Written By - Sharmila Bannu
Last Updated: January 10, 2025Edited By - Anjana Sharma
Introduction
An Associate in Cyber Security could be the next step that fills the gaps in your education and prepares you for a well-paid career. Through this course, we help you become a cybersecurity expert through the best online classes. The course consists of introduction to network security, ethical hacking, and risk management, and a well-framed curriculum. Join the best institutions headed by the most experienced faculty to become the future cybersecurity experts.
What Is Associates In Cyber Security Online?
An associate in cybersecurity is a two-year program that focuses on the basics of cybersecurity, the steps, the software, and the theoretical and practical aspects of the job. This course takes two years to complete and gives intense knowledge and awareness of cybersecurity principles.
The course focuses on data analytics, project management, and network security, preparing the students for cybersecurity’s practical and professional aspects. Overall, it also gives the students a strong knowledge of computer science, systems, programming, and practices.
Since the program is online, the students can learn at their convenience, meeting the number of course hours. It covers the general and specific subjects that become useful to students on a theoretical and practical manner.
How Long Is Associates In Cyber Security Online Course Take?
The duration of an online associate degree in cyber security is usually two years, providing 60 credits on completion of the course. The course can be completed both part-time or full-time, based on the availability of the aspirant.
Most of the programs are self-paced which allows students to learn at their convenience, by just meeting the number of hours required.
Admission Requirements For Associates In Cyber Security Online
While the admission process and criteria may change, it is important to verify with the institution’s website.
Here are some of the important admission criteria for a Cyber Security Online Associate degree. Though there might be specific rules that may vary from institution to institution, here are some of the common requirements to be met:
In addition to all these requirements, go through the official website of the university that you wish to apply for your associate in cybersecurity. See to it that you have read through the requirements thoroughly before applying.
Online Colleges for Associate’s Program in CyberSecurity
Explore the most affordable colleges offering comprehensive programs, expert faculty, and flexible learning, making cybersecurity education accessible to all.
| S.No. | College Name |
|---|---|
| #1 | Southern New Hampshire University 2500 North River Road, Manchester, New Hampshire 03106 |
| #2 | Saint Leo University 33701 County Road 52, Saint Leo, Florida 33574 |
| #3 | American Public University System 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414 |
| #4 | Franklin University 201 S Grant Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43215 |
| #5 | University of Charleston 2300 MacCorkle Avenue, SE, Charleston, West Virginia 25304 |
| #6 | University of St. Thomas Houston 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006 |
| #7 | Trident University International 5757 Plaza Dr #100, Cypress, CA 90630 |
| #8 | Western Nebraska Community College 1601 East 27th Street, Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361 |
| #9 | Georgia Military College 201 E Greene St, Milledgeville, Georgia 31061 |
| #10 | Arapahoe Community College 5900 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton, Colorado 80160 |
| #11 | St. Petersburg college 6605 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710 |
| #12 | Colorado Christian University 8787 W Alameda Ave, Lakewood, CO 80226 |
| #13 | Wilmington University 320 Dupont Hwy, New Castle, Delaware 19720 |
| #14 | University Of Phoenix 4035 S Riverpoint Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85040 |
| #15 | Portland Community College 34001 NE Wagner Ct, Scappoose, OR 97056 |
| #16 | Northern Virginia Community College 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003 |
| #17 | Delta College 1961 Delta Rd, University Center, MI 48710 |
Source: Data Collected from Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
***NA – Data Not Available
Curriculum Of Associates In Cyber Security Online
The curriculum of an Associate in cyber security online deals with topics like network security, computer forensics, ethical hacking, operations systems and security, network defense, and object-oriented programming.
This curriculum prepares the students in ways to protect a piece of information.
Here are some of the core and elective courses included in an associate in cyber security.
CORE COURSES:
Introduction to cyber security
☛ Overview and fundamentals of what is cyber security, the need to do the course, and the future jobs available.
Networking basics
☛ Basic networking awareness on LAN, WAN, IP addressing, and protocols.
Operating systems
☛ Understanding of operating systems like Windows and Linux.
Ethical Hacking, Penetration and Testing
☛ Understanding network risks and vulnerabilities, doing penetration testing, and risk assessments.
Cryptography
☛ Deals with encryption methods, protecting information with digital signatures, and finding ways of protecting data with secure passcodes.
Security Policies and Governance
☛ Makes the aspirant aware of regulatory policies as per GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability) Acts.
Incident Response and Recovery
☛ Planning a schedule with team members on detecting and responding to cyberthreats.
Computer Forensics
☛ Deals with techniques to analyze information loss and thefts, data recovery, and fetching digital evidence.
Project
☛ You’ll need 60 credits to complete this program through practicals by taking up trending topics on cybersecurity and submitting a well-researched project on it. This can help you specialize your career and earn well as per the industry standards.
ELECTIVE COURSES
Cloud Security
☛ Teaches about the security challenges faced during cloud computing activities.
