Information Security Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security will afford you a wide range of career options. This degree can help you stand out in several tech roles especially in cyber security and network administration.

As an information security major, you can be certain your course of study will keep you relevant for years to come. The annual salaries in this field are attractive, the career outlook is positive, and your chances of securing a job upon graduation are higher than in most fields.

What Is Information Security?

Information security is the process of restricting or substantially limiting unwanted access to sensitive electronic data and information. This is done by implementing measures that detect and prevent intrusion and breaches in security. The neutralization of these security threats ensures the overall efficiency of the computer and systems networks.

What Is an Information Security Bachelor’s Degree?

An information security bachelor’s degree covers major aspects in computer systems, database management, networking, network security, and security risk analysis. It includes security breach topics like viruses, hacking, phishing, data leaks and thefts, and malware. Students learn how to implement various incident response strategies and how to use security technologies.

Information security majors are exposed to a wide range of courses such as programming, coding, applied mathematics, digital forensics, security policies, network and network security, ethics and cyber laws, risk factor analysis, business intelligence, and cloud services and infrastructures, among others.

Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

To apply to either a full-time or part-time degree program, you need a high school diploma. As long as you can competently apply transferable skills such as organizational skills, communication skills, critical thinking, and analytical skills, you can build a career in this field. These soft skills help you tackle the technicalities that a career in information security demands.

A student pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security will spend three to four years in a full-time program. Bachelor’s Degrees in Computer Science or Information Technology are ideal substitutes to information or cyber security degrees.

How Much Does an Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

On average, a degree in

information security costs $16,647

for one year at a private institution. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a degree from a public institution would cost about $9,349 annually for a bachelor’s degree program.

Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Information Security Degree

There are several ways to fund your information security bachelor’s degree. There are student loan options including federal or private loans and income share agreements. You can also find scholarships, grants, GI Bills, and employer sponsorship.

Best Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Few colleges offer information security as an undergraduate degree. As such, a career in information security may require you to pursue a degree in cyber security, computer science, or information technology. Below we’ve listed some of the top programs to earn a bachelor’s degree for a job in information security.

Best Colleges for Information Security: Top Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs

This list includes focused degrees in information security. Our list was made to guide you in your college decision. These are our ideal course pathways for a career in information security.

Bachelor of Science in Business, Information and Cybersecurity Management Major | Miami University

This undergraduate degree in cyber security management ensures students can properly manage the efficient functioning of the information system and data resources in an organization. The program covers core courses such as database systems and data warehousing, data communication and security, system design, amongst others.

Bachelor of Science in Information Assurance and Cyber Security | Pennsylvania College of Technology

This information assurance and cyber security bachelor’s degree focuses on data protection and the prevention of cyber attacks. It covers essential aspects in IT such as programming, networking, cryptography, data analysis, ethical hacking, information security, and databases.

Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security | Roosevelt University, Chicago

This program teaches the concepts and applications of cyber security as it relates to our world. You’ll be trained through courses in cryptography, ethical hacking, cloud computing and security, and internet security. Knowledge from this degree can be applied to computer forensics, artificial intelligence, and crime analysis.

Bachelor of Information Technology and Informatics, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Pathway | Rutgers School of Communication and Information

This bachelor’s degree program allows students to develop critical analysis and problem-solving expertise in using machines to tackle issues relating to technology. Students who major in cyber security and information assurance build their skills in database management and networks.

Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security (Cybersecurity) | Shawnee State University

The bachelor’s degree program in information security offered at Shawnee State University prepares students for a successful career in information and cyber security. They are taught how to apply security principles and use ethical hacking to conduct security investigations and network testing to secure data.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security | University of Illinois, Springfield

This degree program exposes students to modules like cyber security, databases, information assurance, network security, programming, software engineering, and cryptography. These courses allow students to develop a systems security mindset so they can easily move into real-world experience.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance | University of Michigan Dearborn

The Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance trains students who can tackle real-life issues in computer security and defense. Students in this program have the opportunity of specializing in cyber security and privacy as well as data forensics.

Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence and Cyber Operations | University of Southern California

The Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security with an emphasis on information assurance ensures students gain the prerequisite knowledge necessary to excel in a cyber defense career. It covers major courses in information security, cryptography, computer crime and forensics, and software designing.

