Are you looking to launch or advance a career in cybersecurity? Missouri offers some of the nation’s strongest programs, from master’s degrees to specialized certifications, designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the fast-growing cybersecurity field.
These programs are accredited by respected bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ABET, and recognized by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), ensuring they meet high academic and industry standards. This guide will help you explore the top cybersecurity programs in Missouri and understand the key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your goals.
Key Takeaways:
- Top Universities: Missouri hosts respected programs at institutions such as the University of Central Missouri, Southeast Missouri State, and Webster University, many of which are accredited by ABET and CAE-CD.
- Strong Job Growth: Cybersecurity roles in Missouri are projected to grow by over 32% through 2032, with demand especially strong in St. Louis and Kansas City.
- Salary Range: Entry-level positions start around $65K–$85K, while experienced professionals can earn $185K–$225K annually.
- Certification Advantage: Credentials like Security+ or GSEC boost earning potential, with certified professionals averaging $98K compared to $82K for non-certified peers.
- Cost of Living: With a cost of living about 11% below the national average, Missouri offers an affordable environment for cybersecurity professionals to build their careers.
State Overview & Landscape
Missouri is emerging as a strong center for cybersecurity education, offering programs that address the growing need for skilled professionals in both the public and private sectors. The state is home to over 30 accredited colleges and universities, with several recognized by the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE-CD) and ABET for their high academic and technical standards. Institutions such as the University of Central Missouri, Webster University, and Southeast Missouri State University lead the way in preparing students for advanced roles in cybersecurity and information assurance.
Programs in Missouri are available in on-campus, fully online, and hybrid formats, giving students flexibility to balance education with professional or personal commitments.
All programs highlighted here meet accreditation standards from nationally recognized bodies like ABET and CAE-CD, ensuring graduates are prepared for licensure pathways and high-demand careers in cybersecurity.
Affordable Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs List
The following Master’s in Cybersecurity programs are selected for their academic quality, affordability, and strong student outcomes. Each program is accredited by respected bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), ensuring a rigorous, industry-aligned curriculum. Students can choose from flexible formats, including fully online, hybrid, and on-campus options, making these programs accessible for both working professionals and full-time learners.
Missouri State University – Springfield
- Springfield, Missouri
- 30 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master’s in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- 30-hour program
- Fully Online
- Can be completed in two years
- Scholarships and Financial Aid Available
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $393 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $393 per credit hour
Accreditation: HLC
Why We Picked This Program:
The Missouri State University, ranked #1 in Springfield and #7 in the state, offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity that blends technical expertise with leadership skills. Students benefit from immersive labs, career-focused training, and flexible learning options.
- Hands-on cybersecurity labs and simulations
- Prepares graduates for roles like Chief Information Security Officer
- Emphasis on leadership and advanced technical skills
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, Missouri
- 30 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Masters of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- Practical focus with extensive lab and experiential learning opportunities
- Available fully online
- Scholarships Available
- Internships Available
- Can be completed in two years
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $276 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $552 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #11 in Missouri, UCM’s M.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance stands out for its affordability, strong academic quality, and university-wide commitment to cybersecurity excellence. It offers a flexible curriculum that prepares students for critical cybersecurity roles.
- Faculty includes multiple professionals with SANS GIAC certifications
- Offers hands-on experience via 24/7 access to NDG NetLab, internships, research, study abroad, and industry tours
- Ranked among the top 50 cybersecurity master’s programs and noted for affordability
- Graduates have secured positions at firms like Cerner, Federal Reserve Bank, SAIC, H&R Block, and Garmin
ABET + CAE Accredited Master’s in Cybersecurity Programs List
Missouri offers several strong options for students pursuing advanced degrees in cybersecurity, with programs designed to balance technical expertise, leadership training, and real-world application. Universities such as Washington University in St. Louis and Webster University provide accredited master’s programs that prepare graduates for leadership and specialized technical roles. These programs are available in flexible formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid study, making them accessible to both full-time students and working professionals.
Washington University in St Louis
- Saint Louis, Missouri
- 30 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master’s in Cybersecurity Management
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- 10 Courses
- Fully online (Part-time) option available only for domestic students
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $2,187 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $2,187 per credit hour
Accreditation: HLC
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis offers a Master of Cybersecurity Management (MCSM) designed for mid- to senior-level professionals. The program blends leadership training with advanced cybersecurity strategy, available in both online and on-campus formats.
- Focuses on governance, risk, and operations in cybersecurity
- Prepares for roles like CISO and cybersecurity director
- STEM Designated
Webster University
- Saint Louis, Missouri
- 36 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Cybersecurity Operations (MS)
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- Flexible format (online, on-campus, or hybrid)
Length: 36 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $730 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $730 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #8 in the state, Webster University’s MS in Cybersecurity Operations is a practical and forward-looking program that combines technical acumen with real-world strategy.
- STEM Designated
- Capstone projects
- Curriculum covers cybersecurity infrastructure, strategic operations, risk management, encryption, and social engineering
- Wide elective range: cybersecurity law, forensics, cloud computing, emerging technologies, space asset protection
- Dual degree option with MA in National Security Studies (54 credits, two diplomas)
PhD in Cybersecurity Programs List
We selected this program based on its academic quality, accreditation, and strong research opportunities in cybersecurity. The University of Missouri–Kansas City’s Ph.D. in Computer Science with a cybersecurity specialization emphasizes rigorous, research-driven training. This listing is not sponsored, and all information has been compiled from reliable sources for transparency.
