Online Certifications in Cybersecurity: Comparing Top Programs

Diving Into Online Cyber Security Certificate Programs

Current and aspiring cybersecurity professionals can develop advanced skills and set themselves apart from their competition by obtaining a cybersecurity certificate. Depending on your experience and education, you can choose between an undergraduate and graduate certificate program.

Undergraduate online cybersecurity certifications appeal to learners with little or no experience in the field who want to use the program to find their first job. These programs may suffice for some entry-level positions, but you’ll typically need a cybersecurity degree to advance in the field.

On the other hand, graduate cybersecurity certificates meet the needs of learners who already possess some relevant education and work experience who now want to advance their careers. Below, we’ve highlighted both undergraduate and graduate certificate online programs.

All You Need to Know: Cyber Security Certificate FAQs

What’s the difference between a certificate and a certification?

A certificate is typically an academic credential earned by taking courses at the college level while a certification is a non-academic credential earned through a professional organization.

Many colleges and universities offer online cybersecurity certificates at the graduate or undergraduate level as an alternative to earning a full degree. Certificates usually require learners to complete between 12 and 30 credits in a particular focus area of the discipline. These can be a great fit for individuals with little to no knowledge of cybersecurity or those who possess baccalaureate credentials but want to focus their knowledge in a specialized area to compete for better jobs. Certificates exist both online and in-person, so ask about delivery options before enrolling.

Certifications are credentials offered by professional associations, tech/security companies, and nonprofit examination centers. Rather than requiring individuals to take classes, certifications expect applicants to study relevant material and prepare themselves for an examination.

Where can I get an online cybersecurity certificate?

Online cybersecurity certificates are often offered by the same colleges and universities that offer online cybersecurity degrees. Even though you don’t end the program with a degree, some of the credits may transfer to a degree program if you choose to pursue one in the future.

How long does it take to complete an online cybersecurity certificate?

Most certificate programs can be completed in a year or less. Since certificate programs can be offered at the graduate or undergraduate level, the length of each program can vary. It also depends on what type of courses are required and how many credits you take at one time.

However, no matter what type of certificate program you choose, it’s generally going to take less time than a full cybersecurity degree.

How much does a cybersecurity certificate program cost?

The cost of a cybersecurity certificate program generally ranges from $2,000 to over $5,000, depending on the school’s tuition. Since they’re offered by colleges and universities, students pay for certificate programs the same way they would a degree program. In most cases, students are charged by the credit hour, although some schools may have a flat rate per semester or program as well.

How are online cybersecurity certificate programs accredited?

Certificate programs, like degree programs, can be accredited by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE). CAE Accreditation ensures each program meets the highest standards and provides better employment opportunities after graduation. There are other organizations schools can receive accreditation from as well.

The online cybersecurity certificate program, for example, is CAE accredited but is also accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Curriculum Details for Online Cyber Security Certificates

Each online cybersecurity certificate program is different, with some offering specializations in certain areas. There’s also a difference in the courses in an undergraduate and graduate certificate program. However, there are many courses that are a part of most cybersecurity certificates. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common courses.

Fundamentals of Information Technology

Fundamentals of Information Technology is a course designed to provide students with foundational knowledge that’s required for any role in IT. In this course, aspiring cybersecurity professionals will learn about the function of IT professionals while identifying the functions of basic technology systems.

Digital Forensics

Digital Forensics is a course that teaches students how to analyze data to investigate security breaches or crimes. Students learn techniques and methods to prevent and identify cyberthreats and cybercrime. In Digital Forensics, students will also learn how to preserve and present digital evidence in legal cases.

Cybersecurity Foundations

In Cybersecurity Foundations, students will become familiar with the basics of cybersecurity concepts. From learning basic security principles and procedures to identifying how security breaches can impact organizations, this introductory course prepares students to manage and organize secure data systems within their future field.

Cloud Security

Cloud Security is an essential course for future cybersecurity professionals. This course teaches students about necessary services that can improve security within organizations and provides foundational knowledge about cloud security concepts. It also focuses on learning about data security, identity, and compliance.

Ethical Hacking

One of the best ways for cybersecurity professionals to defend computer systems from hackers is to understand how hackers gain access to these systems. Additionally, ethical hacking is sometimes necessary for professionals to test systems and identify any vulnerabilities. In this course, students learn how to test systems for weaknesses.

Related Cyber Security Degrees to Consider

While an online cybersecurity certificate can prepare you for certain entry-level positions, it’s also the first step toward getting a degree in cybersecurity.

When determining whether an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree is right for you, consider what your career goals are and how much time you can dedicate to your schoolwork.

To help you decide what type of degree path is the best choice for you, we’ve provided more details about each type of program below.

Associate’s Degree in Cyber Security

Aside from a certificate program, an associate’s degree in cybersecurity is the fastest way to start a career in this field. Most associate programs take about two years to complete with many schools offering fully online programs. This degree can lead to entry-level roles such as computer support specialist and IT support specialist.

Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security

A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can open the door to even more opportunities in this field. In about four years, you can prepare to work in numerous cybersecurity positions, such as an information security analyst, digital forensics analyst, and database administrator. These career choices are in high-demand and lead to higher than average salaries.

Master’s Degree in Cyber Security

A master’s degree in cybersecurity is perfect for someone who already has experience in this field but wants to move up or prepare for a new role. There’s more than one option to choose from, such as the MS in Cybersecurity or the MBA in Cybersecurity. Both take about two years or less to complete.

Graduate Degrees in Cyber Security

Experienced cybersecurity professionals can expand their knowledge and skillset with a PhD in Cybersecurity. There are graduate programs with different concentrations, such as the PhD in Computer Science with a Security Focus. The advanced level coursework is designed to prepare students for high-level roles or a career in academia.

Top Online Cyber Security Certificates

Not all cyber security certificate programs are the same and it can be a challenge trying to find the right school. We went ahead and did the research to determine some of the best schools based on their accreditation, number of online programs, and available career placement and academic counseling services.

Here’s a look at some of our highest-ranking online cybersecurity certificate programs based on online learning, affordability, and student outcomes.