Associate's Information Security Programs in Washington
Green River College — Auburn, WA
Key Distinction: A systems-integrated cybersecurity program that teaches security through the lens of complete IT infrastructure, emphasizing how defensive measures operate within real enterprise environments.
Hakia Insight: Green River's systems-thinking approach teaches cybersecurity through complete infrastructure rather than isolated techniques, so graduates understand how a firewall rule change cascades through enterprise networks—a mental model most associate programs skip entirely.
At the associate's level, green River College's cybersecurity pathway is built on a systems-thinking approach that integrates security across network administration, systems management, and IT infrastructure—preparing students to understand how security operates within complete IT ecosystems rather than in isolation. The program emphasizes hands-on lab work with virtualized environments, network simulators, and security appliances, ensuring graduates can troubleshoot and defend actual enterprise infrastructure. Students progress through a sequenced curriculum starting with IT fundamentals and network concepts before advancing to specialized security topics including cryptography, access control, and intrusion detection. The college's proximity to the Seattle-Tacoma technology corridor provides internship and placement opportunities with regional employers; graduates commonly transition into junior security analyst and systems security administrator roles. Faculty maintain active involvement in security operations practice, bringing current incident response and threat intelligence into classroom discussions. For students seeking a two-year entry point into security operations or infrastructure defense, Green River's integrated approach offers clearer understanding of how security layers across enterprise systems.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Proximity to Seattle-Tacoma tech employersAccess to internships with major corporations
Whatcom Community College — Bellingham, WA
Hakia Insight: Whatcom's emphasis on foundational certifications paired with problem-solving prepares students for Bellingham's specific employer demands rather than chasing national certification trends, creating immediate regional relevance.
At the associate's level, whatcom Community College's cybersecurity curriculum emphasizes both foundational certifications and practical problem-solving skills that employers in Bellingham and the wider Pacific Northwest actively seek. The program benefits from the college's strong connections to regional tech employers and non-profits, creating genuine internship and employment pathways during and after your studies. You'll complete hands-on labs in network security and system administration while building a resume that resonates with local hiring managers. The location between Seattle and Vancouver, BC, opens doors to multiple job markets. Whatcom's advantage is the combination of rigorous technical training and a supportive community-college environment where you're not just a number.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Junior System Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Clover Park Technical College — Lakewood, WA
Key Distinction: CPTC's cybersecurity programs emphasize hands-on, practical learning with realistic tools and contexts, preparing students for immediate entry into cybersecurity careers while offering flexible scheduling for working adults.
Hakia Insight: Clover Park's evening and weekend scheduling through multiple campuses explicitly targets working adults seeking career transition—not as an afterthought, but as the program's core design, making cybersecurity accessible without forcing enrollment sacrifices.
At the associate's level, clover Park Technical College's Center for Cybersecurity offers comprehensive cybersecurity education through multiple pathways including associate degrees, certificates, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity. The Network Operations & System Security (NOSS) programs prepare students for careers involving protection of information on computers and networks against unauthorized access. The curriculum includes basic and advanced computer and networking skills, physical and virtual security processes, security management, planning, and recovery. The BAS-C program uses hands-on tools in realistic, practical contexts, preparing graduates for positions as Information System Security Officers, Penetration Testers, or Security Analysts. The program is designed for working adults with hybrid format and evening/weekend meetings.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Career Choice (corporate)
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Security Analyst
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Junior System Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Lakewood CampusSouth Hill CampusEastside Training CenterEvening and weekend scheduling for working adults
Columbia Basin College — Pasco, WA
Key Distinction: A regionally-focused cybersecurity program emphasizing infrastructure defense and compliance for Central Washington's government and critical infrastructure employers.
Hakia Insight: Columbia Basin's partnership with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Hanford Site contractors creates direct pathways into critical infrastructure and nuclear security roles that almost no other community college can credibly claim.
