Cyber Security Degree Programs

Cyber security is the practice of protecting data systems and computer networks from digital attacks and minimizing the impact when they do occur. Also known as information technology (IT) security, the practice employs strategies, techniques and tools that are designed to combat or recover from threats to sensitive information contained in networked systems, typically from outside of an organization.

Cyberattacks in the form of data breaches affecting consumers’ personally identifiable information (PII) can be particularly devastating to brands, health systems, banks and other public and private-sector organizations. Cyberattacks can result in loss of revenue and consumer trust, possible legal action and imposition of regulatory fines and are a threat to homeland security. This is why cyber security has become an important concern in the boardroom as well as the IT department.

Some of the online cyber security programs available here at DeVry include our Bachelor's Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking, our Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology and Networking with a Cyber Security Specialization which is focused on the practice of cyber security primarily related to network and cloud security, our Bachelor's Degree in Computer Information Systems with a Cyber Security Programming Specialization which concentrates on more specialized programming knowledge and its applications in the cyber security field and our Associate Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking which teaches you how to keep networked devices, infrastructures and environments secure and running smoothly. In addition to our undergraduate cyber security degrees, our Undergraduate Certificate in Cyber Security helps you build a foundation to learn about safeguarding strategies, OS concepts and more.

If you’re interested in a graduate-level program that touches on cyber security concepts, you might also consider our Graduate Certificate in Information Security.

Cyber security may sound like it’s hard to learn, but as with any area of study, the degree of difficulty depends on the student. You may find certain cyber security courses to be more challenging than others, but if you dedicate yourself to learning, manage your time effectively and maintain your focus, you can effectively pursue your goal of earning a cyber security degree.

Many cyber security careers involve building safe networks that prevent cyberattacks from external forces, uncovering and patching vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit, and detecting malware and unauthorized access to sensitive data and operating systems, while facilitating the free flow of information between networked devices. There are many types of cyber security professionals, each with its own competency. For instance, an ethical hacker specializes in breaking into systems to identify security vulnerabilities, while a cyber security analyst would likely spend more time evaluating the system itself to recommend improvements.

Based on projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), career opportunities in cyber security should remain strong for the next several years. The BLS projects employment of information security analysts to grow 32% between 2022 and 2032, a rate that is much faster than the national average for all occupations, with about 16,800 job openings each year, on average, over this period.³ This growth is projected on a national level and local growth will vary by location. This projection is not specific to DeVry University graduates and may include earners at all stages of their careers, and not just entry level.

The BLS attributes this growth to the rise of e-commerce, a shift to remote work and the growing frequency of cyberattacks, which are increasing the business sector’s focus on innovative solutions to protect networks and data systems from hackers. They further recognize strong growth in digital health services and telehealth, which may increase data security risks for healthcare systems.

The answer depends on which program you choose to enroll in. For example, our online Undergraduate Certificate in Cyber Security can be completed in as little as 1 year and 2 months on an accelerated schedule, 1 year and 6 months on a normal schedule.⁴ Our Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking can be completed in as little as 2 years and 8 months on an accelerated schedule, 4 years on a normal one.⁵

⁴Minimum schedule is per 12-month period, assumes completion of 3 semesters, enrollment in 7 to 13 credit hours per semester and continuous, year-round enrollment with no breaks. Normal schedule is per 12-month period, assumes completion of 2 semesters and enrollment in 7 to 13 credit hours per semester.
⁵Minimum schedule is per 12-month period, assumes completion of 3 semesters, enrollment in 13 to 19 credit hours per semester and continuous, full-time year-round enrollment with no breaks. Normal schedule is 12-month period, assumes completion of 2 semesters and full-time enrollment in 13 to 19 credit hours per semester.

The cyber security field requires aspiring cyber defenders to develop a medley of technical and workplace skills. Technical skills like framework and operating systems knowledge, coding and scripting, penetration assessment and cloud security are crucial. Workplace skills like problem-solving, communication, adaptability and being detail-oriented are indispensable. This skill set helps cyber security pros stay ahead of new vulnerabilities to cybercrime, assess situations and propose solutions, collaborate with their peers and explain highly technical subjects to non-technical stakeholders.

As organizations continue to rely heavily on the safety and security of their data systems and the job growth outlook continues to be strong in this area of computer science, as indicated by the BLS projections, cyber security careers can be found anywhere sensitive data is stored or managed. You may find career paths in the banking and finance, insurance or healthcare industries, or in the tech sector. Opportunities may also exist in law enforcement and government agencies.

Yes. Cyber security degree and certificate programs at DeVry are designed to be completed 100% online. If you prefer to add an on-campus experience to your educational journey, a hybrid option may allow you to take some classes in-person at a DeVry campus location.²