Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for preventing data breaches and cyberattacks. The job requires the knowledge and application of information security practices to safeguard sensitive information. The measures include planning and implementing systems and network security measures.

A wide range of top universities and colleges currently offer cybercrime degree programs for those seeking careers in this exciting field. Getting a professional degree in cybercrime can provide you with the knowledge and skills to be a part of the solution, protecting organizations from cybercriminals. 

This explains everything there is to know regarding cybercrime degrees, including what they offer, main courses, and job opportunities. 

What is a Cybercrime Degree For?

Cybercrime degrees prepare students for careers in law enforcement and information technology. Students enrolled in the cybercrime program must demonstrate excellent communication skills in both writing and speaking, as well as logical and mathematical abilities. During the program, students will study criminology, cybersecurity, and information technology. 

Infosec states that cybercrime investigators often work as part of a consulting firm, providing services to law enforcement, companies, and organizations. Additionally, they may work directly for a company or organization. It is also possible for investigators to specialize in a particular field, such as fraud, cyberstalking, drugs, human trafficking, and abuse.

During a cybercrime program, you will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to keep data secure and the ability to maintain the security of individuals and institutions worldwide.

Cybercrime Degree Subjects/Courses

There are a number of topics covered in cybercrime degree programs, including cybersecurity fundamentals, cybersecurity networks, and cybercrime laws. Among the objectives of these programs are to teach students how to identify and mitigate cyber threats, protect digital assets, and prevent cybercrime. 

Utica University is a good example of major and minor courses offered in a cybercrime bachelor’s degree program which usually spans over 4 years and requires 120 credit hours:

Core Cybersecurity Courses

• Introduction to Cybersecurity
• Computer Hardware and Peripherals
• Programming for Cybersecurity
• Software Foundations for Cybersecurity
• Information Security
• Network Security
• Cloud Security
• Information Assurance, Risk, and Compliance
• Information System Threats, Attacks, and Defenses

Apart from these there are specialization courses such as cybercrime and fraud investigation (economic crime, fraud prevention technologies), digital forensics and incident response, and cyber operations (tools, system vulnerability and malware detection). 

The courses/subjects of cyber security degree in other universities may vary with a slight change in their names, but the overall curriculum and coursework remain the same. 

On the other hand, if you are interested in pursuing a graduate/master’s program, then here is a curriculum for Masters in Cyber Crime Investigation and Digital Forensics offered by Michigan State University:

Major Course Requirements

• Cybercrime, Deviance, and Virtual Society
• Crime Causation, Prevention, and Control
• Cyber Terror and Cyber Warfare
• Design and Analysis in Criminal Justice Research
• Legislative and Policy Responses to Cybercrime
• Analysis of Contemporary Cyberthreats (Capstone)

Elective Courses

• Data Systems/Infrastructure
• Economic Cybercrimes and Fraud
• Interpersonal Cybercrime
• Globalization of Crime
• Comparative Criminal Justice
• Open-Source Information Analysis

Depending on your university, the curriculum may vary. However, before enrolling in any master’s degree program in cybercrime and security, please check the curriculum and verify that it matches your requirements. 

Which Schools Offer Cyber Crime Degrees?

Here is a list of some of the best colleges and institutions that offer cybercrime degrees. This includes certificates/associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs offered online and on-campus.

Certificates in Cybercrime

a. American Public University – Online Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime

APU’s online graduate cybercrime certificate provides you with the skills you need to detect and verify cyberterrorism, cyberwar, cyberstalking, and cyberbullying using digital forensics tools, techniques, and methods.

The course program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement, intelligence agencies, homeland security, and private enterprises when investigating cybercrime. By completing this certificate, you can gain a greater understanding of cybercrime basics without committing to a full degree program.

• Degree: Online Graduate Program in Cybercrime
• Fees: $8,190
• Acceptance rate: 100%

b. Boston University – Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity 

A Graduate Certificate program in Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity (CIC) is offered by Boston University as part of its interdisciplinary initiative in cybercrime and criminal justice.

Through this course, students will gain a deeper understanding of cybercrime, practical digital investigation skills, legal practices, and cybersecurity risk assessment policies. Additionally, graduates can take the forensic examiner exam once they complete the certificate program.

The program will provide students with a deep understanding of criminological perspectives, including cybercriminals’ mentality and motivational factors.

• Degree: Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime Investigation & Cybersecurity 
• Fees: $15,720
• Acceptance rate: 11%

c. Angelo State University – Cybercrime Investigation Certificate

Angelo State University offers a 12-credit certificate in Cybercrime Investigation. To obtain your certificate, you will only need to complete four courses. As part of these courses, students will be taught Cybercrime, Digital Forensic Investigations, Mobile Forensic Investigations, and Network Forensic Investigation. 

During these courses, you’ll learn techniques to investigate cybercrime as well as digital, mobile, and network forensics. In addition, it will prepare you to work in law enforcement, corporations, and consulting firms specializing in cybercrime investigations.

