The Best Online Master’s in Information Systems Security Programs
Summary of work: More than 39 hours of research. Every online Master in Information Systems Security program in the US analyzed. 16 industry experts, hiring managers, current students, and alumni consulted. 20 of the best programs identified.
Our Picks
- 1Iowa State University
- 2George Washington University
- 3Johns Hopkins University
- 4Brandeis University
- 5Northeastern University
- 6University of Denver
- 7DePaul University
- 8Columbia University
- 9Penn State World...
- 10Nova Southeastern University
- 11Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- 12Florida Institute of...
- 13Regis University
- 14James Madison University
- 15National University
- 16Sam Houston State...
- 17Norwich University
- 18Dakota State University
- 19Excelsior College
- 20City University of...
Overview
If you are interested in taking on a vital role for today’s private companies, organizations, and government agencies, then a master’s in information systems security may be the right choice for you. In today’s society, information is becoming more digital and with that, the need for information security is needed.
Students should expect requirements of coursework to vary greatly from school to school. There are two core areas of study for this program: the algorithms, methods, and platforms that drive information systems; and ensuring data remains private by following best practices. These core areas will also encompass the following: operating systems, human factors in security, network security and defense, and completing a capstone. Students will learn how to development awareness and strategies to combat security risks created by human factors and to protect their organizations from such risks.
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WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY?
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CAN I GET A MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY?
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HOW WELL ACCEPTED ARE ONLINE INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY DEGREES?
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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY?
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IS A MASTER’S IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY WORTH IT?
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement to go into information systems security professionally for most companies, but a master’s in this program can differentiate yourself from the competition when seeking advanced roles. As more companies come to be, the demand for qualified information systems security analysts, advisors, and consultants are at an all time high.
Our Methodology
Best Online Masters in Information Systems Security Programs
We took a deep-dive and analyzed every online Masters in Information Systems Security program in the nation. Below are the results of our analysis and list of the 20 best online Masters in Information Systems Security programs.
Read about our methodology here.
Iowa State University
3410 Beardshear Hall Ames, IA 50011Iowa State University makes it convenient for distance learners to earn their master's degree in information systems security. The courses are delivered through digital streaming video, giving them the freedom to log in and view the lessons on their own schedule.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Engineering, Information Assurance Center
Program Name: Master's Degree in Information Assurance
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: May 1; Spring, Summer: November 1
Graduation Rate
69%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$627 per credit
George Washington University
1 Old Oyster Point Rd, Suite 220 Newport News, VA 23602George Washington University offers distance learners an original curriculum to cover every aspect of the information systems security field. Developed by leaders in the field, the curriculum includes everything from policy to risk management, giving students a well-rounded skill set to assume leadership positions in the industry.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS)
Program Name: Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Policy & Compliance
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Spring II: March 26, 2019, Fall I/II, Spring I
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring II: March 1
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
81%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$995 per credit
Johns Hopkins University
3400 N Charles St Baltimore, MD 21218Johns Hopkins University is a leader in academics and research, providing a quality education to students in the information security program. JHU has developed numerous professionals in the field thanks to its renowned faculty and modern information security curriculum.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Whiting School of Engineering
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Systems Engineering
Available Focus Areas/Tracks: Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, Enterprise and Web Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, Information Management, Network Enginerring, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Related bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university or at least 3 years of professional work experience
Course Requirements: 10 courses
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
93%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$4,250 per course
Brandeis University
415 South Street, MS 084 Waltham, MA 2453Brandeis University delivers a 100 percent online master's in information systems security program with an emphasis on leadership, empowering students to excel at the next level. Students work alongside cybersecurity leaders and explore real-world security threats, developing their skills to address and resolve similar issues in their own careers.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Rabb School of Continuing Studies
Program Name: MS in Information Security Leadership
Accrediting Body: New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or equivalent
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 15-30 months
Program start dates: Spring II: April; Fall I/II, Spring I
Admission RequirementsApplication Deadline with Rolling Admissions: Spring II: March 13
GPA: 3.3
Graduation Rate
90%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$1,179 per credit
Northeastern University
360 Huntington Ave Boston, MA 2115Northeastern University transforms students into professionals with its Master of Science in Cybersecurity program. Its alumni network extends across the nation with professionals working in institutions such as MIT Lincoln Laboratory and Cigital, giving current students abundant networking opportunities for career advancement upon graduation.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Computer and Information Science
