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Explore Online Cybersecurity Programs in Texas (TX)

Cybersecurity careers are thriving across Texas as businesses and organizations work to protect sensitive information. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas employs nearly 15,000 information security analysts, offering strong job growth and salaries above $110,000. If you’re ready for a career that combines technology, problem-solving, and real-world impact, cybersecurity could be the perfect path. Use this STEPS guide to research hybrid and online cybersecurity degree programs in Texas, apply to the right school, and launch your career.

Author: Kenya McCullum
Editor: Grace Butler
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Cybersecurity Associate Degrees in Texas

If you’re just starting out with your college education and want to explore cybersecurity, an associate degree in cybersecurity 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.

University of St. Thomas, Houston

The cybersecurity associate degree offered by the University of St. Thomas, Houston is designed for people who want to train quickly to begin their cybersecurity careers. Graduates are able to pursue a variety of technology careers, including cloud administrator, network designer, systems support technician, and network administrator positions.

During this program, you’ll take coursework covering the basics of networking, an introduction to servers, hardware and software environments, and working with databases. There are also general education requirements to help enhance students’ knowledge and skills. Some of these classes include writing, mathematics, and ethics.

Although this program is offered entirely online, local students can take advantage of on-campus amenities to help them get the most out of their education experience.

Location: Houston

Mode: Online

Cost: $200 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • A high school diploma or General Education Development (GED)

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TX Bachelor’s Degrees in Cybersecurity Online

For more technical positions in the cybersecurity 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, cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs also teach other abilities to help you succeed, such as writing and public speaking, through general education coursework.

University of St. Thomas Houston

The University of St. Thomas Houston’s global cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program combines classroom concepts and experiential learning to give students the knowledge and skills they need to address the technology challenges organizations face today. In the classroom and during online coursework, students learn about computer systems and network security architecture, enterprise cybersecurity, cyber ethics, and cyber warfare.

To reinforce what is learned in class, students participate in regular laboratory work on campus. Also, there are internships available, so you get to view how professionals on the job address cybersecurity threats and apply best practices and ethical frameworks to their jobs.

Location: Houston

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $1,207 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Official transcripts
  • A 2.8 minimum grade point average (GPA)
  • A minimum 1140 score on the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or 23 on the American College Test (ACT)

Online Master’s Programs in Texas for Cybersecurity

This degree type will position you for advanced roles in the cybersecurity field. You don’t need a cybersecurity background to pursue a cybersecurity master’s degree. If you already have a bachelor’s and want to transition to a career in cybersecurity, 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.

University of Houston

The University of Houston’s cybersecurity master’s degree program is tailored to those who want to become leaders in technology-based workplaces. Through a combination of theory and practice, the curriculum will give you the foundation to determine the security needs of an organization and the skills to implement a plan to address them.

Specific classes you’ll take cover penetration testing, control system security, digital forensics, and secure enterprise computing. You’ll get hands-on experience through a cybersecurity internship at a nonprofit organization or private company. You may also be able to gain research experience through the school’s Center for Information Security Research and Education.

Location: Houston

Mode: Online

Cost: $676.25 per credit hour (residency dependent)

Admissions Requirements:

  • An undergraduate degree from an accredited program
  • Official transcripts
  • A minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • A personal statement

Cybersecurity Graduate Programs Online in Texas

A terminal degree in cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity PhD program, for example, allows you to obtain expertise through a research-intensive curriculum.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers an information science PhD with a concentration in cybersecurity. During this program, students learn how to conduct research on cybersecurity topics through the framework of information technology principles. In addition, there is a focus on the societal impact of information technology on the cultural, individual, social, and economic levels.

Although coursework can be taken online, the program emphasizes strong face-to-face interactions with peers and professors to enhance learning. Students participate in activities on campus and receive hands-on training during an internship. However, there is still some flexibility for working students, so they’re able to complete the program on a full- or part-time basis to easily fit their education into their busy lives.

Location: Denton

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $1,487.44 per credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university
  • Official college transcripts
  • A minimum 3.5 undergraduate or graduate GPA
  • Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test/Management Aptitude Test (GMAT/MAT) scores

All You Need to Know: Texan Cybersecurity Students FAQs

Is financial aid available to online cybersecurity students in Texas?

Yes, there are plenty of funding opportunities for online cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity degree?

It depends on the type of cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity programs available.

Is a cybersecurity major hard?

Majoring in cybersecurity 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.

Cybersecurity programs generally combine technology concepts with hands-on learning, so you’ll be well-equipped for a fast-paced cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity curriculum.

Should a cybersecurity degree be accredited?