• Degree: Cybercrime Investigation Certificate
• Fees: $7,508
• Acceptance rate: 79%

d. Iona University – Cybercrime and Prevention Certificate

Iona University’s Advanced Certificate in Cybercrime and Prevention online program offers you convenience and flexibility. Adding credentials and building your resume can be accomplished through online cybersecurity courses.

Studying online cybersecurity courses like Cybercrime and Prevention Certificate at Iona University will allow you to gain a balanced understanding of cybercrime and security monitoring from both a private and governmental perspective. By gaining practical experience through this certificate, you’ll develop skills that prepare you for a successful career in cyber espionage detection and prevention.

• Degree: Cybercrime and Prevention Certificate
• Fees: $16,055
• Acceptance rate: 96.4%

e. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Graduate Certificate in Cyber Crime Forensics

A certificate program in Cyber Crime Forensics is offered by the Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The focus of this program is on teaching participants practical skills in identifying, analyzing, and solving digital crimes. It covers topics such as computer forensics, investigative methods used in cybercrime investigations, and how to protect digital evidence. 

It is ideal for those in the fields of law enforcement, information technology, and cybersecurity who wish to enhance their skill sets. As a result of the program’s flexibility, students may gain hands-on experience while maintaining their other commitments. Students who graduate from this program are well-prepared for careers focused on preventing cybercrime and securing digital systems.

• Degree: Graduate Certificate in Cyber Crime Forensics
• Fees: $16,055
• Acceptance rate: 86.3%

Bachelor’s Degrees

a. Old Dominion University – Bachelor of Science Cybercrime Studies 

Old Dominion University’s cybercrime program prepares students for careers in both criminal justice and information technology. There are both online and on-campus options for the program. 

To be successful in the cybercrime program, students need to excel in written and verbal communication, mathematics, and logic. Besides criminology and cybersecurity courses, they will also take IT courses. 

The courses will teach students about technology-related issues in criminal justice, like cyber laws and computer crime investigations. Besides learning cybersecurity and digital forensics, they will also learn about computer networking, Java, C+, and other technical skills employers demand.

• Degree: BS Cybercrime Studies
• Fees: $48,960
• Acceptance rate: 95.1%

b. Western Governors University – Bachelors of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

Obtaining a WGU online cybercrime degree will enable you to combat cybercriminals and assist governments and organizations. Throughout this computer systems degree program, you will gain a solid understanding of the principles of IT security.

A total of 34 courses are offered in this program. Each course will be completed as quickly as possible so that you can gain an understanding of the material. If you pass the assessment, you’ll finish the course and proceed to the next step. Consequently, you can complete as many courses as you wish during a term.

• Degree: BS in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
• Fees: $33,960
• Acceptance rate: 100%

c. Western Oregon University – Bachelor of Science in Cybercrime Investigation and Enforcement 

Western Oregon University offers an undergraduate program in cybercrime investigation and enforcement. This program incorporates elements of law enforcement, forensics, legal, and security skills to investigate crime prevention and respond to cyber crimes.

Students who graduate from this program will be well prepared for a variety of traditional as well as emerging positions within the field of crime prevention, investigation, and enforcement, including cyber-related crimes.

Some courses offered here include Introduction to Cybercrime, Ethics in Cybercrime Investigation and Enforcement, Cybersecurity Fundamentals for Criminal Investigation, and many more. 

• Degree: BS in Cybercrime Investigation and Enforcement
• Fees: $15,939
• Acceptance rate: 83%

d. University of Arizona – Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations

The University of Arizona offers a bachelor’s of Applied Science in Cyber Operations. Three specializations are available in this online program: Engineering, defense, and forensics. Students learn about cybersecurity and cyber defense and receive preparation for private and public sector careers. 

The Cyber Virtual Learning Environment at the UOA provides advanced offensive and defensive cyber security content which provides hands-on experience and builds the knowledge, abilities, and skills you will need after graduation. 

• Degree: BAS in Cyber Operations
• Fees: $63,000
• Acceptance rate: 86.4%

e. Indiana State University – Bachelor of Science in Cyber criminology and Security Studies

Indiana State University offers a major in Cybercriminology and Security Studies that focuses on Cybercrime. It teaches students not only Criminology, but also digital forensics, security, risk assessment, and behavioral analysis. 

Here they will be educated not only on law enforcement but also on digital forensics using today’s tools as well as being prepared for security certifications.

The program requires 21 credits of core criminology and criminal justice courses, along with either a Cybercrime or Physical Security concentration.  

• Degree: BS in Cyber Criminology and Security Studies
• Fees: $44,345
• Acceptance rate: 92%

Master’s Degrees

a. University of South Florida – Master of Science in Cybercrime 

University of South Florida offers a Master of Science in Cybercrime that teaches students the fundamentals of major issues in criminology as they relate to cybercrime. During the course, students will study current criminology theory in connection with cybercrime, study investigative techniques, and learn how to use digital forensics to conduct cybercrime investigations. 