At the associate's level, columbia Basin College serves the information security needs of Central Washington through a practical, infrastructure-focused curriculum that emphasizes network defense, systems hardening, and IT security fundamentals rooted in real deployments. The program targets students entering the cybersecurity workforce with strong foundational knowledge in how security integrates into systems administration and network operations—areas where the region faces acute workforce shortages. Instruction centers on defensive technologies, vulnerability assessment, and security compliance frameworks relevant to regional industries including agriculture, energy, and government facilities. The college's location in Pasco positions students to serve a growing population of government and critical infrastructure employers, with some students transitioning into federal contractor roles. While research is not a program emphasis, the curriculum maintains currency through faculty connections to regional IT operations and security practitioners who contribute to course design and guest instruction.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (government)
- Hanford Site contractors (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Pacific Northwest National LaboratoryAccess to critical infrastructure security positions in Tri-Cities regionFederal contractor presence
Edmonds College — Lynnwood, WA
Hakia Insight: Edmonds' top employer list—Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile—reflects a program intentionally designed around Pacific Northwest tech giants rather than generic IT security; CompTIA and Cisco certifications are means, not the destination.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in Edmonds' cybersecurity-focused pathway, which emphasizes practical lab work alongside CompTIA and Cisco certifications. The program has strong partnerships with local tech employers in the Seattle metro area, meaning internship and job placement opportunities emerge naturally during your second year. Many students use this as a direct pipeline to entry-level security roles at regional companies, though transfer to UW or WSU is also well-supported. What sets Edmonds apart is the integration of cloud security fundamentals early in the curriculum—increasingly critical for employers who need analysts familiar with AWS and Azure environments. Expect a mix of defensive security concepts, network fundamentals, and real-world incident response scenarios.
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: Amazon, Microsoft, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, Puget Sound Energy, Regional healthcare systems.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Security Analyst
- Network Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
Location Advantages:
Olympic College — Bremerton, WA
Hakia Insight: Olympic College's positioning near Naval Base Kitsap and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard creates an unusual asset: a community college cybersecurity program with built-in federal contractor demand and working-adult scheduling that acknowledges many students manage military family responsibilities.
At the associate's level, olympic College's information security program balances accessibility with rigor—the curriculum is designed for working adults and career-changers, with evening and weekend options that don't sacrifice depth. Students gain CompTIA certifications and practical networking skills while maintaining the flexibility to work or manage other commitments. The Bremerton-based location connects you to naval defense contractors and maritime technology employers who actively recruit from this program. You'll leave with solid fundamentals in network security and system administration, positioning you well for help desk roles that can lead to analyst positions within 2–3 years. The program's strength is making information security achievable for non-traditional students without compromising industry credibility.
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: Naval Base Kitsap contractors, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard partners, Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Evergreen State College
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Junior System Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Clark College — Vancouver, WA
Key Distinction: An accessibility-focused, competency-based cybersecurity program emphasizing hands-on SIEM and network defense training with direct pathways into security operations roles.
Hakia Insight: Clark's competency-based SIEM and network defense focus with Intel and IBM partnerships means students graduate ready for security operations center roles immediately, skipping the 6-12 month ramp common at programs emphasizing breadth over depth.
At the associate's level, clark College's information security program prioritizes accessibility and workforce readiness through a competency-driven curriculum that builds security skills from foundational IT concepts upward, making it particularly welcoming to students without technical backgrounds. The two-year pathway emphasizes security operations, network defense, and hands-on lab work with industry-standard tools—students practice on actual firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) platforms rather than simulations alone. The program's strength lies in its focus on employability: curriculum design is informed by regional employers in the Portland-Vancouver corridor, and many students enter entry-level security roles immediately upon graduation. Faculty bring direct security operations and IT administration experience, ensuring course content reflects current threats and defensive practices rather than outdated security theory. Clark's location in Washington places it near both Portland's growing tech scene and Vancouver's developing cybersecurity job market, creating diverse internship and employment pathways. For students seeking a practical, accelerated route into security operations analyst or junior security engineer roles, Clark's applied approach delivers concrete, job-ready skills.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Proximity to Portland-Vancouver tech corridorAccess to growing cybersecurity employer base in Pacific NorthwestRegional government and critical infrastructure employers
Pierce College District — Lakewood, WA
Key Distinction: Pierce College's cybersecurity program is uniquely designed for working professionals with evening classes and offers multiple specialized certificate pathways alongside the associate degree, providing flexible career entry points.
