Start your cybersecurity career with Southern New Hampshire University's Associate of Science (AS) in Cyber Security online program. The AS in Cyber Security degree combines the hands-on experiences, networking opportunities, and expert instruction you need to break into a growing field. Whether you've finished some college or you're just getting started, this 60-credit program offers a perfect pathway to launch your cybersecurity career.

You'll engage with a number of industry-standard operating systems, security software, computer networking devices, simulation tools, and programming and scripting languages. Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation and save even more by transferring up to 45 credits for previous experience, including industry credentials like the CompTIA A+ certification. Our curriculum is built to position you for success in the industry. The AS in Cyber Security aligns with recognized standards such as NIST's NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and CSEC Cyber Security Education Consortium.

Learn how to:

- Apply security principles and practices to all components of a system

- Design, implement and evaluate computer-based solutions

- Identify and define the computing requirements to solve problems

- Communicate technical information effectively with a range of audiences

Looking to earn your Bachelor's in Cyber Security? Upon finishing your associate degree, you can transfer all 60 credits toward your BS in Cyber Security degree online halfway to your bachelor's degree. That could mean 2 degrees in as few as 4 years both of which can help you enter (or advance in) the cybersecurity profession. Interested in exploring some of our other technology degree options. Check out our IT associate degree, associate in computer science, or a number of other associate and bachelor's technology programs. Our AS in Cyber Security program is built to help prepare you for entry-level roles in cybersecurity. That means learning the skills and industry tools you need to get your foot in the door.

"The curriculum works well in the online environment because of the strong focus on skill development," said Jonathan Kamyck, associate dean of cyber security programs at SNHU. "Students will use online labs and explore simulated operating environments."

You'll use a number of industry-standard tools and platforms, including:

- Popular operating systems like Windows and Linux

- Computer networking devices and simulation tools, such as Cisco Packet Tracer and pfSense

- Programming and scripting languages like Python, Java, Linux shells, and Microsoft PowerShell

- Security software such as OpenVAS, Snort, Kali Linux, Metasploit, and more

To complete the program, you'll earn 21 credits for general education courses, 18 credits for computer core courses, 18 credits for major courses, and 3 credits for 1 elective course.

Major courses include:

- Cybersecurity Foundations. Explore foundational cybersecurity concepts and terms. Learn the difference between adversarial and environmental threats and analyze how security practitioners respond to each. Identify legal and human factors and examine how they can influence the development of organizational security strategies.

- Computer Networking. Learn the basics of computer networking, including different network architectures and approaches to network design. Gain practical experience by performing common network implementation and administration tasks.

- Operating System Security. Learn the techniques and strategies used to protect modern operating systems. Employ best practices to securely provision operating system components and services. Troubleshoot insecure settings to reduce the risk of system compromise.

- Application Security. Explore the fundamental principles and practices of application security. Identify common software vulnerabilities and develop strategies to reduce their potential impact. Analyze and assess the security posture of multi-tiered web applications.

- Legal and Human Factors of Cybersecurity. Examine security concerns associated with humans and their interactions with information systems. Learn about social engineering and how to protect against human-focused cyber-attacks. Examine the legal and ethical aspects of individual privacy, acceptable use, and other social concerns.

- Cyber Defense. Explore common strategies and tactics employed by security practitioners to protect networks, systems, applications, and data. Learn the principles of cryptography and examine the critical role it plays in protecting information. Analyze the impact of emerging technologies and evolving social trends on the field of cybersecurity.

Part of our mission to expand access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That's why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials. Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.

$150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)