Ph.D. in Cyber Security

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Brandon Mario D’Souza

Brandon is a registered social worker with Social Work England. He obtained his master’s in social work (personnel management & industrial relations) and used it in fields such as water treatment, construction, software, and education. Then he transitioned to the health and social care sector with an M.Sc. in health psychology. Brandon loves to write, cook, and play musical instruments (piano, guitar, melodica, ukulele, and kazoo) and enjoys the calmness and serenity of nature.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Last Updated: July 12, 2023

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The number of new options available to students interested in obtaining a Ph.D. in cybersecurity indicates the industry’s growth and expansion. As the range of skillsets for cybersecurity professionals evolves and expands, so do the many types of Ph.D. programs. Beyond computer science, cybersecurity experts are now receiving training in law, politics, management, and strategy, among other subjects, because almost all sectors today use technological infrastructure for routine tasks. Therefore, the online Ph.D. in cyber security can lead to senior, responsible, and high-paying roles in various settings and offer excellent career prospects. For example, the employment of information security analysts is expected to expand by 33%, substantially faster than the average for all occupations. Read on to find out more about this doctoral program and what it entails.

Best Ph.D. in Cyber Security
Programs

Almost every student aspires to further their studies at a prestigious university. But finding the best colleges for an online Ph.D. cyber security program can be difficult because several factors must be taken into account when ranking them. These factors include the reputation and infrastructure of the school, the curriculum, accreditation, research facilities, availability of thesis mentors, affordability, and so on. Using a proprietary formula and methodology, FBD teams identified some of the best schools offering PhD in cyber security degree programs. The following is the ranking list: *

Capitol Technology University

Dakota State University

Fairfax University of America

University of Rhode Island

Marymount University

Nova Southeastern University

Capella University

University of the Cumberlands

Colorado Technical University

Northcentral University

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.

What to Expect from Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Ph.D. in cybersecurity programs prepare students for high-level positions defending networks and computer systems from attacks. This doctoral study concentrates on advanced topics in research methodology, information assurance, leadership, and professional ethics. While every program is different, doctoral candidates typically complete their Ph.D. in cybersecurity in 3.5 to 7 years, taking an average of 60 credits.

Many universities in the U.S. offer cybersecurity Ph.D. programs, but some also provide DSc or doctor of science or doctor of professional studies (DPS) degrees as options. Online, on-campus, and hybrid cybersecurity doctorates are available to students, depending on how they want to pursue their studies. Students will take courses in research methodology, electives, and dissertation writing. Some of the core courses they can expect in the program include but are not limited to:

Professional Research Theory and Practice
Managing Cybersecurity Risk
Introduction to Software Security
Advanced Computer Security
Law, Policy, Ethics, and Compliance
Network Security
Hardware System Security
Software Vulnerabilities and Security

In addition, students are required to pick electives from various tracks, such as:

Hardware Security: Compilers, Computer Architecture, Computer Hardware Security, etc.

Machine Learning: Deep Learning, Machine Learning in Cybersecurity and Privacy, Advanced Machine Learning, etc.

Network Security: Wireless Networks, Foundations of Distributed Systems, Mobile and Wireless Networking, etc.

Systems Security: Intensive Computer Systems, Computer System Security, Computer Architecture, etc.

Theory: Advanced Algorithms, Complexity Theory, Information Theory, etc.

Security & Privacy: Visualization for Network Science, Qualitative Methods, Statistical Analysis, etc.

Cybersecurity Policy: Evidence-Based Crime Policy, Security and Resilience Policy, Cyberconflict, etc.

Other critical components of the Ph.D. in cyber security program are (varies by institution):

Teaching

In many instances, Ph.D. students must fulfill a teaching requirement. This criterion is met when the student works as a teaching assistant (TA) or instructor of record (IoR) for at least one semester.

Residency

Some schools require one year of continuous full-time study. During this time, the student is expected to make significant progress preparing for the comprehensive examination.