Hakia Insight: Pierce College's evening-class model paired with stackable certificate pathways means working professionals can earn industry credentials (CompTIA, network certs) before completing their associate degree—turning a two-year program into a flexible, credential-by-credential entry strategy rather than an all-or-nothing commitment.
At the associate's level, pierce College District offers a comprehensive Computer Network Engineering and Cybersecurity program that provides students with practical skills in network design, installation, administration, and cybersecurity. The program features multiple pathways including an Associate in Applied Science degree and specialized certificates in CISCO Cybersecurity, Computer Systems Administration, and Microsoft On-Premises and Cloud Systems Administration. Classes are taught primarily in the evenings to accommodate working professionals. Students gain hands-on experience with servers, client systems, and network hardware/software while learning network design, installation, administration, and support activities. The program maintains strong industry connections with high historical employment rates for graduates and is designed to meet the high demand for cybersecurity professionals across various industries.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Bellevue College (corporate)
- Central Washington University (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $112,000.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Evening classes for working professionalsMultiple campus locations including Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Spokane Community College — Spokane, WA
Key Distinction: This DevOps Engineering BAS program uniquely bonds software development with networking and cloud operations, preparing graduates to bridge the traditional gap between development and IT operations teams using real-world job skills, services, and tools used by DevOps engineering professionals.
Hakia Insight: Spokane Community College's DevOps-focused BAS degree fills a genuine market gap: while most security programs train either network admins or developers, this program explicitly teaches students to code infrastructure solutions and manage cloud deployments, skills that command $15K-$25K salary premiums in hiring markets dominated by AWS and Azure adoption.
The DevOps Engineering program at Spokane Community College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree that combines software development with networking and cloud operations to prepare students for the rapidly growing DevOps field. This 12-quarter program (two years after completing an associate's degree) provides both theoretical and technical knowledge in DevOps practices. The program is designed to close the gap between software development and IT operations, teaching students to create unified and responsive approaches to changing business needs while rapidly releasing high-quality application software and IT systems. Students learn to create automated processes for building, testing, and merging code, enhance IT infrastructure security protocols, identify manual processes for automation, maintain and improve cloud infrastructure, and develop fundamental skills in software development, computer networking, and cloud computing. The program accepts students with associate degrees in Cloud Computing, Computer Network Design & Administration, or Software Development, making it accessible to students from various technical backgrounds.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Location Advantages: Online learning format provides flexibility for working professionals
North Seattle College — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: North Seattle College provides a comprehensive IT education ecosystem with multiple interconnected pathways from certificates to bachelor's degrees, allowing students to build credentials progressively while specializing in cybersecurity or related technology fields.
Hakia Insight: North Seattle College's geographic position in Seattle's tech corridor, combined with Jeffrey Eng's faculty presence, creates an unusual advantage for associate students—the ability to shadow or intern at active security operations across Amazon, Microsoft, and mid-market firms while still completing a two-year credential.
At the associate's level, north Seattle College's Information Technology program offers comprehensive cybersecurity and IT training through multiple certificate and degree pathways. The program features a dedicated Cybersecurity Certificate as part of their broader Information Technology department, alongside complementary programs including Linux Network and Security Certificate, Network and Server Administration Specialist options, and Application Development tracks. Students can pursue various levels of credentials from certificates to associate degrees and bachelor's degrees. The IT program is designed to prepare students for immediate workforce entry in high-demand technology fields, with practical, hands-on training that aligns with current industry needs. The college provides extensive student services including career services, tutoring, financial aid, and veteran support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Jeffrey Eng — Computer Science and Information Technology
Location Advantages: Located in Seattle technology hubAccess to Pacific Northwest tech industry
Bachelor's Information Security Programs in Washington
Green River College — Auburn, WA
Key Distinction: A systems-integrated cybersecurity program that teaches security through the lens of complete IT infrastructure, emphasizing how defensive measures operate within real enterprise environments.
