Bachelor's Degree

Cybersecurity
Bachelor's Degree Online Program

CLASSES START
Jan 6th

32 Mo.

Program Length

120

Credits

Online

Format

MBA

Dual Credit

Waived Enrollment Fee

Apply Now Request Information

Bachelor's Degree

Cybersecurity
Bachelor's Degree Online Program

Your career as a cybersecurity expert IS possible with Herzing

Accreditation	Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Transfer credit	Up to 90 approved credits
Format	100% online coursework you can take right at home
Benefits	Small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors; prep for key certifications from Cisco, Microsoft and CompTIA—built-in as part of your tuition
QuickPaths	Earn dual credit towards an MBA degree program; transfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

US News Best Online Programs Bachelor's 2024 Badge

Cyber Security Bachelor's Degree - Online

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree is a 120-credit undergraduate program which prepares you for a career in information security.

The online degree program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in end-user support, network infrastructure administration, security, scripting, client/server operating systems, technical communication and much more.

Career-focused curriculum

Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

Flexible schedule

You can take classes during the day or in the evening. We strive to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

Virtual services

Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

Lifelong support

We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

Rolling admissions

No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Classes Start January 6th

Learn More Today

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Curriculum

Cybersecurity program classes & curriculum

Our undergraduate bachelor’s degree track prepares students for a wide variety of positions in the field of cybersecurity. Foundational topics include end-user support, network infrastructure administration, security, scripting, client/server operating systems, technical communication and much more. You can find a full list of classes listed below.

All classes are delivered online with a required capstone or internship (if available in your state).

Program	Monthsⁱ	Credits
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity	32	120

*Average number of months for students to complete program
Program availability varies by location

Dual-Credit MBA Option

When you enroll in our cyber security bachelor's degree program, you’ll also have the option to save time and money by earning up to 12 credits towards your Herzing Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.

Required Courses in Information Technology

All courses, 67.00 semester credit hours, are required.

CS 290 - The Internet of Things 3.00

This course will review the potential and concerns of programmable devices that are collectively referred to as the Internet of Things. The class will review how the IoT impacts business, home, and cybersecurity.

CS 310 - Cybersecurity Concepts 3.00

This course aligns with the CySA+ certification and applies behavioral analytics to improve the overall state of IT security. Students will obtain the knowledge and skills needed to prevent, detect, and combat cybersecurity threats.

CS 320 - Applied Cryptography 3.00

This course will use case studies and labs to review the asymmetric and symmetric cryptography protocols. Students will learn how the protocols work to secure the transfer and accessibility of data.

CS 330 - Cyber Law and Ethics 3.00

This course introduces students to cybercrimes and the laws that apply to them including the ethical impact in relation to society. Topics will include analyzing case studies involving cybercrime and ethics.

IS 122 - Programming Logic 3.00

This course provides instruction in fundamental object-oriented programming concepts. Topics include problem solving and algorithm development, programming standards, variables, data types, operators, decisions, repetitive statements, modularity, methods, attributes, objects, classes, arrays, file I/O, and software testing and debugging, all within an object-oriented programming framework. Concepts may be introduced with a visual tool. Topics are demonstrated and implemented in a higher-level contemporary language such as Java or C#.

IS 123 - Computer Networks 3.00

This course provides instruction in network design and technologies using the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Topics include network fundamentals, the OSI model, network operating systems, TCP/IP fundamentals and utilities, network installation and upgrades, network remote access configuration and protocols, network administration and security, fault tolerance and disaster recovery considerations and procedures, and network troubleshooting procedures.

IS 183 - Database Concepts and Applications I 3.00

This course provides an introduction to fundamental principles and guidelines for designing, developing, and implementing secure relational databases. Topics include: Database as a Service (DBaaS); entity relationships as foundations of relational database design; ensuring data integrity; the use of standard SQL as a means of developing complex queries; and the use of comparison operators to customize data presentation for reporting.

IS 187 - Computer Architecture and Troubleshooting I 3.00

This course provides instruction in microcomputer software and hardware concepts using the latest technology and troubleshooting techniques. Topics include the function and purpose of hardware and software, system board components and memory management, working with floppy and hard drives, supporting input and output devices, multimedia technology, supporting operating systems, printers, and notebook computers, troubleshooting fundamentals, applying disaster-recovery techniques and developing maintenance plans, and working with networks and the Internet.

IS 192 - Linux Administration 3.00

This course introduces the capabilities and features of Linux as a multi-user operating system. Topics include planning and installing a Linux system, using and managing desktop interfaces, working with Linux shells and text files, performing system administration and management tasks such as file system management, application, process, and module management, network services installation and configuration, system security evaluation and enhancement, performance tuning, and troubleshooting techniques.

