In this day and age, every imaginable industry relies on modern technological systems to keep their businesses up and running. All of these systems are vulnerable to hackers if not kept secure by Cyber and Network Security professionals.
According to a recent article in Security Magazine, the recent enormous strain on networks, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has condensed the threat of 5 or 10 years into just a few months. The article goes on to say that this network overload is coming from two sides. There are currently more remote workers and connection points than ever before and simultaneously, more hackers who are exploiting the vast amount of interest in the coronavirus. This is leading to thousands of new scams every day which are related to the coronavirus. These scams, like the virus, are disturbing the lives of Americans. However, the article aptly points out that for these scams, we already have a vaccine….network security.
Now, more than ever, individuals with an aptitude for working with computers should strongly consider earning an online associate in network security, or its equivalent. This two-year degree prepares anyone for either entry-level positions in the job market or a bachelor’s degree program in network security.
Quick links
Check these out: Top Online Bachelor’s of Computer Engineering Degree Programs, Top 15 Online Master’s in Computer Science and 5 Best Online Schools for Doctor in Cybersecurity Degree Programs
Best Online Schools for Associate’s in Network Security DevelopmentMethodology:
METHODOLOGY: The OnlineSchoolsCenter.com researcher/writers build each ranking according to specific and individualized requirements that apply to the program itself. The requirements for the 10 Best Online Schools for Associate’s in Network Security Development included:
- An Associate of Science or an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Cybersecurity, Network Security, or an equivalent,
- Coursework reflects an emphasis on cybersecurity
- Notability among academic resources,
- A 100% online program with applicable online resources,
- Excellent faculty and staff members who are prepared to help students with any particular issue at short notice,
- And a school network that is easy to use and understand.
For more detailed information, please navigate to our Methodology Page.
MOHAVE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE CYBERSECURITY AND NETWORK SUPPORT, AAS
Program Standouts:
In the Mohave Community College online Cyber Security and Network Support Associate of Applied Science Degree, the curriculum emphasizes cybersecurity, network troubleshooting, and computer repair. Therefore, students receive a well-rounded education in computer science and network security and can apply those skills to more wide-reaching career opportunities. Individuals who wish to continue their education in a bachelor’s degree will need to take additional coursework to satisfy general education transfer requirements.
Campus Location: Kingman, AZ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Network Security and Penetration Testing
- Cybersecurity Administration
- Database Management and SQL Design
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 52%
Graduation Rate: 31.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT MOHAVE COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE CYBERSECURITY AND NETWORK SUPPORT, AAS
GUILFORD TECHNICAL AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – SECURITY AND DATA ASSURANCE DEGREE
Program Standouts:
The Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology – Security and Data Assurance Track is an in-depth two-year program that has a broad approach to the discipline in order to include as many crucial aspects as possible, such as networking technologies, intrusion detection, operating systems administration, data communications protection, and more. Guilford Technical and Community College suggests that IT students select an area of interest in which to focus their studies.
Campus Location: Jamestown, NC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Web, Program, and Database Foundation
- Network and Security Fundamentals
- OS and Device Foundation
- Security Concepts
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 48%
Graduation Rate: 19.5%
LEARN MORE ABOUT GUILFORD TECHNICAL AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – SECURITY AND DATA ASSURANCE DEGREE
CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN CYBERDEFENSE – INFORMATION ASSURANCE DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Central Texas College online Associate in Cyberdefense – Information Assurance approaches prominent issues in the field currently, including computer fraud, identity theft, breach of private company firewalls, and more. There are Certificate of Completion programs alongside the Associate of Applied Science, for those who are interested in a different path. Students of this degree program have gone on to work in Cybersecurity departments and as Information Security Specialists in their careers after learning online at CTC.
Campus Location: Lewis McChord, WA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Firewalls and Network Security
- Network Defense and Countermeasures
- Implementing Network Directory Services
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 47%
Graduation Rate: 4.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN CYBERDEFENSE – INFORMATION ASSURANCE DEGREE PROGRAM
CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ONLINE CYBER SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AS DEGREE
Program Standouts:
In the Cerro Coso Community College online Cyber Security Technology Associate of Science Degree, students learn the techniques utilized by infiltrators and hackers in order to use them to their advantage in the construction of network security measures. The coursework nurtures critical thinking and creative problem-solving while working individually and in a team. CCCC provides students with enough training to enter the job market as network security technicians, information security technicians, and more.
Campus Location: Ridgecrest, CA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- System and Network Administration
- Computer Network Fundamentals
- Introduction to Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 8.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE ONLINE CYBER SECURITY TECHNOLOGY AS DEGREE
MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGE SOUTHEAST
ONLINE CYBER AND INFORMATION SECURITY ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Program Standouts:
This online school has numerous associate degree opportunities in computer-related fields, including an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber and Information Security. The curriculum blends forensics, cyber security, networking, and criminal justice, which gives a well-rounded approach to monitoring and enforcing secure platforms. The criminal justice courses in this program provide students an understanding of the law and how to catch hackers and others trying to break through firewalls. This program is perfect for anyone interested in the field, from law enforcement to future IT professionals.