Mobile Device Security
☛ Deals with threats on mobile devices (both iOS and Android) and strategies to protect such devices and their data.
Advanced Network Defense
☛ Deals with future network protection strategies such as zero-day vulnerabilities.
Cybersecurity in Healthcare
☛ Focuses on the protection of bulk patient information, HIPAA compliance, and medical device protection.
IoT Security
☛ Focuses on protecting IoT devices against intrusion with devices such as doorbells, and room thermostats, which store the data of the owners and users and prevent unauthorized users from accessing rooms and belongings.
Business Planning and Disaster Recovery
☛ Planning and implementing business strategies for the future and ensuring safe ways of recovering data in case of any disasters.
Malware Detection and Analysis
☛ Understanding and differentiating between the different types of malware, analysis and detection techniques to resolve them using firewalls and network security practices at the earliest.
Cyberlaw and Ethics
☛ Deals with communication of cybersecurity laws, data protection, intellectual property protection, and ethical hacking that the employees of an organization should know for their safety.
Security Automation and Scripting
☛ This part of the course talks about using programming languages (Java, Python, and C++) for automating security tasks, vulnerability detection and regular system monitoring.
Digital forensics and computer tactics
☛ Deals with investigation and presenting digital evidence for cyber crimes, data breaches, and other illegal cyber crimes reported.
Scholarships For Associates In Cyber Security Online
While scholarships for associates in cyber security online are an important part of financial aid, one must also understand that not everyone is eligible for all the scholarships. Some scholarships are provided to students during their course, while others are provided after graduation or during their breaks. Here are some of the best scholarships for associates in cyber security online:
| S.No. | Scholarship | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | EC Council University (ECCU) | $2,000 |
| #2 | The Stokes Educational Scholarship Program (NSA) | $30,000 |
| #3 | (ISC)2 Scholarship – Undergraduate | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| #4 | The Snort Scholarship | $10,000 |
| #5 | American Security Professional Fellowships | $10,000 |
Benefits of 2 Years Associates In Cyber Security Degree Online
There are several benefits of pursuing an Associates in cyber security online such as:
1. Cost-effective:
The learning process of a cybersecurity associate online is way more affordable than a physical classroom. This helps you build on your skills.
2. Hands-on learning:
This course offers a lot of practical sessions, assignments, and projects that help students learn better.
3. Flexible learning:
Unlike traditional learning institutions, students aren’t asked to attend classes regularly.
4. Credit transfer:
The best part of studying an associate in cyber security online is that you get to transfer your credits easily from one institution to another.
5. Knowledge expansion:
You get to learn more intensively and can revert to your lessons as and when you need by choosing an online associate in cyber security.
6. Perfect for working professionals:
Working professionals might be looking for the lessons to be taken by experienced professors. This is one such course that assures accredited guidance.
Jobs for Associates in Cyber Security Online
While most professions in cybersecurity require a bachelor’s or master’s, there are also jobs that you can get with an associate degree. Here are some of them:
Information security analyst:
An information security analyst is in charge of testing and updating a firm’s security software to keep their data secure.
Cybersecurity specialist:
Their main roles involve introducing new cybersecurity laws and regulations, introducing new technologies to the employees, and keeping them updated with the changes.
Computer support specialist:
This job role calls for a solid knowledge of computer software and hardware, for each computer type and the ability to technically assist customers.
Cyber security engineer:
Cyber security engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing solutions to customer problems before implementation.
Computer systems analyst
A computer system analyst reviews the conditions of computer systems in a firm and suggests ways to improve them to ensure their long-term success.
Incident Responder:
The prime responsibility of an incident responder is to alarm the other cybersecurity members when a threat is raised and find out the reasons behind it.
Penetration tester
A penetration tester is an authorized dummy cyberattack performer who creates false attacks to analyze the abilities of software launched by a firm.
Cyber security architect
Cyber security architects are the ones who plan, design and implement the cyber security tools and services for a customer to use.
Security Operations Analyst
The job of a security operations analyst is to see that the data transfers happen within an organization without privacy breaches and that records are maintained.
Security Awareness Trainer
Just in case you’re interested in teaching aspirants and contributing to the cybersecurity professionals in educational institutions, this is a great career choice for you.
Cybersecurity sales support
If you are into cybersecurity sales support, then you must learn how to connect with organizations and sell them the aptest technology that they’ll need.
Security Research Assistant
These professionals are in charge of detection of threats and addressing them at the right time to prevent further issues.
You may also go for online certifications that allow you to highloght your profile and help earning more recognition, revenue, and reputation.
You can find a lot of opportunities for the above-mentioned job profiles after completing your cyber security associate degree. The reason is that all these jobs also impart technical knowledge and soft skills which are of high demand for as long as you are a part of the industry. Internships and projects with firms are other ways of highlighting your profile.
