Virginia is home to many federal agencies that require cyber security experts to protect confidential government information from the hands of international hackers and ransomware firms. Professionals in the field of cyber security can seriously consider landing positions at the FBI or CIA, and can also work as contractors that provide services to government entities like the state legislature or governor's office.
These professionals typically need a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, but can also complete associate degree programs before pursuing their CISSP and applying to jobs. Most programs include classes that provide skills in software development, coding, and forensic analysis.
This industry continues to grow with the economy, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for over 16,000 cyber security specialists in the state of Virginia, the highest of any state nationwide.
George Mason University offers 4 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large suburb. In 2022, 141 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 122 Bachelor's degrees, 15 Master's degrees, and 4 Certificates.
Old Dominion University offers 6 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 170 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 98 Bachelor's degrees, 64 Master's degrees, and 8 Certificates.
Virginia Commonwealth University offers 2 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a midsize city.
University of Virginia-Main Campus offers 4 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 6 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 6 Certificates.
Liberty University offers 6 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 119 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 105 Master's degrees, 11 Bachelor's degrees, and 3 Certificates.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers 1 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city.
Strayer University-Virginia offers 2 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a small, private for-profit, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 15 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 15 Master's degrees.
University of Richmond offers 2 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a midsize city.
University of Lynchburg offers 2 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city.
Radford University offers 3 Cyber Security degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 27 Cyber Security students graduated with students earning 16 Certificates, and 11 Bachelor's degrees.
School | Average Tuition | Student Teacher Ratio | Enrolled Students | |
---|---|---|---|---|
ECPI University Virginia Beach, VA | 30 : 1 | 11,740 | ||
Marymount University Arlington, VA | 24 : 1 | 3,711 | ||
George Mason University Fairfax, VA | 27 : 1 | 39,049 | ||
Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA | 27 : 1 | 23,107 | ||
Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA | 22 : 1 | 28,082 |