Best Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota — 2026 Rankings
Compare the top information security colleges in North Dakota. 6 accredited information security schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Williston State College to Bismarck State College.
#1 ProgramBismarck State College
Avg Salary$87,650
Tuition From$3,310/yr
Job Growth+22%
Key Takeaways
Best information security degree programs: Bismarck State College, Minot State, U of Mary
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Are Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota Worth It?
Yes. The best information security degree programs in North Dakota deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $87,650 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $8,987/year.
Best Information Security Bachelor's Programs in North Dakota, 2026
3
Programs
$87,650
Median Salary
$10,140/yr
Avg Tuition
86%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
North Dakota ranks among the nation's top destinations for information security education, with 3 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Bismarck State College, Minot State, U of Mary, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from North Dakota information security programs earn a median salary of $74,503—24% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $4,167 to $19,084 annually, with an average of $10,140/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 86%, with the highest reaching 94%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to North Dakota's leading technology employers. For students seeking information security degrees in North Dakota, these top-ranked information security schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Information Security Master's Programs in North Dakota, 2026
1
Programs
$87,650
Median Salary
$9,237/yr
Avg Tuition
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
North Dakota offers 1 master's degree programs in information security, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—U of North Dakota—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in North Dakota earn a median salary of $87,650, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $9,237/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among North Dakota's information security schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Advance your career with a Information Security master's degree
Best Information Security Associate's Programs in North Dakota, 2026
2
Programs
$87,650
Median Salary
$7,134/yr
Avg Tuition
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
North Dakota offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in information security, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Williston State College, Rasmussen University-Nort..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in North Dakota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $7,134/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $48,208 in North Dakota.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with North Dakota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information security schools in North Dakota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information security degrees in North Dakota.
Start your Information Security career with an associate's degree
Complete Information Security Degree Program Rankings in North Dakota
Best Associate's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
### Program Landscape
North Dakota offers **2 accredited** associate's degree programs in information security, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Williston State College**, **Rasmussen University-Nort...**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
### Costs & Value
Community colleges in North Dakota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$7,134/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$48,208** in North Dakota.
### Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with North Dakota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information security schools in North Dakota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information security degrees in North Dakota.
#1. Williston State College
Hakia ranks Williston State College as the #1 associate's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This public institution in Williston, ND has annual tuition of $3,310 ($138/credit). Ranking score: 51.6.
#2. Rasmussen University-North Dakota
Hakia ranks Rasmussen University-North Dakota as the #2 associate's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This for-profit institution in Fargo, ND has annual tuition of $10,957 ($303/credit). Ranking score: 49.8.
Online Associate's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
### Online Program Options
North Dakota's community colleges offer 1 online associate's information security programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Williston State College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by North Dakota employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online associate's programs average **$3,310/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. North Dakota-based employers including Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online information security degrees in North Dakota, these accredited information security schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Williston State College - Williston, ND - Tuition: $3,310/year
Best Bachelor's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
### Program Landscape
North Dakota ranks among the nation's top destinations for information security education, with **3 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **2 public** and **1 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Bismarck State College**, **Minot State**, **U of Mary**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
### Career Outcomes
Graduates from North Dakota information security programs earn a median salary of **$74,503**—24% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems.
### Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from **$4,167** to **$19,084** annually, with an average of **$10,140/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **86%**, with the highest reaching **94%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to North Dakota's leading technology employers. For students seeking information security degrees in North Dakota, these top-ranked information security schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#1. Bismarck State College
Hakia ranks Bismarck State College as the #1 bachelor's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This public institution in Bismarck, ND has annual tuition of $4,167 ($174/credit). Ranking score: 69.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-2Y.
#2. Minot State University
Hakia ranks Minot State University as the #2 bachelor's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This public institution in Minot, ND has annual tuition of $7,168 ($299/credit) and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
#3. University of Mary
Hakia ranks University of Mary as the #3 bachelor's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This private institution in Bismarck, ND has annual tuition of $19,084 ($650/credit) and a 78% graduation rate. Ranking score: 43.6. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
Best Master's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
### Program Landscape
North Dakota offers **1** master's degree programs in information security, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of North Dakota**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
### Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in North Dakota earn a median salary of **$87,650**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems actively recruiting from these programs.
### Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$9,237/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among North Dakota's information security schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
#1. University of North Dakota
Hakia ranks University of North Dakota as the #1 master's in information security degree program in North Dakota. This public institution in Grand Forks, ND has annual tuition of $9,237 ($385/credit). Ranking score: 49.3.