With the ongoing digital transformation of businesses, prioritizing cybersecurity has become essential. The global market has witnessed a notable surge, escalating from approximately US$83.32 billion in 2016 to around US$166 billion in 2023, driven by increased recognition of data vulnerabilities and cyber threats.
Salary for Associates in Cyber Security Online
The salary for individuals with an associates degree in cyber security can vary based on several factors, including the specific job role, level of experience, geographical location, and industry. Here are some average salary figures for common entry-level positions in cybersecurity:
| Job Role | Salary |
|---|---|
| Information Security Specialist | $40,556 |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $40,556 |
| Computer Support Specialist | $112,989 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $66,000 |
| Incident Responder | $114,980 |
| Penetration Tester | $27,943 |
| Cybersecurity Architect | $69,223 |
| Security Operations Architect | $141,741 |
| Security Awareness Trainer | $83,000 |
| Cybersecurity Sales Support | $102,153 |
| Security Research Analyst | $102,153 |
Can you make a difference by getting an associate degree in cyber security?
Yes, you can make a difference with an associate degree in cyber security with data threats and privacy issues increasing. This helps you detect fraudulence using deepfake technologies, become a part of the data security team, and develop your professional skills to increase your earnings.
What’s beyond 2023 for cyber security associates?
As per Gartner’s analysis, the privacy laws would cover 75% of personal information by the end of 2024. And sooner in 2027, there will be cyber committees in 40% of organizations and all of them will need C Level executives in the team. This means that there is a lot of scope for employment and growth in jobs by opting for an online cybersecurity associate course.
Here are some of the major changes that are expected in cybersecurity associates post-2024:
- Professional knowledge and development on cybersecurity.
- Increased demand for cybersecurity jobs with a competitive salary.
- Adding more specialized roles in cybersecurity which ensures data protection.
- Education on cybersecurity laws to professionals
- Increased recruitment in cybersecurity jobs.
There could be more cybersecurity roles and jobs in the coming years since the industry is expanding, and so are the threats. Hence pace up for the best jobs and grab the best opportunities by enrolling for a cybersecurity associate degree online right away!
1. How long is cyber security school?
A cybersecurity course may take two years to complete. This time is taken to understand the uses of cybersecurity tools, practices, skill and knowledge development.
2. What Can I Do With An Associate Degree In Cybersecurity?
With an associate degree in cyber security, you can take up roles like information security analyst, cybersecurity analyst, system administrator, network engineer, or security consultant. All these roles are considered the most important ones in an organization and can offer the best average annual income competitively.
3. Is An Associate Cyber Security Worth It?
Getting an associate in cybersecurity improves your eligibility for the jobs in the industry.Moreover it helps in attaining competitive roles like Cybersecurity Analyst or Network Security Administrator. The course being affordable helps in gaining more experience, learning more about the position, and finding the best opportunities in the field.
4. Where To Learn About Cyber Security?
For aspiring cybersecurity professionals, multiple avenues offer education. Online platforms such as Coursera provide courses from top institutions, while certifications like CompTIA Security+ offer structured learning. Universities offer comprehensive programs, and dedicated online academies like Cybrary provide in-depth cybersecurity courses. Enhanced understanding of the subject, books and literature serve as valuable supplements to expand the knowledge base.
5. Jobs For Associates In Cyber Security?
In the cybersecurity field, employers often prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a related field like Computer Science or Information Technology. However, entry-level roles may accept candidates with an Associate Degree in Cybersecurity or relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+. Advanced positions and leadership roles often require a master’s degree or higher.
6. Can I finish my associate Degree 100% Online?
You can finish your cybersecurity associate degree online completely, provided you meet the necessary credit hours and complete the coursework and assignments. Always remember to do a background check of the organization you are joining. Make sure you join an accredited institution headed by experienced professionals. With the demand of computer degrees online increasing over the years, look for the credibility of the institution and the validity of the program before joining.
7. Are there opportunities for hands-on experience or internships in online programs?
Yes, the technologies these days allow you to do remote internships after you complete your associate in cybersecurity by staying connected with your organization and following their instructions.
8. How do I ensure the security of online classes in Cybersecurity programs?
You must necessarily ensure your safety and security while learning on online platforms to ensure secure learning. Kindly go through the institutional rankings to get a better understanding. Also, see to it that your data gathered through the classes are safe in your servers/ the institution’s servers. They must be strongly protected with a personal password. Most importantly, see to it that you use a good firewall and malware protection. Lastly, read through the institutions privacy policy to know all about how they keep their data confidential.
9. Can I transfer credits from an Associate’s program to a Bachelor’s program later?
Yes, you can easily transfer your credits from an Associate Degree in Cybersecurity to Bachelor’s from previous institutions if you understand the credit transfer policies.
10. Is financial aid available for online Associate’s degree programs in Cybersecurity?
Yes, there are plenty of financial aid such as scholarships, loans, and grants available for an online associate in cybersecurity online. However, you must understand the deadlines, prerequisites, requirements, and documents, to keep them ready before applying.