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Accrediting Body: New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
DeliveryFormat: Online Hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, Synchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 32 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: August 15; Spring: December 1
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
87%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$1,540 per credit
University of Denver
2211 S Josephine St Denver, CO 80208The University of Denver takes an innovative approach with its master's in information systems security program, waving the GRE and GMAT requirements and giving students as many as five years to complete the program. Students learn from a career-driven curriculum and can tailor the courses to fit their work schedule and career goals.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Information and Communications Technology
Program Name: Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology
Concentration: Information Systems Security
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 48 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: As few as 18 months
Program start dates: Spring 2019: April 1; Summer, Fall, Winter
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring 2019: February 8; Summer 2019: April 26; Fall 2019: July 19; Winter 2020: October 25
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
76%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$686 per credit
DePaul University
243 S Wabash Ave Chicago, IL 60604DePaul University gives students a solid foundation in information systems security with its in-depth Master of Science program with a concentration in computer security. Students learn to design and implement security plans and develop knowledge in related areas such as disaster recovery and regulatory compliance, giving them a foundational skill set to succeed in their careers.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Computing and Digital Media
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Available Concentrations: Network Infrastructure, Computer Security, Compliance
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree awarded from a regionally accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 52 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: August 1; Winter: December 1; Spring: March 1; Summer: May 1
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
71%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$850 per credit
Columbia University
West 116 St and Broadway New York, NY 10027Columbia University offers a comprehensive master's in computer security program to help meet the need for professional security experts in the field. Upon earning their degree, graduates are prepared for roles in military, government, corporate and other professional settings, protecting systems and networks from cyberattacks.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science
Program Name: Master of Science in Computer Science
Concentration: Computer Security
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelors Degree in Engineering, Math, Physics, Computer Science or a related field
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.3
Graduation Rate
95%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$64,595 per program
Penn State World Campus
128 Outreach Building University Park, PA 16802Penn State University delivers one of the best distance education experiences for online learners. The World Campus caters to students across the country and offers a highly recognized information security program that integrates real-world issues and simulations to develop the students' skills for career advancement.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Information Sciences and Technology
Program Name: Master of Professional Studies in Information Sciences
Concentration: Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution, Tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution
Credit Requirements: 33 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 1; Spring: November 1
GPA: 3.0
School Type
Public
Tuition
$886 per credits
Nova Southeastern University
3301 College Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314Students who want the credentials to assume leadership roles in information security should consider Nova Southeastern University. The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security recognize the school's security program and certify that it meets or exceeds the requirements and standards that are expected of cybersecurity leaders.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Engineering and Computing
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security
Accrediting Body: NEASC
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Coursework in discrete mathematics and introductory computer systems
Credit Requirements: 30-33 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 4 semesters (full-time), 8 semesters (part-time)
Program start dates: Summer: May 6; Fall: August 20; Winter: January 6
Admission RequirementsPreferred Deadlines with Rolling Admissions: Summer: April 6; Fall: July 20; Winter: December 6
Graduation Rate
50%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$820 per credit
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
600 S Clyde Morris Blvd Daytona Beach, FL 32114Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University prepares graduates for leadership roles in systems security thanks to the instruction from expert faculty members. The faculty holds terminal degrees and are experts in the field, sharing their first-hand experiences and combining their knowledge with an in-depth curriculum to develop students into career professionals.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Business
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance
Available Concentrations: Protecting Business Intelligence, Information Systems Security, Information Assurance in a Global Context
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from an accredited degree-granting institution
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Monthly Terms
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
23%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$665 per credit
Florida Institute of Technology
150 W University Blvd Melbourne, FL 32901Students looking to learn the latest technologies to succeed as information systems security specialists should consider Florida Tech. The master's in information assurance and cybersecurity program gives students access to high-tech facilities even in an online learning environment, benefiting from state-of-the-art technologies to develop their skills for career advancement.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Harris Institute for Assured Information
