The Best Training for
Network Security in 2021
Network security is the act of protecting data, targeting threats, and maintaining the network integrity of software and hardware. As we become more and more dependent on software and data, the demand for these tech jobs increases.
If you are interested in learning network security and want to enter this lucrative tech field, this guide can teach you how. In this article, we include the best training in 2021, including the best network security schools and programs.
Rundown: The Top 10 Network Security Schools in 2021
The field of network security caters to an array of tech professionals, including cyber security engineers. Below is a rundown of the best cyber security schools and programs in 2021. The tuition cost for each program is sourced from each school’s official website.
| School | State | Programs and Cost | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | GA | Cyber Defender Certificate $230 per credit (in-state) $783 per credit (out-of-state) Healthcare Information Security Certificate $230 per credit (in-state) $783 per credit (out-of-state) |
CISSP |
| Colorado State University Global | Online | Undergraduate Specialization in Cybersecurity $350 per credit Online Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity $350 per credit |
None |
| Columbus State University | OH | Nexus in Cybersecurity $182.13 per credit hour (in-state) $642.73 per credit hour (out-of-state) |
None |
| Daytona State College | FL | Advanced Technical Certificate in Cybersecurity and Cyberforensics $82.24 per credit (in-state) $328.96 per credit (out-of-state) |
None |
| Harvard Extension School | MA | Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate $2,900 per course |
None |
| Oregon State University | Online | Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity $527 per credit |
None |
| University of Florida | FL | Information Security Certificate $518.06 per credit (in-state) $621.59 per credit (out-of-state) |
None |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Online | Bachelor of Science in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity $306 per credit (in-state) $499 per credit (out-of-state) Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy $306 per credit (in-state) $499 per credit (out-of-state) Master of Science in Cybersecurity Technology $694 per credit |
A+, Network+, Security+, CEH, CCNA, Linux+, CCE, CISSP, ICMDE, CSIH, CySA+ |
| University of Washington, Professional & Continuing Education | Online | Certificate in Cybersecurity $3,999 total |
SSCP, CISSP |
| Wilmington University | DE | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Network Security $1,170 per course |
CISA, CISSP, A+. Linux+, Security+, Network+ |
How to Pick the Best Network Security School for You
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The number of network security and cyber security schools today, both online and in-person, are endless. So, how do you know which school is the best for you? You should consider several factors before you apply. Read below for guidelines that will help you choose the best network security school.
Career Goals
The field of network security opens up countless professional possibilities. Depending on your career goals, you can become a cyber security consultant, network security engineer, security analyst, and more. Therefore, when picking your program, choose the one that suits your network security career goals the most.
Program Length
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is the time you want to spend on the program. There are many universities that offer a four-year bachelor’s and even a three-year master’s in fields related to network security. However, that’s not a viable option for everyone as it requires both a financial and a time commitment.
You can take a shorter route by enrolling in a coding bootcamp or community college. It is important to take your time to reflect on your commitment level and pick the program that suits you best.
Tuition and Fees
Financial factors are vital when choosing a program. Always pick the school that offers tuition affordable for you. Get in touch with the school’s admission department and learn about the different financing options. If you find a plan that works for you, use that to pay for your tuition and get the best network security education.
Job Placement Rate
In addition to the above factors, you must also be mindful of the school’s job placement rate from the particular program. Therefore, research the program’s success rate. You can learn about what kinds of jobs that graduates get and how long it takes to get them.
The Best Network Security Schools of 2021
Now that you know the names of the best network security schools of 2021, continue reading to find more about them. Each program has different benefits, including online education, so choose the one that suits your needs.
Augusta University
Programs
Healthcare Information Security Certificate, Cyber Defender Certificate
Accreditation
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
Available
Augusta University features a general cyber security certificate program, called Cyber Defender, for those who have yet to commit to a particular industry. But if you’re interested in applying these skills to the healthcare system, try the Healthcare Information Technology Certificate. It will teach you how to leverage cyber security tools in a medical environment.
Healthcare Information Security Certificate Curriculum
Information systems security
Data confidentiality
Cyber security trends and issues
Business administration
Certification prep
Colorado State University Global
Programs
Online Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, Online Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
Online only
Colorado State University’s global school offers a plethora of technical and non-technical certificate programs. In the cyber security program, you will learn how to detect and prevent digital threats. You only need to take six courses to get this certificate. Colorado State also offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security.