University of Missouri
- Kansas City, Missouri
- 42 hours
- Campus
Program:
Ph.D. in Computer Science — Cybersecurity Specialization
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- Can be completed in 4 to 5 years
- Competitive admissions, with preference for applicants with a solid computer science background
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
Length: 42 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $512 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,286 per credit hour
Accreditation: HLC
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Kansas and #4 in the state, UMKC’s Ph.D. in Computer Science offers students the opportunity to specialize in cybersecurity through a rigorous, research-driven curriculum. The program combines advanced coursework with hands-on research, preparing graduates for leadership in academia, government, and industry.
- Three Specialization options, including cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence
- Access to UMKC’s Cybersecurity Center with expertise in AI for cybersecurity, network/cloud security, and digital forensics
- Strong research and industry connections with organizations like Oak Ridge National Lab, T-Mobile, and TripleBlind
- Close mentorship from faculty and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
Bachelors in Cybersecurity Programs List
We selected these bachelor’s programs based on their strong curriculum, accreditation, and industry relevance. All programs listed are accredited by recognized bodies and provide both on-campus and flexible learning options. The information is sourced from reliable data, and none of the listings are sponsored.
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, Missouri
- 120 hours
- Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus
Things to Consider:
- 100% of graduates are employed within six months
- The Cyber Defense team has won the statewide championship for nine consecutive years.
Length: 120 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $259 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $478 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD, ABET
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #1 in Cape Girardeau and #9 in Missouri, Southeast Missouri State University’s M.S. in Cybersecurity prepares graduates to defend critical infrastructure with advanced technical skills. The program emphasizes immersive learning through facilities like the Stamp Cyber Command Center and the SEMO Cyber Range, supported by expert faculty guidance and real-world projects.
- Students can choose between thesis or non-thesis (project) tracks
- Coursework covers computational cryptography, system administration security, network defense, and advanced forensics
- Facilities such as the Cyber Command Center and live Cyber Range provide hands-on experience
- Graduate assistantships are available to support both professional development and financial needs
- Career opportunities include roles such as penetration tester, security architect, malware analyst, and network security engineer
- Recent graduates have secured employment and internships with organizations including FireEye Mandiant, CrowdStrike, Emerson Electric, and MasterCard
University of Missouri
- Saint Louis, Missouri
- 30 hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Things to Consider:
- On-campus only — not suited for students seeking an online program
- Expensive for out-of-state students
- Available on-campus, fully online, and in evening formats
Length: 30 credit hours
Tuition:
- In-State: $120 per credit hour
- Out-of-state: $1,070 per credit hour
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Why We Picked This Program:
Ranked #6 in Missouri, the University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) B.S. in Cybersecurity is nationally recognized for excellence in cyber defense education. The program combines technical and managerial skills, with flexible study options to fit diverse student needs.
- Hands-on training through the Cybersecurity and IT Innovation Lab (CITIL)
- Focus on real-world skills in digital forensics, network defense, and cloud security
- Two emphasis areas: choose between Computer Science (technical focus) or Information Systems and Technology (applied/business focus)
- STEM Designated
- Students will develop both theoretical foundations and applied skills through hands-on labs, workshops, competitions, projects, and internships.
Salary & Career Outlook in Missouri
The BLS table below highlights the key occupations:
| Occupation | Employment | Employment RSE | Employment per 1,000 jobs | Location quotient | Median hourly wage | Mean hourly wage | Annual mean wage | Mean wage RSE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analysts | 3,000 | 17.2% | 1.042 | 0.90 | $46.54 | $49.19 | $102,320 | 3.5% |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 510 | 19.7% | 0.177 | 0.76 | $52.11 | $64.04 | $133,200 | 11.7% |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | 4,300 | 10.3% | 1.494 | 1.43 | $27.21 | $33.07 | $68,790 | 4.2% |
| Computer Network Architects | 3,790 | 10.7% | 1.319 | 1.15 | $52.77 | $55.67 | $115,800 | 8.7% |
| Database Administrators | 1,640 | 8.3% | 0.571 | 1.14 | $39.25 | $43.59 | $90,660 | 2.5% |
| Database Architects | 1,930 | 17.3% | 0.670 | 1.70 | $49.43 | $51.23 | $106,560 | 3.3% |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | 6,330 | 4.5% | 2.202 | 1.03 | $39.68 | $42.83 | $89,080 | 1.9% |
| Software Developers | 18,450 | 5.6% | 6.415 | 0.59 | $50.29 | $51.91 | $107,980 | 1.4% |
The demand for cybersecurity professionals in Missouri is projected to grow by more than 32% through 2032. However, the state faces a significant shortage, with a supply-to-demand ratio of just 76% and thousands of cybersecurity job openings currently unfilled. This talent gap is especially critical in sectors like finance, healthcare, and aerospace, where skilled professionals are needed to protect sensitive systems and data.
Several prominent organizations in Missouri are actively hiring cybersecurity professionals, including:
- Boeing (St. Louis, MO): Recruiting cybersecurity specialists in areas such as network defense, aerospace security, and risk management.
- Mastercard (O’Fallon, MO): Hiring cybersecurity talent to support global payment security, fraud prevention, and data protection initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How fast is the cybersecurity job market growing in Missouri?
Cybersecurity roles in Missouri are projected to grow about 32% through 2032, making it one of the fastest-growing fields in the state.
2. Does Missouri accept out-of-state online degrees?
Yes. Missouri accepts online degrees from accredited out-of-state institutions.
3. Are specific cybersecurity certifications required in Missouri?
No state-mandated certifications exist, but employers often seek CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CEH.
4. What local employers are hiring cybersecurity professionals?
Top employers include FBI, Mastercard, Centene, and Boeing, with nearly 12,500 postings in the past year.
5. What challenges are new cybersecurity graduates facing in Missouri?
Graduates face competition for jobs, employer preference for experienced hires, and gaps in technical skills such as network defense and ethical hacking.
