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Cybersecurity Degree Online Bachelor of Science (BS)

Justin Smith, who earned his bachelor's in cybersecurity from SNHU in 2024, wearing his cap and gown standing in front of a campus building.

Cost per credit $342

Total courses 40

Term length 8 weeks

Program Overview Why get a cybersecurity degree online?

Learn how to build secure systems, protect information assets, manage risk and develop a strong “security mindset" with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity online degree from Southern New Hampshire University. The National Security Agency designated SNHU as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, and we proudly offer this program in alignment with recognized standards like the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and Cybersecurity Education Consortium.

Skills you'll learn:

  • Applications of security principles
  • Risk analysis and evaluation strategies
  • How to define computing requirements
  • Effective communication methods
  • Legal and ethical judgment techniques
Brock Ehlers, who earned his degree from SNHU in 2014, typing on a laptop with a small desklamp and potted  plant in front of him.

Courses & Curriculum One Cybersecurity degree. Two problem solving approaches.

Systems thinking: you'll learn to take a holistic view of how complex systems relate, influence and interact with each other.

Adversarial thinking: gain a deep understanding of hacker tradecraft and adaptive incident response tactics.

Armed with these perspectives, you'll learn to make decisions under conditions of uncertainty and apply proven security principles to solve problems at the critical intersection of people, process and technology.

Cybersecurity degree online concentrations

As a student of this program, you'll have the option to stick with a general cybersecurity degree or add a career-focused concentration.


The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Data Analytics Fundamentals provides an introduction to the role of data analysis within an organization.

You'll gain hands-on experience solving real-world problems using advanced data technologies, methods and tools, enabling you to present your findings in actionable ways.

By incorporating data analysis courses into your cybersecurity bachelor's degree program, you'll develop a better understanding of:

  • The importance of high-quality data
  • Gathering data for analysis
  • Using data to solve organizational challenges

Career outlook:

Through 2032, job openings for database administrators are projected to grow 7% – faster than the rate of growth for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1

In May 2023, the median annual salary for this role was $101,510, according to the BLS.1

According to CyberSeek, entry-level roles in the field include:2

  • Cybercrime analyst
  • Cybersecurity specialist
  • Incident and intrusion analyst
  • IT auditor

Courses may include:

  • Role of Data Analysis in Organizations
  • Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning
  • Gathering Requirements and Collecting Data

Interested in a career that focuses solely on data analysis? Check out our full online data analytics degree.

AI is reshaping every industry — and fast. Gain the in-demand skills employers are looking for when you earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Generative AI.

This concentration is designed to help you build the digital literacy and hands-on skills needed to incorporate generative AI into your career — no matter your industry. You'll also study the evolving nature of responsible AI use, employing best practices to ensure the future of AI is grounded in ethics.

Career outlook:

With a degree in cybersecurity and a focus on generative AI, you may be able to land a role as an information security analyst in fields like computer systems design, finance, insurance and more.1

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for this role will grow by 29% through 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations.1 They also reported that as of May 2024, the median annual salary for an information security analyst was $124,910.1

Courses may include:

  • Introduction to AI Literacy
  • Introduction to Responsible AI
  • AI in Practice

Learn more about our generative AI concentration.

Learn about the essential methods and tools necessary to lead successful projects when you earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity with a concentration in Project Management Fundamentals.

You'll create project plans based on authentic scenarios and learn to work within the triple constraints of time, cost and scope. Plus, you'll explore the concepts of estimation, scheduling, contracting and procurement.

Career outlook:

Pairing project management courses with your cybersecurity studies and gaining hands-on experience can help you stand out in a competitive entry-level job market.

The BLS projects a 29% job growth for information security analysts through 2034 – far outpacing the average for all occupations.1 As of May 2024, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $124,910, with the highest 10% earning more than $186,420.1

Courses may include:

  • Project Management for CAPM Certification
  • Project Contracting and Procurement
  • Resource Estimating and Scheduling

As part of this concentration, you are eligible to take our Project Management for CAPM® Certification course, which can help prepare you to take the PMI® Certified Associate in Project Management exam.

If you're seeking a more business-focused education, you may be interested in the online project management degree concentration.

