Easiest Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Programs 2026

The easiest online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs to get into are designed to remove common barriers that stop many students from starting or finishing a degree. Instead of relying on competitive admissions, standardized tests, or rigid academic pathways, these programs focus on access, flexibility, and support.

Many online cybersecurity programs now serve working adults, transfer students, and those returning to school after a break. Below, we’ll explain what makes some cybersecurity degrees easier to earn than others and highlight schools known for straightforward admissions and student-friendly program structures.

What Makes an Online Cybersecurity Degree “Easier” To Earn?

An online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree is often considered easier to earn when the program reduces friction at both the admissions and coursework levels. Schools with open or near-open admissions, no SAT or ACT requirements, and clear GPA minimums make it simpler for students with diverse academic backgrounds to get started.

Program structure also plays a major role. Self-paced learning models, flexible deadlines, transfer-friendly credit policies, and online formats designed for working adults can make coursework more manageable. These features don’t lower academic standards, but they do make it easier for students to stay enrolled, progress consistently, and complete their degree.

Easiest Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The schools below are known for making cybersecurity bachelor’s programs more accessible through flexible admissions policies, streamlined applications, and online formats built for nontraditional students. Each option removes common barriers like standardized testing requirements or competitive entry standards while still offering accredited, career-relevant degrees.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) online Bachelor of Science BS) in cybersecurity is widely recognized for its student-friendly admissions process. The university does not require SAT or ACT scores and accepts students with a wide range of academic backgrounds, including those who may not meet traditional GPA thresholds at more selective institutions.

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and participates in federal financial aid programs. Its online platform is designed to support working adults, with structured courses, frequent start dates, and academic support resources that help students stay on track once enrolled.

2. University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers an online cybersecurity bachelor’s program through an open-access admissions model. Students with a high school diploma or GED can enroll without standardized test scores, making UMGC one of the most accessible public university options in the cybersecurity space.

UMGC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and accepts federal financial aid. The university was built specifically for adult learners and military-affiliated students, with flexible course schedules and policies that prioritize access and persistence over competitive screening.

3. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) approaches admissions with a noncompetitive philosophy focused on readiness rather than prior academic performance. While students may complete a brief intake process or demonstrate basic preparedness, the goal is to provide access to anyone willing and able to commit to the coursework.

WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and supports eligible students through federal financial aid. Its competency-based format allows learners to progress at their own pace, which can make the overall experience feel more manageable for students balancing school with work or family responsibilities.

4. Wilmington University

Wilmington University follows an open-admissions model that makes starting an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree straightforward. The university does not rely on standardized test scores and focuses instead on helping students move quickly from application to enrollment, which can be especially helpful for those returning to school after time away.

Wilmington University is accredited by MSCHE and accepts federal financial aid. Its online format emphasizes flexibility and accessibility, making it easier for working adults to balance coursework with professional and personal responsibilities.

5. Liberty University

Liberty University’s online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs are built for scale, accessibility, and flexibility. The university typically requires a minimum GPA around 2.0 for undergraduate admission and does not require SAT or ACT scores for most online applicants, lowering common entry barriers.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Online students may qualify for federal financial aid, and the university’s experience serving large numbers of distance learners translates into clear processes and structured support once students are enrolled.

6. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University (CSU) Global was designed specifically for nontraditional and adult learners, which is reflected in its admissions approach. Students who do not initially meet standard GPA requirements may be considered for provisional admission, allowing them to demonstrate academic readiness through early coursework.

CSU Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and participates in federal financial aid programs. The fully online format, combined with clear academic expectations and streamlined enrollment, makes it an approachable option for students seeking a second chance or a fresh start in cybersecurity.

7. Bellevue University

Bellevue University is known for its open-access admissions philosophy and strong support for transfer students. The university does not require standardized test scores for most online undergraduate applicants and works closely with students to evaluate prior college coursework, making the entry process less intimidating.

Bellevue University is accredited by HLC and accepts federal financial aid. Its online cybersecurity bachelor’s program is structured with working adults in mind, offering clear course layouts and advising support that help students stay enrolled and make steady progress toward graduation.

8. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University offers a more accessible public university option for students pursuing an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree. Admission requirements are often less restrictive than those at flagship state schools, which can make this program a viable choice for students with modest GPAs.

Fayetteville State University is accredited by SACSCOC and participates in federal financial aid programs. As part of the University of North Carolina system, the school combines academic credibility with a lower barrier to entry for qualified online learners.

9. American Public University

American Public University (APU) follows an open-admissions model that emphasizes access and flexibility. The university does not charge an application fee and does not require SAT or ACT scores, which helps remove common hurdles for students looking to start quickly.

APU is accredited by HLC and accepts federal financial aid for eligible students. The online format and frequent course start dates are especially appealing to military-affiliated and working adult learners who need a straightforward path into a cybersecurity degree program.

10. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers an online BS in cybersecurity through its eMajor platform, which is designed specifically as a flexible entry point for online learners. While admission is not open-access, the requirements are clearly defined and generally more attainable than those at highly selective flagship universities, making the program accessible for a broad range of students.

Kennesaw State University is accredited by SACSCOC and accepts federal financial aid. As a public institution, the university combines academic rigor with student-friendly online delivery, offering a structured yet approachable pathway into a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

For the easiest entry online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs, we place added importance on admissions accessibility and program structures that help students start and persist without unnecessary barriers.

