Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Updated September 21, 2023
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Many schools offer online master's in information assurance and security programs. These programs train learners to protect information and knowledge sources. Graduates may work for corporations or government agencies. Many degree-holders work as information security analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for these workers to grow 33% from 2020-2030.
This page lists the best master's in information assurance and security degrees. Read on to learn about costs, common classes, and how to become an information security analyst.
Questions About Information Assurance and Security
Q. What can you do with an information security and assurance degree?
Graduates often work as information security analysts. Degree-holders may also work as information technology specialists.
Q. What degree do you need for information security?
Professionals can practice with just a bachelor's degree. The degree must typically relate to information security.
Q. Do cybersecurity jobs pay well?
Yes. Many cybersecurity jobs pay more than the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations, according to the BLS. Information security analysts and computer network architects earn six-figure salaries.
Why Get a Master's Degree in Information Assurance and Security?
Earning a degree can help graduates qualify for high-paying careers. Computer and information technology professionals earn a median $91,250 annually.
Students pursuing an online master's in information assurance and security degree benefit from flexibility. Many programs run asynchronously, letting enrollees complete assignments when convenient. Online learners also save time and money by not traveling to campus.
How Much Does an Information Assurance and Security Degree Cost?
Master's degrees cost an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school, learners' residency status, and program length. Full-time students can usually complete a master's degree in two years. Some schools offer accelerated programs that let students graduate sooner. Quickly finishing a degree can help learners avoid rising tuition rates.
Learners attending in-state public schools typically pay the most affordable tuition. Online degree-seekers can explore top programs without moving. This benefit can help them save money by attending the most affordable program.
Additional Online Student Fees
Some schools do not charge online learners campus maintenance or student activity fees. However, other schools charge these fees plus extra online fees. The online fees may cover expenses like a virtual classroom management platform.
Online degree-seekers may need to buy computer software and technology. They should also budget for supplies and books. Students can save money by renting books or buying used or virtual copies.
How Much Do Information Assurance and Security Graduates Make?
Salaries vary by professionals' job title, employer, and geographic location. Graduates with a master of science in information assurance earn an average of $97,000 annually, according to Jan. 2022 Payscale data.
Information security analysts earn a median $103,590 annually, according to the BLS. These professionals who live in California earn a mean wage of $125,990. Information security analysts in Florida earn $95,190.
Courses in Information Assurance and Security
An online master's in information assurance and security usually requires 30-36 credits. This includes 10-12 classes. Students learn to identify system vulnerabilities and protect network systems. Many classes focus on interpersonal communication. Degree-seekers learn how to explain findings and suggestions in easy-to-understand ways.
Most master's programs require a capstone or thesis project. Some programs offer concentrations in topics like ethical hacking or auditing.
Students pursuing a master's in information assurance and security degree often take the three classes below. Please note that not every school offers these exact classes.
Learners read case studies about major cybercrimes and identify preventable measures for each scenario. The curriculum covers how the United States' justice system plays a role in protecting cybersecurity. Part of the course identifies how to use ethical hacking to solve crimes.Cybercrimes
This class covers best practices for keeping a company or organization's virtual data safe. Students learn the pros and cons of many types of security software. They also learn the importance of software updates. The class covers various ways of keeping all system computers current.Cybersecurity Software and Procedures
This class highlights how computer hardware, software, and encoding work together to protect a system from intruders. Students learn how to encrypt data for authorized individuals. They also learn how to decode encrypted data. The class discusses the possibility and history of cyberwarfare.Firewalls and Data Encryption Programs
How to Become an Information Security Analyst
Aspiring information security analysts first need a bachelor's degree. Most master's in information assurance and security online programs require a related undergraduate degree. Some programs allow students with unrelated undergraduate majors to complete prerequisite courses.
Degree-seekers complete industry research. They practice resolving security threats and showing knowledge through a capstone project.
Recent graduates often gain experience as network and computer systems administrators before applying for more advanced jobs. Most leadership roles in this field require certification. Employers often prefer to hire certified information systems security professionals.