Degree Courses

Cybersecurity degree online courses

Our bachelor’s in cybersecurity program provides hands-on learning with the most current tools and places a strong focus on skill development environments. You'll engage with industry-standard operating systems, computer networking devices and simulation tools, programming and scripting languages, and security software.

 

Courses may include:

Course ID: IT 140
Students will learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions and file handling. By developing simple scripts, students will understand how to use common scripting language constructs including lists, literals, and regular expressions to build useful applications.
Course ID: IT 145
Students will use programming as a problem-solving technique in business and engineering applications. In writing computer code in a logical, structured, and organized manner, students will learn how to incorporate the key concepts of object orientation into their programming. Additionally, students will learn to write, review, and document interactive applications and work with Software Development Kits and Integrated Development Environment tools.
Course ID: IT 200
Students will learn about the fundamental knowledge and skills required in the information technology (IT) field. While exploring the various roles and functions of IT professionals, students will engage with basic technologies, hardware, software, and a systems thinking approach to solving problems.
Course ID: IT 202
Students will explore the different features and components of common operating systems while learning how industry best practices and organizational requirements impact the selection, implementation, and maintenance of their operating systems. Students will also learn how to troubleshoot and solve computing problems common to an organizational environment.
Course ID: IT 212
Students will learn the basics of interconnectivity of computing systems. With fundamental networking knowledge, students will design a basic and secure computing environment that consists of a network, server, client system, and firewall.
Course ID: CYB 200
Gain familiarity with foundational cybersecurity concepts and terms. Learn the difference between adversarial and environmental threats and analyze how security practitioners respond to each. Explore legal and human factors and examine how they influence the development of organizational security strategies.
Course ID: CYB 210
Learn the basics of computer networking. Examine different network architectures and approaches to network design. Gain practical experience by performing common network implementation and administration tasks.
Course ID: CYB 220
Learn about common network-based attacks and how to defeat them. Explore the use of intrusion detection/prevention technologies and information flow controls to protect networked systems. Analyze security concerns related to virtual systems and networks.
Course ID: CYB 230
Learn the techniques and strategies used to protect modern operating systems. Employ best practices to securely provision operating system components and services. Troubleshoot insecure settings to reduce the risk of system compromise.
Course ID: CYB 250
Explore common strategies and tactics employed by security practitioners to protect networks, systems, applications, and data. Learn the principles of cryptography and examine the critical role it plays in protecting information assets. Analyze the impact of emerging technologies and evolving social trends on the field of cybersecurity.
Course ID: CYB 240
Explore the fundamental principles and practices of application security. Identify common software vulnerabilities and develop strategies to reduce their potential impact. Analyze and assess the security posture of multi-tiered web applications.
Course ID: CYB 300
Build upon basic operating system security by securing communication between networked systems. Implement transport layer security (TLS) and a public key infrastructure (PKI). Use a scripting language to automate security-relevant tasks and verify compliance with organizational security standards.
Course ID: CYB 310
Deploy technologies to detect and defeat network-based attacks. Use common tools to operate at different layers of the network stack, implement information flow controls, and develop reliable methods to identify malicious network traffic.
Course ID: CYB 320
Explore incident analysis and response techniques within the context of an enterprise. Learn basic digital forensic terminology and how incident response activities inform and augment digital investigations.
Course ID: CYB 400
Learn how to assess and audit information systems using structured approaches. Discover compliance gaps, identify security vulnerabilities, and recommend corrective actions. Learn how to effectively communicate findings and recommendations to organizational stakeholders.
Course ID: CYB 410
Apply the principles of risk management to solve real-world security problems. Learn how risk management influences organizational security programs. Explore how the concepts of threat, impact, relevance, and likelihood are woven together to develop balanced, effective security controls.
Course ID: CYB 420
Create and implement a comprehensive plan to protect an organization's assets from relevant adversarial and environmental threats. Employ basic project management methods to achieve milestones, align resources, and foster collaboration with stakeholders.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Cybersecurity curriculum.

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Upcoming term starts: June 29, 2026 | August 31, 2026

Next term starts:
May 4, 2026

Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.4% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2025 survey with 8,718 respondents.

What to expect:

8-week terms

Learn around your schedule

24/7 online support

Faculty Profile

Learn from instructors with industry experience

Our faculty members carry with them decades of experience in cybersecurity. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in this ever-evolving field. 