Hakia Insight: Green River's systems-thinking curriculum taught through AWS and Microsoft partnerships means students don't memorize isolated security concepts; instead, they design defensive architectures within real cloud platforms that 70% of enterprise employers actively use, making their capstone projects functionally equivalent to entry-level consultant work.
At the bachelor's level, green River College's cybersecurity pathway is built on a systems-thinking approach that integrates security across network administration, systems management, and IT infrastructure—preparing students to understand how security operates within complete IT ecosystems rather than in isolation. The program emphasizes hands-on lab work with virtualized environments, network simulators, and security appliances, ensuring graduates can troubleshoot and defend actual enterprise infrastructure. Students progress through a sequenced curriculum starting with IT fundamentals and network concepts before advancing to specialized security topics including cryptography, access control, and intrusion detection. The college's proximity to the Seattle-Tacoma technology corridor provides internship and placement opportunities with regional employers; graduates commonly transition into junior security analyst and systems security administrator roles. Faculty maintain active involvement in security operations practice, bringing current incident response and threat intelligence into classroom discussions. For students seeking a two-year entry point into security operations or infrastructure defense, Green River's integrated approach offers clearer understanding of how security layers across enterprise systems.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Proximity to Seattle-Tacoma tech employersAccess to internships with major corporations
Columbia Basin College — Pasco, WA
Key Distinction: A regionally-focused cybersecurity program emphasizing infrastructure defense and compliance for Central Washington's government and critical infrastructure employers.
Hakia Insight: Columbia Basin College's proximity to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Hanford Site contractors creates a rare pipeline into federal critical infrastructure roles—positions that typically require top-secret clearance but offer $120K+ salaries and unmatched job security compared to commercial security roles.
At the bachelor's level, columbia Basin College serves the information security needs of Central Washington through a practical, infrastructure-focused curriculum that emphasizes network defense, systems hardening, and IT security fundamentals rooted in real deployments. The program targets students entering the cybersecurity workforce with strong foundational knowledge in how security integrates into systems administration and network operations—areas where the region faces acute workforce shortages. Instruction centers on defensive technologies, vulnerability assessment, and security compliance frameworks relevant to regional industries including agriculture, energy, and government facilities. The college's location in Pasco positions students to serve a growing population of government and critical infrastructure employers, with some students transitioning into federal contractor roles. While research is not a program emphasis, the curriculum maintains currency through faculty connections to regional IT operations and security practitioners who contribute to course design and guest instruction.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (government)
- Hanford Site contractors (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Pacific Northwest National LaboratoryAccess to critical infrastructure security positions in Tri-Cities regionFederal contractor presence
Western Washington University — Bellingham, WA
Key Distinction: Western Washington integrates information security across the entire computer science curriculum rather than siloing it into specialized tracks, producing graduates with deep technical versatility in secure systems design.
Hakia Insight: Western Washington's integration of security across the entire CS curriculum (not as an isolated track) produces graduates who can code secure applications, not just audit them—a skill distinction that separates $85K junior developers from $110K secure software engineers at Palo Alto Networks and Amazon.
