Are you considering a cybersecurity degree in Arizona? Whether you are at the beginning of your academic journey or seeking advanced specialization, this page provides a comprehensive overview of top programs in the state, key accreditations, and essential factors to support your career development in the cybersecurity field.
Arizona hosts a number of well-regarded cybersecurity programs that align with the evolving needs of today’s digital security landscape. Many are accredited by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), a designation awarded by the NSA and DHS. This accreditation ensures programs meet rigorous national standards and provide graduates with recognized, career-focused credentials that are valued across the industry.
Fast Facts for Arizona:
- Cybersecurity Workforce: Approximately 30,500 professionals are employed statewide, with 8,350 job openings in the Phoenix metro area alone.
- Job Demand: From May 2023 to April 2024, Arizona had 9,896 cybersecurity job postings.
- Salary Outlook: Median annual wage for Information Security Analysts in Arizona is about $125,320, with average hourly earnings around $60/hr.
- Growth Projections: Tech employment in the state grew roughly 2.9% in 2024, with projections of about 53,000 IT and cyber jobs added over the next decade.
State Overview and Landscape
Arizona has emerged as a growing hub for cybersecurity education and workforce development, with over 17,000 cybersecurity-related job openings reported statewide in recent years. The state hosts more than 60 higher education institutions offering cybersecurity-related degrees and certifications, with several programs recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) or Cyber Operations (CAE-CO). These designations signal national recognition for curriculum rigor and industry alignment.
Cybersecurity programs in Arizona are available in multiple formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid, providing flexibility for both full-time students and working professionals.
All programs listed below meet Arizona’s academic standards and align with federal benchmarks, preparing graduates for industry certifications and competitive careers in cybersecurity.
Affordable Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs List
The following Master’s in Cybersecurity programs were selected based on their CAE designations, institutional reputation, flexible delivery formats, and strong alignment with industry needs. With fully online and hybrid options, affordable tuition rates, and direct connections to government-recognized credentials, these programs offer outstanding value for students aiming to enter or advance within the cybersecurity field.
The University of Arizona – Tucson
- Tucson, Arizona
- 33 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science Cybersecurity
Modality: Online
Things to Consider:
- Fully Online
- Six admission dates throughout the year
- 7-week course
Length: 33 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,250 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,250 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Tucson and in Arizona, the University of Arizona’s Master’s in Cybersecurity is designed for working professionals who want to gain technical mastery in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. Leveraging three of the strongest departments, this unique program is a joint program administered by Management Information Systems (MIS) at the Eller College of Management, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Systems and Industrial Engineering at the College of Engineering.
- Two concentrations are available (Information Systems and Physical Systems)
- Hands-on learning in system hardening, forensics, and threat intelligence
- Pathway to Enterprise Security Certificate from NSA/DHS-recognized department
- Taught by expert faculty across MIS, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Systems & Industrial Engineering
- Access to strong alumni and industry networks through three leading departments
- Certificate-to-degree option enhances credentials while progressing toward the master’s degree
Grand Canyon University – Phoenix
- Phoenix, Arizona
- 34 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- Offered Fully Online
- Evening Classes
Length: 34 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $600 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $600 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked among the top private universities in Arizona, Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students to defend against evolving digital threats through hands-on learning and practical training. Offered by the College of Engineering and Technology, the program focuses on white-hat practices, digital forensics, and cyber defense.
- STEM-designated
- Available online (8-week courses) or evening classes (15-week courses)
- Focus on penetration testing, digital forensics, and cyberwarfare defense
- Taught by faculty with real-world industry and technical expertise
- Flexible scheduling ideal for working professionals
- Up to 12 transfer credits accepted
- Supportive learning environment with career-focused resources and mentorship
ABET + CAE Accredited Master’s in Cybersecurity Program List
The following ABET and CAE-accredited master’s programs in Arizona offer advanced training aligned with national cybersecurity standards. These programs are recognized for their academic quality, industry relevance, and employer credibility. With flexible learning options and rigorous curricula, they prepare graduates for leadership roles in cybersecurity.
Arizona State University – Tempe
- Tempe, Arizona
- 30 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Computer Science (Cybersecurity Concentration)
Modality: Online
Things to Consider:
- 10 Classes
- Weeks per Class: 7.5
- Fully Online
- Multiple Enrollment Sessions (Summer, Spring, and Fall)
- No GRE Required
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,396 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,396 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Tempe and #2 in the state, the Master of Computer Science with a concentration in cybersecurity program helps develop the skills needed to understand information assurance and security problems, as well as come up with potential solutions.
- Covers cybersecurity, information assurance, and computer science foundations
- Offers an accelerated bachelor’s + master’s pathway (complete both in as little as five years)
- Courseware certified by the NSA to meet national security training standards
- Career paths include network architect, security analyst, systems engineer, data scientist, AI/ML engineer, software developer, and software engineer
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Prescott
- Prescott, Arizona
- 30 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security
Modality: Online
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- Can be completed in 18 to 24 months with full-time study
- GRE Required
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,309 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,309 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD, ABET
Why We Picked This Program:
If you are looking for a specialized program that blends cybersecurity with intelligence operations, Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University’s Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security provides advanced training in both technical and strategic aspects of cyber defense.
