Best Online Cyber Security Programs in Texas (TX)

Cyber Security Associate Degrees in Texas

If you’re just starting out with your college education and want to explore cyber security, an associate degree in cyber security may be the right fit. Since associate degrees typically only last two years, they are a lower time and financial commitment, letting you explore the field, acquire baseline skills, and lay the foundation for further education.

TX Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security Online

For more technical positions in the cyber security sector, a bachelor’s degree is often required. This four-year degree works for those who want a solid foundation in the field and have sufficient time and money to invest in their education. In addition to strong technology skills, cyber security bachelor’s degree programs also teach other abilities to help you succeed, such as writing and public speaking, through general education coursework.

Online Master’s Programs in Texas for Cyber Security

This degree type will position you for advanced roles in the cyber security field. You don’t need a cyber security background to pursue a cyber security master’s degree. If you already have a bachelor’s 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.

Cyber Security Graduate Programs Online in Texas

A terminal degree in cyber security prepares you for the highest-level positions in the field, as well as entrepreneurship if you’re interested in starting your own business. These programs are also for those who want to advance the profession through research. A cyber security PhD program, for example, allows you to obtain expertise through a research-intensive curriculum.

All You Need to Know: Texan Cyber Security Students FAQs

Is financial aid available to online cyber security students in Texas?

Yes, there are plenty of funding opportunities for online cyber security students. The most common financial aid types include scholarships and grants, fellowships, student loans, work-study jobs, and employment reimbursement programs.

First and foremost, you should focus on winning as many scholarships and grants as you can, since these awards don’t usually have to be paid back. Further funding may be available through your school, organizations that serve workers in the technology sector, and the state and federal government. If you still need money to fill the gap of your tuition costs, then you should consider taking out student loans.

How long does it take to complete a cyber security degree?

It depends on the type of cyber security degree you’re working on. The fastest way to complete a degree is to enroll in an associate program, which typically takes two years to complete. This is a quick way to train for an entry-level position if that’s your goal. However, if you want to spend longer in school, you can also enroll in a four-year bachelor’s degree.

Those who have some work experience in the technology field may want to enroll in a cyber security graduate degree program. A master’s degree takes about two years to finish, while a PhD can take up to four. If you want to achieve your degree as quickly as possible, there are also accelerated cyber security programs available.

Is a cyber security major hard?

Majoring in cyber security can be challenging. That said, people who are interested in technology can navigate these challenges and learn the skills needed to pursue this rewarding career.

Cyber security programs generally combine technology concepts with hands-on learning, so you’ll be well-equipped for a fast-paced cyber security job. If you truly have a passion for technology and you’re willing to apply that passion to your studies every day, then you can rise to the occasion and navigate through a challenging cyber security curriculum.

Should a cyber security degree be accredited?

No matter what discipline you choose, it’s always a good idea to find an accredited cyber security program. Cyber security programs may be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), though this designation is not a requirement for getting a job after graduation. However, an accredited program suggests to employers that the curriculum provides the skills employers look for most.

If you can’t find an accredited cyber security program, be sure to look for an accredited college or university. In Texas, schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). If you decide to enroll in an online school based in another state, consider those that have been regionally accredited by organizations like the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Does a cyber security degree require a lot of math?

Cyber security degree programs do require math. For entry-level jobs, you should be comfortable with college mathematics. As a result, when you earn a degree at the associate level, the math coursework will not require a high level of complexity. As you earn higher-level degrees that train you for more advanced roles in the profession, you can expect the math requirements to also become increasingly challenging.

Salary & Career Comparison: Cyber Security Graduates in Texas

Resources for Texan Cyber Security Students & Professionals

Since the technology field is always changing at record rates, it’s a good idea to have resources to help you stay abreast of the latest developments. The following are some resources available for Texan students and professionals that can help you as you complete your degree and move into your career.

• 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 and meet like-minded professionals.
• Cyber ‘Runners Podcast: The Cyber ‘Runners Podcast is produced by the Department of Information Systems and Cyber Security at the University of Texas at San Antonio. This engaging podcast covers a variety of cyber security topics.
• Cyber Security in Health Care: This episode of The Business of Healthcare Podcast from the University of Texas at the Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management covers the role of cyber security in the healthcare ecosystem.
• Cyber Security: Open Educational Resources: This page includes resources from South Texas College, including cyber security textbooks. It can be a good place to explore subjects and topics not covered in your schooling or get a head start on your training.
• Cyber Security Tips and Tools: This page from Texas Gateway’s website includes cyber security webinars covering best practices and issues in the field. It can be a good resource for students and professionals wanting to hone their skills.
• 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.
• (ISC)² Austin Chapter: Members of the Austin chapter of this professional organization can take advantage of cyber security education opportunities, including monthly chapter meetings, guest speakers, professional networking events, and more.
• Informations Systems Security Association (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 works to enhance collaborations between the sectors and promote best practices.
• 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.

Ranking the Best Online Cyber Security Schools in Texas

Commuting to and from campus costs time and money — which can often keep people from furthering their education. However, these factors don’t have to separate you from your ambitions. This list of the best online cyber security schools in Texas can help you find your perfect remote learning opportunity in cyber security.

Programs in this list were ranked on various factors, such as number of students enrolled online, availability of student services, and financial aid opportunities. To learn more about how we selected these programs and help you in your search, you can review the “About the Rankings” section below.