Featured Faculty

Jonathan Kamyck
Jonathan Kamyck, senior associate dean of online STEM programs at SNHU.

After holding the role of information security officer at SNHU, Jonathan Kamyck moved into academia, leading the development of our first competency-driven undergraduate program in cybersecurity. His additional industry experience includes time spent as an information systems security manager for government defense contractors and a consultant in the IT/cybersecurity space.

Position
Senior Associate Dean

Joined SNHU
2014

Education
  • MS in Information Assurance from Norwich University
  • MS in Organizational Leadership and BS in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University

"We want students to be confident and proficient after graduation. We provide our learners with many of the tools, techniques, strategies and methods relevant to a variety of exciting, in-demand cybersecurity jobs."

Read more about Jonathan Kamyck and other online faculty at SNHU.

5 ways SNHU makes the admission process "easy-peasy" #shorts

Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free

No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.

All it takes is 3 simple steps

It's easy, fast and free.

Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)

After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.

Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu

Accreditations

SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.

New England Commission of Higher Education Logo

Additionally, SNHU has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA). The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is SNHU’s validated program of study. To learn more about our contributions to the field and connect with our academic leaders, visit our Cybersecurity Center of Excellence page.

Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think

As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.

Online undergraduate tuition

Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$342
$1,026
$41,040
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$250
$750
$30,000

*before previously earned credits are applied

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.

**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.

Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

$10,260 $15,390 $20,520 $25,650 $30,780
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 30 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $30,780

If 45 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $25,650

If 60 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $20,520

If 75 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $15,390

If 90 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $10,260

How we estimate your tuition cost:

We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.

Career Outlook What can I do with a cybersecurity degree?

As cyber threats evolve and move toward the new frontiers of information technology, cybersecurity professionals play a key role in protecting the integrity of computer networks. A bachelor's degree in cybersecurity could be your first step toward this rewarding career.

Occupations

By earning your online degree in cybersecurity, you'll be well positioned for fast-growing careers in the field, including:

Monitor and investigate security breaches, maintain protective software, assess system vulnerabilities, research IT security trends, develop security standards and assists users.

Work with analysts or managers to perform tasks like vulnerability assessments, security configuration tests, system audits, incident support and security awareness training.

Lead, coordinate, and perform technical tasks, in addition to managing projects, responding to cyber incidents, conducting research, suggesting improvements and more.

Oversee organizational cybersecurity at the strategic level, recommending policies and controls, assuring compliance, building incident detection/response capabilities and beyond.

29%
An icon of a flow chart arrow pointing upwards

Increase in roles for information security analysts through 2034, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1

$124,910
An icon of a piggy bank with a dollar symbol

Median annual pay for information security analysts as of May 2024, according to the BLS.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.

Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

What SNHU students are saying

Alex Petitto, who earned his degree from SNHU in 2021.
Alex Petitto, who earned his degree from SNHU in 2021.

I feel the instructors brought a wealth of knowledge into the classroom, because they are all industry professionals. Whenever I had a question about coursework or the industry in general, they always provided great assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can get a cybersecurity degree online.

At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), our BS in Cybersecurity degree program is 100% online. That means you'll have the flexibility of learning at your own pace – all while getting the experience you need to take the next step of your career.

“Our classes are 100% online, but the program is packed with hands-on labs to help you learn how to use industry-standard tools and techniques," said Jonathan Kamyck, a senior associate dean at SNHU.

"Some courses even include the main concepts on certification exams, helping you prepare for additional credentials while you earn your degree.”

The cost of a degree in cybersecurity will vary depending on the school you choose to attend.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is proud to offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation at just $342 per credit.

As a university built for people, not for profit, we seek any opportunity we can to help make your education more affordable.

For instance, we accept up to 90 transfer credits for online bachelor's degree programs, which can be a great time and money saver.

You may also qualify for one of our grants, scholarships or tuition discounts. If, for example, you've served in the military or are the spouse of a service member, you could qualify for tuition discounts to maximize your benefits.

Looking for more ways to save, or just want to learn more about how to pay for college? Our admission counselors can help.

With a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, you can pursue various roles across multiple industries, as nearly every organization relies on secure digital systems.

"Cybersecurity touches every aspect of our lives," said Jonathan Kamyck, senior associate dean of cybersecurity at Southern New Hampshire University. "From the physical locks on our doors to our financial and medical records, our ability to communicate and share information, and essentially function in today’s world. The skills you learn in this program will provide the basis for protecting that information."