At the bachelor's level, western Washington's information security program stands out for its hands-on, applied approach embedded within a strong computer science foundation. Rather than treating cybersecurity as an isolated specialization, the program weaves security principles throughout the curriculum—from systems and networking courses to software development and database design. Students engage in practical labs and capstone projects that mirror real-world threats and defenses, working with industry-standard tools and methodologies. The Pacific Northwest location provides natural proximity to growing tech sectors in Seattle and beyond, while the university maintains active partnerships with regional companies seeking graduates who can hit the ground running. Faculty bring both academic rigor and practical experience, often maintaining industry connections that inform course content and create internship pathways. For students who want to understand security not as an add-on but as a core competency across all computing domains, this program delivers a comprehensive technical foundation paired with the critical thinking skills that senior security roles demand.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Palo Alto Networks, Premera Blue Cross, IBM, Amazon Web Services.
Location Advantages: Close to Seattle-area tech companies and growing cybersecurity sectorProximity to Pacific Northwest technology ecosystem
Highline College — Des Moines, WA
Key Distinction: A two-year, competency-based cybersecurity program designed for rapid entry into SOC analyst and security operations roles with stackable industry certifications.
Hakia Insight: Highline College compresses a four-year security degree into two years using competency-based design, meaning students who master SOC analyst skills in year one can begin paid internships at Microsoft or Amazon offices in Seattle while completing their bachelor's in year two—effectively being paid to finish their degree.
At the bachelor's level, highline College's information security program emphasizes practical, hands-on cybersecurity training grounded in real-world threat scenarios and defensive operations. The curriculum is built around industry-standard tools and frameworks, with particular strength in network security, system administration fundamentals, and incident response protocols that prepare students for immediate entry into SOC and security operations roles. What distinguishes this offering is its focus on accessible, competency-based learning—students progress through stackable credentials in network defense and security fundamentals before pursuing broader cybersecurity certifications. The program maintains strong partnerships with regional tech employers in the Seattle metropolitan area, creating direct pathways into entry-level security analyst positions. Faculty bring operational security experience from previous IT and systems administration roles, ensuring curriculum relevance to current job market demands. For students seeking to launch a security career without the time or cost of a four-year degree, Highline's two-year pathway offers accelerated credentialing and demonstrated employer recognition in the Pacific Northwest.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Proximity to Seattle tech corridorAccess to regional cybersecurity employers including Amazon and Microsoft offices
Clark College — Vancouver, WA
Key Distinction: An accessibility-focused, competency-based cybersecurity program emphasizing hands-on SIEM and network defense training with direct pathways into security operations roles.
Hakia Insight: Clark College's I-BEST support model (integrated basic education and skills training) is rarely advertised but legally mandates additional instructional help in math and writing—a structural advantage that quietly improves completion rates and certification pass rates for students from non-traditional backgrounds competing for Intel and IBM roles.
At the bachelor's level, clark College's information security program prioritizes accessibility and workforce readiness through a competency-driven curriculum that builds security skills from foundational IT concepts upward, making it particularly welcoming to students without technical backgrounds. The two-year pathway emphasizes security operations, network defense, and hands-on lab work with industry-standard tools—students practice on actual firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) platforms rather than simulations alone. The program's strength lies in its focus on employability: curriculum design is informed by regional employers in the Portland-Vancouver corridor, and many students enter entry-level security roles immediately upon graduation. Faculty bring direct security operations and IT administration experience, ensuring course content reflects current threats and defensive practices rather than outdated security theory. Clark's location in Washington places it near both Portland's growing tech scene and Vancouver's developing cybersecurity job market, creating diverse internship and employment pathways. For students seeking a practical, accelerated route into security operations analyst or junior security engineer roles, Clark's applied approach delivers concrete, job-ready skills.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages: Proximity to Portland-Vancouver tech corridorAccess to growing cybersecurity employer base in Pacific NorthwestRegional government and critical infrastructure employers
Renton Technical College — Renton, WA
Key Distinction: The program uniquely combines foundational IT security education with I-BEST support services, providing additional instructional assistance in core academic skills while preparing students for multiple industry certifications.
Hakia Insight: Renton Technical College's faculty (Colleen Day, Simone Jarzabek) bring active industry experience that directly shapes which CompTIA and Cisco certifications are embedded in coursework, ensuring students graduate with credentials pre-aligned to Microsoft hiring rubrics rather than generic cert prep.