Bachelor of Science in Information Security | Washington Technology University

This program offers a phased-course approach to learning. The first phase of courses focuses on coursework regarding technology. The second phase contains in-depth courses regarding information technology. This separation of focus allows for a greater grasp of the content and higher retention of its critical concepts.

Bachelor of Science in Information Security | Western Colorado University

This degree affords you the knowledge and experience necessary to build and design secure information systems. The focus of this curriculum is on cyber security. Students are taught to develop cyber security skills to fend off cyber attacks and threats. It is ideal for individuals wishing to build careers in forensics analysis, network security, cyber security, and information assurance.

Best Online Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Information Security: Top Online Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Online education is an ideal alternative for busy individuals. These online bachelor programs allow online learners to fully immerse themselves in their coursework. There are several advantages to online degree programs, including flexible tuition rates and collaborative project assignments. Below is a list of the top online bachelor’s degree programs in information security.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | American Military University

This online program in information systems security enables students to limit security threats and attacks. It ensures they have gained the necessary expertise to analyze information security strategies and apply disaster recovery approaches to revive complex systems compromises.

Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems, Information Systems Security Specialization | DeVry University

The bachelor’s degree in information systems security offered by DeVry University enables distance learners to gain the skills needed to efficiently design complex security systems and their incident response techniques to protect their client data files.

Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology | Drexel University

The online bachelor’s degree in computing and security technology prepares online students for a career in computer system administration and cyber security. You choose a specialization in either computing security or computing technology and study at your own pace.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity | Kennesaw State University

Online students in this program are trained to properly take advantage of networking opportunities in the business sphere. They ensure undergraduates in this program develop the integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality necessary to properly defend and protect data.

Bachelor of Science in Cyber Forensics/Information Security | Keiser University

This online learning program allows you to transfer college credits from an associate program. Its online classes hone your analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills in detecting and reversing cyber crimes and information misuse.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Data Networking and Security | Liberty University

This online bachelor program allows students to complete the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. It also nurtures skills in human-computer interaction, computing, programming, cyber security, databases, and network security to excel in IT and cyber security jobs.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Computer and Information Systems Security | Limestone University

This flexible online bachelor program provides students with the opportunity of learning at a self-guided pace. You’ll have access to all coursework, assignments, exams, and lectures online. Your course requirements include topics like operating systems and networking fundamentals, security architecture and design, and information security and risk management.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Information Security and Assurance | Purdue University Global

The focus of this online degree is on information security and assurance. Students here learn computer and networking technology, network security, computer forensics, database design, intrusion detection. To successfully partake in this program, you should possess critical thinking and analytical skills to enable you to succeed in the field.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security | University of Illinois, Springfield

This online bachelor program prepares students for careers in network administration, system analysis, and information infrastructure. As part of the course program, you’ll learn about topics in systems design, security assessment, and computer ethics.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance | Western Governor University

This online bachelor program equips students with the skills to become cyber security and IT experts so they can outsmart cyber criminals and hackers. The cyber security and information assurance degree comes with certifications so you can stand out in the job market after graduating.

What’s the Average Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average salary for an

information security bachelor’s degree holder

is around $77,000 per year, according to Payscale. With the high demand for professionals in this field, salaries are competitive.

Top Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Information Security Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Explained

If you’re currently enrolled in an information security undergraduate program, there are several career paths open to you and most of them come with high compensations. Check out some of the top career paths for professionals in IT security.

Information Systems Manager

Information systems managers ensure that systems and servers operate efficiently. They maintain the reliability of systems and software applications. They design database systems and recommend upgrades to optimize the scalability of these systems. This is an in-demand career mostly because of its high starting salary and role diversity.

Network Architect

Network architects build and manage IP networks and connectivities. They are concerned with how communication networks like the intranet, WAN, LAN, and the internet perform. They maintain the reliability of network connections and prevent security vulnerabilities by monitoring various network sources and carrying out network security testing.

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality assurance analysts are involved in product management. These professionals conduct quality tests on software applications and system devices to ensure they are within the desired quality range. This is an in-demand field. It has both an impressive career outlook and median wage.

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts install, test, and configure software and firewalls that protect systems and servers. They are knowledgeable about security policies, principles, and how to apply ethics to real-world experiences. Their responsibilities include managing cloud computing, mitigating security breaches, detecting intrusion, responding to incidents, and performing security controls.