No matter what discipline you choose, it’s always a good idea to find an accredited cybersecurity program. Cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity degree require a lot of math?

Cybersecurity 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: Cybersecurity Graduates in Texas

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Area ↕ Occupation ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ 90th Percentile ↕ Median ↕
Texas Computer and Information Systems Managers $96,630 $239,200+ $164,840
Texas Information Security Analysts $72,870 $167,540 $115,040
Texas Computer Network Architects $82,560 $182,200 $132,400
Texas Network and Computer Systems Administrators $57,260 $146,120 $92,360

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ Curr. Jobs ↕ Proj. Jobs ↕ New Jobs ↕ Growth % ↕
Texas Computer and Information Systems Managers 52,720 71,050 18,330 34.80%
Texas Computer Network Architects 11,960 14,130 2,170 18.10%
Texas Information Security Analysts 14,620 21,620 7,000 47.90%
Texas Network and Computer Systems Administrators 29,020 34,420 5,400 18.60%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Resources for Texan Cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity in the healthcare ecosystem.
  • Cyber Security: Open Educational Resources: This page includes resources from South Texas College, including cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity education, CyberTexas offers scholarships, free career development resources, and a job and internship board. All are aimed at students studying cybersecurity in Texas.
  • (ISC)² Austin Chapter: Members of the Austin chapter of this professional organization can take advantage of cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity students.
  • Texas Cyber Security Council: This government council provides free resources and news on cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity field right now.

Ranking the Best Online Cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity schools in Texas can help you find your perfect remote learning opportunity in cybersecurity.

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.

1

Texas State Technical College

Waco, Texas

Why We Selected Texas State Technical College:
Texas State Technical College offers several cybersecurity programs, including an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cybersecurity and Cybersecurity boot camps. The AAS program requires 60 credits and takes about 20 months to complete, covering networking technologies, digital forensics, and IT security. The Cybersecurity boot camp is a fast-paced program that can be completed in less than 20 weeks, providing foundational skills without requiring prior experience. Both programs prepare students for roles like Cybersecurity Analyst or Digital Forensics Analyst. Financial aid and career coaching are available, with admissions typically on a rolling basis. The boot camp focuses on hands-on training and prepares students for certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+.
Program Highlights
  • TSTC's Cybersecurity Boot Camp offers preparation for sought-after certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH.
  • The program provides ten 30-minute coaching sessions with industry experts to support learning and career development.
  • Students can gain practical skills through virtual labs, enhancing their portfolio for potential employers.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$6,950
  • Average Grant Aid$1,807
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid71%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid89%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course93%
2

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas

Why We Selected The University of Texas at San Antonio:
The University of Texas at San Antonio’s Carlos Alvarez College of Business offers a highly regarded Cyber Security program, providing a comprehensive education in digital forensics, network security, cyber analytics, and malware analysis. It emphasizes hands-on learning in realistic environments, preparing graduates for immediate industry impact. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), it holds recognition as a National Center for Academic Excellence from the National Security Agency (NSA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Flexible learning options and academic support services are available, equipping students for careers in this rapidly growing field.
Program Highlights
  • UTSA offers a flat tuition rate with no out-of-state fees for online students.
  • The program is taught by faculty experts in cybersecurity and business integration.
  • UTSA is recognized as a Center for Academic Excellence by NSA and DHS.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$6,237
  • Average Grant Aid$2,466
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid68%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid89%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio26/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
3

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

Why We Selected Sam Houston State University:
Sam Houston State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, preparing students for professional roles in business, government, and law enforcement. The program requires 121 credit hours and is available for enrollment in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Tuition costs are based on rates per semester. The fall semester application deadline is August 1. Career paths include Investigator, Analyst, Law Enforcement, and Programmer positions, with the option to pursue a graduate degree. Additionally, the university offers a Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security, enhancing professional capabilities in critical infrastructure security with specific requirements.
Program Highlights
  • The Computing Science program at Sam Houston State University features a unique 4+1 accelerated degree option, allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.
  • Students benefit from high-level access to advanced computing facilities, including dedicated spaces for digital forensics and network security research.
  • The program is accredited by ABET, ensuring that students receive a high-quality, industry-relevant education that enhances their job placement prospects.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$5,856
  • Average Grant Aid$4,393
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid11%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid84%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
4

