Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Minnesota – As technology advances, so does the security needed to protect it. With digital crimes on the rise and cyber threats becoming more prevalent, it’s important for organizations to have a team of professionals equipped with the knowledge and expertise to protect their IT networks. That’s why obtaining a degree in cybersecurity is an invaluable asset for those looking to find work in security-sensitive fields. Luckily, there are many universities in Minnesota that offer the best cybersecurity degree programs available today. In this article, we will look at some of the top cybersecurity degree programs offered in Minnesota for 2023.
Cybersecurity education in Minnesota
It is estimated that there are currently over 300,000 open cybersecurity positions in the United States. With such a high demand for qualified cyber professionals, it’s no wonder that many students are looking to get started in this field by earning a degree in cybersecurity. And what better place to study than Minnesota, which is home to some of the best cybersecurity programs in the country?
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at 10 of the best cybersecurity degree programs in Minnesota. We’ll discuss each program’s curriculum, admissions requirements, and career outcomes to help you determine which one is right for you.
So whether you’re just getting started in your cybersecurity studies or you’re looking to take your career to the next level, read on to find out more about the best cybersecurity programs Minnesota has to offer.
Cybersecurity Associate’s Programs In Minnesota
The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) is home to some of the best cybersecurity degree programs in the nation. St. Olaf College, Carleton College, and Gustavus Adolphus College are all highly ranked for their cybersecurity programs.
All three of these schools offer an associate’s degree in cybersecurity. In addition to a broad liberal arts education, students in these programs will take courses in computer science and information security. They will learn about networking, cryptography, and security policy. By the time they graduate, they will be prepared to enter the workforce as entry-level cybersecurity professionals.
If you’re interested in a career in cybersecurity, one of these three schools is a great place to start your education.
| SCHOOL | CITY | PROGRAM WEBSITE |
|---|---|---|
| Alexandria Technical and Community College | Alexandria | Cybersecurity, Virtualization, & Networking AAS Degree |
| Alexandria Technical and Community College | Alexandria | Computer Information Systems – A.S. Degree |
| Lake Superior College | Duluth | Associate in Applied Science in Network Administration and Cyber Security |
| Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical | Winona | Associate of Applied Science in Cyber and Information Security |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Granite Falls | Associate in Applied Science – Information Security and Assurance |
Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Programs In Minnesota
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to protect organizations from cyber attacks. Cybersecurity degree programs prepare students for careers in information security, computer forensics, and network security.
The University of Minnesota offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Technologies and Strategies that prepares students for careers in information assurance and security. The program features coursework in cybersecurity policy, risk management, and incident response.
Metropolitan State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity that prepares students for careers in network security, information assurance, and computer forensics. The program features coursework in cryptography, secure networking, and digital forensics.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity that prepares students for careers in network security, information assurance, and computer forensics. The program features coursework in ethical hacking, web application security, and digital forensics.
| SCHOOL | CITY | PROGRAM WEBSITE |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Cybersecurity Operations (Combined BS + MS) |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Computer Forensics (BAS) |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Computer Forensics Minor |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Cybersecurity Minor |
Cybersecurity Online Master’s Programs In Minnesota
There are many great online cybersecurity programs available in Minnesota. Here are some of the best:
- The University of Minnesota offers a great online program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. It is one of the few online programs that is certified by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
- St. Cloud State University also has a top online program that can be completed in two years. It too is NSA and DHS certified.
- Metropolitan State University’s online program can be finished in as little as 15 months and it too is NSA and DHS certified.
| SCHOOL | CITY | PROGRAM WEBSITE |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | Cyber Operations MS |
| Minnesota State University-Mankato | Mankato | Master’s in Information Security & Risk Management |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | Master of Science in Information Technology – Information Assurance and Cyber Security Track |
| Capella University | Minneapolis | MS in Information Assuarance & Cybersecurity |
Cybersecurity Certification Programs In Minnesota
Certificate programs in cybersecurity are becoming increasingly popular as the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals grows. Here are some of the best cybersecurity certificate programs in Minnesota.
The first step to becoming a certified ethical hacker is to complete an accredited training program like those offered by the SANS Institute or the EC-Council. Once you have completed a training program, you can then take the exam to become certified.
