Best Cyber Security Programs in Texas for 2024: Online & On-Campus
Cyber security is one of the most in-demand careers. If you’re looking to enter this field, continue reading for the best cyber security degrees in Texas.
According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, a cyber attack can cost a private or government organization over a million dollars. Pair those financial stakes with the number of tech companies moving to Texas, and you have the perfect conditions for Texas residents looking for high-paying, high-growth jobs in cyber security.
If you’re interested in launching a career in this growing sector, you’re in the right place. This guide covers the best cyber security degrees in Texas. We’ll look at different types of degrees, who might benefit from an online program, and salary expectations for graduates. Spoiler alert: We’re talking lots of six-figure salaries here. Keep reading for the details!
Best Cyber Security Degrees in Texas – On-Campus Programs
Texas has many amazing colleges, so it can be tricky to know where to apply. To make the search easier, we did some preliminary research and found stand-out schools for cyber security. The three highlighted below rose to the top in terms of accreditation, student support resources, affordability, and resources to jumpstart students’ careers. If these programs aren’t a perfect fit for you, they’ll serve as a great quality barometer to guide your search as you evaluate other programs.
When looking for the best cyber security degrees in Texas, make sure to consider Texas A&M University. The school offers a bachelor’s, master’s, and two graduate certificates (one focused on engineering and one focused on policy) in the field. All four prepare students to approach cyber security from a variety of disciplines, including law, software engineering, information security, and finance. The school is also home to a cyber security center that works with partners such as the National Security Agency. Research fellowships and internships through this center provide both undergraduate and graduate students with real-world opportunities to practice their skills. The school has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to create a cyber security leadership program, which prepares select students for leadership roles in the field. Because the curriculum and student resources are more hands-on, all of Texas A&M’s cyber security programs are only offered in person.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science, Cyber Security
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Engineering, Cyber Security
- Certificate in Cyber Security Engineering
- Certificate in Cyber Security Policy
Specialization Options:
- Cyber security engineering
- Cyber security policy
The University of North Texas offers some amazing cyber security degree programs. This includes a four-year Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, a two-year Master of Science in Cybersecurity, and a PhD in Information Science with a concentration in cybersecurity. At each level, students complete a customized curriculum and a research project (which varies in size and intensity depending on degree type). Electives and research can be completed in artificial intelligence and cyber security, blockchain applications, cloud computing, computer forensics, cyber intelligence, cryptography, and Internet of Things (IoT) security. At the doctoral level, students complete a dissertation in one of these topics. Since the PhD is so individualized, it can be completed as a hybrid program. The other degrees must be completed on the University of North Texas campus in Denton. At each level, the school also organizes hands-on labs, internships, and other opportunities so students can practice what they learn in the classroom.
Delivery:
- Online
- Hybrid
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science, Cybersecurity
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science, Cybersecurity
- PhD in Information Science, Concentration in Cybersecurity
Specialization Options:
- AI for security
- Blockchain applications
- Cloud computing and security
- Computer forensics
- Cryptography
- Cyber intelligence
- Network and IoT security
One of the best cyber security degrees in Texas is hosted through Sam Houston State University. These in-person programs are for cyber security students at all levels, and each degree offered is firmly rooted in the computer science discipline. Degrees include a four-year Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, a Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, and a PhD in Digital and Cyber Forensic Science. For students who are uncertain if they want to pursue a multiple year degree in the field, Sam Houston State University also offers a graduate certificate. The program includes access to the Cyber Forensics Intelligence Center (CFIC), Sam Houston State University’s research center. With the CFIC, both undergraduate and graduate students get hands-on experience in cyber security. Another amazing resource is the CFIC professional development staff, who can help students apply for internships and jobs or brush up on their resumes. Their department was named a Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science, Cybersecurity
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science, Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
- PhD in Digital and Cyber Forensic Science
Specialization Options:
- Cyber forensic science
- Information assurance
Online Cyber Security Degree Programs in Texas
Commuting to and from campus costs time and money. If you’re short on either or prefer a more independent learning style, consider getting your cyber security degree online.
Fortunately, Texas offers some great online cyber security programs. We researched a variety of degrees in the state and ranked them in terms of convenience, affordability, and academic rigor. Below are three of the best online cyber security degrees in Texas.
When looking for the best online cyber security degrees in Texas, add the degrees at the University of Dallas to your list. The school offers three master’s degrees in cyber security. The first is geared toward those who want to pursue a degree in digital forensics, cyber defense, network security, or threat analysis. The second is designed for those at the intersection of business analytics and cyber security. The third is an MBA with a concentration in cyber security, which is ideal for business professionals who work on the finance or operations side of cyber security. The school also offers a graduate certificate that includes Certified Information Systems Security Professional training. Since all four programs are geared toward working professionals, they are offered online. If courses have live virtual class sessions, typically they are offered at flexible times, such as in the evenings.