Database Administrator

Database administrators manage data storage systems for organizations. They ensure that data files are well organized and easily retrievable. They ensure database systems are secure by performing routine checks using their troubleshooting and organizational skills.

Cyber Security Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $96,901
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  33%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  141,200*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

Cyber security careers are one of the most lucrative tech careers. The best part is you can easily get started. There are several cyber security programs with high market relevance. A career as a cyber security engineer involves conducting intrusion detection, resolving cyber threats, performing malware analysis, and maintaining network security.

Systems Analyst

Systems analysts enjoy lucrative careers building secure systems. They use their critical thinking and analytical skills to design complex systems and devices, according to the business requirements. The career opportunities and job growth rate for this field also show long-term industry relevance.

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers write sets of instructions called codes. These codes enable systems and software applications to behave in a certain desired way. As part of their job, they conduct routine tests on the systems and applications and debug issues limiting the scalability and reliability of these systems.

Systems Administrator

Systems administrators maintain, configure, debug, and upgrade operating systems and servers. They ensure they are scalable and reliable. Undergraduate students in information security can find this role quite fitting to their technical skillset.

Digital Forensics Investigator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $79,00
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  33%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  141,200*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

Digital forensics investigators resolve security concerns by investigating real-world virtual crimes. Professionals in this field apply their hands-on experience in tracking evidence leading to security breaches. They apply their knowledge of criminal justice and analytical skills to solve network issues and cyber crimes.

*These statistics are grouped under Information Security Analysts in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook

Information Security Bootcamp vs Information Security Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

Deciding to pursue an information security career and don’t know whether to enroll in a college degree program or a bootcamp? Well, both options have their perks. Our list will enlighten you on each so you can easily consider your options before deciding. A bootcamp is an alternative educational institution that offers short, intensive, focused courses.

Benefits of an Information Security Bachelor’s Degree

• 
  In-Depth Curriculum.
  
  An information security degree will expose you to a broader curriculum. You’ll gain a diverse knowledge of the field of computer science, information technology, and security as a whole, all of which will broaden your career path prospects.
• 
  Job Security.
  
  Based on the high job outlook of 33 percent for professionals in this field, you’ll stay relevant for a long time. This field encourages the transfer of both hard and soft skills to other careers.
• 
  Attractive Salaries.
  
  Information security roles pay high annual salaries. Having a degree in this field will make you more attractive to employers and give you the leverage of qualification when negotiating a salary.
• 
  Flexible Employment.
  
  Like most tech fields, you have the option of working remotely, freelancing, or consulting. The option to work full-time is, of course, always available, and can come with lucrative employment packages and career advancement prospects.
• 
  Ethical Importance.
  
  The necessity of this role cannot be overstated. Its relevance cuts across all industries. The knowledge derived from this degree program will enable you to protect the sensitive digital information of individuals, companies, and economies.

Benefits of an Information Security Bootcamp

• 
  Hands-On Training.
  
  Studying information security at a bootcamp will enable you to gain focused training in this field. You’ll be exposed to a market-led curriculum, work on real-time projects with industry experts as instructors, and use advanced technologies as part of your curriculum.
• 
  Job Placement and Career Services.
  
  A cyber security or information security course at a bootcamp will enable you to take advantage of career benefits and job placement services after completion. Some bootcamps offer job guarantees as part of their course offering.
• 
  Fast-Paced Learning.
  
  Bootcamps are known for their accelerated immersive programs, which means instead of spending four years in a full-time degree program, and up to six in a part-time program, you can be done in a year or six months if you’re motivated.
• 
  Flexible Learning Options.
  
  An
  
  information technology bootcamp
  
  will offer you multiple learning options. You can choose to learn onsite, online, part-time, full-time, and even self-paced. This way, if you’re a working professional you can easily balance your schedules.
• 
  Flexible Payment Schemes.
  
  
  Paying for your information security bootcamp
  
  certification is easy and affordable. There are several options to choose from. Some bootcamps have loan partners, crowd-funding options, employer fellowship links, and diverse scholarships to relieve the burden.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security?

Yes, you should. A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security will expose you to a wide range of career options. With this degree, you can branch out to several IT roles, even to roles in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. You can also easily upskill your technical skills when the need arises.

Information Security Bachelor’s Degree FAQ