The purpose of this program was to assist criminal investigators, not to assist computer scientists. The program will provide you with all the technical training you need. No prerequisites or courses are required for this degree.  So no matter what undergraduate degree or professional experience you have, you can enroll in this program. 

• Degree: MS in Cybercrime
• Fees: $17,250
• Acceptance rate: 41%

b. Purdue Global – Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Management

This online master’s degree program from Purdue Global is designed to prepare you for a leadership role in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. Students learn how to manage information continuity, clarify and control assets, manage compliance, respond to incidents, and secure information systems.

With their master’s degree in cybersecurity management, you will learn how to develop, identify, evaluate, and improve cybersecurity policies so that organizations can better respond to cyber threats. 

• Degree: MS in Cybersecurity Management
• Fees: $7,848
• Acceptance rate: 100%

c. Mississippi State University – Masters of Science in Cyber Security and Operations

Those who want to help tackle the challenges presented by increasing cyber threats can earn a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Operations (MS CYSO) from Mississippi State University. The curriculum provides an in-depth comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity issues and a framework for assessing, understanding, and resolving them.

The degree focuses on cyber security aspects that are required for operating in cyberspace. This course prepares students for advanced cyber operations such as malware analysis, post-attack analysis, and penetration testing.

• Degree: MS in Cybersecurity and Operations
• Fees: $26,430
• Acceptance rate: 76%

d. University of New Haven – Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Networks

In the Cybersecurity and Networks program at the University of New Haven, you will acquire a combination of practical skills and leading-edge knowledge that will prepare you for a successful career. By doing so, you can advance your career as a network engineer, forensic examiner, or information security analyst

Additionally, you will be required to submit a substantial project demonstrating your competence and professionalism, so that when you succeed in landing your dream job, you will be able to get started immediately. 

• Degree: MS in Cybersecurity and Networks
• Fees: $31,650
• Acceptance rate: 81%

e. University of Tulsa – Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Online M.S. in Cyber Security at the University of Tulsa equips students with the skills necessary to safeguard the systems that power today’s interconnected world. 

Both technical and leadership tracks are available for the M.S. in Cyber Security. As part of the program, students learn cybersecurity fundamentals and work with top IT tools. In addition, you will explore security frameworks from a policy-oriented perspective so that you can understand how to protect your organization against cyber attacks.

With the accelerated program, you can learn these skills while working full-time within 20 months. There are no GRE requirements for admission to this program.

• Degree: MS in Cybersecurity
• Fees: $25,500
• Acceptance rate: 58%

What are the Requirements for Cybercrime Degree Programs

The specific degree requirements for a Cybercrime degree vary depending on the university or institution offering the program. Below is a general overview of the typical requirements for a bachelor’s or master’s degree in cybercrime. 

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

For admission to a Bachelor of Science program in Cybercrime, applicants usually need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as an excellent academic record. You may need to submit SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement to some institutions. 

If you wish to be admitted to Monroe University’s Computer Networks and Cybersecurity Bachelor program for example, you will need either a high school diploma, an equivalent diploma, or an associate degree from an accredited college as listed in the transfer admissions policy. 

Additionally, applicants must submit a personal statement or essay along with their application. Scores on the SAT or ACT are not required. 

Master’s Degree Requirements

The minimum requirement for a Master’s degree in Cybercrime is usually a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as criminal justice, security, or computer science. Applicants may also be required to submit a personal statement outlining their career goals, references, and a current resume. 

An example is the admission requirements to Lasell University’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Cybercrime and Cybercriminology. You are required to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a demonstration of academic background and/or work experience that indicates success in graduate school. Further, no GMAT/GRE scores are required for admission here, but other institutes might require them. So confirm their requirements on their website before applying. 

Is Cybercrime Right for Me?

A person’s interests, skills, and long-term goals will determine whether cybercrime is the appropriate career path for them. An individual interested in cybercrime may be attracted to it since it combines technology with law enforcement and problem-solving. This makes it a great profession for those who enjoy working with computers, analyzing data, and confronting challenges related to online security and criminal activity.

Whether a degree in cybercrime is for you or not is simply a matter of examining your options, examining your passions, and making the best decision for your career. However, it’s important to remember that a degree in cybersecurity can prepare you for a career in the prevention, detection, and fight against digital crimes. There is nothing wrong with that.

When it comes to salary outlook according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the job of Cybersecurity ‘Information Security Analysts’ pays around $120,360 per year which is way above the average. Think about that when considering a salary goal or expectation when choosing a career path. 

Conclusion 

This is everything there is to know regarding cybercrime and cybersecurity degree programs in the USA. If you like programming and wish to become a computer expert and learn how to catch cyber criminals then this career path is the right choice. 

Bachelor’s degree programs prepare you for entry-level jobs, but if you wish to advance in your career, you should consider master’s degree programs. The field is a little challenging and technical but if you like taking on challenges then this is surely worth considering.