As far as industries go, cybersecurity is one of Virginia’s most profound. This is due to the state’s initiatives geared towards developing a cybersecurity workforce through various educational avenues. The state’s higher education ecosystem is one of the foremost in the country regarding cybersecurity employment and career prospects; almost 12,000 degrees and certifications in technology are issued annually.
Well-known educational institutions like Virginia Tech, George Mason University, and the University of Virginia offer Applied and Interdisciplinary Major programs that merge academic study with real-world demands. Through programs of this nature supported by the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI), students obtain robust theoretical foundations and practical skills required for a career in cybersecurity.
Affordable Masters in Cybersecurity Programs in Virginia
Virginia is particularly appealing for students seeking a high-quality master’s education in cybersecurity due to its affordable Master’s programs. Several institutions offer affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, and flexible learning strategies such as fully online and hybrid options, which are convenient for employed individuals. These programs aim to meet national cybersecurity standards while remaining available to a broad range of students.
Here are some cybersecurity programs:
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, Virginia
- 30 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: CAE-CO, CAE-CD
Tuition: $571 per credit for 30 credits – about $17,130 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program is designed to prepare cybersecurity technology leaders. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in the technical aspects of cybersecurity and management of cybersecurity projects.
University of Fairfax
- Roanoke, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Cybersecurity Management
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: DEAC
Tuition: $529 per credit for 36 credits – about $19,044 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program aims to prepare students to be strategic contributors in the development, implementation, and evaluation of security programs and policies. The curriculum covers secure software development, risk management, and security operations.
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Cyber Security
Modality: Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $565 per credit for 36 credits – about $20,340 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program equips students with hands-on skills needed to be cybersecurity professionals, balancing theory and practice. Courses cover digital forensics, ethical hacking, and network security.
ABET + CAE Accredited Masters in Cybersecurity Programs in Virginia
Virginia’s master’s programs in cybersecurity are reinforced by key accreditations that guarantee excellence, applicability, and conformity to national security and industry requirements. The two most prominent of them are CAE (Centers of Academic Excellence) and ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), each of which has a unique but complementary function.
- ABET Accreditation ensures that a program meets rigorous academic and technical standards in engineering and computing disciplines, preparing students for real-world problem-solving.
- CAE designation, awarded by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security, recognizes programs that meet federal standards for cyber defense and operations.
Employers who prioritize security and government agencies find graduates with these accreditations to be very appealing. All of these accreditations show that Virginia’s institutes are providing cutting-edge cybersecurity coursework that satisfies industry standards.
ECPI
- Richmond, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $720 per credit for 36 credits – about $25,920 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program prepares graduates for leadership roles in IT security, focusing on areas like cryptography, forensics, and network security. Through an accelerated schedule, students can complete the degree in as little as 16 months.
Hampton University
- Hampton, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Cyber Security
Modality: Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $695 per credit for 36 credits – about $25,020 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program offers a multidisciplinary approach to cybersecurity education, emphasizing information assurance and cyber defense. The curriculum includes courses in cryptography, secure software engineering, and computer forensics.
Norfolk State University
- Norfolk, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online
Program:
MS Cybersecurity
Modality: Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $746 per credit for 36 credits – about $26,856 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program covers topics like digital forensics, ethical hacking, and penetration testing. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates to defend against cyberattacks across various sectors.
PhD Programs in Cybersecurity in Virginia
The dedication of Virginia to the research and issues concerning development is well captured in the PhD programs offered in the area of cybersecurity. Certain universities like Virginia Tech offer Ph.D. degrees in computer science and computer engineering with an inclusion of hardware security, network security, and information security. George Mason University has also incorporated policy as well as technical skills in the Cyber Security Engineering and Digital Forensics specializations offered in the Ph.D. in Information Technology. Along with these, Virginia Commonwealth University also offers computer science Ph.D. programs, which have concentrations in cybersecurity. This enables students to balance the national security concerns with the ever-evolving cybersecurity domain.
Here are some cybersecurity programs:
Marymount University, School of Technology and Innovation
- Arlington, Virginia
- 36 credits
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
D.Sc. in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $1,190 per credit for 36 credits – about $42.840 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program prepares professionals for leadership roles in cybersecurity across academia, industry, and government. The curriculum emphasizes applied research in areas such as cyber threat intelligence, malware analysis, and cybersecurity policy.
Virginia Tech
- Blacksburg, Virginia
- 90 credits
- Campus
Program:
Ph.D. in Computer Science or Computer Engineering
Modality: On-Campus
Accreditation: ABET
Tuition: $1,132 per credit for 90 credits – about $101,880 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program offers research opportunities in areas such as hardware security, network security, and information security. The programs are designed to be completed in approximately five years and prepare students for careers in academia, industry, and government.