There are a number of different types of cybersecurity certification programs available, and each has its own set of requirements. However, most certification programs will require you to have at least two years of experience working in IT or a related field. Additionally, you will likely need to pass an exam in order to earn your certification.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, completing a certification program is a great way to get started. Cybersecurity certifications can help you stand out from other job candidates and show potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.
| SCHOOL | CITY | PROGRAM WEBSITE |
|---|---|---|
| Inver Hills Community College | Inver Grove Heights | Advanced Network Security Certificate |
| Lake Superior College | Duluth | Cyber Defense Certificate |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Pau | Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Forensics |
Online cybersecurity certifications in Minnesota
There are many online cybersecurity certifications in Minnesota. The most popular ones include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, and the CompTIA Security+ certification.
The CISSP certification is offered by (ISC)² and is one of the most globally recognized cybersecurity certifications. It is designed for CISSP-holders to effectively design, implement, and manage a best-in-class cybersecurity program.
The CEH certification is offered by EC-Council and certifies individuals in ethical hacking and countermeasures. The coursework covers topics such as foot printing, scanning, enumeration, system hacking, viruses and worms, Trojans, Denial of Service attacks, social engineering, session hijacking, web application attacks, SQL injection attacks, wireless network attacks, cryptography basics, honeypots and honeynets basics, incident handling procedures basics, disaster recovery procedures basics.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is also offered by CompTIA and covers risk management; security controls; detection methods; attack types; tools; and response procedures.
| SCHOOL | CITY | PROGRAM WEBSITE |
|---|---|---|
| Alexandria Technical and Community College | Alexandria | Cybersecurity Certificate |
| Lake Superior College | Duluth | Certificate in Information Security Management |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Granite Falls | Certificate in Computer Information Security Management |
| Mitchell Hamline School of Law | St. Paul | Certificate in Cybersecurity and Privacy Law |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | Graduate Certificate in Fundamentals of Cyber Security |
The growing importance of cybersecurity in Minnesota
As one of the leading states in the country for technological innovation, it’s no surprise that Minnesota is also a leader in cybersecurity. The growing importance of cybersecurity in Minnesota is evident in the state’s investment in research and development, as well as the number of high-profile companies that call Minnesota home.
Minnesota is home to some of the world’s top cybersecurity companies, including Symantec, McAfee, and Trend Micro. These companies are attracted to Minnesota for its strong talent pool, favorable business climate, and robust infrastructure. In addition to these major players, Minnesota also boasts a number of smaller cybersecurity firms that are making a big impact in the industry.
The state of Minnesota recognizes the importance of cybersecurity and has made significant investments in research and development. The University of Minnesota is a world-renowned leader in cybersecurity research, and the school’s Center for Internet Security Studies is widely recognized as one of the best in the country. In addition to academic research, Minnesota is also home to a number of government and private sector labs that are working on cutting-edge technologies to secure our digital future.
With so much investment in cybersecurity, it’s no surprise that Minnesota is home to some of the best degree programs in the country. Students interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity will find a wealth of options at Minnesota’s colleges and universities. From two-year associate’s degrees to PhDs, there’s a program for every interest and budget. With so many great choices,
Cybersecurity jobs in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to a number of top cybersecurity degree programs. Students in these programs can prepare for a variety of careers in the field, including jobs in information security, network security, and computer forensics.
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is growing rapidly, and Minnesota is no exception. There are a number of great cybersecurity jobs available in the state, including positions with major companies like Target and Best Buy.
For those interested in a career in cybersecurity, Minnesota is a great place to start. With a number of top-notch degree programs and a growing number of job opportunities, the state is an ideal place to begin your career in this exciting field.
Cybersecurity salary in Minnesota
The average salary for a cybersecurity professional in Minnesota is $92,000. The highest paid cybersecurity professionals in the state earn an average of $120,000, while the lowest paid earn an average of $60,000. Salaries for cybersecurity professionals vary depending on experience, education, and location.
Conclusion
Minnesota is home to some of the best cybersecurity degree programs in the country, and many of these schools are dedicated to giving students a comprehensive education on all aspects of cyber security. With an increase demand for qualified professionals in this field, now is the perfect time to look into one of these degree programs and get started on your career path. We hope this article has given you a better idea of what kind of program would be right for you and that you can find the right school based off your needs and preferences. Best of luck!