When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
If you are looking to boost your career in cybersecurity or transition to a new one, this helpful list of the best cybersecurity schools and universities will be a useful resource.
These institutions all have one thing in common: they offer top-notch cybersecurity training classes, programs, and degrees to prepare you for success in the industry. Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity undergraduate programs or a specialized program in computer information systems, these schools have what you need.
The highlighted centers of learning all excel in their cybersecurity programs. With a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, these provide a high-quality education. Topics covered include network security, ethical hacking, cryptography, and incident response.
Graduates from these programs are well-prepared for the ever-changing challenges of the cyber world.
Explore the top cybersecurity schools and universities to choose the program that works best for your educational and career goals.
Key Takeaways
- If you’re specifically interested in computer security, there are colleges that offer specialized cybersecurity degrees and some that offer cybersecurity majors.
- These programs focus on building a strong foundation in computer security principles, risk management, digital forensics, and secure software development.
- For a broader scope of cybersecurity topics, universities offer comprehensive IT security degree programs.
- Through hands-on training and internships, students gain practical experience and develop the skills to protect companies against cyber threats.
- From May 2023 through April 2024, there were 469,930 cybersecurity openings in the US, but only enough workers to fill 85% of the cybersecurity jobs.
Best 4 Cybersecurity Undergraduate Programs
The four universities listed in this section offer undergraduate programs in cybersecurity. They provide courses that cover various topics, such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
| Rank | University | Location | Undergraduate Cost of Tuition per year, in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA | $65,496 |
| 2 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, Georgia, USA | Georgia residents: $10,512
Out of state: $32,938 Out of country: $33, 566 |
| 3. | University of West London | London, UK | UK students: $12,107
International students: $16,250 |
| 4. | Leeds Beckett University | Leeds, UK | UK students: $12,107
International students: $20,934 |
The programs of these top four cybersecurity schools aim to train students to become future security professionals and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed in the cybersecurity industry.
The courses integrate new technologies and solutions to ensure students are up-to-date with the latest practices and techniques in cybersecurity systems development and operations.
And these programs are also designed to prepare students for various cybersecurity certifications, such as the CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker certifications.
4. Leeds Beckett University, UK
The Leeds Beckett University’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) Cyber Security degree program, offered on-campus, teaches you how to protect computer systems and networks from online threats.
In this cybersecurity degree program, you’ll learn about ethical hacking, digital forensics, network security, and cryptography.
The course starts with the basics of cybersecurity, including how to spot and defend against threats. You’ll also learn how to investigate cybercrimes and recover lost data.
The program includes practical lab sessions where you’ll work on securing networks, finding weaknesses, and handling real-life cybercrime cases.
3. University of West London, UK
The University of West London is another of the top-rated cybersecurity schools. The school’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) Cyber Security degree, offered on-campus, aims to give you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to protect digital information.
You’ll explore such topics as network security, where you learn how to defend systems from hackers, and cryptography, which involves using encryption to secure data. Ethical hacking, another part of the course, teaches you how to think like a hacker so you can find and fix security flaws before they can be exploited.
You’ll also study risk management, which involves figuring out and handling possible threats to keep systems secure.
The university says that its connections with the cybersecurity industry can help you find internships and jobs once you finish your degree.
2. Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
The Georgia Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering – Cybersecurity and Information Internetworks degree.
In addition to its on-campus program, this school is also one of the best cybersecurity schools online.
In this program, you’ll learn how to protect information systems from cyber threats. And you’ll study network security, ethical hacking, risk management, and cryptography. You’ll also learn to design, implement, and analyze secure computer systems, networks, and applications.
You’ll learn about cybersecurity by studying it in the classroom as well as by working on real-world projects. This hands-on experience will help you become a better problem solver and get you ready for a career in such industries as finance, healthcare, or government.
1. Carnegie Mellon, USA
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), one of the best cybersecurity colleges, offers an undergraduate concentration in security and privacy as part of its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree.
Offered on-campus and online, this program teaches you how to keep digital systems safe. If you’re interested in cybersecurity, computer science, or data privacy, this program could be a great fit.
You’ll learn about different ways to protect systems from threats, including by using cryptography. You’ll also study network security and software security. In addition, you’ll get to work on projects that simulate real-life security challenges.
After you complete this program, you’ll be ready to learn more about security or privacy in graduate school or start working in a security or privacy job.