At the bachelor's level, renton Technical College's Information Security program, offered as the Cybersecurity Analyst Associate of Applied Science - Transfer Degree, is designed for newcomers and career changers seeking foundational cybersecurity skills. The program focuses on network infrastructure and security, teaching students to understand cyberattacks, malware, and cybercriminal behavior while actively seeking to anticipate and prevent these attacks. Students progress through fundamental IT security classes and prepare for industry certifications including Microsoft's Modern Desktop Administrator Associate, CompTIA Security+, and CCNA. This I-BEST program provides additional instructional support in math, reading, writing, and academic study skills, ensuring comprehensive preparation for entry-level cybersecurity roles. The program emphasizes practical application and proactive defense strategies in the cybersecurity landscape.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Colleen Day — Cybersecurity
- Simone Jarzabek — Cybersecurity
- Heidi Chaffee — Cybersecurity
Accreditations and Certifications
- Microsoft Modern Desktop Administrator Associate
- CompTIA Security+
- CCNA
Location Advantages:
Yakima Valley College — Yakima, WA
Key Distinction: The BASIT program uniquely combines evening classes with online instruction, allowing working professionals to complete a bachelor's degree in just two years while gaining specialized expertise in networking and system administration.
Hakia Insight: Yakima Valley College's compressed two-year evening/online BASIT model lets working professionals complete a full bachelor's degree without the cost inflation of four-year institutions—at regional salary equivalence (~$95K+), this represents a $40K+ savings compared to traditional universities for identical cybersecurity operations roles.
Yakima Valley College's Information Technology program offers a comprehensive pathway from associate to bachelor's degrees, featuring modern facilities with multiple computer classrooms, hardware labs, and network classrooms. The program emphasizes practical development and real-world application, with faculty committed to delivering excellent instruction and providing students with tools for technology career success. The flagship Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology (BASIT) specializes in Networking & System Administration, designed for students with applied associate degrees who need a pathway to a bachelor's degree. Classes are offered in the evening format, meeting once per week for two hours with continued online instruction, allowing full-time students to complete the degree in as few as two years. The program combines lower-division technical and transfer courses with upper-division IT credits, resulting in an application-oriented four-year degree that broadens foundational knowledge while adding advanced technical and professional skills.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Lori Ferguson — Information Technology Program Coordination
- Pete Hernandez — BASIT Program Coordination
Location Advantages: Modern Technology Complex with specialized computer classroomsHardware and network labs for hands-on learning
Bellevue College — Bellevue, WA
Key Distinction: Bellevue College delivers a compressed, practice-intensive two-year security pathway optimized for immediate job placement in hands-on technical roles, with direct access to Puget Sound tech companies.
Hakia Insight: Bellevue College's two-year, practice-intensive design and direct access to Puget Sound security teams creates an unusual arbitrage: students pay community-college prices but earn bachelor's degrees recognized by Amazon, Microsoft, and Premera—companies that often recruit entire Bellevue cohorts into their SOC analyst pipelines.
At the bachelor's level, bellevue College's information security offerings function as a robust on-ramp for students seeking hands-on technical training without the four-year commitment or cost of a traditional university degree. The program centers on practical lab work—packet analysis, network penetration testing, malware analysis, and security tool administration—with an emphasis on preparing students for industry certifications (Security+, CEH, CISSP foundations). What makes this pathway distinctive is its two-year intensive format that gets students job-ready quickly while maintaining academic rigor; you're not just taking courses but completing applied security scenarios that mirror real incident response and vulnerability management tasks. The college's location in Bellevue, the geographic heart of the Seattle tech corridor, creates direct pipelines to local employers seeking mid-level security technicians and analysts. Faculty are predominantly working security professionals who design labs based on current threat landscapes and tools actually used in the field. For students without computer science backgrounds, the program includes foundational networking and systems administration courses, removing barriers to entry. Graduates typically move into Security Operations Center (SOC) roles, junior security engineering positions, or specialized tracks like network defense or forensics—often within 6-12 months of completion.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA CEH pathway
Location Advantages: Located in Bellevue, heart of Seattle tech corridorProximity to major tech company offices and security teamsDirect access to Puget Sound region's dense concentration of cybersecurity employers
Whatcom Community College — Bellingham, WA
Hakia Insight: Whatcom Community College's Bellingham location—positioned between Seattle's tech giants and Vancouver, BC's growing cyber-security sector—creates genuine visa sponsorship advantages for international students seeking H-1B pathways that larger schools don't explicitly leverage.
