American Public University System

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED with a competitive GPA (generally 2.5–3.0 or higher). Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may be required or optional depending on the institution's policies.

About This Program

This fully online program explores the tactics used to thwart cybercriminals and protect critical information technology assets.

Career Outcomes

Enter Cybersecurity Analyst career in Cybersecurity AI with digital forensics focus

• 1. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
• 2. Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker
• 3. Information Security Analyst
• 4. Cybersecurity Systems Administrator

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement secure network architectures using firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems
• Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to identify security weaknesses
• Perform digital forensics investigations and incident response procedures
• Apply cryptographic principles and risk management frameworks (NIST, ISO) to protect organizational assets

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum offers tracks in digital forensics and critical infrastructure security, utilizing a virtual cyber range.

Top Employers

Top employers include Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, Amazon Web Services, government agencies (NSA, FBI, DHS), and major financial institutions.

Admissions

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED with a competitive GPA (generally 2.5–3.0 or higher). Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may be required or optional depending on the institution's policies.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Optional
• Letters of Recommendation: Not typically required for undergraduate programs
• Resume: Optional
• Transcripts: Official high school and any college transcripts required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor of Science (BS)
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)