- Balanced curriculum with both academic theory and professional training
- Faculty includes experienced industry professionals and active researchers
- Offers opportunities to work with government agencies and private sector organizations
- Electives cover advanced topics in cybersecurity and cyber intelligence with lab components
- Emphasis on real-world projects and collaboration with partner organizations
- High employability for graduates
PhD in Cybersecurity Programs List
This program was selected for its dual designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research (CAE-R) and Information Assurance Education (CAE-IAE), certified courseware aligned with national cybersecurity standards, and a deep research focus in cryptography, systems security, and forensics. With access to expert faculty, advanced labs, and federal scholarship opportunities, it offers a top-tier pathway for students pursuing a cybersecurity doctorate.
Arizona State University – Tempe
- Tempe, Arizona
- 84 hours
- Campus
Program:
Ph.D. Computer Science (Cybersecurity)
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- Scholarships, Grants, and Loans Available
- 88.4% Acceptance Rate
Length: 84 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $720 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $2,060 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R, CAE-IAE
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Tempe and #2 in the state, Arizona State University’s PhD in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity offers a research-intensive curriculum grounded in information assurance, cryptography, and systems security.
- Focus areas include applied cryptography, forensics, network, and software security
- Certified courseware meets NSTISSI 4011 and CNSSI 4012 standards
- Eligible for DoD and Federal Cyber Service fellowships (domestic students)
- STEM-OPT eligible for international students on F-1 visas
- Prepares students for careers in academia, advanced research, or leadership roles in AI and cybersecurity
Bachelors in Cybersecurity Programs List
These bachelor’s programs were selected for their strong academic foundations, NSA-recognized designations as Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE), and direct relevance to today’s cybersecurity workforce. Each program offers practical, skills-based training and is available in flexible formats to suit diverse student needs.
The University of Arizona – Tucson
- Tucson, Arizona
- 120 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- Offered Online
- Scholarships, and Financial Aid Available
Length: 120 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $525 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $525 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CO
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Tucson and in Arizona, the University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations is designed for hands-on training in both offensive and defensive cyber techniques, preparing graduates for real-world cybersecurity careers.
- #1 Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Degree Programs
- 3 Emphasis areas (Cyber Engineering, Defense and Forensics, or Cyber Law and Policy)
- Strong focus on reverse engineering, ethical hacking, and malware analysis
- Includes training in forensics, network architecture, and threat intelligence
- Covers legal, ethical, and policy aspects of cybersecurity operations
- Emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scripting skills
- Prepares students for both private sector and government cyber roles
Arizona State University – Tempe
- Tempe, Arizona
- 21 credits
- Campus
Program:
BS Computer Science (Cybersecurity)
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- 88.4% Acceptance Rate
Length: 120 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $1,454 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,454 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-R, CAE-IAE
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Tempe and #2 in the state, Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing with a concentration in Cybersecurity equips students with core computing knowledge and real-world cybersecurity skills, backed by NSA-recognized courseware and strong career outcomes.
- Cybersecurity concentration adds expertise in risk assessment, analytics, and governance
- STEM-OPT Option
- Co-op work option available
- Certified courseware meets NSTISSI 4011 and CNSSI 4012 standards
- 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio for strong academic support
- 89% of grads find jobs or start grad school within 90 days
- Ranked Top 10 for tech company hires (QS World Rankings, 2022)
Salary & Career Outlook in Massachusetts
The BLS table below highlights the key occupations:
| Title | Employment | Employment percent relative standard error | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage | Hourly median wage | Annual median wage | Employment per 1000 jobs | Location Quotient |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analysts | 4,170 | 8.5 | $59.51 | $123,780 | $60.25 | $125,320 | 1.303 | 1.12 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 420 | 23.7 | $76.01 | $158,100 | $61.79 | $128,520 | 0.130 | 0.52 |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 1,460 | 9.5 | $34.82 | $72,430 | $31.41 | $65,340 | 0.455 | 0.48 |
| Computer User Support Specialists | 20,400 | 5.9 | $31.41 | $65,320 | $29.80 | $61,990 | 6.381 | 1.41 |
| Computer Network Architects | 4,340 | 10.2 | $62.01 | $128,990 | $59.95 | $124,700 | 1.357 | 1.18 |
| Database Administrators | 1,330 | 10.4 | $46.80 | $97,340 | $46.31 | $96,320 | 0.415 | 0.88 |
| Database Architects | 850 | 6.0 | $64.94 | $135,080 | $62.80 | $130,620 | 0.267 | 0.64 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 5,840 | 6.4 | $45.57 | $94,780 | $41.87 | $87,090 | 1.826 | 0.88 |
Arizona is facing a growing shortage in its cybersecurity workforce, with more than 6,800 positions currently unfilled and job growth expected to climb nearly 33 percent by 2033, outpacing national averages. The Phoenix metro area already employs 17,300 cybersecurity professionals, yet demand continues to rise as industries like healthcare, aerospace, and financial services expand their digital operations. In Mesa, the tech sector is rapidly growing, with 6,100 new roles projected by 2025, many of them in cybersecurity. The imbalance between open positions and available talent is creating strong opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals.
Major employers leading this demand include:
- Honeywell and PayPal are actively hiring for high-priority roles in cloud security, AI defense, and network protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Arizona require a state license for cybersecurity professionals?
No. Cybersecurity professionals in Arizona do not need a state license, but national certifications like CISSP or Security+ are highly recommended.
2. Will Arizona accept an out-of-state or online cybersecurity degree?
Yes. As long as the degree is from a regionally accredited school, it is accepted in Arizona.
3. Are Arizona programs accredited for certification prep like CISSP or Security+?
Yes. Many Arizona programs are CAE-CD or CAE-CO accredited, which helps prepare students for certifications like CISSP and Security+.