Texas A & M University-Kingsville

Kingsville, Texas

Why We Selected Texas A & M University-Kingsville:
The Cyber Intelligence programs at Texas A&M University-Kingsville offer educational pathways for students and professionals. The Intensive Accelerated Training in Cyber Intelligence (IAT-CI) is a 10-day program preparing participants for Computer Science studies with a Cyber Intelligence minor. The Online Certification Program in Cyber Intelligence (OCP-CI) helps professionals gain cybersecurity certification and skills. Students pursuing the certificate complete 9 credit hours of core courses and 6 credit hours of electives. Financial aid includes scholarships and assistantships for students maintaining a 3.5 GPA. These programs prepare graduates for cybersecurity and cyber intelligence roles in public and private sectors.
Program Highlights
  • Scholarships of $9,200 are awarded to top applicants, covering tuition and fees for a year.
  • The program offers paid internships to gain hands-on experience in cyber intelligence at partnering institutions.
  • Faculty expertise includes Ph.D. researchers in AI, ML, and cybersecurity, enhancing the educational experience.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$5,137
  • Average Grant Aid$3,765
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid68%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid92%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
5

Wayland Baptist University

Plainview, Texas

Why We Selected Wayland Baptist University:
Wayland Baptist University’s Cyber Security program is led by Dr. Joe Marnell, achieving a remarkable 96% pass rate on TestOut certification exams, far above the national average of 53%. The program aligns with national certification standards, offering structured learning with hands-on experience, covering key cybersecurity areas. It accommodates diverse student needs, attracting those seeking to advance or transition into cybersecurity. Career outcomes include significant job placement success and immediate employment potential. The program offers faculty mentorship and tech support, though details on length, credits, cost, and financial aid are not provided.
Program Highlights
  • Wayland Baptist University offers a $250 tuition discount for undergraduate military students in both face-to-face and online classes.
  • The Air University Associate-to-Baccalaureate Cooperative program allows Air Force CCAF credits to fully transfer, facilitating quick degree completion.
  • The university provides personalized support services, including help navigating military education benefits and flexible scheduling.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$20,588
  • Average Grant Aid$6,803
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid88%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid97%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
6

University of Houston

Houston, Texas

Why We Selected University of Houston:
The University of Houston’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity is a 30-credit program that develops skills beyond entry-level cybersecurity roles. Core courses include Principles of Cybersecurity, Secure Enterprise Computing, Cryptography, and Cybersecurity Risk Management. The program prepares students for careers in risk management, SOC Analyst positions, infrastructure security, and data analytics. Admission requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and standardized tests are not always required. The program emphasizes management skills and offers opportunities for applied research and industry certifications, with financial aid available.
Program Highlights
  • The University of Houston Cybersecurity program is recognized by the NSA and DHS as a Center of Academic Excellence.
  • hands-on learning using real-world data for comprehensive training and certification is emphasized.
  • Collaboration with the Center for Information Security Research and Education offers state-of-the-art research opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$8,685
  • Average Grant Aid$4,742
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid68%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid85%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
7

Central Texas College

Killeen, Texas

Why We Selected Central Texas College:
Central Texas College’s Cybersecurity program offers a Cyberdefense-Information Assurance Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree (60 credit hours) alongside stackable certificates: Cybersecurity (16 credits), Cyberdefense-Information Assurance Level I (22 credits), and Level II (31 credits). These pathways combine immediate job readiness with progress toward the AAS degree. In-state tuition is approximately $3,900 annually (out-of-state $7,500). Admissions require program-specific prerequisites. Graduates pursue roles in cybersecurity and IT fields, supported by SACSCOC accreditation and foundational workforce skills.
Program Highlights
  • Central Texas College offers flexible learning options through online and day classes.
  • The program provides certificates for short-term employability while allowing further degree progression.
  • Central Texas College is accredited by SACSCOC, ensuring quality educational opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,570
  • Average Grant Aid$2,521
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid17%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid84%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
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Kenya McCullum AUTHOR

Kenya McCullum has been a professional writer and researcher for over twenty years and has written hundreds of feature-length articles, guidebooks, and other in-depth content. She has tackled various healthcare topics, such as women's health, fitness, mental health, addiction, and nutrition, as well as issues providers face when delivering care. Also, McCullum has extensive experience writing about higher education, online learning, continuing education, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has interviewed numerous leaders in the healthcare and education sectors. She has a master’s degree in communication and a bachelor’s degree in English.

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Grace Butler EDITOR

"Grace E. Butler is an accomplished editor and writer with a strong background in literary publishing, content creation, and academic instruction. With a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from The University of South Carolina, she has honed her expertise in editorial leadership, fiction editing, and content development. Grace has extensive experience working with literary journals and digital publications. Her background includes writing and editing for print and digital media, producing feature articles, news pieces, and cultural analysis. Beyond editorial work, she has instructed first-year English and creative writing at the university level, helping students refine their craft through critical feedback and mentorship. Grace has also worked as a writing tutor, supporting undergraduate and graduate students in developing strong, effective written communication."

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