IS 283 - Network Security 3.00

This course introduces basic security principles, such as establishing an effective security policy, and the different types of hacker activities that are most likely to be encountered. It will instruct the student in the latest security industry recommendations and how to properly protect leading OS servers in a variety of settings as well as how to conduct security audits.

IS 285 - Routers and Switches I 3.00

This course introduces part one of concepts and procedures required to utilize industry standard switches and routers in multi-protocol internetworks. Topics include exploring router components and their function, configuring routers according to the industry standard operating system (OS), routing fundamentals in a subnetted network infrastructure, and LAN design technologies. The class focuses on the TCP/IP protocol suite and IP addressing in regards to function and importance in a routed environment. Routing protocol basics, such as static and dynamic routing techniques, are covered, with extensive labs and hands-on exercises.

IS 287 - Routers and Switches II 3.00

This course is a continuation of the Routers and Switches I course and is based on current industry standards. The focus of the course will cover topics such as switching basics, intermediate routing, introduction to VLSM (variable length subnet masking), scaling IP addresses, route flapping, RIP version 2, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol implementation, switching concepts in regards to LAN design, VLAN configuration, and VLAN trunking techniques. The class also explores the leading industry standards associated with WAN communication technologies and design such as ISDN, PPP, and Frame Relay operations.

IS 296 - Python Programming 3.00

This course covers the Python programming language. Topics include the basic elements of programming, variables, assignment statements, built-in data types, conditions, loops, arrays, and I/O. This class covers programming skills such as algorithm development, and program design with functions. It also includes an introduction to object-oriented programming and GUI programming concepts and topics.

IT 120 - Technical Writing 1.00

This course is designed to help students develop skills that will enable them to produce clear and effective scientific and technical documents. Focus will be on basic principles of good writing-which scientific and technical writing shares with other forms of writing-and on types of documents common in scientific and technical fields and organizations. While the emphasis will be on writing, oral communication of scientific and technical information will form an important component of the course, as well. The processes and techniques used to produce manuals and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily will be explored.

IT 336 - Information Assurance and Security 3.00

This course develops knowledge and skills in Information Assurance and Security. Students will learn Information Assurance and Security principles; legal and ethical considerations; incident handling and reporting; risk identification and mitigation; security and operations management; security policies; security audits; and information security standards.

IT 338 - Ethical Hacking 3.00

The threat to systems is one that is continuously changing and evolving. The goal of the ethical hacker is to help organizations take pre-emptive measures against malicious attacks by attacking the system themselves while staying within legal limits. This course will explore the various means that an intruder has available to gain access to the security of a network and various resources. Students will be introduced to penetration testing with the ethics and responsibilities of testing in mind as well as various security attacks to the advanced level. The course will have an intense laboratory component which will be limited to student networks. Foundations in security policy, perimeter defenses, intrusion detection, security monitoring, liability issues, and ethics will be covered. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, penetration testing, enumerating, footprinting, scanning, hacking techniques, firewall, IDS, procedural documentation, host reconnaissance Trojans, backdoors, and system attacks such as WLAN, database servers, web servers, and e-mail servers. It must be noted that hacking is a felony in the United States and most other countries. When it is done by request and under a contract between an Ethical Hacker and an organization, it is legal.

IT 346 - Information Technology Project Management 3.00

This course covers techniques and managerial concepts of information technology project management. It prepares students to manage complex information technology projects. Students are introduced to all five major process groups in project management, namely initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing. Topics include project life cycles, cost benefit analysis, work breakdown structure, staffing, roles, responsibilities, accountability, finance, estimation, budgeting, planning, risk management, scheduling, and tracking. The course also introduces students to computer software for project management. Students will work in teams to design a project plan for a real-world IT project that demonstrates an ability to follow standard project management methodology.

NT 181 - Network and Server Operating Systems 3.00

This course develops knowledge and skills in Microsoft Windows client and server operating systems. Topics include installing the client and server operating systems, planning, installing, managing, and troubleshooting server roles, features, and network services, implementing and conducting administration of resources, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting hardware devices and drivers, monitoring and optimizing performance, reliability and availability, managing, configuring, and troubleshooting storage use, configuring and troubleshooting the desktop environment and network connections, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting network protocols, and implementing, monitoring, and troubleshooting security.

NT 201 - Network Infrastructure Administration 3.00

This course is designed to provide instruction in implementing and administering a modern network infrastructure. Topics include installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting domain name services, network protocols, Windows Internet Name Services (WINS), Internet Protocol Routing, network address translation (NAT), and Certificate Services.

