
• Average internship placement rate exceeds 85% across Virginia programs
• Faculty-to-student ratios range from 1:12 to 1:18, ensuring personalized attention
• Industry advisory boards guide curriculum development at all major programs

Virginia's information security programs follow comprehensive curriculum frameworks aligned with both NSA/DHS guidelines and industry standards. Core coursework typically includes network security, cryptography, digital forensics, risk management, and incident response. Advanced courses cover specialized topics such as cloud security, mobile device security, and emerging technologies like IoT security.

Most programs require students to complete capstone projects involving real security assessments for local organizations or research initiatives. Hands-on laboratory experiences are integral to Virginia programs, with students working on penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and security monitoring using industry-standard tools like AWS security services and enterprise security platforms.

Virginia universities emphasize certification preparation, with most programs incorporating training for CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, and other industry-recognized credentials. This focus on professional certifications significantly enhances graduate employability and starting salary potential in the competitive Virginia job market.

Virginia's cybersecurity landscape varies significantly by region, with distinct opportunities and specializations across the Commonwealth. Northern Virginia dominates the federal contracting space, hosting headquarters for major defense contractors and numerous federal agencies. This region offers the highest salaries but also the most competitive job market and highest cost of living.

The Hampton Roads region, anchored by Norfolk and Virginia Beach, specializes in maritime and military cybersecurity. Naval Station Norfolk and Langley Air Force Base create unique opportunities for graduates interested in military cybersecurity applications. The region also benefits from growing private sector cybersecurity companies supporting both military and commercial maritime operations.

Richmond represents Virginia's emerging fintech and banking cybersecurity hub. With Capital One's major technology center and numerous financial services companies, the region offers excellent opportunities for graduates interested in financial technology careers and payment security specializations.

• Northern Virginia: Federal contracting, highest salaries ($95k+ starting)
• Hampton Roads: Military/maritime focus, strong job security ($78k+ starting)
• Richmond: Financial services, growing startup scene ($82k+ starting)
• Charlottesville/Lynchburg: Healthcare cybersecurity, university partnerships ($75k+ starting)

Virginia offers numerous financial aid opportunities specifically for cybersecurity and information security students. The Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG) provides up to $3,400 annually for eligible Virginia residents attending participating private institutions. Public university students benefit from relatively low in-state tuition rates and comprehensive need-based aid programs.

Several Virginia-specific cybersecurity scholarships are available through the Virginia Cyber Range and Commonwealth Cyber Initiative. The CyberCorps Scholarship for Service program is particularly active in Virginia universities, providing full tuition coverage plus stipends in exchange for post-graduation federal service commitments. This program is available at Virginia Tech, George Mason, and other participating institutions.

Many Virginia defense contractors and cybersecurity companies offer internship programs that can lead to tuition reimbursement or direct employment upon graduation. Companies like Booz Allen Hamilton, CACI, and General Dynamics maintain active recruiting relationships with Virginia universities and often provide scholarship opportunities for women in tech and underrepresented minorities.

• Average financial aid covers 68% of total attendance costs at Virginia public universities
• CyberCorps Scholarship participants receive $25k-34k annual stipends plus full tuition
• Virginia residents save average of $18,000 annually vs. out-of-state tuition
• 98% of cybersecurity graduates report manageable student loan debt levels