An online associate degree in cyber security may offer students the skills and training needed to protect computers through network security. Students enrolled in these two-year programs may learn how to select appropriate technology for solving business issues, update software and hardware applications, and demonstrate technological knowledge pertaining to computer security. Coursework within these programs may include a couple of general education courses alongside electives and major-specific courses, such as routing protocols, programming fundamentals, and network security.

Graduates may either seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in cyber or network security. Associate-level graduates may find employment opportunities in several settings, including information technology and telecommunications.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 28% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online associate-level program in cyber security may combine a handful of general education requirements as well as major-specific security related courses and electives. Students enrolled in these two-year programs may learn how to access and transfer information via public and private computer networks. Core online cyber security courses may include the following:

• Network Security
• Routing Protocols
• PC Hardware and Software
• Computer Forensics
• UNIX Operating Systems
• Programming Fundamentals
• Cyber Law

Career Options

Graduates of online associate level programs in cyber security may find career opportunities in computer security, information technology, and telecommunications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as network and computer systems administrators are expected to increase by 28% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Computer Security Specialist
• Network and Computer Systems Administrator
• Database Administrator
• Software Developer
• Computer Network Architect

Continuing Education

Graduates of online associate degree programs in cyber security may pursue additional education and enroll in a baccalaureate-level program in cyber or network security. These four-year programs may cover areas such as operational procedures, integrity, information systems, and policies pertaining to network security. Employers may prefer to hire individuals for network and computer system administration jobs who have at least a bachelor’s degree. Individuals may also obtain certifications through Microsoft, Cisco, and Red Hat.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook