3 Most Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degrees in Arkansas

If you live in Arkansas and are interested in studying cybersecurity, you may want to know about degree programs at schools in your state. You're likely hoping to pursue an affordable online cybersecurity degree, and you're wondering which Arkansas schools offer these programs.

Keep reading as we explore some low-cost online colleges in Arkansas that provide online bachelor's and master's degrees in cybersecurity. We'll also discuss some top online schools located elsewhere in the country and answer a few questions.

Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Arkansas

Online learners should ensure their distance education program is accredited and offered by a reputable school. Let's look at some top online cybersecurity degrees in Arkansas, including bachelor's and master's programs, with affordable tuition rates and good financial aid options.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University is a public college in Jonesboro enrolling around 16,700 students. The school offers various online degree programs � one of these is a Bachelor of Science in digital technology and design with a concentration in cloud computing and cybersecurity design.

This specialized computer science degree focuses on designing systems for maximum risk management to protect computer systems from cyber threats and breaches. The online coursework costs $282 per credit hour. Students can save money with scholarships and other financial aid, as well as by transferring up to 90 credits and paying their tuition by the course.

2. University of Arkansas Grantham

The University of Arkansas Grantham is an online college headquartered in Little Rock and affiliated with the University of Arkansas System. Full-time and part-time students at this school can pursue numerous graduate and undergraduate degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity.

This 120-credit program includes general education and core courses. Students take courses in various cybersecurity fundamentals such as computer forensics, information systems security, and computer networks. New start dates are offered monthly. The program costs $305 per credit hour, and the school offers a generous transfer policy and financial aid options, making it easier for students to afford their education.

3. John Brown University

John Brown University is a private Christian college located in Siloam Springs. Around 2,300 students complete online and on-campus degrees at this school. Students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science and an online Master of Science in cybersecurity.

The programs provide basic and advanced coursework covering network security, digital forensics, and various operating systems. These degrees cost $325 and $640 per credit hour, respectively. Students can increase the affordability of their education by pursuing financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and loans.

Other Online Cybersecurity Programs

When you take online courses, it's possible to study at a school located anywhere in the country from the comfort of your own home. Let's look at some great out-of-state schools that provide affordable online degrees for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

1. Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia State University is a public school located in Macon, GA. It provides various online degree programs and students who study entirely online pay in-state tuition rates no matter where they live. Online students can earn a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in information technology � both programs provide specializations in cybersecurity.

The programs feature flexible tuition designed to help students pursue or advance their tech careers in various fields, including business, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, and homeland security. The bachelor's degree costs just $174 per credit hour and the master's program costs $261. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid can help students save even more money on their education.

2. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University is a large public school comprised of various campuses in Georgia. Nearly 28,000 students attend this school, with many earning online degrees. Several online cybersecurity degrees are available, as follows:

• Bachelor of Information Technology with an emphasis in cybersecurity
• Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and criminology with an emphasis in cybercrime
• Master of Science in computer science with a concentration in software and cybersecurity

These programs provide targeted coursework to prepare students to work in various capacities, from software development to information assurance to computer security. Students pay $187 per credit for the bachelor's degree and $284 for the master's degree. Various scholarship and financial aid resources are available to help students pay for school.

3. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private school providing online degrees to nearly 157,000 students. Headquartered in Millcreek, UT, this school doesn't offer a physical campus for students, but instead, provides flexible education opportunities for students in fields like business, education, and technology. Students can pursue competency-based bachelor's and master's degrees in cybersecurity and information assurance.

These programs teach the necessary methodologies to help students pursue a range of career opportunities, and built-in CompTIA certifications can improve the chances of getting hired. Tuition is charged at a flat rate of $4,365 per six-month term for undergraduates and $4,655 per term for undergraduate students. You can save money by taking a heavy courseload (since students can take as many courses as they want), using transfer credits, and pursuing financial aid.

4. University of the Potomac

The University of the Potomac is a private, for-profit school providing online degrees to students throughout the U.S. It provides an online Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity and policy, along with a Master of Science in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity. These programs provide core courses and electives that help students learn to recognize vulnerabilities in computer networks, helping them combat cyberattacks by launching an effective cyber defense.

These degrees can lead to various job titles like cybersecurity analyst, ethical hacker, and more. The bachelor's and master's degrees cost $240 and $450 per credit hour, respectively. Financial aid options help reduce students' financial burden and increase program affordability.

FAQs About Pursuing Online Cybersecurity Degrees

If you still have questions about pursuing an online cybersecurity degree, you're not alone. Let's look at some answers to frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

Is an Online Degree in Cybersecurity Worth It?

An online cybersecurity degree can be well worth the time, money, and effort you put into it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals like information security analysts are in high demand and can earn a lucrative average salary.

Not only are you likely to be well compensated for your skills, but you are also likely to experience high levels of job security throughout your career.

How Much Does an Online Cybersecurity Degree Cost?

The cost of your degree will vary depending on whether you attend a college or community college, a public or private school, and what level of degree you pursue. Among the schools outlined in this article, students can expect to pay anywhere from $175 to $325 per credit hour for bachelor's degrees and from $261 to $640 for master's degrees.

If you pursue other programs, associate degrees typically cost less, and doctoral degrees may cost more. Certification programs are usually the most affordable but may or may not provide the credentials you need to pursue the career of your choice.

How Are Online Cybersecurity Programs Accredited?

Cybersecurity degree programs sometimes receive specialized accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Whether or not the program boasts this specialized accreditation, any online college should be regionally or nationally accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized agency, such as the Higher Learning Commission.

Find Higher Education Online Programs Today

If you're ready to start your online cybersecurity degree, explore the colleges and universities featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools that interest you to find out more about the programs they offer and to discover which one is right for you.