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity
- Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence
- MBA with a Cybersecurity Concentration
- CISSP Certificate
Program Options:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully-Online
Specializations Offered:
- Business and cyber security
- Cyber intelligence
When looking at online cyber security degree programs in Texas, consider The University of Texas at San Antonio. The school offers programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels as well as graduate certificates for those in other fields who want to explore cyber security. Since the cyber security programs are hosted through the business school, the curriculum can be more business-heavy than other cyber security degrees. Specific degrees offered include bachelor’s degrees in cyber security and applied cyber analytics and a master’s program in cyber security. The graduate school also offers certificates in cloud computing, cyber security, intelligence studies, project management, and technology and entrepreneurship. The school also hosts an in-person PhD in information technology, with the option to specialize in cyber security. Other than the in-person PhD, some or all components of all other degrees can be completed online. The bachelor’s in cyber security can be completed 100% online.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science, Applied Cyber Analytics
- Bachelor of Science, Cyber Security
- Bachelor of Science, Information Systems
- Online Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in Cyber Security
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science, Cyber Security and Information Technology
- Master of Science, Data Analytics
- Master of Science, Information Technology
- PhD, Information Technology
- Certificate in Cloud Computing
- Certificate in Cyber Security
- Certificate in Intelligence Studies
- Certificate in Project Management
- Certificate in Technology Entrepreneurship and Management
Program Options:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully-Online
- Partially-Online
Specializations Offered:
- Applied cyber analytics
- Information security
- Cloud computing
- Data analytics
- Intelligence studies
- Project management
- Technology entrepreneurship and management
The University of St. Thomas Houston offers some of the best online cyber security degrees in Texas. This school is particularly good for those who are new to the field because it offers an associate and bachelor’s in cyber security. The associate program is a two-year degree that can be completed online. It focuses on computer network administration and offers free resources to help students start their careers as soon as possible. The bachelor’s degree is a four-year cyber security program that pulls from multiple disciplines, including international studies, business, and software engineering. Like the associate degree, the bachelor’s degree can be completed 100% online, with an option to study abroad for a semester and take in-person courses. Both degrees can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity
- Bachelor of Arts in Global Cybersecurity
Program Options:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully-Online
- Partially-Online
Specializations Offered:
- Global cyber security
- Network administration
Types of Cyber Security Degrees You Can Earn in Texas
The best cyber security degrees in Texas are not created equal. Often they offer different types of programs, and it’s important to choose the right degree type for your career goals. Below we highlight six of the most common degree types, who each program is suited for, and the best in-person and online cyber security degree programs in Texas for each.
Undergraduate Cyber Security Degrees in Texas
Associate Degrees in Cyber Security
If you don’t have a college degree and want to try out cyber security, an associate degree may be the right fit, especially if you’re unsure if it’s the best career choice for you. Since this degree lasts two years, it’s a lower time and financial commitment and still lets you explore the field.
Accredited Texas Colleges with an Associate Degree in Cyber Security
- Houston Community College (On-Campus)
- North Central Texas College (Hybrid)
- University of St. Thomas Houston (Online)
Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security
To enter the cyber security sector, a bachelor’s degree is often required. This four-year degree works for those who want a good foundation in the field and have sufficient time and money to invest in their education.
Accredited Texas Colleges with a Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security
- Texas A&M University (On-Campus)
- University of North Texas (On-Campus)
- University of St. Thomas Houston (Online)
Graduate Education Degrees in Texas
Master’s Degrees in Cyber Security
Let’s say you already have a bachelor’s degree 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. As a plus, many of the best online cyber security degrees in Texas are at the graduate level.
Accredited Texas Colleges with a Master’s Degree in Cyber Security
- Texas A&M University(On-Campus)
- University of Houston (Online)
Cyber Security PhD Programs
Like a doctorate program, a cyber security PhD allows you to become an expert in the field and usually takes five to seven years to complete. Unlike a doctorate, a PhD program is more research-intensive, and students often start their dissertation earlier in the degree. The focus on research makes this program ideal for those looking to enter academia upon graduating.
Accredited Texas Colleges with this Cyber Security PhD Programs
- Sam Houston State University (On-Campus)
- University of Dallas (Online)
- University of North Texas (Online)
- The University of Texas at Austin (On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at Dallas (On-Campus)
- The University of Texas at San Antonio (On-Campus)
Graduate Certificates
Looking for a low-cost, quick way to improve your cyber security skills? Consider pursuing a graduate certificate. These programs are ideal for those who already have an undergraduate or graduate degree in cyber security or a related field. Often, they also focus on a specific part of cyber security, such as cloud security or cyber security policy.
Accredited Texas Colleges with Cyber Security Certificate Programs
- Abilene Christian University (Online)
- Sam Houston State University (On-Campus)
- Texas A&M University (On-Campus)
Paying for Your Cyber Security Degree in Texas
Whether you’re looking for the best online cyber security degree in Texas or an amazing in-person program, money is probably top of mind. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the average bachelor’s degree costs $5,205 per semester for in-state students.
Fortunately, financial aid options are available to help ease the monetary investment. The most common financial aid types include:
- Scholarships and grants
- Fellowships
- Student loans
- Work-study programs
- Employer reimbursement programs
- State-funded aid in Texas
Salary & Growth for Cyber Security Grads in Texas
Cyber security professionals work in a variety of fields, such as software development, information security, data science, and software quality assurance. Almost all jobs in these fields offer above-average salaries and a high job growth rate in Texas, as outlined in the table below.
While salaries and demand are high across Texas, certain cities offer more opportunities than others. According to the Tech Town Index, Austin, Texas, is ranked as the number one city for technology professionals in Texas, with Dallas following close behind.
| Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2022/2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists | 49.6% | 560 | $102,230 |
| Database Architects | 19.1% | 1,320 | $146,970 |
| Information Security Analysts | 49.5% | 1,720 | $115,570 |
| Software Developers | 36.2% | 15,320 | $117,440 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | 36.2% | 15,320 | $95,530 |
Sources: Projections Central;Bureau of Labor Statistics
Texas Cyber Security Professional and Student Resources
- 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. - 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. - 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 aims to enhance collaborations between the sectors. - 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.