Comprehensive Exam

After completing the required curriculum, students can take a comprehensive exam. Most students opt to compose a manuscript on a topic of their choosing and defend it orally in front of a committee of departmental, school, and/or university teachers.

Dissertation & Defense

A Ph.D. student must write and present a written dissertation proposal to the dissertation committee. The research challenge, study plan, and possible impact on the field should all be identified in the proposal. The proposal will be presented in an open forum, and the student must successfully defend it before the dissertation committee following the public presentation. Examples of cybersecurity research subjects that could be made into dissertation topics include:

Operation Security (OpSec) Strategy and Policy
Internet Advertising Targeting and Privacy
Cybersecurity Forensics and Enforcement
Network Infrastructure and Defense
Policies and Best Practices Around Passwords
Policies Around Encryption and Privacy
Ways to Defend Against the Rise of Bots
Corporate Responsibility for Employee Security
Cybersecurity Law and Policy
The Role of Ethical Hacking
The Vulnerabilities of Biometrics
The New Frontier of Social Engineering Attacks

Read the Guide to Ph.D. Programs to understand more about doctoral programs.

Areas of Specialization in Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Specializations are an excellent way to study a niche topic within the subject domain. Some PhD in cyber security programs include concentrations that allow students to focus on a specific area of the field related to their career goals or personal interests. Here are some examples of online PhD in cyber security specializations:

Area of Specialization	Description	Career Options
MSCS Incident Management & Business Continuity	This concentration focuses on handling and responding to various security incidents, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing appropriate countermeasures to reduce the risk of information failure.	Cyber security incident handler, cyber incident responder
MSCS Cloud Security Architect	This concentration focuses on designing, planning, analyzing, configuring, testing, implementing, maintaining, and supporting the cloud security infrastructure of an organization.	Cloud security architect
MSCS Data Analytics Fundamentals	This concentration introduces students to the importance of data analysis within an organization. They will gain experience by solving real-world problems utilizing crucial data technologies, methodologies, and tools to produce actionable outcomes.	Data analyst, data security specialist
MSCS Security Analyst	This concentration focuses on testing methods and techniques to identify and mitigate infrastructure risks while providing application and network-based security and encryption utilizing industry-standard protocols.	Cyber security analyst
MSCS Digital Forensics	This concentration emphasizes demonstrating the required skill set of a computer forensic investigator. It teaches candidates interested in forensics the various aspects of digital forensics, such as investigating network intrusions and mobile forensics.	Computer forensic investigator, digital forensic investigator, cybercrime analyst
MSCS Executive Leadership in Information Assurance	This concentration focuses on teaching students the fundamental skills necessary to comprehend global leadership concepts, bringing together all the components required for a C-Level information security position, and teaching students how to manage IT security projects to increase the success rate of organizations and IT managers.	Information security manager, project manager
MSCS Project Management Fundamentals	This concentration instructs students on the essential tools and techniques required to lead projects successfully. They will develop project plans based on real-world scenarios and learn to work within time, cost, and scope constraints.	Project manager, information security manager, IT auditor

Some other specialization options include:

Governance, Risk, and Compliance
Global Strategy and Operations
General and Technology
Secure Cloud Computing
Information Technology Management

Why should I do a Ph.D. in
Cyber Security?

Cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand professions and areas of study in computer science and IT. Almost every organization gives information security top priority due to the widespread adoption of computing. Even though they demand a sizable time and financial commitment, students with a Ph.D. in cyber security can benefit from the degree and access the highest levels of management, academic, and research positions in cybersecurity. Graduates acquire new skills, establish crucial professional relationships, and become eligible for higher-paying, more prestigious jobs.

Through a Ph.D. in cybersecurity, students can gain new knowledge and advance their technical skills to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change, for which cybersecurity professionals must constantly acquire new skills. They will have the opportunity to network with classmates, instructors, and other cybersecurity experts and use these connections to seek job opportunities in management, academic research, and teaching after graduation.

