- What is cybersecurity analytics
- Data vs. cybersecurity analytics
- Degree programs
- Curriculum
- Tuition
- Career outlook
- FAQs
- Program listings
The U.S. is facing a significant skills gap in technology sectors crucial for safeguarding our digital infrastructure. One discipline that stands out in enhancing our cyber defense is cybersecurity analytics.
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Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze large datasets, this specialized field offers vital insights into existing cyber vulnerabilities.
More importantly, it paves the way for the creation of advanced defense mechanisms. A cybersecurity analytics degree is not just an academic credential; it’s a critical tool for addressing national cyber weaknesses and developing new protective strategies.
This guide will help students choose the best academic path to qualify for the growing number of cyber-related jobs in the US and worldwide. There has never been a better time to enter cyber defense-related fields of study. The demand for workers is high, and the educational and scholarship resources are plentiful.
Data analytics vs. cybersecurity analytics
It can be said that the field of cyber analytics is the offspring of a marriage between data analytics and cybersecurity. To gain a clear picture of where cyber analytics — sometimes called security analytics — falls between these bookends, we need first to examine the common definitions for these three areas of study.
Data analytics is the process of examining datasets to draw conclusions about the information they contain.
Valuable insights can be derived from uncovering and examining data patterns. Scientists categorize data as descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, or prescriptive to help them utilize data in innovative ways.
It can help companies better understand customer purchasing habits, measure the efficacy of advertising campaigns, discover new markets, and develop new products.
Cybersecurity, the other parent of cyber analytics or security analytics is the practice of defending digital assets against malicious attacks. This discipline employs various techniques, strategies, processes, and tools to diagnose, predict, and prevent unauthorized access of networks, systems, and devices.
Cyber analytics, or security analytics, can then be described as the use of data analytics to achieve a cybersecurity objective.
It is a powerful tool born of a deep understanding of data that can describe cybersecurity risks, diagnose vulnerabilities, predict future malicious behavior, and prescribe protective remedies.
Cyber analytics has evolved over the last few decades to become the basis for essential cybersecurity solutions and practices. It has provided a crucial understanding of bad actors, their techniques, and behaviors.
It has been said that the best way to understand the difference between cyber analytics and cybersecurity (sometimes termed cybersecurity analytics and cybersecurity engineering) is to ask this question; “Do you want to be the person in the room that can answer how it works? Or do you want to be the person in the room that can answer why it works?” Cyber analytics answers the “how it works” question. Cybersecurity is more concerned with “why” things work as they do.
Cybersecurity analytics and security analytics training
A degree in cyber analytics may be called by several different names.
The fields of data analytics and cybersecurity are relatively new disciplines, and as such, academia has not settled on a standard nomenclature for related degree programs. Depending on the institution, a cyber analytics degree might be described as any of the following:
- Cyber analytics
- Cybersecurity analytics
- Security analytics
- Information security analytics
- Data analytics for cybersecurity
- Big data security analytics
Like other college degrees, students can earn a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in cyber analytics, security analytics, or information security analytics. Doctorate level students can earn a Ph.D. in cybersecurity with a focus on data analytics.
A degree in cyber analytics will equip students with skills in modeling big data, data analytics, and statistical learning methods.
Data can be used to uncover dependencies, weaknesses, risks, and identify corrective actions.
Graduates will have the ability to combine big data science with threat intelligence to detect, analyze, and prevent targeted attacks from external hackers as well as insider threats from rogue or careless employees.
It is the application of big data analytics, rather than computer science or programming, that sets cyber analytics apart from traditional cybersecurity methodologies.
To be sure, both disciplines examine the same exploits, vulnerabilities, threats, and attack methods. Still, for a cyber data scientist, these challenges are viewed through the lens of big data security analytics.
Choosing the right cybersecurity analytics degree program
The first step in choosing the right cyber analytics degree is to decide how much time to invest in education.
A bachelor of science (BS) in cyber analytics, security analytics, or information security analytics will prepare students for entry-level positions protecting data and defending digital systems from cybercriminals and nation-states adversaries.
A master of science (MS) in cyber analytics builds on the foundation of the BS by preparing students for careers in risk management, malware analysis, penetration testing, or management positions in a security organization.
A PhD in cybersecurity will prepare professionals to take a leadership role in stopping hackers and preventing data theft. Students are taught to think outside the box as an innovation leader and be prepared for various technology leadership roles to manage and mitigate risks in both government and private sector organizations.
After deciding on an appropriate level of education, it is time to examine the specific programs offered by various colleges and universities.
As detailed above, various academic institutions may describe their cyber analytics program using similar and related, but not identical, names. One good place to start your search for just the right degree program is with those institutions that offer a degree in cybersecurity.
