There are several factors to consider when choosing a cybersecurity training program, including curriculum, cost and career outcomes.
Boise State University offers an online Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience and an online Master of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience.
By choosing the right program, you can align your educational choices with your professional goals and stand out in today’s competitive cybersecurity landscape.
Unlike cybersecurity schools or programs rooted strictly in mathematics or computer science, Boise State’s holistic approach to cyber operations centers on securing people, processes and technology together. True resilience requires this balance, making the field accessible and relevant to people from all backgrounds.
With curiosity, a growth mindset and a commitment to learning, you can thrive in this program and in the broader field of cybersecurity by gaining hands-on experience from expert faculty.
Industry-driven curriculum
The program prepares you to become a cybersecurity professional with practical skills in operational thinking, tools and methodologies that reduce risk and strengthen system resilience.
The courses are taught by industry practitioners with real-world experience in physical and cyber operations, providing you with insight into how theory translates to practice. This direct connection to the field also creates valuable opportunities for mentorship and career networking.
Boise State’s online cybersecurity programs align with leading industry training and technology providers, ensuring that you gain relevant, up-to-date skills.
Through partnerships with VMware IT Academy, Palo Alto Academy and Cisco Networking Academy, you receive free access to top-tier training resources as a student, an advantage over other cybersecurity programs.
You’ll learn to anticipate, detect, mitigate and manage threats across cyber, physical and interdependent infrastructure systems.
You can also customize your learning by adding an optional certificate in applied computing, systems and network, cyber operations or cyber for all (bachelor’s), analyst and threat intelligence, governance policy administration or resilience engineering (master’s) to help you build your technical skills faster.
Certificates can be added to a bachelor’s degree or earned as stand-alone credentials. These 12-credit (bachelor’s) and nine-credit (master’s) cyber certificates can be completed in as few as two semesters.
Inclusive design
The cyber operations and resilience program is intentionally welcoming to students from military, law enforcement and non-tech backgrounds.With an emphasis on accessibility and reducing barriers, the program is geared toward a broader audience, not just those already in information technology.
Boise State’s online cybersecurity programs are designed to launch or advance your career in business, academia and government. You’ll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to maintain the operational effectiveness of today’s complex systems. You’ll also engage with thoughtfully grouped courses, certificates, minors and pathways that align with your long-term goals.
Cost vs. value
The approximate total investment for the bachelor’s degree is between $15,275 and $16,855, while the approximate total investment for the master’s degree is $18,400.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a bachelor’s degree make, on average, 33% more than individuals without one. Earning your degree prepares you for advanced positions and more earning potential throughout your career.
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is skyrocketing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 29% growth in cyber operations and information security jobs by 2034.
With your master’s degree, you’ll have the skills and expertise to step into the workforce and seize exciting career opportunities in a favorable job market.
Career outcomes
What career opportunities are available with a cybersecurity degree from Boise State?
With a bachelor’s degree, you’ll qualify for roles like computer and information systems manager, information security analyst, systems administrator, cybersecurity analyst, security analyst, information security developer, network analyst, IT security governance, identity management, security assurance analyst, technical support specialist, database administrator or enterprise architect.
With a master’s degree, you will qualify for more lucrative roles such as cybersecurity specialist, deputy chief information security officer or cybersecurity analyst.
You can start by choosing the best program for you.
Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program
Boise State’s cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.