Highly qualified and experienced cybersecurity professionals are paid well. For example, the median annual salary for information security analysts was $102,600 in 2021, arguably making it a significant return on one’s educational investment in a Ph.D. in cyber security. Additionally, the skills one would have gained that can help one easily advance and be better paid include the ability to:

analyze resources, information, and procedures to improve security and promote resilience;
assist in preventing the loss of important information resources in the present and the future;
understand cybersecurity’s advanced theory and real-world applications;
lower organizational cyber risk by evaluating threats and vulnerabilities both internally and externally;
demonstrate knowledge and skill in the core areas of the discipline, such as networking, data analysis, and a disciplinary specialization pertinent to cyber studies;
display research prowess and conduct research in line with the scholarly cyber security community;
create cybersecurity policy, governance, risk, and compliance framework;
write and submit scholarly papers to peer-reviewed conference proceedings and journals that will help others expand their understanding of cyber topics; and
create strategic thought leadership for issues with cybersecurity operations and architecture.

Free Courses for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

Course	Description	Provided by
Topics Related to Cyber Security	MIT OpenCourseWare has over 400 graduate-level courses that relate to several topics within cyber security, such as System Safety, Database, Internet and Systems Integration Technologies, etc.	MIT OpenCourseWare
Topics Related to Cyber Security	Udemy, a go-to destination for many online learners, offers several graduate-level courses in cyber security that provide in-depth knowledge of the subject. While most courses come at a small fee, some are free of charge.	Udemy
Topics Related to Cyber Security	edX, the popular online learning platform, offers courses such as Cybersecurity and Privacy in the IoT, Cybersecurity Roles and Operating System Security, Information Security – Authentication and Access Control, and more from famous universities worldwide.	edX

How to get into the Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program?

Ph.D. in Cyber Security No
GRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Ph.D. in
Cyber Security Program?

On average, a Ph.D. in cyber security will take 3.5 to 7 years to complete, though some programs can be finished in as little as 3 years, and others can take as long as 8 years. Ph.D. students’ research and writing are typically extensive and laser-focused on their chosen field of study; thus, the time spent on it will influence the overall duration of the program. Therefore, it is essential for students to think carefully about their time commitment before enrolling in a cyber security Ph.D. program. The time commitment of a doctorate in cyber security looks like this:

Minimum time required for a full-time Ph.D. in cyber security: about 3.5 years.
Maximum time required for a Ph.D. in cyber security: up to 8 years.
Typical time frame to complete a Ph.D. in cyber security: about 3.5 to 7 years.

Accelerated Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Accreditations for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

How to Pay for a Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program?

The expense of earning a Ph.D. in computer security is high. The average cost of a Ph.D. in the United States is $98,800, as reported by Education Data. Some prospective online students may be unable to afford the high tuition and associated research costs, even if they do not have any other out-of-pocket expenses for school. The following external funding opportunities are available to students pursuing a Ph.D. in cyber security online and can help them cover some of the costs of their studies:

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to individuals who have demonstrated academic and personal excellence. Because they do not require repayment and are relatively easy to obtain, they are the students’ first choice.

Grants

Unlike a loan, funding provided through a grant does not need to be paid back. Grants are typically awarded to students who demonstrate a financial need, as opposed to scholarships which are more commonly awarded for academic achievement.

Fellowships

Predoctoral fellowships, also known as Ph.D. fellowships, are grants to doctoral students. Accepting a fellowship as a Ph.D. student frequently comes with strings attached, such as a required project or the use of funds. Several awards and fellowships are available to assist in retaining or recruiting the most promising students.

Work-Study Programs

College students who participate in work-study programs can earn money for their education while still enrolled in classes. A variety of work-study opportunities provide meaningful connections between classroom learning and real-world experience while bringing in some money.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are available to students who work with faculty in a teaching or research capacity. Volunteering students often receive a monetary stipend or a reduction in their tuition fees for their efforts.