Common career paths include information security analyst, responsible for assessing risks, monitoring cyber threats and implementing security measures, and cybersecurity specialist, which involves collaborating with analysts on tasks like vulnerability assessments and security configuration tests.

A BS in Cybersecurity can also lead to opportunities in business, education, healthcare, manufacturing and marketing, as all these fields require professionals who can safeguard sensitive information. Additionally, a cybersecurity background can be useful in roles that support law enforcement by uncovering cybercrimes within businesses or organizations.

Because cybersecurity is a broad and evolving field, professionals often tailor their careers to their interests, whether in risk management, network security or even leadership positions.

If you want a career in a fast-growing field with a variety of job opportunities, a cybersecurity degree could be a good fit.

With an online cybersecurity degree from Southern New Hampshire University, you’ll develop a security mindset and be empowered to begin a career building secure systems, protecting information assets and managing technology risks for businesses and organizations.

As technology continues to become more ingrained in our personal and professional lives, cybercrimes like phishing schemes and data breaches have also grown and evolved. Needless to say, jobs in cybersecurity don't seem to be going anywhere.

The kind of cybersecurity degree you need depends on the job you want.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts typically need a bachelor's degree.1

If you're not ready to commit to a bachelor's degree but are interested in an accredited college program, you may want to consider a cybersecurity certificate. Southern New Hampshire University's online cybersecurity certificate is an 18-credit program that can help you enter the field and can seamlessly transfer into our associate degree in cybersecurity and bachelor's degree in cybersecurity programs, should you choose to continue your education.

A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can prepare you for jobs with strong salaries.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for information security analysts was $124,910 in May 2024, with the highest 10% earning more than $186,420.1

Demand for information security analysts is also expected to continue. The BLS projects employment will grow 29% through 2034 — much faster than the national average job growth for all occupations.1

If you’ve earned college credit before or have industry certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+ and Linux+, you may be able to transfer credits to your degree program so you can save time and money.

Additionally, attending school full time can really speed up your timeline. At Southern New Hampshire University, taking 2 classes per term is considered full time. This means you could complete our bachelor's in cybersecurity degree program in as few as 2 years without the aid of transfer credits.

As a cybersecurity major, you’ll explore the security risks that organizations and individuals face in today’s technology-driven world.

With courses like Network Security, Application Security, and Incident Response and Investigation, you’ll prepare to solve complex problems, respond to cyber threats, assess risk and apply cutting-edge security techniques.

You’ll have access to real-world learning opportunities through Southern New Hampshire University's (SNHU) virtual labs that simulate actual operating environments, so you can test your skills and gain key hands-on experience.

Additional learning opportunities outside of the classroom (including SNHU’s Center for Academic Excellence - Cyber Defense, online student clubs and National Cyber League competitions) will allow you to connect with other students and industry professionals who share your interests. Another benefit? They'll look great on your resume.

Getting started in cybersecurity does require some knowledge of basic IT principles and tools, as well as a strong understanding of mathematics.

But if you’re new to the information technology world, a cybersecurity online bachelor’s degree program can help provide much of this foundational knowledge and experience. You’ll study the fundamentals of programming concepts, learn common scripting language and gain an introduction to computer programs with hands-on activities designed for beginners.

And while coding and mathematics are key to cybersecurity careers, soft skills like communication, critical thinking and problem-solving can be just as valuable.

Cybersecurity does involve some math, but it’s not the primary focus. The level of math required depends on the specific role. Fields like cryptography, data analysis and network security may require an understanding of algebra, discrete mathematics and basic statistics to analyze patterns, detect threats and develop security protocols. However, many cybersecurity positions focus more on problem-solving, critical thinking and technical skills rather than complex mathematical concepts.

If you aren’t math-oriented, there are still plenty of cybersecurity career paths that emphasize risk assessment, policy development and security operations, which rely more on analytical reasoning than advanced math.

Sources & Citations

1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm (viewed May 16, 2024)
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm (viewed Nov. 19, 2025)

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

2CyberSeek, Cybersecurity Career Pathway, on the internet, at https://www.cyberseek.org/pathway.html (viewed May 16, 2024)