5 Most Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degrees in Kentucky

Cybersecurity involves safeguarding data, devices, and networks from cyber threats and cyberattacks. Trained cybersecurity professionals are skilled at using information security methodologies to find vulnerabilities in computer systems and stop cybercrimes before they occur.

Starting this career typically requires a degree in the field. But what if you don't have time to attend on-campus courses and struggle to afford college tuition? Northern Kentucky University, the University of the Cumberlands, and Murray State University offer online cybersecurity degrees for students seeking budget-friendly options.

Below, we'll highlight low-cost online cybersecurity degrees that can help you start a successful career in this field. Our frequently asked questions section explains what you can expect when enrolling in these programs.

Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky

Earning a cybersecurity degree opens doors to numerous careers in the IT field. Explore programs from some of the most affordable online colleges in Kentucky.

1. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University, designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) by the National Security Agency, offers two degrees in the field. The online Bachelor of Science in information technology - cybersecurity explores IT fundamentals, computer networks, and network security and costs $320 per credit hour.

NKU's online Master of Science in cybersecurity prepares students for real-world digital threats with cybersecurity courses covering risk assessment, incident response, and operating system security. Students earn this degree in 12 months for less than $17,000. Learners in both programs can qualify for financial aid to lower costs.

2. University of the Cumberlands

The online MS in cyber engineering at the University of the Cumberlands is one of the best online cybersecurity degrees in Kentucky for affordability. This program teaches students to solve complex computing programs while maintaining the security of critical infrastructures. Coursework focuses on cyber engineering, computer interaction, and artificial intelligence.

The cost of this 31-credit master's degree is $355 per credit hour. The school assists students with securing grants, scholarships, and other financial aid, which has helped 25% of learners graduate debt-free.

3. Murray State University

Murray State University's cybersecurity and network management (CNM) bachelor's degree offers online courses exploring encryption, malware, and threat analysis. Students can choose from tracks in cybersecurity and digital forensics, cloud and system administration, and wireless communications. This program costs $412.50 per credit for part-time students.

The online MS in cybersecurity management teaches project management, information systems security, and incident management. Students pay $581.50 per credit hour regardless of enrollment status. Murray State offers scholarships that can benefit new freshmen, current students, transfer students, and graduate students.

4. Sullivan University

Online cybersecurity degrees are available for Sullivan University's undergraduate and graduate attendees. The Bachelor of Science prepares learners to perform penetration testing, incident response, and ethical hacking in IT roles. The Master of Science teaches data mining, digital forensics, and legal issues in computer security.

Students who enroll in the bachelor's program pay $470 per credit hour. The master's degree costs $660 per credit hour. Sullivan offers scholarships, tuition discounts, grants, and other FAFSA financial aid to help online students save on tuition costs.

5. Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University's MS in cybersecurity is designed for working adults interested in online learning who want to graduate in one year of full-time study. This 30-credit program explores data mining, risk management, and modern business analytics and includes graduate certificates learners can use as stackable credentials.

Students in WKU's distance learning graduate programs pay $707 per credit regardless of where they live. Enrollees can pursue scholarships and financial aid to reduce the cost of earning the MS degree.

Other Online Cybersecurity Programs

You can find more online cybersecurity programs at colleges outside of Kentucky. Review the following list of schools to explore affordable degrees in other American states.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online cybersecurity bachelor's degree that teaches security principles, legal judgment, and cyber defense. While bachelor's degrees typically last four years, students could earn their BS from SNHU in just two years with an associate degree or industry certifications.

Enrollees pay $330 per credit to earn this degree; however, learners with transfer and prior learning credits could save nearly $10,000 in tuition costs. Scholarships, grants, and employee discounts are additional ways to reduce costs.

2. Old Dominion University

The National Security Agency (NSA) has designated Old Dominion University in Virginia as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in all three focus areas. The school's global campus (ODUGlobal) offers a BS in cybersecurity with high rankings among the field's best online programs. Enrollees study computer science, IT modeling, criminal justice, and more to learn how to troubleshoot security lapses and collect forensic evidence.

Out-of-state learners pay $439 per credit hour to earn this degree. Eligible students interested in reducing this rate might qualify for a Future Shapers Scholarship that grants students $1,000 for the first semester of enrollment.

3. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts Global's BS in cybersecurity builds students' knowledge of programming, computer networks, and digital forensics. Students can choose electives that align with their interests or select an emphasis in project management.

The estimated cost of this program is $500 per credit regardless of residency. Enrollees can pursue merit-based, need-based, and award-based scholarships and fill out the FAFSA form to qualify for financial aid.

FAQs About Enrolling in Online Cybersecurity Programs

Online programs in Kentucky and nationwide build your knowledge of key cybersecurity concepts. If you're ready to earn your degree, review the following FAQs about program enrollment.

What Will I Learn in an Online Cybersecurity Degree Program?

Online cybersecurity programs prepare students to work for private businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies in education, finance, healthcare, retail, and beyond. Courses often explore:

• computer science
• programming
• information security
• computer forensics
• risk management
• cloud computing
• cryptography

Earning a degree creates exciting opportunities in the field. Students can become information security analysts, which according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a high-demand career with employment projected to jump 33% from 2023 to 2033.

What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in Online Cybersecurity Programs?

Many programs require no specific prerequisite courses. For bachelor's programs, a high school diploma is often sufficient; however, general education courses in English, math, natural sciences, and social sciences could be included in the degree plan. Graduate programs might require a bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited school with a minimum cumulative GPA.

What Is the Average Cost of an Online Cybersecurity Program?

The cost of an online cybersecurity program could depend on residency (in-state vs. out-of-state) and enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time). Whether a student earns a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree could also matter.

Learners seeking low-cost degrees can find great programs at Northern Kentucky University and the University of the Cumberlands. Both offer degrees costing less than $400 per credit.

Find Online Programs for Higher Education Today

Begin your journey toward an exciting career in cybersecurity by discovering the degree programs listed on Learn.org. Contact one of the colleges today to learn how their programs can help you begin the career of your dreams.