Online Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Curriculum
Information assurance
Cyber threats
Crime investigation
Ethical hacking
Penetration testing
Columbus State University
Programs
Nexus in Cybersecurity
Accreditation
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
Available
Although CSU offers a few different cyber security programs, the Nexus in Cybersecurity is the most unique. If you are interested in a career change or simply want to learn the subject, this program is for you. This cyber security program acts as a mini-degree to fill the gap of cyber security professionals. It also includes an apprenticeship.
Nexus in Cybersecurity Curriculum
Security control
Fintech
Quality control
System administration
Attack prevention
Daytona State College
Programs
Advanced Technical Certificate in Cybersecurity and Cyberforensics
Accreditation
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Online Options
Available
Daytona State College’s advanced certificate program can help you build a career in an array of tech fields. They include computer network security, information systems security, and many others. Because this is an advanced certificate, you will need to have earned an associate degree or bachelor’s degree before you apply.
Advanced Technical Certificate in Cybersecurity and Cyberforensics Curriculum
Linux administration
Security methods
Digital forensics
Security solution design
Forensic procedures
Disaster recovery
Harvard Extension School
Programs
Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate
Accreditation
New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Online Options
Available
The Harvard Extension School’s online program is designed to help you understand the real world. The school reports that over 86 percent of its students work full-time while they study. The program is ideal for those interested in building a career in cyber security and enhancing their knowledge from a highly regarded school.
Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Curriculum
Data networks
Communication technology
Information security risks
International and national threats
Oregon State University
Programs
Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Accreditation
The Northwestern Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
Online Only
The Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity is perfect for either alumni or new students who want to learn more about cyber security. This certificate program is completely online. One of the courses focuses on defending computer systems against hacking and malware and is called “Defense Against the Dark Arts,” inspired by Harry Potter.
Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Curriculum
System security threats
Confidentiality
Data availability
Network security
Cryptography
Information security governance
Digital forensics
University of Florida
Programs
Information Security Certificate
Accreditation
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
Available
The University of Florida’s information science department offers this specialized certificate. This is a graduate-level program that requires 12 credits, or four courses. You will need at least a B to earn the certificate. To apply, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, but only if you are seeking a degree.
Information Security Certificate Curriculum
Network security
Cryptology
Penetration testing
Information security
Reverse engineering
Ethical hacking
University of Maryland Global Campus
Programs
BS in Cybersecurity Management and Policy, BS in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity, MS in Cybersecurity Technology
Accreditation
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
Online Only
The University of Maryland Global Campus is one of the best schools for cyber security online degrees. It offers an online master’s degree, multiple bachelor’s degrees, and even certificates. The programs are completely online so you can study from anywhere. Also, most programs at this school include vouchers to help you get cyber security certifications.
BS in Computer Networks and Cybersecurity Curriculum
Operating systems
Risk assessment
Organizational cyber security
Network engineering
Cloud services
Certification prep
University of Washington, Professional & Continuing Education
Programs
Certificate in Cybersecurity
Accreditation
The Northwestern Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Options
Online only
The University of Washington’s Professional and Continuing Education programs are suitable for a diverse audience. The school offers live online evening classes so you can both work and study. The Certificate in Cybersecurity is an in-depth eight-month program that will help you prepare for the SSCP and CISSP certification exams.
Certificate in Cybersecurity Curriculum
Trends in the field
Identifying threats
Cyber security tools
Cloud services
Protective strategies
Certification prep
Wilmington University
Programs
BS in Computer and Network Security
Accreditation
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Options
Available
Wilmington University offers tons of graduate and undergraduate degree programs. If you are looking to earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Network Security, then this university is a great choice. You will learn everything you need to know to become a network security engineer or analyst.
BS in Computer and Network Security Curriculum
Computer ethics
Databases
Digital forensics
Network security
Certification prep
How Much Can You Earn as a Network Security Professional?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a network security specialist is $97,655. This is equivalent to around $46.95 per hour. This number will change depending on your experience, workplace, and position.
Network security is a broad field that opens up an array of career possibilities. If you study network security, you can become an information security analyst, a security software developer, and more. Below are the average salaries for various roles in this field.
The Highest-Paying Network Security Roles
| Role | Required Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Network Security Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $143,014 |
| Cyber Security Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $120,708 |
| Security Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $117,060 |
| Cyber Security Consultant | Bachelor’s degree | $115,767 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,944 |
Why You Should Be a Network Security Professional in 2021
It is no secret that the world today is full of precious data. Network security engineers are vital to protect that data. If you are interested in the security field, then you should be a network security professional in 2021. Along with a competitive salary and a promising career, network security allows you to combine several other fields.
