Best Online Cyber Security Programs in Texas (TX)
Cyber security is one of the most in-demand careers. If you’re looking to enter this field, continue reading for the best online cyber security degrees in Texas.
According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, a cyber attack can cost a private or government organization over a million dollars. Pair those financial stakes with the number of tech companies moving to Texas, and you have the perfect conditions for Texas residents looking for high-paying, high-growth jobs in cyber security.
If you’re interested in launching a career in this growing sector, you’re in the right place. This guide covers the best cyber security degrees in Texas. We’ll look at different types of degrees, who might benefit from an online program, and salary expectations for graduates. Spoiler alert: We’re talking lots of six-figure salaries here. Keep reading for the details!
Top Online Cyber Security Programs in TX
Commuting to and from campus costs time and money. If you’re short on either or prefer a more independent learning style, consider getting your cyber security degree online.
Fortunately, Texas offers some great online cyber security programs. We researched a variety of degrees in the state and ranked them in terms of convenience, affordability, and academic rigor. Below is our ranking of the top online programs in the state.
LeTourneau University
Longview, Texas
Private
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Public
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas
Public
University of Houston
Houston, Texas
Public
University of Dallas
Irving, Texas
Private
Our Lady of the Lake University
San Antonio, Texas
Private
Texas State Technical College
Waco, Texas
Public
Central Texas College
Killeen, Texas
Public
Tarrant County College District
Fort Worth, Texas
Public
Types of Cyber Security Degrees You Can Earn in Texas
The best cyber security degrees in Texas are not created equal. Often they offer different types of programs, and it’s important to choose the right degree type for your career goals. Below we highlight six of the most common degree types, who each program is suited for, and the best in-person and online cyber security degree programs in Texas for each.
Undergraduate Cyber Security Degrees in Texas
Associate Degrees in Cyber Security
If you don’t have a college degree and want to try out cyber security, an associate degree may be the right fit, especially if you’re unsure if it’s the best career choice for you. Since this degree lasts two years, it’s a lower time and financial commitment and still lets you explore the field.
Accredited Texas Colleges with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security
- Houston Community College (On-Campus)
- North Central Texas College (Hybrid)
- University of St. Thomas Houston (Online)
Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security
To enter the cyber security sector, a bachelor’s degree is often required. This four-year degree works for those who want a good foundation in the field and have sufficient time and money to invest in their education.
Accredited Texas Colleges with a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security
- Texas A&M University (On-Campus)
- University of North Texas (On-Campus)
- University of St. Thomas Houston (Online)
Graduate Education Degrees in Texas
Master’s Degrees in Cyber Security
Let’s say you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to transition to a career in cyber security. A master’s degree may be a great choice, especially if your undergraduate degree is in a related field such as software engineering or computer science. As a plus, many of the best online cyber security degrees in Texas are at the graduate level.
Accredited Texas Colleges with a Master’s Degree in Cyber Security
- Texas A&M University(On-Campus)
- University of Houston (Online)
Cyber Security PhD Programs
Like a doctorate program, a cyber security PhD allows you to become an expert in the field and usually takes five to seven years to complete. Unlike a doctorate, a PhD program is more research-intensive, and students often start their dissertation earlier in the degree. The focus on research makes this program ideal for those looking to enter academia upon graduating.
Accredited Texas Colleges with this Cyber Security PhD Programs
- Sam Houston State University (On-Campus)
- University of Dallas (Online)
- University of North Texas (Online)
- The University of Texas at Austin (On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at Dallas (On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at San Antonio (On-Campus)
Graduate Certificates
Looking for a low-cost, quick way to improve your cyber security skills? Consider pursuing a graduate certificate. These programs are ideal for those who already have an undergraduate or graduate degree in cyber security or a related field. Often, they also focus on a specific part of cyber security, such as cloud security or cyber security policy.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Cyber Security Certificate Programs
- Abilene Christian University (Online)
- Sam Houston State University (On-Campus)
- Texas A&M University (On-Campus)
Paying for Your Cyber Security Degree in Texas
Whether you’re looking for the best online cyber security degree in Texas or an amazing in-person program, money is probably top of mind. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the average bachelor’s degree costs $5,205 per semester for in-state students.
Fortunately, financial aid options are available to help ease the monetary investment. The most common financial aid types include:
- Scholarships and grants
- Fellowships
- Student loans
- Work-study programs
- Employer reimbursement programs
- State-funded aid in Texas
Salary & Growth for Cyber Security Grads in Texas
Cyber security professionals work in a variety of fields, such as software development, information security, data science, and software quality assurance. Almost all jobs in these fields offer above-average salaries and a high job growth rate in Texas, as outlined in the table below.
While salaries and demand are high across Texas, certain cities offer more opportunities than others. According to the Tech Town Index, Austin, Texas, is ranked as the number one city for technology professionals in Texas, with Dallas following close behind.
| Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2022/2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists | 49.6% | 560 | $102,230 |
| Database Architects | 19.1% | 1,320 | $146,970 |
| Information Security Analysts | 49.5% | 1,720 | $115,570 |
| Software Developers | 36.2% | 15,320 | $117,440 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | 36.2% | 15,320 | $95,530 |
Sources: Projections Central;Bureau of Labor Statistics
Texas Cyber Security Professional and Student Resources
- Cyber Houston
This organization brings together small businesses and cyber professionals in the Houston area. Their events and resources are ideal for students looking to grow their professional network. - CyberTexas Foundation
To fulfill their organizational mission of advancing cyber security education, CyberTexas offers scholarships, free career development resources, and a job and internship board. All are aimed at students studying cyber security in Texas. - ISSA Austin
This organization aims to bring together cyber security professionals from around the world to solve complex problems and grow their professional network. The branch in Austin, Texas, has opportunities for both working professionals and cyber security students. - Texas Cyber Security Council
This government council provides free resources and news on cyber security opportunities in the private and government sectors. It also aims to enhance collaborations between the sectors. - Texas Information Sharing and Analysis Organization (ISAO)
Texas ISAO provides free resources, networking events, and more for cyber security students and professionals. For students specifically, the platform where members share knowledge and published papers can be a great resource to learn what’s happening in the cyber security field right now.