The 25 Best Online Master's in Information Assurance and Security Degrees
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online information assurance degree can enroll in the master's program at Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois. The master of science in information systems: information systems security program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Northwestern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Systems: Information Systems Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $56,067
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $56,067
#2 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online information assurance degree can enroll in the master's program at Boston University, located in Massachusetts. The master of science in computer information systems: security program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to information assurance. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in information assurance or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Boston University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 19%
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Program Name: Master of Science in Computer Information Systems: Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $54,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,720
#3 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in information assurance degree at Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, prioritizes flexibility. The master of science in information security leadership program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in information assurance. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior information assurance experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Brandeis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 30%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $51,940
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,940
#4 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Campus
From its campus in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern University offers an online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cybersecurity builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to information assurance. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a degree in information assurance or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Northeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 18%
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $24,793
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,793
#5 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Iowa State University
Ames, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in information assurance at Iowa State University, located in Ames, offers high academic quality. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science or engineering in cyber security program. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Iowa State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of Science or Engineering in Cyber Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,758
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,720
#6 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in information assurance program, offered by Lewis University from its Romeoville, Illinois campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in cybersecurity program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the information assurance field and related industries. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Lewis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,400
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,400
#7 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
The University of Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in information assurance can earn their degree from the University of Denver, located in Colorado. The master of science in information and communications technology: information systems security program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in information assurance before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Denver at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology: Information Systems Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $51,336
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,336
#8 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Regis University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Denver, Colorado, Regis University offers an online master's in information assurance. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in information and cyber security program. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a background in information assurance may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Regis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Master of Science in Information and Cyber Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,441
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,441
#9 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online master's in information assurance. The master of science in information systems – information assurance program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without an information assurance background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Systems – Information Assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#10 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Graduate students seeking an online information assurance degree can enroll in the master's program at Western Governors University, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The master of science in cybersecurity and information assurance program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in information assurance. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,500
#11 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in information assurance program, offered by Nova Southeastern University from its Fort Lauderdale, Florida, campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in information assurance and cybersecurity program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in information assurance. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 46
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,665
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,665
#12 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University hosts a top-ranked master's in information assurance program. The master of science in information assurance and cybersecurity helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to information assurance. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in information assurance before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
#13 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Norwich University
Northfield, VT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in information assurance program, offered by Norwich University from its Northfield, Vermont, campus, ranks as a top program. The master of science in cybersecurity program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on information assurance and cybersecurity. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in cybersecurity or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Norwich University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,904
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,904
#14 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
DePaul University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Chicago, Illinois, DePaul University offers an online master's in information assurance. The master of science in network engineering and security program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in information assurance before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Science in Network Engineering and Security
Graduate Tuition In State: $19,584
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,584
#15 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
From its campus in Daytona Beach, Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide hosts a top-ranked master's in information assurance program. The master of science in information security and assurance program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in information assurance. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a background in information assurance may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 62%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,268
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,268
#16 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in information assurance can earn their degree from Florida Institute of Technology, located in Melbourne, Florida. The master of science in information assurance and cybersecurity program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in information assurance. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in information assurance or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Florida Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 66%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,338
#17 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Davenport University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a flexible online master's in information assurance. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in information assurance and cybersecurity program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to information assurance. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in information assurance before applying to the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Davenport University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,958
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,958
#18 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Robert Morris University
Moon Township, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Robert Morris University, located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, offers a flexible online master's in information assurance. The master of science in cybersecurity program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of information assurance. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The admission requirements include a background in information assurance or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Robert Morris University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
#19 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Dakota State University
Madison, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dakota State University, located in Madison, South Dakota, enrolls master's students in its online information assurance program. The master of science in cyber defense program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to information assurance. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in information assurance or a related field for their bachelor's typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of Science in Cyber Defense
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,939
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,088
#20 Best Online Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
The online master's degree in information assurance at Pennsylvania State University World Campus, located in University Park, offers high academic quality. The master of professional studies in cybersecurity analytics and operations program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores information assurance research and methodologies. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a degree in information assurance or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
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