The 5 Best Master’s in Information Assurance and Security Online

Updated October 22, 2021 | BestCollegeReviews.org Staff

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Master's in Information Assurance and Security Online

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for information security analysts are expected to grow by an impressive 28% by the year 2026 (compared to the number of jobs in this field in 2016). Clearly, the demand for keeping computer networks safe in today's hyper-connected world is very high. Although a bachelor's degree is enough to land a position in information security, master's degrees in the field are coveted because they open doors to more advanced qualified jobs and higher salaries. In this ranking, we explore the top 5 online master's information security programs currently available. For more general information on distance learning programs, visit our ranking of the top online colleges.

Featured Online Masters in Information Assurance and Security Degree Programs

Rating and Ranking Methodology
Tuition Points:

  • Under $25,000—1 point
  • Under $20,000—2 points
  • Under $15,000—3 points
  • Under $10,000—4 points
  • Under $5,000—5 points

US News and World Report Recognition as a Top Online School for Master’s in Information Technology Programs

  • Top 10— 3 points
  • Top 25 —2 points
  • Top 50 —1 point

Customization Options

  • Format Customizations (e.g. Hybrid/Online, Full-time/Part-Time, Accelerated, Degree Completion, etc.)—1 Point Per Customization Option
  • Content Customizations (e.g. Minors, Concentrations, Specializations, etc.)—1 Point Per Customization Option (5-point cap)

Wow Factor

  • 1 point awarded for each unique feature or program that “wowed” us

Our search for the best online master's in information assurance programs began with an initial pool of 34 programs from colleges and universities across the country. We narrowed this pool to 5 and ranked the programs according to value by using the rating and ranking methodology above. In applying this methodology, we consulted US News and World Report and College Navigator as well as each school's website. Tuition was used to break any ties that appeared in the ranking.

#1—Sam Houston State University

Online MS in Information Assurance and Security

Website

Points: 8

The online master’s in information assurance option offered by Sam Houston State University is meant to be accessible to students from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds. While a baccalaureate degree in computer science or a similar discipline is recommended, students without a sufficient background in this area may take STEM work courses to make up for their lack of experience. Students with significant work experience or a previously-earned masters may be eligible for a GRE waiver. Topics studied for this online master’s in information security program include database security, business continuity management, and organization system security.

In-State Tuition: $5,391

#2—Towson University

Online Master of Science in Applied Information Technology: Information Assurance and Security

Website

Points: 8

Towson University’s master’s in information security and assurance online offering is technically a masters program in applied information technology. This program is broad, and covers topics such as computer forensics, information security and assurance, and health information technology. Students in this program choose at least one of these subjects to focus on and complete the requirements for the related graduate certificate on the way to their degree. It is typical for a student to earn their online master’s in information security degree in two years, but it’s possible to take more or less time depending on individual course load.

In-State Tuition: $7,164

#3—Regis University

Online Master of Science in Information Assurance

Website

Points: 8

Regis University’s degree program is one of the best online master’s in information assurance programs for students planning on obtaining professional certifications. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for several major certification exams, including ISC2, Cisco, and Electronic Commerce Council exams. It also includes specialization options in cybersecurity and policy management. Students can complete this degree either completely online or via a hybrid format depending on their individual needs. No matter which format or specialization the choose, all online master’s in information security students learn from the same highly-qualified faculty and receive a comprehensive education.

In-State Tuition: $12,852

#4—Norwich University

Online MS in Information Assurance and Security

Website

Points: 8

Norwich University offers an online master’s in information security and assurance program featuring five distinct concentrations. These specialized areas of study include critical infrastructure and cybercrime, project management, and vulnerability management. The program is one of the first to be recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, and its program management specialization is accredited by the Project Management Institute. Most students in this program can earn their degree in two years or less, even while working full-time. At the end of this online master’s in information security program, students are expected to attend an on-campus residency in Vermont.

In-State Tuition: $17,928

#5—Kennesaw State University

Online Master of Science in Information Technology: IT Security

Website

Points: 7

Kennesaw State University offers an affordable online master’s in information technology program that is broad and open to a wide range of students. Classes are available in several subject areas, including a variety of IT security courses, health information technology, and databases and networking. This allows students who are interested in pursuing a career in information security to customize their degree by selecting classes that are relevant to their specific career goals. Most of the coursework is delivered asynchronously to accommodate working students, but some courses do include occasional synchronous sessions that online master’s in information technology students are encouraged to attend.

In-State Tuition: $4,851

Thanks for checking out our ranking of the top online master's degrees in information assurance and security.

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