Admission requirements
Before granting admission to a BS in cyber analytics degree program, colleges will commonly require applicants to be a high school graduate.
Acceptance into a preferred academic institution may have more stringent requirements, such as a certain GPA or completion of advance placement (AP) or honors courses during high school, but this will vary for each college.
Before applying for admission to a cyber analytics program, each applicant should engage in a thorough and honest self-examination to determine if their interests and strengths align with the program’s curricula and the job requirements.
Applicants should have an interest in technology and an aptitude for working with numbers. The cybersecurity side of a cyber analytics degree requires a technical acumen consistent with someone comfortable working with networks, databases, and complex software.
The analytics component will require the ability to master concepts of statistical analysis and big data research.
To apply to a graduate degree program in cyber analytics or security analytics an applicant should have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field or be completing a bachelor’s degree before enrollment.
Many programs require a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher for the applicant’s undergraduate studies.
To measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills, many graduate schools require taking entrance exams like the GRE. Others may require applicants to take the GMAT to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills.
Cybersecurity analytics, security analytics, and information security analytics degree curriculum
Just as a cyber analytics degree may be given many different titles, each college or university that offers this unique hybrid between cybersecurity and data analytics will differ in the level of emphasis placed on the two primary characteristics.
Some degree programs will emphasize the cybersecurity aspects of the field, while others focus more on data analytics.
As examples of what a student should look for in their search, a BS in Computer Science – Data Analytics might include courses such as:
- Introduction to Structured Database Environments
- Emerging Technologies and Big Data
- Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning
The required undergraduate curriculum will cover the areas of:
- Programming and Computers
- Information Assurance
- Analytics
- Mathematics and Sciences
- English, Humanities, and Social Science
An MS is Cyber Analytics program could be expected to offer classes with names like:
- Network Assessment and Defense
- Investigation and Digital Forensics
- Cyberlaw and Ethics
- Incident Detection & Response
Applicants should expect graduate-level courses to fall into both cybersecurity and data analytics areas.
Tuition for a degree in cybersecurity analytics
Like most undergraduate degrees, a Data Analytics for Cybersecurity bachelor’s degree will require approximately 120 credit hours of coursework, including core courses and electives.
The National Center for Education Statistics indicates that for the 2017–18 academic year, costs for undergraduate tuition, fees, and room & board were estimated to be $17,797 at public institutions, $46,014 at private nonprofit institutions, and $26,261 at private for-profit institutions.
Excluding room and board, the average tuition and fees for 4-year institutions for the 2018-19 school year were $16,318.
According to this site’s complete guide to a bachelor’s in cybersecurity degree page, there are five things to consider when evaluating tuition costs.
- Cost per credit: This is probably the simplest metric to use when comparing cybersecurity degree programs to one another. Sometimes total tuition costs can include things like lab fees or other expenses. But to really get a sense of the cost versus value for a cybersecurity degree, make sure and compare credit costs for each program.
- Location: The cost of a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree might vary depending on geographic location. One thing to evaluate is whether or not the school has existing relationships with cybersecurity employers in a geographic area. This will make things like internships and career planning a little bit easier.
- Size: Overall, school and program size seem to correlate to cost. Larger programs offer more in the way of diversity of course offerings because the programs are part of a larger university. However, bigger isn’t always better, so conducting research on how individual programs will help meet individual student needs and aspirations is always advisable.
- Online vs. campus-based: It’s important to look at the cost per credit when comparing online degrees versus campus-based degrees. It’s also important to compare the required course hours to obtain the degree and then decide which is a better fit.
- Full-time versus part-time: While the decision to attend a cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program full-time versus part-time might not really impact the cost-per-credit, it still might make the degree more affordable, or at least financially obtainable, because students can work while attending school. Not all programs offer a part-time option, but enough do that it’s worth looking at as an option.
Scholarships
The technology fields related to protecting our nation’s cyber infrastructure face a severe shortage of qualified workers to fill the millions of available job openings. An industry-wide deficit of trained workers can mean good news for certain groups of people. It can mean higher wages for those qualified to work in the field, and it can mean scholarship opportunities for students looking to become eligible for these positions.
Below are several of the many applicable scholarships available from a wide range of sponsors.
- Department of the Navy, Chief Information Officer – Information Assurance Scholarship Program
- Department of Defense – SMART Scholarship Program
- Center for Cyber Safety and Education – (ISC)² Women’s Scholarships
- Central Intelligence Agency – Undergraduate Scholarship Program
- National Security Agency – Stokes Educational Scholarship Program
- Cisco – Snort Scholarship
- CyberCorps – Scholarship For Service
Cybersecurity analytics career outlook
The career outlook for cyber analytics is most decidedly positive. An example of a job that is representative of the many positions for which a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Analytics degree will qualify is that of an information security analyst. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook indicates that the 2019 median annual salary for this position is $99,730. This government resource cites an anticipated 31% increase in job growth for the information security analyst role. This growth rate is categorized as much faster than average.
