Top 3 Cybersecurity Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington
NSA Center of Academic Excellence with top-tier security research and direct Microsoft, Amazon recruiting pipeline
Washington State University
NSA/DHS designated program with strong industry partnerships and hands-on security lab experience
Central Washington University
Most affordable option with comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum and high job placement rates
- 1.Washington has 12+ accredited cybersecurity bachelor's programs with 3 NSA Centers of Academic Excellence designations
- 2.University of Washington ranks #1 in Washington with NSA designation and 84% graduation rate in Seattle tech hub
- 3.Washington cybersecurity professionals earn median $115,340 annually—10% above the national median (BLS Washington 2024)
- 4.Seattle metro area provides 15,000+ information security analyst jobs with Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and T-Mobile as major employers
- 5.In-state tuition ranges from $8,976 at Central Washington to $12,092 at University of Washington—significantly below national averages
Cybersecurity Education Landscape in Washington State
Washington State offers exceptional cybersecurity education opportunities, anchored by the University of Washington's nationally recognized program and strengthened by the state's thriving tech ecosystem. With major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and T-Mobile headquartered in the region, Washington provides unparalleled internship and career opportunities for cybersecurity students.
The state's cybersecurity programs benefit from close industry partnerships, with many featuring hands-on training in state-of-the-art security operations centers. Three programs hold prestigious NSA Center of Academic Excellence designations, ensuring curriculum meets national security standards. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national cybersecurity bachelor's rankings. Students considering online options should explore our best online cybersecurity degrees guide.
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Washington May 2024, NSA CAE List 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Employer connections and internship programs
Washington-specific salaries from BLS OEWS
NSA/DHS designations and ABET accreditation
Washington Cybersecurity Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington | Seattle | Public | $12,092 | 84% | CAE-CD | 94.2 |
| 2 | Washington State University | Pullman | Public | $11,584 | 70% | CAE-CD | 87.8 |
| 3 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg | Public | $8,976 | 65% | None | 83.5 |
| 4 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney | Public | $9,816 | 58% | CAE-CD | 81.2 |
| 5 | Western Washington University | Bellingham | Public | $10,464 | 72% | None | 79.8 |
| 6 | Seattle University | Seattle | Private | $50,328 | 81% | None | 78.5 |
| 7 | University of Washington Tacoma | Tacoma | Public | $12,092 | 68% | None | 77.1 |
| 8 | Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma | Private | $47,884 | 74% | None | 75.9 |
| 9 | Gonzaga University | Spokane | Private | $49,800 | 87% | None | 74.6 |
| 10 | Whitworth University | Spokane | Private | $48,416 | 79% | None | 72.3 |
| 11 | Seattle Pacific University | Seattle | Private | $46,536 | 73% | None | 70.8 |
| 12 | The Evergreen State College | Olympia | Public | $8,016 | 59% | None | 68.5 |
University of Washington
Seattle, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • Located in Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem with immediate access to industry leaders
- • Faculty includes internationally recognized security researchers and industry veterans
- • Capstone projects often sponsored by major technology companies
- • Active cybersecurity student organizations and competition teams
Program Strengths
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense designation
- Direct recruiting partnerships with Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and T-Mobile
- State-of-the-art Security and Privacy Research Lab
- 84% graduation rate - highest among Washington public universities
- Average starting salary of $95,000 for cybersecurity graduates
- Strong graduate school placement rate for advanced security studies
Why Ranked #1
UW leads Washington's cybersecurity education with its NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation, world-class faculty, and unmatched industry connections in the Seattle tech corridor. The program combines rigorous academic training with hands-on experience in cutting-edge security research.
Student Reviews
"The hands-on experience with real security tools and the industry connections made all the difference in landing my dream job at Microsoft."
— 2024 Graduate, now Security Engineer at Microsoft
Washington State University
Pullman, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • Small class sizes enable personalized attention and mentoring
- • Industry-sponsored capstone projects provide real-world experience
- • Regular guest lectures from cybersecurity industry leaders
- • Strong preparation for security certifications like CISSP and CEH
Program Strengths
- NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense designation
- Comprehensive curriculum covering network security, digital forensics, and risk management
- Dedicated Cybersecurity Operations Center for hands-on training
- Strong alumni network in Pacific Northwest security roles
- Affordable tuition with excellent value proposition
- Active research in emerging security threats and AI security
Why Ranked #2
WSU's cybersecurity program combines comprehensive academic training with practical application through its NSA designation and strong industry partnerships. The program emphasizes both technical skills and cybersecurity management principles.
