Ph.D. in Cyber Security

By Brandon Mario D`Souza

Updated July 12, 2023
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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.

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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: *

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

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?

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?

Fully Funded Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Programs

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?

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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.

OccupationJob DescriptionSkills RequiredMedian Annual SalaryJob Growth (up to 2030)
Top ExecutivesExecutives 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$98,9808% (as fast as average)
Postsecondary TeachersTeachers 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$79,64012% (faster than average)
Information Security AnalystsAnalysts 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$102,60033% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Research ScientistsComputer 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$131,49022% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Systems ManagersComputer 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$159,01011% (faster than average)

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

Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Cyber
Security Students

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.