• Accreditation: Each school must hold recognized institutional accreditation to ensure academic quality and employer acceptance.
• Program requirements: We prioritize programs with flexible admissions policies, minimal standardized testing requirements, and manageable academic gatekeeping.
• Online availability: Schools must offer fully online or primarily online formats designed to support working adults and nontraditional students.
• Student outcomes: We consider how well programs support retention, degree completion, and alignment with entry-level cybersecurity roles.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Most students complete an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree in about four years when enrolled full time, which mirrors the timeline of traditional on-campus programs. However, many of the easier-to-enter online programs on this list offer flexible pacing, frequent start dates, and generous transfer credit policies that can shorten the timeline.

Students who transfer prior college credits or enroll year-round may finish in as little as two to three years, depending on their course load and academic background. The ability to study part time or adjust pacing also makes these programs more manageable for students balancing school with work or family responsibilities.

Are Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degrees Easier Than On-Campus Programs?

Online cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees are often considered easier to manage than on-campus programs because they offer greater flexibility and fewer logistical barriers. Students can complete coursework on their own schedules, avoid commuting, and access materials asynchronously, which can reduce stress and improve consistency.

On-campus programs may offer more structure, but they also come with fixed class times and less flexibility for nontraditional students. For many learners, the online format makes it easier to stay enrolled and complete the degree, even though academic standards remain comparable.

How Much Does an Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

The cost of an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree typically ranges from about $15,000 to $45,000, depending on the school, residency status, and how many credits you transfer. Programs designed for accessibility often help students manage costs by offering lower online tuition rates, transfer-friendly policies, or flexible pacing that reduces the number of terms needed to graduate.

While tuition varies, online programs can also lower overall expenses by eliminating costs tied to housing, commuting, and campus fees. For many students, these savings make an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree a more approachable option financially, especially when combined with federal financial aid.

Financial Aid for Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degrees

Students enrolled in online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs can typically access the same financial aid options as on-campus learners. These resources help reduce out-of-pocket costs and make degree completion more attainable for a wide range of students.

• Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants are available to eligible undergraduate students enrolled in accredited programs and do not require repayment. These grants can significantly reduce the cost of an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree for qualifying students.
• Federal student loans: Offered through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), federal student loans provide lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. They can be used to cover tuition, fees, and required course materials.
• State and institutional grants: Some public universities and nonprofit institutions offer grants based on residency, enrollment status, or participation in high-demand fields like cybersecurity. These awards can supplement federal aid and further lower costs.
• Military and employer benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible dependents may apply military education benefits toward online cybersecurity degrees. Many employers also offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs for employees pursuing cybersecurity or information technology education.
• Transfer credit savings: Applying previously earned college credits, military training, or approved professional coursework can reduce the number of courses required for graduation. While not direct financial aid, transfer credits can meaningfully lower total degree costs.

How To Choose the Right Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree

Choosing the right online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree involves more than finding a program with accessible admissions. You’ll want to look for a school that balances ease of entry with the academic structure and support needed to help you actually finish the degree.

When comparing programs, focus on factors such as:

• admissions requirements and minimum GPA expectations
• transfer credit policies and acceptance of prior coursework
• flexibility of course schedules and online delivery
• availability of academic support and advising services
• alignment between coursework and entry-level cybersecurity roles

Career Outlook With an Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree

A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can lead to solid earning potential in a field with long-term demand. According to PayScale, professionals with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity earn an average annual salary of about $78,000, with pay varying based on experience, job title, and industry.

Job growth remains a major advantage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 29% employment growth for information security analysts, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by rising cyber threats and increased data protection requirements. For students seeking an accessible entry point into a stable, in-demand field, an online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can provide both immediate opportunities and room for advancement.

FAQs About the Easiest Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Easier-to-enter online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs often raise questions about value, rigor, and employer perception. The FAQs below address common concerns students have when comparing accessible degree options.

Is an Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

An online cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can be worth it if the program is accredited and aligned with current industry needs. These degrees provide foundational knowledge that can qualify graduates for entry-level cybersecurity and IT roles while offering flexibility for working adults.

Is an Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Respected by Employers?

Most employers focus on accreditation, skills, and relevant experience rather than how a degree was delivered. Many well-known public and nonprofit universities now offer online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs that carry the same recognition as on-campus degrees.

Are Easier-to-Get-Into Cybersecurity Programs Lower Quality?

Easier admissions do not automatically mean lower academic standards. Many accessible programs maintain rigorous coursework while removing barriers like standardized testing or competitive GPA cutoffs that can prevent capable students from enrolling.

Do These Programs Require a Strong Math or Programming Background?

Most online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs start with foundational courses and do not assume advanced technical experience. While some math and computing concepts are required, programs are typically structured to support beginners as they build skills over time.

Can You Start a Cybersecurity Degree With a Low GPA?

Yes, several online programs accept students with lower GPAs or offer provisional or conditional admission. These pathways allow students to demonstrate readiness through coursework rather than past academic performance alone.

Explore Online Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degrees

Easier-to-enter online cybersecurity bachelor’s programs are designed to help more students take the first step into a growing technology field. Browse programs on Learn.org to compare accredited options, request information, and connect with schools that match your goals and experience level.