NT 306 - Virtualization 3.00

This course provides instruction in computer operating system virtualization concepts and practices. Topics include business and performance benefits of virtualization, local and network storage management, creating and managing stand-alone virtual machines, cloning virtual machines, virtualization in the network operations center, software and network testing using virtualization, virtualization as a disaster recovery tool, and managing and tuning virtual machine and virtual infrastructure performance. Emphasis is placed on learning several virtualization environments and approaches, both proprietary and open-source. Concepts will be illustrated and enforced with a variety of actual installations and practical projects.

NT 326 - System Administration Scripting 3.00

This course provides an introduction to automating administrative tasks using scripts. Students will design and implement scripts of moderate complexity that automate administrative tasks such as the creation of user accounts, the administration of disk drive and printer, and the management of system services and event logs. Scripts may be written using languages such as Bourne and C, and Korn shells and JScript, VBScript, and Perl. Topics include tools and utilities, interactive command line programs, shell programming using constructs, variables, commands, functions, and debugging processes.

NT 344 - Computer and Network Forensics 3.00

This course will provide the student with instruction in computer and network forensics. Computer and network forensics is simply the application of computer and network device investigation and analysis techniques in the interests of determining potential legal evidence. Evidence might be sought in a wide range of computer crimes or misuse including, but not limited to, theft of trade secrets, theft of or destruction of intellectual property, and fraud. This may range from tracing the tracks of a hacker through a client's system to tracing the originator of defamatory e-mails and recovering signs of fraud. Topics covered in this course will include an overview of the field including components of PCs, information storage and retrieval, varieties of computer-related crimes, and securing and analyzing electronic evidence.

NT 354 - Network Defense 3.00

This class will immerse the student into an interactive environment where they will be shown how to scan, test, hack, and secure their own systems. The lab-intensive environment gives each student in-depth knowledge and practical experience with the current essential security systems. Students will begin by understanding how perimeter defenses work and then be led into scanning and attacking their own networks; no real network is harmed. Students then learn how intruders escalate privileges and what steps can be taken to secure a system. Students will also learn about intrusion detection, policy creation, social engineering, open-source intelligence, incident handling, and log interpretation.

Elective Courses in Information Technology

A minimum of 12.00 semester credit hours in the field of information technology, information systems, computer science or a related discipline are required, of which 6 credits must be at the 300, 400, 500, or 600 level.

Required Capstone or Internship

3.00 semester credit hours are required.

IT 491 - Information Technology Capstone Project 3.00

Students work individually or in project teams on an industry-sponsored or instructor-approved project. They will identify a problem, develop design specifications based on stakeholder needs, consider alternative designs, develop a schedule and/or budget, and design, develop, and test the proposed process or product. Interim reports to the sponsor or to the class, a final project report, and a final presentation will be required.

IS 495 - Internship 3.00

This is an elective course in bachelor's programs that students may take in their final semester. The career internship course is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the computer science and information technology fields. The outcome of the internship is an informed student fully apprised of the opportunities their program offers for professional growth. During the internship, the student will experience various aspects of working in the actual field in which the student has been educated. The internship is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to experience and participate in duties typical of a contemporary workplace setting. Student learning centers on observing experienced personnel as well as participating in actual hands-on procedures under close supervision of trained professionals.

Required Courses in General Education

Students enrolled in this bachelor's degree must complete a minimum of 36.00 semester credit hours in general education distributed among the following disciplines. Refer to the General Education section of the catalog for specific information about courses within each discipline. 12.00 Semester Credit Hours in Communications 9.00 Semester Credit Hours in Humanities (must include 3 semester credit hours of cultural diversity) 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Mathematics 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Science 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Personal and Professional Development Courses

2.00 semester credit hours is required.

PD 121 - Professional Development I 1.00

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success. Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

PD 202 - Professional Development II 1.00

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Requirements

Admissions requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing University Cybersecurity bachelor's degree program include:

Prior education requirement. Completion of high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
Entrance testing. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to succeed in college-level courses via prior ACT/SAT scores, completion of prior college credit, or additional entrance testing.
Availability of time, personal commitment, and a professional attitude. We exist to help enthusiastic students fully committed to reaching their highest career goals. Our faculty and leadership are dedicated to helping you reach them.

You will need to meet and interview with a Herzing University admissions advisor and complete an enrollment application to be admitted into the program.

If you have any additional questions regarding admissions into the program, please contact our admissions team.

Eligible states for enrollment: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, District Of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands.

