Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Many schools offer online master’s in information assurance and security programs. These programs train learners to protect information and knowledge sources. Graduates may work for corporations or government agencies. Many degree-holders work as information security analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for these workers to grow 29% from 2024-2034.
This page lists the best master’s in information assurance and security degrees. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become an information security analyst.
Popular Master’s in Information Assurance and Security Online Programs
The 20 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security Degrees
Why Get a Master’s Degree in Information Assurance and Security?
Earning a degree can help graduates qualify for high-paying careers. Computer and information technology professionals earn a median $105,990 annually as of May 2024.
Students pursuing an online master’s in information assurance and security degree benefit from flexibility. Many programs run asynchronously, letting enrollees complete assignments when convenient. Online learners also save time and money by not traveling to campus.
How Much Does an Information Assurance and Security Degree Cost?
Master’s degrees cost an average of $62,820 as of November 2024, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, learners’ residency status, and program length. Full-time students can usually complete a master’s degree in two years. Some schools offer accelerated programs that let students graduate sooner. Quickly finishing a degree can help learners avoid rising tuition rates.
Learners attending in-state public schools typically pay the most affordable tuition. Online degree-seekers can explore top programs without moving. This benefit can help them save money by attending the most affordable program.
Additional Online Student Fees
Some schools do not charge online learners campus maintenance or student activity fees. However, other schools charge these fees plus extra online fees. The online fees may cover expenses like a virtual classroom management platform.
Online degree-seekers may need to buy computer software and technology. They should also budget for supplies and books. Students can save money by renting books or buying used or virtual copies.
How Much Do Information Assurance and Security Graduates Make?
Salaries vary by professionals’ job title, employer, and geographic location. Graduates with a master of science in information assurance earn an average of $103,000 annually, according to April 2023 Payscale data.
Information security analysts earn a median $124,910 annually, according to the BLS. These professionals who live in California earn a mean wage of $140,730. Information security analysts in Washington earn $148,090.
Courses in Information Assurance and Security
An online master’s in information assurance and security usually requires 30-36 credits. This includes 10-12 classes. Students learn to identify system vulnerabilities and protect network systems. Many classes focus on interpersonal communication. Degree-seekers learn how to explain findings and suggestions in easy-to-understand ways.
Most master’s programs require a capstone or thesis project. Some programs offer concentrations in topics like ethical hacking or auditing.
Students pursuing a master’s in information assurance and security degree often take the three classes below. Please note that not every school offers these exact classes.
Learners read case studies about major cybercrimes and identify preventable measures for each scenario. The curriculum covers how the United States’ justice system plays a role in protecting cybersecurity. Part of the course identifies how to use ethical hacking to solve crimes.Cybercrimes
This class covers best practices for keeping a company or organization’s virtual data safe. Students learn the pros and cons of many types of security software. They also learn the importance of software updates. The class covers various ways of keeping all system computers current.Cybersecurity Software and Procedures
This class highlights how computer hardware, software, and encoding work together to protect a system from intruders. Students learn how to encrypt data for authorized individuals. They also learn how to decode encrypted data. The class discusses the possibility and history of cyberwarfare.Firewalls and Data Encryption Programs
How to Become an Information Security Analyst
Aspiring information security analysts first need a bachelor’s degree. Most master’s in information assurance and security online programs require a related undergraduate degree. Some programs allow students with unrelated undergraduate majors to complete prerequisite courses.
Degree-seekers complete industry research. They practice resolving security threats and showing knowledge through a capstone project.
Recent graduates often gain experience as network and computer systems administrators before applying for more advanced jobs. Most leadership roles in this field require certification. Employers often prefer to hire certified information systems security professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Information Assurance and Security
Q. What can you do with an information security and assurance degree?
Graduates often work as information security analysts. Degree-holders may also work as information technology specialists.
Q. What degree do you need for information security?
Professionals can practice with just a bachelor’s degree. The degree must typically relate to information security.
Q. Do cybersecurity jobs pay well?
Yes. Many cybersecurity jobs pay more than the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations, according to the BLS. Information security analysts and computer network architects earn six-figure salaries.