Can You Get a Cybersecurity Degree in 3 Years?

Cybersecurity is one of the hottest fields of employment, and many students are eager to join the workforce without delay. Discover how to capitalize on accelerated learning formats and earn a cybersecurity degree in as little as three years.

Is It Possible To Earn a Cybersecurity Degree in Three Years?

The time needed to complete a degree depends on the degree level, the number of credits required, and the program's learning format. In some cases, students may be able to finish a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity in three years due to accelerated or competency-based learning formats.

While completing a degree quickly is appealing, selecting an accredited cybersecurity program that will give you the qualifications and training you need to enter the field is important.

Top Online Accelerated Cybersecurity Degree Programs

Some online cybersecurity degrees that may enable rapid degree completion based on the learning formats are available below.

Bellevue University

Bellevue University's online cybersecurity bachelor's degree is designed to help students finish a degree quickly and flexibly. Students can select from entirely online or traditional on-campus formats for this 127-credit degree program. Students who choose the accelerated learning format will focus on the most important aspects of computer security and cyber defense as they gain the skills needed for entry-level information systems security roles.

Liberty University

Liberty University's online cybersecurity degree will teach students the fundamentals of:

• computer science
• information systems
• network security

Students can transfer up to 75% of the credits needed to complete the degree. This enables students to complete their degrees quickly with an efficient eight-week course format. After completing the bachelor's degree program students can begin a master's degree or become cybersecurity professionals.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers one of the most innovative online cybersecurity degree programs. Students will learn how to analyze computer systems, identify vulnerabilities and cyber threats, and prevent cybercrime before it happens.

The Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity degree requires 120 credit hours and can be completed flexibly online. A helpful enrollment team will assess each student's transfer credits to make degree completion easy.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an online associate degree and a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity. Students can transfer up to 90 credits and take advantage of an affordable tuition rate and financial aid options. SNHU is recognized as a leader in higher education for its inexpensive and time-efficient programs.

The program leads to valuable industry certifications such as the CompTIA certification and the program is accredited by the National Security Agency (NSA).

Maryville University

Students who aspire to cybersecurity career paths should consider Maryville University's highly respected online cybersecurity program. 100% of the coursework can be completed online and the degree has accessible admissions requirements with no entrance exams and flexible start dates.

The program gives students real-world experience in areas such as:

• information technology
• software development
• ethical hacking
• cryptography
• penetration testing
• incident response

Graduates have gone on to succeed in information assurance and related cybersecurity careers.

Dakota State University

Dakota State University's online cyber operations degree is a great fit for ambitious students who want to develop specializations in cybersecurity.

The program's rigorous cybersecurity courses will ensure that each student masters the fundamentals of computer programming in languages such as Python, risk management, computer operating systems, and digital forensics. The program can be completed full-time or part-time according to each student's needs. An accelerated three-year bachelor's degree is also offered.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) provides a unique opportunity for students wanting to complete a cybersecurity degree quickly and affordably. WGU allows students to take as many credits as they desire in a six-month term. 60% of graduates can finish their degree in less than 30 months because of the learning format's efficiency.

Students will learn to prevent cyberattacks and develop their practical problem-solving skills while earning industry certifications at no additional cost. WGU is an excellent choice for ambitious learners who want to reach the next level of their careers quickly and efficiently.

Mercy College

Mercy College is another great choice for an online cybersecurity degree. The program offers bachelor's, master's, and dual-track bachelor's + master's degrees in an online format. Mercy College allows high school graduates to become experienced cybersecurity professionals without moving between institutions.

The program will allow students to understand the deep principles of computer networks and safeguard these systems from attacks and malware. Graduates will be ready to take the CISSP certification exams and gain valuable work experience in cybersecurity management.

Drexel University

Drexel University offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in cybersecurity in an online format. The bachelor's degree will give students the technical skills needed to succeed in the industry and the soft skills that support teamwork and professional advancement.

Students with previous professional experience should consider Drexel University's credit-for-experience program. Individuals with experience or who have completed nationally recognized certifications may be able to earn college credits and complete their degrees at an accelerated rate.

Regent University

Regent University wants to help students utilize the high demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.

The bachelor's degree is 120 credits and was ranked as the top online bachelor's degree in Virginia. The NSA recognizes this program as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Graduates have gone on to command competitive salaries in a wide range of cybersecurity and information technology roles.

Are Cybersecurity Jobs In Demand?

As the economy increasingly favors digital transactions, cybersecurity becomes increasingly relevant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of information security analysts is expected to increase by 32% over the next decade with many high-paying jobs becoming available. Beginning a cybersecurity career is one of the smartest career moves a student can make in the current economy.