According to the Bureau of Labor, Florida is the #4 state in the country for information security jobs.
You can get started in a cyber career with any of the programs below.
Local Trade School Programs
- Davie
- Delray Beach, Miami Gardens, Altamonte Springs
- Ocala
- Daytona Beach
- Orlando
- Melbourne
- Miami, Miramar, Miami Beach
- Punta Gorda, Naples, Fort Myers, LaBelle
- Jacksonville
- Melbourne
- Winter Park
- Tampa, Plant City, Ruskin, Tampa Bay, MacDill Air Force Base
- Clearwater, Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Lakeland, Melbourne, Miami, Naples, New Port Richey, Orlando, Patrick AF, Pembroke Pines, Port St. Lucie, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Tampa, West Palm Beach
- Bradenton
- Miami
- Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Miami, Miramar, Orlando, Palm Beach Gardens, Clearwater
- Clearwater, St. Petersburg
- New Port Richey, Ocala, Tampa, Overland
- Gainesville
- Orlando
- Jacksonville, Ft. Lauderdale, Maitland, Miramar, Orlando, Palm Beach Gardens, Tampa
- Tallahassee
- Pensacola
- St. Petersburg, Miramar
Broward College (Rating: 3 out 5)
The Cybersecurity Technical Certificate at Broward College's online campus prepares students for careers in cybersecurity, covering essential topics such as networking fundamentals, IP services, Linux, penetration testing, and network security. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to secure employment as cybersecurity technicians.
The Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Information Technology – Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking builds upon an associate degree, providing advanced skills in IT leadership and cybersecurity. This program, available both online and at select campuses, emphasizes practical application and requires a minimum GPA and completion of specific prerequisites for admission.
Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology (Rating: 3.9 out 5)
College of Central Florida (Rating: 3.9 out 5)
Daytona College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
DeVry University (Rating: 2.8 out 5)
DeVry University offers comprehensive Cyber Security programs designed to prepare students for the high-demand field of cybersecurity. The Online Undergraduate Cyber Security Certificate Program provides foundational coursework to help learners develop essential skills and prepare for industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, and EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker, with reimbursement for certification exam attempts.
The Associate Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking focuses on hands-on experience, teaching students to implement, validate, and update security infrastructures while preparing for certifications like CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA CySA+.
The Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking equips students with advanced skills in defending networks, applications, and systems against cyber threats, with opportunities to participate in specialized communities like Women+Tech. Additionally, the Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems with a Cyber Security Programming Specialization trains students in secure coding and application protection, offering a complimentary laptop and certification reimbursement.
DeVry’s programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and recognized by the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies, ensuring a high-quality education aligned with industry standards.
Florida Institute of Technology (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity offers advanced studies for students from technical and nontechnical backgrounds, focusing on developing competencies in cyber defense. Core courses cover data structures, programming, computer networks, cyber threats, enterprise information security, secure communication protocols, and cryptography.
The MBA in Cybersecurity provides comprehensive training in modern security challenges over a duration of 12 months. The 36-credit hour program equips students with knowledge in risk assessment, computer security, and security frameworks, combining rigorous study with hands-on projects to address and mitigate cyberattacks.
Florida International University (Rating: 4.4 out 5)
The Master of Science in Cybersecurity at Florida International University equips students with advanced knowledge in data protection, cybersecurity policy, and defense techniques through a curriculum that includes two concentration options. Designed for those with a background in computer science, IT, or related fields, the program is typically completed in two years and prepares graduates for high-demand cybersecurity careers. With job growth projected at 32% through 2028 and median salaries exceeding $90,000, the degree also offers strong employment potential in a rapidly evolving field.
Florida Southwestern State College (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Rating: 3.7 out 5)
The Associate in Science (A.S.) in IT Security at FSCJ prepares individuals for careers in computer and network security through hands-on training in digital forensics, intrusion detection, penetration testing, scripting, and networking. The program equips students with skills to investigate cyber crimes and ensures digital evidence accuracy and reliability. Students holding industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA’s A+, Security+, Microsoft, and Cisco may receive credit for related courses.
