20 Best Information Security Degree Programs in 2021

There are several roads to obtaining an information security degree at the Ohio State University, the third-largest institution in the U.S. Undergrads can pursue a BS in Computer & Information Science and Engineering among other pursuits in the field. With an impressive retention rate for such a large and prestigious school and manageable tuition costs, OSU heads the list of the best schools for Information Security degree programs.

Another major post-secondary institution, the University of Pittsburgh, makes an impressive appearance on our list at number two. A top-ranked school nationally, students can earn a bachelor’s degree in either Computer Science or Information Science. Another manageable tuition fee and an impressive retention rate helped this program to find itself at the top of the list. They also offer a graduate specialization in Information Security through their Master of Science in Information Science program.

The first small school on our list of the best schools for information security degree programs, the esteemed Howard University, checks in at number three. Howard University students have opportunities to take courses that explore every aspect of issues like cybersecurity along with graduate certificates and other information security coursework. A retention rate nearing 90% and very fair tuition costs earn Howard U a place on the list of best schools.

This program, like the benefit of many smaller schools, offers excellent student-to-faculty ratios, along with more than 100 programs and degrees. Detroit Mercy students can earn a bachelor’s in Computer and Information Systems and major in Cybersecurity. While a plus 80% retention rate is good, it falls short in comparison to the other great programs on our list. A very competitive tuition rate, however, helps to earn this program a place on the list of best schools for students wanting an Information Security degree.

A school that needs no introduction, Johns Hopkins University is a well-recognized and revered post-secondary institution. What might not be as well-known, however, is the great Information Security program this prestigious university offers. A sizeable tuition fee doesn’t do this program any favors but that is offset somewhat by an impressive retention rate.

A surprise school on our list of the best schools for information security degree programs is the University of Tulsa and its roughly 4,600 students. Known as a military-friendly school, this program also offers graduate pursuits such as two Master’s programs in Cybersecurity. A not-so-impressive tuition fee is counterbalanced by a rather impressive retention rate at almost 90%.

When it comes to information security degrees, DePaul College of Computing and Digital Media can’t be left out. This DePaul school offers an MS in Cybersecurity along with online program options. A borderline tuition rate is helped by a stronger retention rate and is enough to earn DePaul University a place on the list of the best schools for information security degrees.

Despite its considerable tuition fees, it is difficult to argue the education and reputation of the Stevens Institute of Technology. From graduate certificates to its bachelor’s in Cybersecurity program, Stevens Institute of Technology is an undisputed leader in information security education. An impressive retention rate helps to make that tuition hurdle more tolerable and helps to keep this program on our list of the best schools for an Information Security Degree.

One of the oldest post-secondary institutions in the country, Georgetown University has not been left behind in the wake of the new age of technology. Just the opposite is true, in fact, as this storied college offers a top Master’s in Cybersecurity Risk Management program.

Students will be prepared to be strategic thinkers who can effectively bridge gaps between security policies, information technologies, and human behaviors. They will master the contemporary skills needed to develop and implement risk governance frameworks that increase resiliency for individuals, departments, and organizations.

A 30-credit MS in Cybersecurity degree is only one reason to consider Syracuse University a school to put on your shortlist of the best schools for information security degree. In addition to being a top-ranked school nationally, Syracuse offers online certificates of Advanced Study in Cybersecurity and other programs. The healthy tuition fees are going to likely require financial aid, but a plus 90% retention rate does mean that students are figuring it out. Tuition: $53,849 per year Retention Rate: 92%

From master’s programs to accelerated and online course options, the University of Dallas offers a leading information security degree program and is considered one of the top schools in its region. The aforementioned Master’s program has been recognized by the NSA, and the MBA in Cybersecurity only requires 42 credits. Tuition fees aren’t anything to write home about but a solid retention rate speaks well for the program.

Another technology-driven institution on our list, the Rochester Institute of Technology, is among the leading schools in the country for all things technology. Undergraduates can pursue degrees in Computing Security, and those furthering their education can earn a 30-credit MS in Computing Security. A retention rate of nearly 90% helps to keep this program among the best schools for information security degrees.

The last technology school on our list is the Illinois Institute of Technology. This program offers undergraduate programs such as a Bachelor of Industrial Technology and Management while an array of advanced specialized degrees like Cyber Security Management and Cyber Security Technologies. Tuition rates will dictate the need for financial assistance for most, but strong tuition rates help this program to earn a place on the list of our best schools for information security degree programs. ITM Programs are National Security Agency accredited.

Illinois Tech provides a number of programs that will train you in cybersecurity, including:

• Bachelor’s Degrees
  • Applied Cybersecurity and Information Technology
  • Computer and Cybersecurity Engineering
• Master’s Degrees
  • Applied Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
  • Cyber Forensics and Security
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cybersecurity Engineering
• Certificate Programs
  • Cybersecurity Management
  • Cybersecurity Technologies
  • Information and Security Assurance
  • Cyber Security Certificate Program (anticipated fall 2021)
  • A+, Network+ with Cyber Security*
  • Cyber Security Management*
  • Cyber Security Technologies*

*In these professional certificate programs, completed coursework does not count toward academic credits.

This blue-chip school, perceived as one of the premier post-secondary institutions in the U.S. is also perceived as one of the best schools for an information security degree. As it might be expected, this program comes with a healthy price tag but a retention rate nearing 100% also can’t be ignored.

Many people are familiar with and have heard of Boston University, and its great educational reputation. What people might not be so familiar with is the excellent information security degree program at Boston U. Small classes, an exceptional education, and a plus 90% retention rate help to counterbalance steep tuition costs and to earn this program a place on our list of the best programs for an information security degree.

From its athletic programs to its research and development programs, the University of Southern California needs little introduction. Students at USC can pursue undergraduate degrees and graduate coursework at USC’s Center for Computer Systems Security. While financial aid will be necessary for most students an impressive retention rate helps to keep this impressive program on the list of the best schools for information security degree programs.

This Colorado school is no stranger to technology as cities like Denver and Aspen are known leaders in this new digital age. The University of Denver is one more example of that leadership and this program has not gone without its due recognition. This school offers students various programs and courses of study in cybersecurity, including graduate certificates. Strong retention rates help to offset stiff tuition fees and to earn this program a place on our list.

CCI’s Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology (BSCST) is Drexel’s cybersecurity undergraduate degree. BSCST students learn to securely manage and operate IT infrastructure. Computer security majors tend to be hands-on and like to master the technical details to make complex systems work smoothly and securely.

Drexel is a comprehensive global research university with a unique model of experiential learning that combines academic rigor with one of the nation’s premier cooperative education programs.

This Dallas-based school is a leading post-secondary institution in the arena of information security. At Southern Methodist University, students also get the benefits of having weekend, evening, and even online program options. A strong retention rate counters a hefty tuition fee and helps SMU’s information security program to close out our list of the best schools for information security degrees.