Requirements
To complete the undergraduate security and privacy concentration, you must meet the requirements outlined (in the curriculum section) in each of the following five course areas: introduction and basics; theoretical foundations; system design; context; depth.
Best Cybersecurity Master’s Programs
Now, let’s take a look at four of the best graduate schools for cybersecurity. Universities that offer master’s programs in cybersecurity provide advanced education to help you protect digital information and systems.
| Rank | University | Location | Tuition, in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford | London, UK | Home student: $15,481 per year
Overseas students: $25,821 per year |
| 2 | University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, California, USA | $2,712 per enrolled unit. Course is 27 units |
| 3 | University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, Texas, USA | Residents: $270.82 per credit hour
Non-residents: $460 per credit hour Course is 33 credit hours |
| 4 | University of Westminster | London, UK | UK students: $13,745 per year
International students: $22,254 per year |
These programs teach you how to defend against cyber threats, manage security risks, and understand complex security systems.
They often include practical experience and cover such topics as ethical hacking, network security, and data protection. Some of the best schools for cybersecurity offer these programs online, so you can study from anywhere.
4. University of Westminster, UK
The University of Westminster’s Cyber Security and Forensics Master of Science on-campus degree program is designed to help you develop advanced skills in protecting digital information and investigating cybercrimes.
One of the best cybersecurity programs, it covers such topics as network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and risk management. You’ll learn how to identify and deal with cyber threats, secure computer systems, and analyze digital evidence.
The course mixes classroom learning with practical experience, so you’re ready to handle constantly changing cybersecurity threats.
This program is a good fit if you have a background in computer science or IT, but it’s also good if you’re looking to enter the field of cybersecurity with some basic knowledge.
Requirements
- A minimum of a lower second-class honors degree (2:2) in a computing-related discipline. Work experience and other qualifications may also be taken into account.
- Applicants must submit one academic reference.
3. University of Texas at San Antonio, USA
The University of Texas at San Antonio’s Carlos Alvarez College of Business Master of Science in Cyber Security – Information Technology (MS-CSIT) program aims to give you the skills you’ll need to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats.
You’ll explore such topics as risk management, network security, cryptography, and how to handle cyber incidents.
One of the best cybersecurity universities, this school offers courses online and on-campus, so you can fit your studies into your schedule.
The program also offers opportunities to work with industry professionals. The MS-CSIT program is geared toward professionals, such as security analysts, engineers, architects, and consultants, who want to advance their careers in cybersecurity.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or have proof of equivalent training at a foreign institution.
- Minimum GPA 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale): Candidates with GPAs below 3.0 may still be considered for admission.
- Eighteen credit hours in an area related to this graduate degree and at least 12 hours must be at the upper-division level.
- Purpose statement
2. University of California (UC) Berkeley, USA
The UC Berkeley School of Information’s online Master of Information and Cybersecurity program teaches you the skills and critical thinking you’ll need to help keep organizations and people safe from cyberattacks.
You’ll study network security, cryptography, and software security and learn how to find vulnerabilities in software, build systems that are secure, and handle cyber incidents. You’ll also learn about the legal and ethical sides of cybersecurity, which will help you handle ethical issues and data privacy laws.
Additionally, you can pursue a Certificate in Applied Data Science, where you’ll learn the skills you’ll need to analyze data and make better decisions.
The program consists of nine courses, 27 units of coursework, and you can complete it in as few as 20 months.
Requirements
- Academic coursework and performance
- Work experience
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Graduate Record Examination or Graduate Management Admission Test score — optional
1. University of Oxford, UK
The University of Oxford’s Master of Science in Software and Systems Security degree program is designed for professionals looking to expand their expertise in cybersecurity.
You’ll explore various aspects of software and system security, including how to secure networks, protect data, and identify flaws in software design. The program is part-time and flexible, so you can balance your studies with your work.
You’ll also work on a dissertation project, giving you the chance to explore a specific area that interests you.
The program usually takes between two and four years to complete, depending on your pace, and aims to help you advance in your cybersecurity career.
Requirements
- At a minimum, applicants should have a first-class or upper-second-class undergraduate degree in a related subject, such as computer science, informatics, or engineering, and/or at least two years of professional experience in software, security, or data engineering.
- For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA is 3.5 out of 4.0.