The demand for graduates with a degree in cybersecurity or cyber analytics has never been greater. This demand for qualified workers has driven wages up and incentivize the development of many scholarship opportunities. For students looking for a meaningful career to protect valuable information and digital assets, cyber analytics, security analytics, and information security analytics are a good choice for academic pursuit.
Related resources
FAQs
A cybersecurity analytics degree is an academic program that focuses on the use of data analytics and artificial intelligence to identify, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
Given the increasing frequency and complexity of cyber attacks, there’s a growing need for professionals who can analyze large sets of data to identify vulnerabilities and develop defense strategies. This degree equips you with the skills to fill that gap.
Courses often include subjects like data analytics, machine learning, network security, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity law and policy.
While a general cybersecurity degree covers a broad range of topics, a cybersecurity analytics degree focuses specifically on the data analysis and intelligence aspects of cybersecurity.
You’ll acquire skills in data analytics, AI, risk assessment, and ethical hacking, as well as a deep understanding of cybersecurity laws and policies.
Program listings
Anderson University
Anderson, South Carolina
Program: Cybersecurity & Analytics (BS)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Number of credits: 121
Cost per credit: $1,817
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Offers a unique blend of cybersecurity, business, and analytics courses to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape
- Curriculum is infused with Christian values and perspectives.
- Provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to pass the Security+ and CISSP exams.
California State University, San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CaliforniaProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Number of credits: 30
Cost per credit: $1,200
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Required
Program highlights:- Comprehensive cybersecurity and data analytics education.
- Opportunities for internships and real-world work experience
- State-of-the-art Cyber Range facility
Capitol Technology University
Greater Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: Master’s of Science in Cyber Analytics
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Number of credits: 36-39
Cost per credit: $630
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Prepares students to identify, prevent, and respond to the latest cyber threats, making it a valuable asset in the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape
- Provides students with a comprehensive foundation in cyber analytics, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to solve complex cybersecurity problems.
- Gain hands-on experience with the latest cybersecurity tools and technologies thorugh specialized labs and facilities
Penn State Beaver
Monaca, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 138-140
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Master cybersecurity by understanding attackers, defending against their attacks, and managing risk
- Prepares students for the real world with immersive learning and access to leading-edge technology.
- Designed to help students earn industry certifications
Penn State Brandywine
Media, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 131
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Multidisciplinary curriculum that combines technical skills with business knowledge, ethics, and legal aspects of cybersecurity.
- Emphasizes the importance of ethical hacking and defensive strategies to prevent cyber attacks.
- Opportunity to work on real-world projects and hands-on experiences through internships, cooperative education, and research opportunities.
Penn State Greater Allegheny
McKeesport, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 125
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Well-rounded education in cybersecurity and data analysis, preparing students for careers in this high-demand field.
- Gain practical experience through lab exercises, group projects, and internships with industry partners, building essential skills for their future careers.
- Strong ties with local and national industries, providing students with valuable networking opportunities.
Penn State Lehigh Valley
Center Valley, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 125
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Learn about cybersecurity operations, data analysis techniques, threat intelligence, and defensive strategies to secure information systems.
- Engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events.
- Program offers stackable credentials, allowing students to earn industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) during their studies, enhancing their employability.
Penn State Schuylkill
Schuylkill Haven, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 125
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Strong foundation in computer science, programming, networking, and information security
- Access to cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and technologies to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges.
- Program's industry partnerships give students networking and collaboration opportunities
Penn State Shenango
Sharon, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 127
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Gain practical knowledge and skills in areas such as network security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking.
- Emphasizes hands-on learning, with opportunities for internships, research projects, and industry partnerships.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and software, enabling them to gain practical experience in a simulated cyber security environment.
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PennsylvaniaProgram: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
Number of credits: 33
Cost per credit: $1,017
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Rigorous and advanced curriculum that covers all aspects of cybersecurity analytics and operations
- Learn key skills in areas such as cybersecurity risk management, digital forensics, secure coding, network security, and data analytics.
- Oportunity to connect with other professionals in the cybersecurity industry
Penn State York
York, PennsylvaniaProgram: Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations (B.S)
Number of credits: 123
Cost per credit: $442 in state | $746 out of state
Delivery method: Hybrid
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of cybersecurity, including network security, digital forensics, secure software development, cryptography, and ethical hacking.
- Students have the opportunity to gain a certification in ethical hacking, which is highly regarded in the cybersecurity industry.