U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs 2024

Ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the best online bachelor’s degree programs in 2024.

Herzing University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View all Herzing University Accreditations and Approvals.

Accreditation & Recognition

Our accredited & recognized online school

We strive to earn rank as one of the top private, nonprofit universities in the United States. Just as you work every day to become the best version of yourself, so do we as a university.

We are proud to have attained institutional accreditation in addition to industry recognition for our accomplishments helping students earn a college education and find career success.

Classes Start January 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Apply Now Request Info

Careers

What can I do with a degree in cybersecurity?

There are a variety of jobs you can potentially qualify for with a cybersecurity degree, including:

Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer Network Architect
Information Security Analyst
Cyber Operations Officer
Cybersecurity Technician
Incident Responder
Network Engineer
Penetration Tester (also known as an “ethical hacker”)

Information Security Analyst ranked #5 Best Job in America for 2023 by U.S. News & World Report.

View the Infographic

Every employer will have their own titles with unique roles and responsibilities. Our program is designed to help you build the foundation to qualify for many different types of jobs in cybersecurity, so you have the flexibility to pursue the career of YOUR choosing.

Elect our dual credit option towards an MBA to best position yourself for a possible career move into a management role.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Cybersecurity specialists develop and deploy the plans and software that keep data secure, private, sound, and accessible by the right people within a business or organization.

Information assurance professionals focus on the business more than the software. Instead of focusing on the design of the security, they focus more on determining what data to protect, to what extent, and whether the protections are effective. and whether the protections are effective.

As part of a cybersecurity degree program, you will take classes that provide you a fundamental knowledge of networks and information software. Herzing’s curriculum includes course topics in:

Cyber Law and Ethics
Database Concepts and Applications
Ethical Hacking
IT Project Management
Network and Server Operating Systems
Network Defense
Network Security
Programming Logic

As with any skill, learning cybersecurity takes study, practice, and hard work. However, anyone who takes genuine interest in programming, how computer networks work, and security in the age of technology is capable of learning the fundamentals of cybersecurity.

The average pay for information security analysts was $124,740 per year ($59.97 per hour), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).*

The BLS projects an increase in demand well beyond the average U.S. occupation, with employment projected to grow 32% from 2022-2032.*

People who look at cybersecurity programs may also be interested in different types of IT degrees, such as a computer networking bachelor's degree. With this degree, students learn how to install, configure, administer and maintain elements of computer network systems including software, operating systems, and programming languages.

Another popular degree choice is an information technology (IT) degree program. This degree can help prepare students to install, maintain, manage, repair and secure complex computer network systems. IT technicians support customers who are experiencing computer-related problems and troubleshoot components, hardware and software, including printers, scanners, email and work processes.

Students with a stronger interest in building applications or learning to code may prefer to explore our software development or computer programming degree programs.

On average, it takes 32 months to earn your degree in cybersecurity from Herzing University and become a cybersecurity analyst. You may be able to decrease how much time it takes by transferring up to 90 prior approved college credits into our bachelor’s degree program.

An undergraduate cybersecurity degree is a technical degree that offers students the knowledge needed to protect and defend internet/intranet computer networks, operating systems, and data from cyber attacks. It focuses on systems thinking, security principles, and adaptive incident response tactics.

Herzing’s cybersecurity program covers additional topics in cryptography, cyber law and ethics, information assurance, computer forensics and network defense.

Yes, it's worth it!

Today, cybersecurity is more important now than ever before. There are large amounts of sensitive data online, including personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), and intellectual property, all of which needs protecting.

In addition to potential high earnings and a strong projected job outlook, the field can also be personally rewarding because you can help protect important data belonging to people and organizations. The field is growing, with more and more doors opening up to great career opportunities.

If you enjoy IT, problem solving, and enjoy technical challenges, take the first step with Herzing University and start your new career.

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Cybersecurity Degree Programs

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This program prepares students for a broad range of positions in the field of cybersecurity. Foundational skills taught include end-user support, client/server operating systems, network infrastructure administration, security, scripting, database fundamentals, virtualization, and technical communication. Advanced skills include database design, project management, information technology management and business systems analysis. Coursework in this program provides a foundation for select industry certifications. These certifications enhance employment opportunities but are not a state specific requirement.

Additional topics in cybersecurity include cybersecurity concepts, cryptography, cyber law and ethics, information assurance, ethical hacking, designing network security, computer forensics and network defense.

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Information Technology (IT)

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Disclosures

* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

Cybersecurity
Bachelor's Degree Online Program

Cybersecurity
Bachelor's Degree Online Program

Your career as a cybersecurity expert IS possible with Herzing