Information Security Degree Costs & Tuition in North Dakota
Metric
Value
Average in-state tuition
$8,987/year
Average out-of-state tuition
$22,468/year
Community college tuition
$2,247/year
4-year savings for residents
$53,924
2+2 transfer pathway savings
$13,480
Source: IPEDS 2023
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Security Students in North Dakota
State Aid Programs
North Dakota students pursuing information security degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways, including federal and state-specific programs. The primary source for federal aid begins with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid. This application unlocks access to Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and Direct Loans for eligible students. Additionally, North Dakota offers the North Dakota Academic Scholarship, a merit-based award specifically designed for North Dakota high school graduates, helping to offset tuition costs at institutions within the North Dakota University System. These combined resources significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for both in-state and out-of-state learners.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond federal and state grants, individual institutions in North Dakota offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to information security students. Many four-year universities and community colleges participate in the NDUS General Education Transfer system, which ensures credits and financial aid eligibility transfer seamlessly within the state system. For detailed information about aid eligibility and application deadlines, students should visit their chosen institution's financial aid office or consult Federal Student Aid for comprehensive guidance. Prospective students should also explore College Scorecard to compare aid packages and affordability metrics across North Dakota's 11 institutions offering information security programs.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator — North Dakota
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information security degree in North Dakota. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Security Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information security degree
$
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Security Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in North Dakota metro areas
Hakia.com
View data table
Category
value
Fargo
$96K
Bismarck
$92K
Grand Forks
$88K
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
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Top Employers Hiring Information Security Graduates in North Dakota
Find information security jobs in North Dakota. These major employers across North Dakota metro areas are actively hiring information security degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Security Jobs in Fargo
ND
Microsoft
tech
Appareo Systems
tech
Bobcat
manufacturing
NDSU Research
education
Information Security Jobs in Bismarck
ND
Basin Electric
energy
State of North Dakota IT
government
Transfer Pathways for Information Security Degrees in North Dakota
State Transfer System
North Dakota streamlines the transfer process for information security students through the NDUS General Education Transfer system, which ensures that general education credits earned at community colleges transfer seamlessly to four-year universities within the North Dakota University System. This framework eliminates duplicate coursework and accelerates degree completion for students pursuing the 2+2 pathway, completing an associate's degree at one of North Dakota's 7 two-year institutions before transferring to a four-year program. Community colleges like Bismarck State College (tuition: $4,167, the most affordable option in the state), North Dakota State College of Science, and Williston State College provide affordable entry points with 9 associate's degree completions in 2023, offering foundational courses that count fully toward bachelor's degrees (NDUS General Education Transfer).
How Transfers Work
Students completing associate's degrees at institutions like Rasmussen University-North Dakota can transfer credits toward bachelor's programs at NDUS universities such as North Dakota State University-Main Campus, University of North Dakota, Minot State University, and Dickinson State University. The transfer guarantee reduces financial burden while maintaining academic momentum. Students save significantly on tuition while earning an associate's credential that stands alone in the job market. Many employers in Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks actively recruit associate's degree holders for entry-level information security roles, making the two-year pathway a viable career accelerator. For detailed transfer agreements specific to information security coursework, contact your chosen community college and destination university's admissions office. Explore cybersecurity transfer options and information technology pathways for complementary and alternative routes through North Dakota's integrated education system.
Why Pursue an Information Security Degree in North Dakota?
Industry & Workforce
North Dakota offers a growing landscape for information security education with 11 institutions across the state offering dedicated programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels (IPEDS). In 2023, North Dakota produced 38 program completions in information security, demonstrating steady demand for qualified professionals. The state's four-year public institutions maintain an average in-state tuition of $6,417, making education accessible compared to national averages. This affordability, combined with low cost of living in major hubs like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks, creates an economically attractive pathway into cybersecurity careers.
Salary Outlook
North Dakota's tech ecosystem continues to expand, with major employers including Sanford Health, Essentia Health, Microsoft, and the University of North Dakota actively recruiting information security professionals. The state's Fargo-Moorhead metro area is a regional technology center, while the Bismarck-Mandan region supports strong healthcare IT security needs. Students pursuing information security in North Dakota benefit from proximity to these employers and the opportunity to build professional networks in growing markets. For career advancement and competitive positioning, explore North Dakota's cybersecurity programs and information technology offerings to understand complementary career pathways. Comparing opportunities with other regions? See how North Dakota stacks up against California, Texas, and New York programs.
6 Programs
Information Security Program Availability in North Dakota
North Dakota offers 6 accredited information security programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks.
Source: IPEDS 2023
Information Security Job Market & Salary Data in North Dakota
Employment Outlook
North Dakota's information security job market is experiencing steady growth as organizations across the state prioritize cybersecurity investments. According to the (Bureau of Labor Statistics), demand for security professionals continues to rise across key metro areas including Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks. The state's major employers, including Sanford Health, Essentia Health, and Microsoft, actively recruit information security talent to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive data. With 11 institutions across North Dakota offering information security programs at various degree levels, the state is building a strong pipeline of qualified professionals to meet this growing demand.
