Top 15 Online Bachelor's in Information Systems Programs for 2019

DSU students pursuing a BS in network and security administration experience a hands-on approach to building and securing computer networks. The program emphasizes business management and teaches students to become effective communicators and leaders. Teachers help students secure relevant professional development opportunities, including internships. Major-specific courses include computer forensics fundamentals, scripting for network administration, and security fundamentals.

DSU's 120-credit information security online degree provides students with access to virtual and physical labs, in which state of the art equipment is utilized for real-life learning experiences. Students explore various technological configurations and simulations and learn how to best handle common challenges that working professionals encounter in the field. Students can expect to complete this degree in approximately four years.

Mercy was founded in 1950 in New York City and offers more than 90 graduate and undergraduate degrees and certification programs. Its BS in cybersecurity is a 120-credit program that takes about four years to complete. The core curriculum includes foundational, major, and elective courses. As an elective option, Mercy offers two workplace experience in cybersecurity courses that provide hands-on training and situational strategy building. Students may also register for an independent study course, which allows them to work one-on-one with a faculty member and explore their interests in cybersecurity. Students may transfer up to 75 credits from a two-year institution or 90 credits from a four-year institution. Only six transfer credits may be applied towards the major-specific credit requirements.

UNO's bachelor of science in management information systems is a 120-credit program. Full-time learners typically complete this degree in four years. Students learn the day-to-day operations of running a business and relevant planning strategies. This program prepares students for careers in business data management, information security, electronic commerce, and related areas. Although it is not mandatory for graduation, students may choose between five concentrations, including global IT leadership and management, i-business application development and management, information assurance, internet technologies, and IT audit and control. All students must complete the general education and major-specific courses with a minimum grade of a C-. The office of academic affairs advises students on the distribution of requirements, their chosen electives, and the most efficient way for them to complete their degree.

KSU is a public university that offers more than 70 online programs. The school's online information security degree covers how to analyze and secure information and the systems that house that data. The program continues to evolve as digital technology changes and online threats to commercial information systems increase. Students learn critical managerial and technological skills, preparing them for careers as information security analysts, business risk analysts, and information systems managers. Major-specific coursework includes law and ethics, e-commerce defense, and data protection.

Online students receive technological and educational support. Learners may utilize their online tutor program, which provides students with assistance in the core courses. Their live tutoring sessions also feature real-time audio and visual feedback.

Davenport is a private, nonprofit university that was founded in 1866. The school offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. For students pursuing an information security online degree, Davenport offers a BS in cyber defense. The program, which is nationally recognized by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, features specializations in healthcare information and information assurance. Students may add a supplementary specialty in mathematical modeling. This 120-credit program is designed to generate proactive professionals. Learners acquire the skills to handle threats and unwanted online intervention from inside and outside organizations. Courses include authentication and audits, wireless networking and security, calculus, and differential equations with modeling.

Limestone's bachelor of science degree in computer and information systems security requires students to earn at least 123 credits. Beginning courses include basic concepts of the internet and introduction to computer science. Advanced courses include security architecture and design, continuity and disaster recovery planning, and cryptography. This information security degree online requires a capstone project to ensure mastery of major-specific course content.

Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available. Active military and veterans pay a reduced tuition rate. Students may transfer general education credits from South Carolina Technical College with a minimum grade of C. Applicants must submit an online application, provide official transcripts, and submit SAT or ACT scores. Students over the age of 21 or who are currently serving in the military are not required to submit test scores.

WGU is an online university that features a competency-based program. The school's BS degree in information technology-security is for established professionals already working in IT. The program gives students the opportunity to earn certifications and shift their career focus toward a security and assurance-driven position. WGU learners seeking a network security online degree typically commit 15 or more hours per week. Instead of paying tuition per credit hour, students at WGU pay a flat-rate tuition every 6 months, regardless of how many courses they complete. Most students complete all degree requirements in two to three years. Learners develop a personalized program with a faculty member to determine when they'll graduate.

Bellevue University, founded in 1966, is a non-profit university in Nebraska that offers an online BS degree in cybersecurity. This 127-credit program features a specialization in information security theory with a focus on protecting technology systems and detecting weaknesses in those systems. Students also learn how to respond to cyber attacks in the public and private sectors. This degree has a 54-week accelerated program option. Courses are nine weeks long. Online learners register for all required courses at the beginning of the program. Core courses include introduction to cyber threats, network security, advanced cybersecurity, and cybercrime. Online students also receive technical support, online tutoring, and video tutorials.

WilmU offers more than 90 online degrees and certificates, including the BS in computer and network security. Students learn how to secure computer networks in the private and public sectors, retrieve data, and investigate fraud and corporate crimes. Graduates are prepared for professional positions in which they protect information and vital data from cyber criminals. Courses include the fundamentals of economics and criminal evidence and procedures. Graduates are prepared for careers as ethical hackers, network defense technicians, penetration testers, and more. The school has been designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security. Certificates are available in digital evidence discovery and digital evidence investigation.

Excelsior is a nonprofit distance learning institution that was founded in 1971. More than 30 degree and certificate programs are offered online, including the BS in information technology (information security). This 120-credit program prepares students to address a broad set of threats that often hinder online systems, including natural disasters, theft, viruses, and system failure. Learners take courses to develop the critical skills necessary to evolve with advancing technology, including courses in computer forensics, software analysis and design, and network security. Students choose between specializations in cybersecurity technology, general IT, information security, and network operations. Graduates understand the professional, ethical, and social responsibilities of working in the information technology field.