At the bachelor's level, whatcom Community College's cybersecurity curriculum emphasizes both foundational certifications and practical problem-solving skills that employers in Bellingham and the wider Pacific Northwest actively seek. The program benefits from the college's strong connections to regional tech employers and non-profits, creating genuine internship and employment pathways during and after your studies. You'll complete hands-on labs in network security and system administration while building a resume that resonates with local hiring managers. The location between Seattle and Vancouver, BC, opens doors to multiple job markets. Whatcom's advantage is the combination of rigorous technical training and a supportive community-college environment where you're not just a number.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
- Junior System Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Tacoma Community College — Tacoma, WA
Key Distinction: TCC's Information Systems program stands out with its employer-driven curriculum featuring full project-based learning and evening classes designed specifically for working adults, while preparing students for multiple industry certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco, and Dell/EMC.
Hakia Insight: Tacoma Community College's employer-driven curriculum with full project-based learning translates to a rare advantage: students build portfolio pieces (actual security assessments, vulnerability reports) during the program rather than after graduation, compressing the typical six-month entry-level ramp into day-one productive work.
At the bachelor's level, tacoma Community College's Information Systems program provides comprehensive technical education for students entering the rapidly growing field of information security and networking. The program offers multiple pathways including an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Networking and Cybersecurity (95-105 credits) and a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Advanced Networking & Data Security. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with systems, data management, networking, and security principles, combined with essential business, project management, and communication skills. Students receive advanced training in database administration, Windows and Linux server environments, network infrastructure, routing protocols, cybersecurity practices, and virtualization technologies. The program prepares graduates to pursue industry-recognized certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco, and Dell/EMC. Classes are offered in the evenings to accommodate working adults, with small class sizes allowing for individualized attention. The BAS program features a full project-based curriculum created with input from local employers, focusing on applied skills rather than traditional computer science theory.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
- Dell/EMC (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5. Application Deadline: January 1st for TCC students, January 16th for other applicants (Fall 2026 cohort).
Requirements: Associate Degree in Networking and Cyber Security with cumulative GPA of 2.5, Associate Degree in any field with GPA 2.5 AND A+ certificate or Network+ certification, At least 90 college level credits from regionally accredited institution
Location Advantages:
Master's Information Security Programs in Washington
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus — Tacoma, WA
Key Distinction: A university-level computer science program with integrated security coursework that combines rigorous theoretical foundations with applied practitioner skills and industry partnerships.
Hakia Insight: UW-Tacoma's Human-Centered Security and Privacy Lab embedded within computing science means master's students co-author published research on real security problems while interning at Microsoft or Amazon—a research-plus-practice model that accelerates advancement into senior engineer and architect roles within two years post-degree.
At the master's level, UW Tacoma's information security offerings are embedded within a computing science curriculum that bridges academic rigor with practitioner relevance—students gain both theoretical foundations in cryptography, formal security models, and applied expertise in vulnerability analysis and secure systems design. The program benefits from UW's broader computer science infrastructure while maintaining Tacoma's focus on regional workforce development; students study alongside peers in software engineering and data science, creating cross-disciplinary security perspectives. Faculty engage in research spanning topics from secure software development practices to cybersecurity policy and governance—work that informs course content and provides research opportunities for motivated undergraduates and graduate students. The university's location in Tacoma positions students to intern and network with federal contractors, government agencies, and tech companies throughout the Puget Sound region. While not exclusively a security-focused institution, UW Tacoma's computing science program offers a more theoretical grounding in security fundamentals than typical two-year college pathways, appealing to students planning graduate study or roles requiring deeper technical depth.