Student Loans

Ph.D. students can apply for and receive a student loan to cover their education costs. Loans for higher education are available from a wide variety of sources, including private lenders and the government. Taking out a loan will increase educational expenditures due to the interest charged on borrowed funds. Understand how one can apply for loan forgiveness to avoid repaying student loans by reading about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans.

FAFSA

The Free Application For Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to check if they are eligible for aid and receive the best financial aid package possible. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.

Read about what financial aid is and find out everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.

Fully Funded Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

University/College	Description	Award/Amount	Application Deadline
Scholarship For Service (SFS)	The Scholarship For Service (SFS) program offers scholarships to Ph.D. cybersecurity students for up to 3 years. Scholarship recipients must commit to working for the United States government in a cybersecurity-related capacity after graduation for the duration of the award.
(ISC)² Graduate Scholarships	(ISC)² and its Center for Cyber Safety and Education encourage and support students pursuing a doctoral degree focusing on cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field.	Between $1,000 and $5,000 x 20 awards	February 2023

FAQs Related to the Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program

Is there PhD in cyber security online?

How much can I make with a Ph.D. in cyber security?

How long is a Ph.D. in cyber security?

What can I do with a Ph.D. in cyber security?

Should I get a Ph.D. in cyber security?

How do you get a Ph.D. in cyber security?

Can I do a Ph.D. in cyber security without a master’s?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after a Ph.D.
in Cyber Security

Organizations and cyber enemies are engaged in an intellectual and technological “arms race.” As harmful hackers, criminal organizations, and nation-states become more adept, cyber security specialists are in high demand for positions in government, industry, and the military around the world. The demand for cyber specialists continues to outstrip the availability of skilled applicants for mission-critical positions. A doctorate in cyber security will likely lead to senior roles and higher pay in various private and government sectors.

A cyber security professional with a doctorate is likely to work in senior management or as a research scientist. Their salary will vary widely depending on their field of expertise and employer. Below are some examples of employment in the area of cyber security, along with their median annual incomes and anticipated job growth, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Keep in mind that the salaries given are more representative of what a cyber security graduate with a bachelor’s or master’s degree may expect to earn. Because of their excellent knowledge and experience, those who obtain a doctorate have greater earning potential.

Occupation	Job Description	Skills Required	Median Annual Salary	Job Growth (up to 2030)
Top Executives	Executives at the highest level establish strategies and procedures to ensure that an organization’s goals are realized. They manage and direct a firm’s financial and budgetary activities and coordinate and direct the work activities of businesses and organizations.	Communication skills, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, decision-making skills, time-management skills	$98,980	8% (as fast as average)
Postsecondary Teachers	Teachers at the postsecondary level instruct students in a vast array of academic disciplines beyond the high school level. In addition, they may do research, compose scholarly articles and books, arrange courses and assignments, and oversee graduate teaching or research assistants.	Speaking skills, writing skills, interpersonal skills, critical-thinking skills, resourcefulness	$79,640	12% (faster than average)
Information Security Analysts	Analysts of information security design and execute security precautions for an organization’s computer networks and systems. They develop security standards and conduct vulnerability assessments on computer and network systems.	Creative skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented	$102,600	33% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Research Scientists	Computer and information scientists develop innovative applications for both current and emerging technologies. They investigate and create answers for complicated computational challenges in science, medicine, and business, among other professions.	Logical thinking, problem-solving skills, math skills, analytical skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, detail-oriented	$131,490	22% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Systems Managers	Computer and information systems managers, also known as information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers, organize, coordinate, and direct computer-related operations inside a business. They assist in determining an organization’s information technology objectives and are responsible for implementing those objectives through computer systems.	Organizational skills, communication skills, analytical skills, business skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills	$159,010	11% (faster than average)

Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

Developing and maintaining relationships with other IT and cyber security professionals is critical for career advancement. Membership in a professional organization can benefit graduates and working professionals by providing access to relevant journals and publications, keeping up to date on the latest developments in their field and cyber threats, and establishing professional connections that can lead to the discovery of innovative solutions. Here are some resources to consider for those who have already earned a Ph.D. in cyber security online:

International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)

The International Association for Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT) uses many different methods to advance computer science and information technology. It is a registered international scientific organization made up of experts in computer science and information technology who work together to promote and do research on cutting-edge methods and technologies in their fields.