Student Reviews
"The professors genuinely care about your success and the hands-on labs prepared me well for the security challenges I face in my current role."
— 2023 Graduate, now Security Analyst at T-Mobile
Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA • University
Program Highlights
- • Outstanding value proposition with low debt and strong career outcomes
- • Faculty with extensive industry experience in cybersecurity
- • Comprehensive coverage of ethical hacking, digital forensics, and incident response
- • Active student cybersecurity club and competition participation
Program Strengths
- Most affordable cybersecurity program in Washington at $8,976 annual tuition
- High job placement rate with graduates securing roles at major tech companies
- Hands-on curriculum with extensive lab work and simulation exercises
- Strong partnerships with local and regional businesses for internships
- Small program size allows for individualized attention
- Preparation for industry certifications integrated into coursework
Why Ranked #3
CWU offers exceptional value in cybersecurity education, combining comprehensive curriculum with the lowest tuition among Washington's cybersecurity programs. The program emphasizes practical skills and industry readiness.
Student Reviews
"CWU gave me the practical skills I needed without the massive debt. I graduated ready to work and landed a great position right away."
— 2024 Graduate, now Cybersecurity Specialist at Boeing
Washington State University Systems and Cybersecurity Education
Washington's public university system provides excellent cybersecurity education options across different regions of the state. The University of Washington system leads with its Seattle flagship campus offering the state's top-ranked program, while regional campuses in Tacoma and Bothell provide additional access points.
Washington State University's cybersecurity program has earned national recognition through its NSA designation and innovative curriculum. The program benefits from strong industry partnerships and prepares students for both technical and management roles in cybersecurity.
Regional universities like Central Washington, Eastern Washington, and Western Washington provide more intimate learning environments with competitive programs. These institutions often offer excellent value propositions with lower tuition rates while maintaining strong industry connections throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Private institutions including Seattle University, Gonzaga, and Pacific Lutheran University round out the state's cybersecurity education landscape, often providing smaller class sizes and specialized focus areas within cybersecurity studies. For students considering the broader landscape of cybersecurity education, our cybersecurity curriculum guide provides detailed insights into program components and specializations.
Career Paths
Monitor security threats, investigate incidents, and implement protective measures for organizations
Information Security Manager
Lead cybersecurity teams and develop organizational security strategies and policies
Network Security Engineer
Design and implement secure network infrastructure and monitor for vulnerabilities
Digital Forensics Specialist
Investigate cybercrimes and analyze digital evidence for legal proceedings
Cloud Security Architect
Design secure cloud infrastructure and ensure compliance with security standards
Source: BLS OEWS Washington 2024
Compare Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Tuition | $10,426 | $48,152 | Public |
| Class Sizes | Larger (25-40 students) | Smaller (15-25 students) | Private |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive (UW, WSU) | Limited but Focused | Public |
| Industry Connections | Strong in Seattle Metro | Personalized Networks | Tie |
| Financial Aid | State Grants Available | Merit Scholarships | Tie |
| Alumni Network | Large Regional Presence | Smaller but Influential | Public |
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to major tech employers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing
- NSA-designated programs with national security focus
- Affordable in-state tuition at quality public universities
- Strong job market with 32% projected growth in cybersecurity roles
- Beautiful Pacific Northwest environment with outdoor recreation
- No state income tax maximizing your salary potential
- More program variety - Washington has fewer total options than California or Texas
- Warmer climate year-round
- Lower cost of living - Seattle metro can be expensive
- Specific industry focus like financial services (consider New York) or defense contracting
- Larger program sizes with more diverse student populations
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Cybersecurity Programs
Related Cybersecurity Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and tuition data
Salary and employment data for cybersecurity professionals
Official list of designated cybersecurity programs
State higher education data and trends
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.