- Small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and interaction between students and faculty
St Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FloridaProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity & Analytics
Number of credits: 30
Cost per credit: $800
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Holistic view of cybersecurity, covering all aspects of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, risk management, and information assurance
- Hands-on training through laboratory sessions, simulations, and projects to ensure practical application of knowledge and skills.
- Prepares students for the most in-demand cybersecurity certifications
The George Washington University
Washington, District of ColumbiaProgram: Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics
CAE designation: CAE-R
Number of credits: 30
Cost per credit: $1,195
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Required
Program highlights:- Gain the skills to think critically about cybersecurity challenges and develop innovative solutions
- Strong emphasis on data analysis with in-depth knowledge of various analytics techniques and tools.
- Network and learn from experienced cybersecurity professionals, faculty, and alumni through online events and forums
The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, TexasProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Data Analytics
Number of credits: 36
Cost per credit: $990 in state | $1488 out of state
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Required
Program highlights:- Learn about the latest trends, technologies, and practices in cybersecurity and data analytics, preparing them for real-world challenges.
- Emphasizes practical learning by providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and case studies
- Option to complete a thesis or non-thesis track depending on their career goals
University of Delaware
Newark, DelawareProgram: Business Analytics and Information Management/Cybersecurity: M.S.
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Number of credits: 48
Cost per credit: $1,028
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Required
Program highlights:- Combines the three critical disciplines of business analytics, information management, and cybersecurity to provide a comprehensive skill set to students
- Access to hands-on learning experiences through case studies, simulations, and real-time projects
- Strong ties with local and global organizations, providing students with ample opportunities for internships
University of South Carolina
Tampa, FloridaProgram: M.S. CYBERSECURITY INTELLIGENCE AND INFORMATION SECURITY
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Number of credits: 33
Cost per credit: $468 in-state | $914 out of state
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Develop the expertise to safeguard organizations from a wide range of cybersecurity threats.
- Work on innovative cybersecurity research projects with leading faculty members.
- Access to state-of-the-art technology and resources to enrich their learning
University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TexasProgram: Applied Cyber Analytics Bachelor's Degree
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R, CAE-CO
Number of credits: 83
Cost per credit: $50 in-state | $470 out of state
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, tools, and techniques.
- Gain hands-on experience through various applied learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects, simulation exercises, and industry partnerships
- Prepares students for industry certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VirginiaProgram: Undergraduate Cybersecurity Analysis Certificate
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Number of credits: 18
Cost per credit: $488
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Comprehensive curriculum covering essential cybersecurity concepts and tools
- Curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry experts and professionals to ensure it aligns with the demands of the cybersecurity industry.
- Opportunity to connect with a community of cybersecurity professionals, fellow students, and alumni
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VirginiaProgram: Cybersecurity Management and Analytics major
Number of credits: 125
Cost per credit: $529 in-state | $1,388 out of state
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Gain a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity from various perspectives.
- Undergraduate research opportunities enable students to contribute to cybersecurity and build skills.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a Cyber Range to practice defending against simulated cyber attacks
Webster University
St. Louis, MissouriProgram: Cybersecurity (MS) with an Emphasis in Data Analytics
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Number of credits: 39
Cost per credit: $730
Delivery method: Campus, Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Comprehensive curriculum that covers cybersecurity and data analytics, giving students a strong foundation in both fields
- Emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences to ensure students can apply what they learn in real-world scenarios. This includes lab exercises, case studies, and projects.
- Webster's partnerships with industry leaders offer students internships, networking, and job prospects.
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Boston, MassachusettsProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics
Number of credits: 33
Cost per credit: $1,235
Delivery method: Campus
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity, covering all of the major areas, such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, risk management, and digital forensics.
- Learn how to defend against real-world cyber-attacks by simulating them in a safe and controlled environment using a dedicated Cyber Range facility.
- Program provides career support, graduates ready for cybersecurity job market.
West Virginia University
Morgantown, West VirginiaProgram: Business Cybersecurity Management M.S.
CAE designation: CAE-CD, CAE-R
Number of credits: 30
Cost per credit: $965
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Have the skills and knowledge to be strategic cybersecurity leaders, team managers, and system implementers in the business sector.
- Practical skill-building in a controlled and secure environment
- Gain real-world experience, network with professionals in the field, and build a strong resume.
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KentuckyProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity Data Analytics
Number of credits: 30
Cost per credit: $607 in-state | $917 out of state
Delivery method: Online
GRE/GMAT required: Not Required
Program highlights:- Understand how cybersecurity policies and compliance requirements protect information assets and manage risk.
- Gain the expertise to proactively and continuously enhance enterprise security through data-driven insights.
- Earn your degree in as little as a year