National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS)

The National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS) is a non-profit group that works to educate, raise awareness of, and advocate for the cybersecurity needs of small businesses. The NCSS helps small businesses figure out their cybersecurity risk, tells owners about threats, and tells them what services they need to stay safe online.

International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) is a resource for professionals seeking career advancement by assisting their organizations with risk management and data protection. IAPP asserts to be the world’s largest and most comprehensive information privacy community.

Center for Cyber Safety and Education

Formerly known as the (ISC)² Foundation, the Center for Cyber Safety and Education is a charitable organization committed to making the internet safer for everyone. Through educational programs, scholarships, and research, the organization strives to ensure a positive and secure online experience for people all over the world.

Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)

The Information Systems Security Association, Inc. (ISSA) is a non-profit international association of practitioners and professionals in information security. It provides its members with publications, educational forums, and opportunities for peer interaction to enhance their knowledge, skills, and professional development.

Author Bio:

Brandon Mario D’Souza

Brandon is a registered social worker with Social Work England. He obtained his master’s in social work (personnel management & industrial relations) and used it in fields such as water treatment, construction, software, and education. Then he transitioned to the health and social care sector with an M.Sc. in health psychology. Brandon loves to write, cook, and play musical instruments (piano, guitar, melodica, ukulele, and kazoo) and enjoys the calmness and serenity of nature.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Disclaimer:

The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Capitol Technology University	11301 Springfield Rd, Laurel, Maryland 20708	$11,340	51%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Dakota State University	820 N Washington Ave, Madison, South Dakota 57042	$5,999	47%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Fairfax University of America	4401 Village Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$13,068	43%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
University of Rhode Island	Green Hall, 35 Campus Avenue, Kingston, Rhode Island 02881	$14,454	70%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Marymount University	2807 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, Virginia 22207	$20,520	62%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Capella University	225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402	$14,784	50%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Northcentral University	11355 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037	$16,881	NA

Ph.D. in Cyber Security

By Brandon Mario D`Souza

Updated July 12, 2023

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

On this page

Back to top

Best Ph.D. in Cyber SecurityPrograms

What to Expect from Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Programs

Teaching

Residency

Comprehensive Exam

Dissertation & Defense

Areas of Specialization in Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Programs

Why should I do a Ph.D. inCyber Security?

Free Courses for Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Students

How to get into the Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Program?

Online Application & Application Fee

Academic Transcripts

Undergraduate/Graduate Degree + Grade Point Average

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores

Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

Ph.D. in Cyber Security NoGRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Ph.D. inCyber Security Program?

Accelerated Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Programs

Accreditations for Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Programs

How to Pay for a Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Program?

Fully Funded Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Programs

FAQs Related to the Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Program

Is there PhD in cyber security online?

How much can I make with a Ph.D. in cyber security?

How long is a Ph.D. in cyber security?

What can I do with a Ph.D. in cyber security?

Should I get a Ph.D. in cyber security?

How do you get a Ph.D. in cyber security?

Can I do a Ph.D. in cyber security without a master’s?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after a Ph.D.in Cyber Security

Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Students

Additional Resources for Ph.D. in CyberSecurity Students

Author Bio:

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

Disclaimer:

Best Ph.D. in Cyber Security
Programs

What to Expect from Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Areas of Specialization in Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Why should I do a Ph.D. in
Cyber Security?

Free Courses for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

How to get into the Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program?

Ph.D. in Cyber Security No
GRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Ph.D. in
Cyber Security Program?

Accelerated Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

Accreditations for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

How to Pay for a Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program?

Fully Funded Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

FAQs Related to the Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Program

Career Opportunities and Salaries after a Ph.D.
in Cyber Security

Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students