Cyberattacks are on the rise. Individuals, businesses, governments, and organizations of all kinds need to be aware of the problem and protect themselves from potential harm. This means hiring an expert in cybersecurity. With this database, you can find the cheapest online cybersecurity associate’s degree and launch your career in this essential industry.
Just how significant is the problem? In 2020, Cybersecurity Ventures predicted that over a five-year span, the cost of cybercrime will rise 15% annually. The annual cost will reach $10.5 trillion by 2025, an increase from $3 trillion in 2015. The World Economic Forum predicts the cost of cybercrime will rise to nearly $24 trillion by 2027. They also note that 2023 saw major attacks, including cyber threats to the U.S. State Department.
From ransomware attacks to data theft to stealing government records, security risks are increasing in number, intensity, and sophistication. The need for cybersecurity professionals will increase, resulting in more opportunities and higher pay for people with a cybersecurity associate degree.
This database provides information about the cheapest online cybersecurity associate degrees, all from accredited institutions. Launch your career working with network security, cyber threats, computer systems, information systems security, and computer networks with one of these affordable associate degree programs!
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost: $15,600
Least Expensive (In-State): Cerro Coso Community College – $2,768
Least Expensive (Out-of-State): Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso – $5,918
The 27 Cheapest Online Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Cerro Coso Community College | (CA) | $2,768.00 $23,288.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Coastline College | (CA) | $2,920.00 $25,780.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso | (NM) | $4,238.00 $5,918.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | Wayne Community College | (NC) | $5,284.00 $17,956.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
5 | Florida SouthWestern State College | (FL) | $6,682.00 $25,838.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Southwestern Community College - NC | (NC) | $6,760.00 $20,392.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 | Metropolitan Community College Area | (NE) | $6,862.00 $10,058.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
8 | Hillsborough Community College | (FL) | $7,103.00 $23,617.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | St. Petersburg College | (FL) | $7,605.00 $24,114.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Central Texas College | (TX) | $7,800.00 $15,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | Yavapai College | (AZ) | $8,316.00 $25,578.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
12 | Allen County Community College | (KS) | $8,640.00 $9,280.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | Hutchinson Community College | (KS) | $8,742.00 $10,664.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
14 | West Georgia Technical College | (GA) | $9,140.00 $16,340.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
15 | Wake Technical Community College | (NC) | $9,344.00 $30,328.00 $9,344.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
16 | Ivy Tech Community College | (IN) | $9,823.00 $18,930.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
17 | Laramie County Community College | (WY) | $10,301.00 $24,371.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
18 | Rose State College | (OK) | $10,722.00 $24,750.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | University of St. Thomas Houston | (TX) | $12,000.00 | All Students |
20 | Northern Virginia Community College | (VA) | $12,357.00 $25,536.00 $12,357.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
21 | Portland Community College | (OR) | $12,716.00 $25,456.00 $12,716.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
22 | Herkimer County Community College | (NY) | $12,776.00 $13,376.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
23 | Finger Lakes Community College | (NY) | $13,396.00 $17,620.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
24 | Alexandria Technical & Community College | (MN) | $13,453.00 | All Students |
25 | Kirtland Community College | (MI) | $14,213.00 $19,093.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
26 | Minnesota State College Southeast | (MN) | $14,297.00 | All Students |
27 | Kent State University | (OH) | $15,240.00 $15,840.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Vincennes University | (IN) | $15,694.00 $19,326.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Immaculata University | (PA) | $15,900.00 | All Students | |
Western Iowa Tech Community College | (IA) | $16,426.00 | All Students | |
Lansing Community College | (MI) | $16,534.00 $24,256.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Georgia Military College | (GA) | $17,480.00 | All Students | |
Community College of Allegheny County | (PA) | $18,185.00 $25,745.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
 Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $19,800.00 $13,860.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Montgomery College | (MD) | $20,796.00 $28,500.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of Charleston | (WV) | $23,800.00 $16,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Franklin University | (OH) | $23,945.00 $15,065.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
LeTourneau University | (TX) | $24,420.00 | All Students | |
Saint Leo University | (FL) | $25,540.00 $15,800.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Colorado Christian University | (CO) | $32,700.00 $15,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Lackawanna College | (PA) | $35,580.00 | All Students | |
Davenport University | (MI) | $57,124.00 | All Students | |
Hawaii Pacific University | (HI) | $65,760.00 $15,720.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
Methodology for the Rankings of the Cheapest Online Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree Programs
These rankings of online cybersecurity programs are based on our spring 2024 review of degrees. In order to calculate the total cost of each cybersecurity degree program, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual cybersecurity program. Profiles for the same cybersecurity program found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire cybersecurity degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits able to be applied to your cybersecurity degree program, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online cybersecurity degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools for an associate degree in cybersecurity to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online cybersecurity degree. We do not include cyber security degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings any cybersecurity associate degree program that is available less than 80% online and cybersecurity education that is only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: In order to qualify for a ranking, the online cybersecurity program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
ACBSP Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Why Choose One of the Cheapest Online Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree Programs?