George Mason University
- Fairfax, Virginia
- 72 credits
- Campus
Program:
Ph.D. in Information Technology
Modality: On-Campus
Accreditation: ABET
Tuition: $950 per credit for 72 credits – about $68,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program offers concentrations in Cyber Security Engineering and Digital Forensics, integrating both policy and technical skills. The program focuses on the science, engineering, and technology of information processing, preparing students for innovation in a data-driven world.
Virginia Commonwealth University
- Richmond, Virginia
- 72 credits
- Campus
Program:
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Modality: On-Campus
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Tuition: $235 per credit for 72 credits – about $16,920 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program offers opportunities to specialize in cybersecurity, enabling students to balance national security concerns with the evolving cybersecurity domain.
Virginia Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Reflecting the state’s commitment to building a strong workforce geared toward modern digital challenges, Virginia offers a wealth of bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity. For example, Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech, and George Mason University offer extensive undergraduate programs that cover the practical and theoretical aspects of network security, digital forensics, and cyber policy. These programs are often recognized by national accrediting bodies, ensuring they meet high standards of academic and professional excellence. Emphasizing interdisciplinary education along with hands-on experience, Virginia’s cybersecurity bachelor’s programs allow graduates to either enter the workforce or pursue advanced studies immediately.
Here are some cybersecurity programs:
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, Virginia
- 120 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: CAE-CO, CAE-CD
Tuition: $374 per credit for 120 credits – about $44,880 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This interdisciplinary program combines criminal justice, computer science, and information technology to provide a comprehensive understanding of cybercrime, cybersecurity, cyber law, and digital forensics. Students gain foundational knowledge in crime and criminal justice, preparing them for careers in cybersecurity and law enforcement.
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- 120 credits
- Online
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cyber & Digital Forensics
Modality: Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $395 per credit for 120 credits – about $47,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program integrates coursework in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and criminal justice. It equips students with the skills to analyze cyber threats and digital evidence, preparing them for roles in cyber defense and forensic investigations.
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- 120 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD
Tuition: $603 per credit for 120 credits – about $72,360 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program prepares students to develop and implement digital security strategies across various sectors, including government, military, and private industries. It emphasizes network security, data protection, and ethical hacking.
University of the Potomac
- Vienna, Virginia
- 120 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Policy
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: MSCHE
Tuition: $240 per credit for 120 credits – about $28,800 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program focuses on preparing students to combat cybercrime and protect digital resources from threats like hacking, fraud, and malware. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes cybersecurity principles, policy development, and risk management strategies.
George Mason University
- Fairfax, Virginia
- 120 credits
- Online + Campus
Program:
BAS Concentration in Cybersecurity
Modality: On-Campus and Online
Accreditation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Tuition: $547 per credit for 120 credits – about $65,640 plus other fees
Program Overview:
This program builds upon existing knowledge to prepare students for careers in cybersecurity. It covers topics such as network security, ethical hacking, and risk management, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
Application Tips and Financial Guidance for Virginia Students
Students looking to enroll in a Virginia cybersecurity degree program need to satisfy an academic and program-specific prerequisite.
- Most colleges and universities consider a baseline in subjects like mathematics, computer science, or information technology.
- For some undergraduate programs, SAT or ACT scores are mandatory; some graduate programs also require GRE scores, although many schools are shifting towards a test-optional policy.
- A well-accomplished profile is enhanced by strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with programming or fundamental knowledge in cybersecurity.
- Students are more likely to be accepted if they possess pertinent certifications like CompTIA Security+, have pursued internships, or have worked on projects related to cybersecurity.
- Personal statements add an additional layer to the application, along with letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors, which provide a strong endorsement to the applicant.
From a financial standpoint, students in Virginia may consider several options to help mitigate the costs associated with obtaining a degree in cybersecurity.
- State Funding: Programs like the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant and the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship support students, especially those planning to work in public service after graduation.
- Federal Aid: Access to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities becomes available to students upon submission of the FAFSA.
- Institutional Aid: Numerous universities in Virginia extend specific scholarships, assistantships, and aid for cybersecurity students based on academic merit or financial need.
- Private Scholarships: Scholarships such as NSF CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service and the (ISC)² Foundation provide funding in return for government service after graduation.
Virginia Job Market Trends
The expanding proximity of federal institutions, the defense sector, and technological companies in Virginia directly contribute to the rapid growth of the state’s cybersecurity employment market. Almost 88,000 cybersecurity specialists mark Virginia with the second-highest concentration of professionals in this field nationally. Among the fastest growing areas, Richmond is also home to 33.4% projected growth in employment opportunities for information security analysts in the region by 2024, alongside over 6200 job openings.
Cybersecurity roles are also anticipated to reach 31.5% growth in Virginia Beach by 2026. The occurrence depicts how specialists are highly sought in the state. These developments are also fueled by the government, financial, healthcare, and cloud services sectors, along with emerging markets, creating boundless prospects for BOTH novice and seasoned cybersecurity professionals.