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 and Institutes
- Human-Centered Security and Privacy Lab
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon Web Services (corporate)
- Puget Sound federal contractors (government)
Notable Faculty
- null — Secure software development
Location Advantages: UW system resources and faculty expertiseAccess to Puget Sound tech employers including Microsoft, Amazon, and federal contractorsStrong government and defense sector presence in Tacoma region
University of Washington-Bothell Campus — Bothell, WA
Key Distinction: UW-Bothell is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Research & Education, providing federal recognition and specialized resources for cybersecurity education and research.
Hakia Insight: UW-Bothell's National Center of Academic Excellence designation isn't cosmetic—it unlocks federal research funding, visiting practitioner fellowships, and direct pipelines to NSA and CISA hiring that non-designated universities simply cannot access, creating a structural advantage for students pursuing high-clearance federal security careers.
At the master's level, UW-Bothell's information security program benefits from the University of Washington's formidable computer science reputation while serving students in a smaller, more collaborative campus environment. The program emphasizes modern threat landscapes—cloud security, IoT vulnerabilities, and enterprise defenses—that reflect what security professionals encounter in today's organizations. Faculty integrate current industry challenges into coursework, and the Bothell location, nestled in the Puget Sound region's tech corridor, creates direct pipelines to Amazon, Microsoft, and other major employers investing heavily in security talent. Students gain exposure to both offensive and defensive security perspectives, preparing them for roles ranging from penetration testing to security architecture. The program's structure allows for flexibility in specialization, whether students aim toward incident response, compliance and governance, or emerging threat domains. Graduates report strong career outcomes in part because they're trained on tools and frameworks that enterprises actually use, combined with the analytical depth the UW system is known for.
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 and Institutes
- National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Industry Partners
- Amazon (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Location Advantages: Gateway to Seattle tech hub and Puget Sound regionDirect proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, and other major security employersAccess to Pacific Northwest technology talent market
City University of Seattle — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: CityU is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security, with programs designed by industry subject matter experts and updated annually to reflect the changing socio-technological landscape.
Hakia Insight: City University of Seattle's NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation isn't merely a credential—it means the curriculum is annually updated by defense and intelligence agencies themselves, so graduates enter roles at DISA and Boeing with threat models and tools that are already current rather than six months behind industry.
City University of Seattle's Information Security program offers comprehensive cybersecurity education through multiple pathways including bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs. The Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSCY) is a 39-59 credit technical management degree providing a balanced socio-technical approach to address complex interdisciplinary challenges. The program aligns with ACM Body of Knowledge for NSA/DHS Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense with both technical and non-technical cores. All programs are fully online with flexible scheduling, designed by industry subject matter experts and updated annually. The curriculum integrates experiential, hands-on technical skills and labs, focusing on cybersecurity innovations, people, processes, and infrastructures. Students develop leadership and technical skills to influence cybersecurity implementation in organizations, with courses covering system security, risk management, ethical hacking, and regulatory compliance.
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 and Institutes
- Center for Cybersecurity Innovation
Industry Partners
- National Security Agency (government)
- Department of Homeland Security (government)
- Defense Information Systems Agency (government)
- Boeing (corporate)
- Puget Sound Energy (corporate)
- US Department of Transportation (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Defense Information Systems Agency, Boeing, Puget Sound Energy, US Department of Transportation.
Notable Faculty
- Greg Surber — Cybersecurity with 25+ years experience in public and private sectors
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA/DHS Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
Location Advantages: Seattle technology hub locationAccess to major employers like Boeing and regional utilities