These cybersecurity associate degree online programs lead to some of the most engaging and interesting work on the market. There are many reasons to pursue a cybersecurity associate degree online, but here are a few of the most common:
- Job-ready in two years: Some of these degrees (notably the associate of arts and associate of science programs) are designed for transfer, but many are intended for an immediate transition to the workforce (typically associate of applied science programs). This means you could be job-ready in less than two calendar years.
- Stunning salaries: A cybersecurity associate’s degree brings some of the most attractive incomes possible. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for information security analysts is $120,360, with a total expected growth of 32%. It’s one of the highest-paying and rapidly-rising careers in the job market.
- Essential, in-demand work: As we noted, there is a staggering need for cybersecurity and information protection. With a cybersecurity associate degree online, you’ll be able to meet the ongoing challenge of information security.
Cybersecurity Associate Degrees: Program Cost
Aspiring cybersecurity professionals can join a lucrative, high-demand industry. And they can do so at a low price with these degrees.
This database contains 46 degrees for online students from 43 accredited schools. Ranging in price from less than $3,000 to nearly $66,000, they provide vast opportunities to students of any budget.
The average cost in this database is $15,600. Assuming a two-year plan, this means a typical student will pay around $7,800 per year. 30 programs are priced below the database average, with 20 priced below $11,000. For in-state tuition, eleven programs are priced below $8,000.
Students in California can complete an online cybersecurity degree for less than $3,000, but for all students, regardless of location, the cheapest online cybersecurity associate’s degree is the Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Cybersecurity from Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso. This program has an out-of-state cost of $5,918, allowing students to complete a two-year track for less than $3,000 annually.
Associate’s degrees are often the most affordable education. While prices vary, the cheapest options typically come from community colleges within your state, even when taking classes through online learning.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Cybersecurity Degrees?
There are numerous affordable options for online students, but these three degrees deliver the cheapest prices, including one program that has affordable rates for all students.
#1. Cerro Coso Community College
Degree: Associate of Science in Cyber Security Technology
Cost: $2,768 (In-state, California)
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges
If you live in California, this is the cheapest online associate’s degree in cybersecurity, although out-of-state students pay over $23,000 for the degree. California students in this program pay about $1,400 a year for this program, creating a significant opportunity for affordable learning.
Whether paying in-state or out-of-state tuition, this cybersecurity degree prepares students with job-ready skills that lead to careers in information and computer network security. The program can lead to immediate job placement battling cyber threats, but it also prepares students for transfer into a bachelor’s program in cybersecurity, information systems, or network security management.
#2. Coastline College
Degree: Associate of Science in Cybersecurity
Cost: $2,920 (In-state, California)
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges
This program is also priced below $3,000 for California residents. The associate degree creates a foundation of knowledge that prepares students to become cybersecurity and network security professionals. Cybersecurity students learn to evaluate computer networks, assess risks, and identify solutions to cyber threats to maintain network security.
Coastline College provides a convenient learning experience in a remote setting. Students can access numerous resources, such as counseling that helps clarify complex educational problems.
#3. Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Cybersecurity
In-State Cost: $4,238 (New Mexico)
Out-of-State Cost: $5,918 (Lowest out-of-state cost)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
This AAS degree in cyber security is the most affordable for all students, regardless of their location. New Mexico residents have an estimated cost of $4,238, but out-of-state students pay a fairly light cost as well. The price for out-of-state students is just under $6,000.
The cybersecurity degree program will introduce students to current information systems and network security. Graduates can plan, analyze, and implement information systems through hands-on experience while assessing new technologies and developing long-term security skills.
Associate Degree Program Types
When you select a cybersecurity associate degree online, you can choose from a variety of types. There are also a few specializations to consider.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
An associate of applied science in cybersecurity is the most focused, career-specific degree. These programs teach students job-ready skills, and often forego the broad, liberal-arts coursework that comes with other programs. Instead of, say, history and literature courses, you’ll spend more time building cybersecurity skills through hands-on experience. If you are looking for a job-ready degree, choose an AAS. (These also tend to be the most affordable, although pricing varies by school and program.)
Associate of Arts (AA)
Usually intended for transfer into a bachelor’s degree program, this is the broadest of all associate’s programs. Students in an AA degree in cybersecurity complete coursework in literature, history, philosophy, psychology, business, government, and other far-ranging courses. This type of program prepares students to complete bachelor’s degrees.
Associate of Science (AS)
These programs focus on scientific theory and research methods. They usually include coursework on the scientific method and other science or math principles. An AS is generally intended to prepare students for transfer into a four-year university, although it also prepares students for immediate job placement opportunities.
Concentrations
Whether you select an AAS, an AS, or an AA degree, you can also choose from a variety of specializations and concentrations. Specialization areas in this database include:
- Cybersecurity operations
- Cybercrime technology
- Cyber defense
- Cloud computing
- Computer networking
- Digital forensics
- IT support
- Network security
Accreditation for Cybersecurity Programs
Accreditation is an important part of the academic system. Basically, accreditation acts like a quality-control program, reviewing schools and degrees and granting approval to those that meet set standards. This assures students that they are getting a quality education, while also giving schools a chance to show their high-quality performance.