Salaries by Metro
For prospective students, the job market outlook remains favorable across multiple sectors. Healthcare systems like Sanford Health and Essentia Health represent significant employers requiring skilled security professionals, while technology companies and educational institutions like the University of North Dakota expand their cybersecurity needs annually. The Fargo-Moorhead, Bismarck-Mandan, and Grand Forks metro areas serve as primary employment hubs. Students can leverage resources from (College Scorecard) to research outcomes at programs like those offered at North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota. Explore related career paths through our guides on (Cybersecurity in North Dakota) and (Network Administration in North Dakota) to understand the full scope of security career opportunities in the state.
We analyzed 6 information security degree programs in North Dakota using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
Regional salary data for information security graduates. North Dakota median salary of $87,650 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota — Detailed School Profiles
Best Associate's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
Williston State College — Williston, ND
Key Distinction: Williston State College offers comprehensive Information Security programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Williston State College's regional focus means its information security graduates feed directly into North Dakota's energy and oil-sector infrastructure security roles, industries with acute cybersecurity labor shortages and notably higher starting compensation than national associate's-degree averages.
Williston State College offers Information Security programs in Williston, ND. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Rasmussen University-North Dakota — Fargo, ND
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's online-first model targets rural and working adults, but the real insight is employer specificity: its top placements (government IT contractors, regional healthcare systems) suggest the curriculum emphasizes compliance and healthcare IT security over consumer tech, making graduates more competitive in underserved, higher-paying sectors.
At the associate's level, rasmussen's online-first information security programs give working adults and rural students the flexibility to earn credentials without relocating or sacrificing employment. The curriculum balances CompTIA and vendor certifications with real-world scenario training, allowing you to study at night or weekends while maintaining income. Many graduates land help desk and junior security analyst roles at regional employers within 6–12 months of completion. However, transfer pathways to traditional four-year universities are less direct than at state colleges, so clarify your long-term goal before enrolling—if you're aiming for a bachelor's degree eventually, confirm articulation agreements with your target university.
Programs Offered
Associate of Science in Information Security — 2 years, on-campus
Associate of Applied Science in Information Security — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional call centers (tech support), Healthcare providers (IT support), Government agencies (contracted IT), Regional financial services firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
North Dakota State University (limited articulation)
Valley City State University (limited articulation)
Entry-Level Career Paths
Help Desk Technician
IT Support Specialist
Junior Security Analyst (entry-level)
Technical Support Specialist
Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
Bismarck State College — Bismarck, ND
Hakia Insight: Bismarck State's direct pipeline into North Dakota state government IT departments (ITSD) and regional health systems means students aren't competing nationally for entry roles—they're pre-positioned for government security clearance sponsorship and public-sector stability before graduation.
At the bachelor's level, with proximity to North Dakota's state government hub and strong relationships with public-sector IT departments, Bismarck State's information security program creates a direct recruitment pipeline into state agency careers. The AAS curriculum covers networking fundamentals, security protocols, and systems administration with emphasis on real-world incident response scenarios. Graduates commonly transition into help desk and junior administrator roles at state offices, healthcare systems, and regional tech firms within months of graduation. The program's real advantage is embedded employer partnerships—state IT recruiters actively interview students before graduation, making job placement competitive and predictable.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: North Dakota state government agencies (ITSD, Health, Education), CHI St. Alexius Health (Bismarck), Sanford Health (Bismarck region), Bismarck-Mandan Public Schools, Regional banking and financial institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
North Dakota State University (NDSU)
Valley City State University
University of North Dakota
Entry-Level Career Paths
Help Desk Technician
Junior Network Administrator
IT Support Specialist
Junior Systems Administrator
State Government IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Minot State University — Minot, ND
Key Distinction: Minot State's information security education uniquely emphasizes infrastructure-level security and systems thinking within a close-knit academic environment.
Hakia Insight: Minot State's focus on infrastructure-level security and risk management within a small cohort environment creates an unusual advantage: students develop systems-thinking skills alongside mentorship from Darren Seifert's faculty, positioning them for critical infrastructure and energy-sector roles where that expertise commands premiums.