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 33 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Spring II: March 4, 2019; Summer I: April 29, 2019; Summer II: July 1, 2019; Fall I/II, Spring I
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring II: February 20, 2019; Summer I: April 17, 2019; Summer II: June 19, 2019
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$777 per credit
Regis University
3333 Regis Blvd Denver, CO 80221Regis University prepares students for careers in administration with its master's in information assurance program. Upon graduation, students will have the skills to pursue careers as network, database or systems administrators in agencies and organizations across the country.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Computer and Information Sciences (CC&IS)
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance
Available Concentrations: Cyber Security, Policy Management
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree either from a U.S. regionally accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: January, March, May, August, October
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
Graduation Rate
59%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$780 per credit
James Madison University
800 South Main Street Harrisonburg, VA 22807James Madison University designed its master's in information security program for busy professionals who want to earn their degree from the comfort of their own homes. Its offered in an accelerated format, so students can complete the entire program in only five semesters.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Computer Science
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security
Accrediting Body: SACSCOC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 33 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 20-30 months
Program start dates: Winter, Summer, Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
Graduation Rate
82%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$775 per credit
National University
11255 N Torrey Pines Rd La Jolla, CA 92037National University designed it's master's program for students who require the flexibility to earn their degrees at their own pace. Students can focus on a single subject at a time in four-week classes, making this program ideal for working professionals or those who have other full-time commitments.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Engineering and Computing
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Available Concentrations: Ethical Hacking and Pen Testing; Information Assurance and Security Policy
Accrediting Body: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 58.5 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Monthly starts
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
42%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$430 per quarter
Sam Houston State University
1806 Ave J Huntsville, TX 77340Sam Houston State University offers outstanding financial support to students who want to pursue their master's degree in information assurance and security. With low tuition costs, numerous scholarships and other financial benefits available, students have many options for pursuing their degree in a more affordable way.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Computer Science
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Security
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: August 1; Spring: December 1; Summer: May 15
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
53%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$411 per credit
Norwich University
158 Harmon Dr Northfield, VT 5663Students in the online master's in information security program at Norwich University have the freedom to customize the classes to align with their career goals. With five concentrations to choose from, students can enhance their degree and focus on a path that's best suited for career advancement in their chosen field.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Graduate and Continuing Studies (CGCS)
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance
Available Concentrations: Computer Forensic Investigation/Incident Response Team Management, Critical Infrastructure Protection and Cyber Crime, Cyber Law and International Perspectives on Cyberspace, Project Management, Vulnerability Management
Accrediting Body: New England Commission of Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited U.S. institution, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 18 months
Program start dates: Winter B: March 4, 2019; Summer A: June 3, 2019; Summer B: September 3, 2019; Winter A: December 2, 2019
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Winter B: February 4, 2019
GPA: 2.75
Graduation Rate
58%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$825 per credit
Dakota State University
820 N Washington Ave Madison, SD 57042Dakota State University's Master of Science in Cyber Defense program is designed to develop the next generation of cybersecurity leaders in the field. With courses in data privacy, hacking, intrusion detection and more, graduates will have the skills to lead as network security managers and system administrators.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences
Program Name: Master of Science in Cyber Defense
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or software engineering from an institution with full regional accreditation
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall:June 15; Spring: November 15; Summer: April 15
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
36%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$451 per credit
Excelsior College
7 Columbia Circle Albany, NY 12203Excelsior College puts transfer students on the fast track to their master's in information systems security degree. Students can transfer as many as 15 approved credits into this program, reducing their overall time to earn their degree for career advancement.
Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Available Concentrations: Information Assurance
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission Requirements
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$645 per credit
City University of Seattle
521 Wall Street Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98121City University of Seattle offers a master's in information security program for distance learners, taking a multidisciplinary approach to education. Students not only develop a better technical understanding of the field but also learn skills from the business, management and policy side of information security.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Technology Institute
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security
Available Concentrations: Cyber Security Environment and Information Security Audit
Accrediting Body: ABET
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
Credit Requirements: 39 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$698 per credit