Campus Location: Red Wing, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Program Options:
- Computer-Aided Design Drafting Technologies
- Cyber and Information Security
- IT Support
- Software and Web Development
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 37.5%
LEARN MORE ABOUT MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGE SOUTHEAST ONLINE CYBER AND INFORMATION SECURITY ASSOCIATE DEGREE
GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN CYBER SECURITY
Program Standouts:
This online school’s Associate of Science in Cyber Security prepares students either for employment or continued education in a Bachelor in Cyber Security or Computer Science. The curriculum introduces critical concepts for cyber security work in business and military contracts, and students will have enough understanding of network structure, design, and security to maintain their positions of employment. Focus areas in the coursework include desktop programming, networking, data structures, and cyber information security.
Campus Location: Milledgeville, GA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Introduction to PC Database Management
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Statistics
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: unavailable
Graduation Rate: 24.6%
LEARN MORE ABOUT GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN CYBER SECURITY
PALO ALTO COLLEGE
ONLINE INFORMATION SECURITY AND ASSURANCE DEGREE
Program Standouts:
There are several applicable online Associate of Applied Science degrees in Network Security and Computer Science-related fields at Palo Alto College. However, the Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, A.A.S. would be the most relevant, of course. In this program, students design and secure computer networks of all kinds through the use of software and hardware. The other two associate’s degrees are more general in their approaches to network and computer systems.
Campus Location: San Antonio, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Program Options:
- Computer Support Specialist
- Information Security and Assurance
- Network Administrator
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 15.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT PALO ALTO COLLEGE’S ONLINE INFORMATION SECURITY AND ASSURANCE DEGREE
MINNESOTA WEST COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE
ONLINE AAS IN INFORMATION SECURITY AND ASSURANCE DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Minnesota West Community and Technical College is well-known for its excellent online programs, including the Associate of Applied Science in Information Security and Assurance. Students in this degree learn to investigate and assess, as well as fine-tune computer security and information systems, by using modern technical approaches. The broad curriculum introduces many different concepts and theories that can be used in cybersecurity positions immediately upon graduating. As an A.A.S. degree, the coursework is trade-focused and designed to prepare students for employment.
Campus Location: Worthington, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Information Security Management
- Windows Client/Server Administration
- Ethical Hacking
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 55%
LEARN MORE ABOUT MINNESOTA WEST COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S ONLINE AAS IN INFORMATION SECURITY AND ASSURANCE DEGREE PROGRAM
DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN NETWORK AND SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
Program Standouts:
This online Associate Degree in Network and Security Administration from Dakota State University introduces fundamental concepts in security, networking, and systems management. Distance education students work in virtual labs with expert instructors who teach them to use high-tech hardware and software, practice configuration, and work with network administration. The projects and homework simulate real-world situations in which students solve common network and security problems in workplaces across the world!
Campus Location: Madison, SD
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Routing and Switching
- Operating Environments
- Information Security Fund
Acceptance Rate: 84.4%
Retention Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 36.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN NETWORK AND SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT FORT KENT
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN INFORMATION SECURITY DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The online Associate of Science in Information Security from the University of Maine Fort Kent leads to both employment opportunities and degree completion programs in related fields. The coursework lays a foundation for life-long learning in computer science, information and cybersecurity, and other related areas. Graduates of this program have well-developed skills in utilizing straightforward solutions to complex problems and can communicate their ideas and issues with their team, superiors, and clients.
Campus Location: Fort Kent, ME
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Sampling of Coursework:
- Network Security
- Operating Systems Security
- Cyber Defense
Acceptance Rate: 97.2%
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 40.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT FORT KENT’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN INFORMATION SECURITY DEGREE PROGRAM
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Those who have an understanding of computers would be well-advised to consider an online Associate in Network Security or Cybersecurity. This program teaches you the fundamentals of computer science and security so that you have the credentials and credits to either earn a position of employment or continue your education in a bachelor’s degree. There is a considerable demand for well-educated individuals who have the skills to maintain the security of a business’ network and protect its finances and secrets. Many students go on to start outstanding careers in this field, immediately upon graduating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have skills in computer science before entering one of these programs?
Absolutely not! If it is your passion to gain skills in this field, and yet you have none at all, it may behoove you to take basic computer courses at first and then continue your education in Network Security major. The coursework will be somewhat demanding in that you already have some understanding of how network systems and computers work so that you can apply those skills to a more specific area of the discipline. However, remember that an Associate Degree is entry-level, and you should welcome the challenge!
Is there job security in Network Security?
There is a HUGE amount of job security in this profession! The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the job outlook for this type of career at 28% over the next 5 years. A typical annual salary for these professionals is about $98,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree, but you can also expect a comfortable wage with an Associate’s Degree. However, you can see the motivation to enter a four-year program just from these numbers!
What kind of jobs can I get with this degree?
There are a vast number of positions available for graduates of an Associate in Network Security Development. You will often find yourself working in entry-level positions at first, in which you will take the knowledge gained from your two-year degree and apply it to the real world, and that’s where the real learning begins! It may be an excellent option for some students to go directly into the workforce for this reason, whereas others may want to maintain their momentum and earn their bachelor’s. Some job titles include Security Administrator, Security Consultant, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Security Developer, Computer Security Technician, and more!