At the bachelor's level, minot State's information security offerings develop practitioners who understand security through the lens of organizational risk management and compliance requirements—a perspective that directly mirrors how businesses and institutions actually operate. The program weaves security fundamentals with business context, ensuring graduates can communicate with C-suite executives and board members, not just technical teams. Students engage with real compliance frameworks including HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and NIST standards as living components of the curriculum rather than as appendices, building fluency in the regulatory landscape that shapes security decisions. Electives allow specialization in healthcare cybersecurity, financial services security, or critical infrastructure protection—sectors where Minot State has cultivated employer relationships. The program benefits from faculty with backgrounds in both technology and information governance, bringing expertise in how to design security programs that actually get funded and supported by leadership. Internship opportunities connect students with regional healthcare systems, government agencies, and financial institutions facing genuine compliance challenges. For students seeking a security education rooted in the business and governance dimensions of the field—rather than purely technical hacking skills—this program delivers practical awareness of how security integrates into organizational strategy. Graduates commonly move into roles as security analysts, compliance officers, and IT security managers where their understanding of both technical controls and business requirements differentiates them from competitors.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Information Security — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Information Security — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
Darren Seifert — Department Chair and Assistant Professor
Accreditations and Certifications
CAE-CD
Location Advantages: Proximity to government and energy sector security needs in Northern Plains region
University of Mary — Bismarck, ND
Key Distinction: NSA designation as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through 2030. Emerging Leaders Academy mentorship program with local business leaders
Hakia Insight: University of Mary's CAE-CD designation through 2030 combined with the Emerging Leaders Academy mentorship program means undergrads get paired with local business leaders while building secure hardware and defense knowledge—a rare blend that accelerates both technical credibility and professional network before entering the workforce.
The University of Mary's cybersecurity bachelor's program is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the NSA through 2030. Students develop secure hardware and software information systems while analyzing and creating administrative and project management solutions for real business problems. The program emphasizes practical experience with small class sizes and mentorship from faculty with professional cybersecurity experience. Students can participate in the Emerging Leaders Academy for mentorship from local business leaders. The program is accredited through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education and offers flexible delivery through online or evening classes. Mary's Year-Round Campus option allows completion in 2.6 years instead of traditional 4-year timeline. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, taught by faculty with both academic credentials and industry experience who hold multiple certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA, and Cisco.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
CISCO (partner)
CompTIA (partner)
Amazon Academy (partner)
Notable Faculty
Thomas Volkman — Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering
Jerika Hayes — Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science
Dr. Chad E. Litton — Criminal Justice, Behavioral Sciences
Accreditations and Certifications
NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)
Location Advantages: Access to regional healthcare and agricultural sector security needs
Best Master's Information Security Degree Programs in North Dakota
University of North Dakota — Grand Forks, ND
Key Distinction: 100% asynchronous online delivery with no campus visits required. Embedded stackable professional certificates (Cyber Security Analyst mandatory, plus 2 of 3: Ethical Hacking, Computer Forensics, Secure Networks)
Hakia Insight: UND's stackable certificate requirement (Cyber Security Analyst mandatory plus 2 of 3 electives in ethical hacking, forensics, or secure networks) embedded within a 36-credit fully asynchronous degree means graduates emerge with validated, modular credentials that employers can immediately task against specific roles—not a general degree.
UND's 36-credit online Master's in Cyber Security is designed for working professionals with minimal technical backgrounds, offering 100% asynchronous online delivery with no campus visits required. The program features embedded professional certifications through mandatory stackable certificate tracks: Cyber Security Analyst (required), plus choice of two from Ethical Hacking, Computer Forensics, or Secure Networks. Students gain hands-on expertise in threat detection, ethical hacking, forensics, and network security while preparing for industry certification exams. The flexible format allows career continuation while earning advanced credentials. No GRE/GMAT required for admission. The program is ABET-accredited and designated as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Research. Graduates advance to leadership roles including CISO, CTO, and Director positions. Cybersecurity professionals command premium salaries as among the highest-paid in IT, with the global market projected to grow 11% through 2028.
Programs Offered
Master's in Cyber Security — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Center for Cyber Security Research (C2SR)
Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIR)
Secure Cyber Physical Energy Systems & Data Sciences Laboratory
Bioinnovation Zone
Advanced Transportation Infrastructure Center (ATIC)
Industry Partners
Northrup-Grumman (employer)
General Atomics (employer)
Packet Digital (collaborator)
Idaho National Laboratory (collaborator)
George Mason University (partner)
Norwegian School of Management (partner)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
Dr. Prakash Ranganathan — Big Data, Cyber Security, Smart Grids
Dr. Naima Kaabouch — AI applications in cybersecurity
Dr. Neena Goveas — Machine Learning on Embedded Devices, Cybersecurity, Wireless Sensor Networks
Dr. Hassan Reza — Software Architecture/Software Engineering
Dr. Massimiliano Albanese — Information and Network Security, Modeling and Detection of Cyber Attacks, Cyber Situational Awareness
Accreditations and Certifications
CompTIA Security+
Certified Ethical Hacker pathway
Location Advantages: Proximity to federal research institutionsGovernment agency partnerships across the Northern PlainsEnergy infrastructure security sector connections