All the cybersecurity associate’s degrees in this database come from schools with institutional accreditation. The most widely accepted form of institutional accreditation is called “regional” because it’s granted by regional organizations such as the New England Commission of Higher Education, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the Higher Learning Commission, which serves a large section of middle-America states. All the programs in our rankings are regionally accredited.
There is also a form of accreditation known as “programmatic,” which covers only the specific degree. This is granted by topic-specific bodies, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. Programmatic accreditation is less common and not required for our database.
Only one program in this list currently holds programmatic accreditation: the Associate of Science in Cyber Security from Vincennes University is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Typical Admission Requirements for an Online Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree
Associate programs create a path for job opportunities and further education. They are, in many ways, the entry point for colleges and universities. As such, the admission requirements are relatively light, lenient, and flexible. Acceptance rates are usually higher for associate degrees than bachelor’s programs; they are certainly higher than master’s programs.
The admission requirements are fairly straightforward. Each school will have specific requirements, but they usually include a high school diploma or passing a GED exam. If you are 18 years or older, and have a diploma or equivalency, you are all but guaranteed acceptance into a cybersecurity associate degree.
Some schools may require placement testing to gauge your readiness, but if you have a decent academic track record, you can likely find a quality associate program that accepts your application.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements
An online associate degree in cybersecurity can prepare students for vast careers in computer technology and security. Graduates with a cybersecurity degree can pursue their career interests in areas like cloud computing, network systems, network infrastructure, network security, cyber threats, or information systems security Each career has its own requirements, which may include additional education, training, and experience. Here are the typical requirements for some of the most common occupations in cybersecurity:
Computer Support Specialist
This is a technical and computer-based occupation that typically requires an associate degree. Completing certificate programs from groups like the CompTIA is not mandatory but will boost your job opportunities.
Information Security Analyst
The BLS says that security analysts, who protect an organization’s computer network against cyber threats, typically need a bachelor’s cybersecurity degree. However, some employers may hire applicants with a high school diploma and hands-on experience and certifications. An associate degree qualifies you for some positions in information systems security. Certification from industry groups is preferred, and you may need experience as a computer systems administrator or other type of computer-based position.
Computer Systems Manager
One of the highest-paying careers in the job market, being a computer systems manager requires managing computer professionals charged with maintaining network security and combating cyber threats. A bachelor’s degree is common for computer systems managers, but some managers in this field have an associate degree. All professionals in this occupation have hands-on experience working with computer networks, operating systems, system security, or computer science, usually working as a network administrator or IT security analyst.
Salary and Career Information for Cybersecurity Professionals
The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides career information, including salary and expected growth, for a wide range of occupations. Their resources indicate that cybersecurity and other tech-based jobs bring strong incomes and stable careers.
Here are some important stats for the top careers in cybersecurity:
Occupation | Typical Education | Expected Growth | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Manager | Bachelor’s | 15% | $169,510 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s | 32% | $120,360 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s | 10% | $103,800 |
| Computer Support Specialist | Associate’s | 5% | $60,810 |
| All Occupations | N/A | 3% | $46,310 |
As you can see, a cybersecurity degree prepares students for excellent potential salaries and job stability. The job market is hot for experts who can mitigate cyber threats and maintain network security. Information security analysts, who typically need a bachelor’s degree, are prime examples. This career has a median salary above $120,000 with an expected growth of 32% over ten years. People with education, training, and experience in cybersecurity and information systems security should be well paid while enjoying strong job security.
If you complete an online cybersecurity associate’s degree, you may consider the Washington, D.C., area for employment. Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia have the highest rates of information security analysts. Virginia, in particular, is noteworthy. This state has 4.64 security analysts per 1,000 jobs. Second place goes to Maryland, which has 2.95 information systems security jobs per 1,000; with D.C. in third with a 2.28 rate. Cyber security job numbers in this area is likely bolstered by proximity to the National Security Agency headquarters, a large employer of cyber security professionals.
All organizations, however, need information systems security and cyber security for their computer networks, so graduates of cybersecurity degree programs should find work no matter where they want to live.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Criminal Justice Program?
Choosing a cybersecurity associate’s degree online doesn’t have to be hard. Firstly, look for cybersecurity degrees from accredited schools. This ensures quality and value from your education.
Total cost matters, so use this database to sort through online learning programs that fit your budget. You can look at the total estimated cost for both in-state and out-of-state tuition, helping you make the best choice.
You’ll need to also review the program type, coursework, and subject matter to ensure they meet your career goals. Do you want to focus on network security, cyber threats, computer networks, data security, or ethical hacking, for example, or focus strictly on cyber security?
Once you find a handful of accredited degrees that fit your budget, review the cyber security programs for schedule and delivery method. Many of the programs in this database are 100% online, but some have limited in-person requirements.
If you need more information on the cheapest online cybersecurity associate’s degree, the resources and information from GetEducated.com are always available!