Why Consider a Career in Cybersecurity
There’s a big shortage of people with cybersecurity skills, and at the same time, cybercrime is increasing. This means that there is a great need for individuals who are educated in cybersecurity. If you look at job websites, you will see that there are a lot of job openings in the field. This means that there are many opportunities for people who are willing to learn and take control of their careers.
Something to consider: From May 2023 through April 2024, there were 469,930 openings in cybersecurity but only 85 cybersecurity workers available for every 100 cybersecurity jobs.
That means employers are having a hard time finding people with the right cybersecurity skills. However, with the right education and training, you can become a valuable asset in the cybersecurity industry.
You can take many different paths to meet the skills demand, each with its own specialties. The one you choose will depend on what you want to achieve, your interests, and where you’re at right now.
If you’re already working in risk management, law enforcement, or information technology or are already involved in cybersecurity, you might want to broaden your horizons to explore new opportunities and give yourself a competitive edge.
But if you’re starting out, you might be wondering which cybersecurity degree programs are the best to enroll in and which schools or computer security colleges are the top choices.
Top Cybersecurity Job Titles
Something to keep top of mind when researching the best cybersecurity schools and universities is that graduates with cybersecurity degrees have a wide range of career paths to choose from.
Depending on the size of the organization you are currently working for or are hoping to get into, cybersecurity professionals wear lots of different hats, with the expectation that they have a wide skill set and are able to dive into a variety of situations or incidents. This means there are a lot of different security paths to consider.
The titles listed below are just a snapshot of roles that exist within the cybersecurity community:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fields of computer and information technology are expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. The median salary is $104,420, which is higher than the $48,060 median annual wage for all occupations.
Unlock Your Future in Cybersecurity
When deciding on one of the universities with cybersecurity programs for the 2024-2025 school year, there are a few things to consider. Although there are plenty of great options to choose from, it’s important to keep in mind that the best school for you will depend on what you’re looking for in a cybersecurity program.
To ensure you receive the best education and training, it’s essential to research and choose a reputable school that offers a strong cybersecurity program.
Important Considerations
Location & Environment
Where do you want to study? Do you want to be in a big city or a smaller town? Consider the location and what it has to offer outside of the classroom; is it within reach of where you work or live?
Cost & Financial Aid
Next, think about the cost. College can be expensive, so it’s important to choose one of the good cybersecurity schools that fits within your budget. Look into scholarships and financial aid options to help make your education more affordable.
Program Offerings & Curriculum
Program offerings are another important factor to consider. Take a look at the courses and curriculum offered by each school to see if they align with your interests and career goals. Some schools may have more specialized programs or unique opportunities that could be a great fit for you.
Faculty Expertise
Faculty expertise is also crucial. Look into the professors and instructors at each school to see if they have experience and knowledge in the cybersecurity field. It’s important to learn from experts who can provide you with the best education possible.
Career Services & Opportunities
Lastly, consider the career services offered by each one of the computer security colleges. For example, do they partner with a local managed service provider (MSP) that has a cybersecurity team looking for interns? Or are there any other businesses offering opportunities to train on the job whilst studying?
The Bottom Line
These are just a few examples, and there are many other excellent institutions based in the USA, UK, and other countries that offer in-person or online cybersecurity programs.
However, you should always research and consider factors such as curriculum, faculty expertise, research opportunities, industry partnerships, and alumni network when choosing a cybersecurity school or university.
FAQs
What college has the best cybersecurity program?
Which institute is best for cybersecurity?
Is it worth getting a degree in cybersecurity?
Where to study cybersecurity in NYC?
References
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security Course | Leeds Beckett University (Leedsbeckett.ac)
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security | University of West London (Uwl.ac)
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering – Cybersecurity and Information Internetworks | Georgia Tech Catalog (Catalog.gatech)
- Undergraduate Concentration in Security & Privacy – Software and Societal Systems Department – School of Computer Science – Carnegie Mellon University (S3d.cmu)
- Cyber Security and Forensics MSc – Courses | University of Westminster, London (Westminster.ac)
- Master’s Degree in Cyber Security | UTSA (Future.utsa)
- Master’s in Cyber Security | UC Berkeley (Ischoolonline.berkeley)
- MSc in Software and Systems Security | University of Oxford (Ox.ac)
- Hack the gap (Cyberseek)
- Computer and Information Technology Occupations : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Bls)