Florida Tech Online (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
The MBA in Cybersecurity from Florida Tech, offered 100% online, combines core business principles with in-depth cybersecurity practices, covering risk assessment, security frameworks, and computer security.
This accredited program, recognized as a top online MBA by Princeton Review and Fortune Education, prepares students for careers such as chief information security officer, security consultant, and security systems administrator by equipping them with the skills to anticipate and mitigate cyber threats.
Full Sail University (Rating: 3.7 out 5)
In Full Sail's Cybersecurity Bachelor of Science Completion Program, students gain a foundational understanding of information security standards and threat landscapes, learning to identify threats, respond to incidents, and protect information assets through hands-on projects and portfolio courses.
Recognized as a Best IT Education Provider by the Globee Awards in 2023, this program requires prior completion of an IT associate degree and offers flexible campus and online learning options, covering topics such as network security, securing systems and data, and threat protection and testing.
Hillsborough Community College (Rating: 3.3 out 5)
The Cybersecurity AS program is a 60-credit hour degree designed to equip students with hands-on skills for roles such as computer systems analyst, network specialist, or support engineer. Completed over approximately two years, the program covers topics including network security, penetration testing, Linux systems, and information assurance, culminating in a cybersecurity capstone project. Graduates are prepared for immediate employment or further study, and many courses are available online depending on the term.
Keiser University (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Cybersecurity, available in a hybrid format, prepares students to become cybersecurity practitioners, attain professional certifications, and manage cybersecurity risk for global private/public organizations.
With concentrations in Information Assurance and Digital Defense, the program provides knowledge in proactive governance, risk and compliance frameworks, technical testing, investigative processes, and essential cyber risk management practices, equipping students with the skills to identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity risks.
Manatee Technical College (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
Miami Dade College (Rating: 4 out 5)
Certificate - The Cybersecurity Center of the Americas provides courses to prepare for certification exams from leading organizations like EC-Council, CompTIA, Cisco, Check Point, and Splunk.
Associates - MDC’s Associate in Science in Cybersecurity, validated by the NSA and designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, prepares students for critical industry certifications including CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA CySA+. The two-year program provides hands-on experience, simulation training, and group-based learning, equipping students with the skills to secure computer systems, perform penetration testing, conduct incident response investigations, and more, with NSA validation noted on their transcripts upon graduation.
Bachelors - MDC’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, validated by the NSA for its rigorous curriculum and excellence, prepares students for key industry certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified Incident Handler, and Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator. The program, following the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education framework, equips students with advanced knowledge, hands-on skills, and practical training at the College's state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Center, supported by expert partnerships to meet the demands of the cybersecurity workforce.
Nova Southeastern University (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Bachelors - Nova Southeastern University’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program, available in a hybrid format, prepares students to become essential defenders against cyber threats by combining fundamental IT and computer science skills with experiential learning through lab exercises in security-related courses.
Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education, the program offers internship opportunities with top technology companies, participation in national cybersecurity competitions, and a strong interdisciplinary focus on the social, policy, and legal aspects of cybersecurity, preparing graduates for high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analysts, consultants, software developers, and systems engineers.
Masters - NSU’s M.S. in Cybersecurity Management program, which can be completed in 1 year through 30 total credits (10 courses) and 8-week courses, prepares students to manage and govern cybersecurity in various industries facing cyber threats, including healthcare, education, government, and finance.
Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the NSA, the program offers flexible online or on-campus classes, experiential learning, and case study analyses, equipping graduates with skills to develop security policies, manage risk, and respond to real-world cybersecurity threats, with cybersecurity managers earning an average of $133,760 annually.
Pinellas Technical College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Applied Cybersecurity program, totaling 750 hours, prepares students for careers in the cybersecurity industry through comprehensive training in cloud computing, network, and information security, with industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Microsoft included.
The program includes courses on IT fundamentals, cybersecurity risk mitigation, and hands-on practice, equipping students for roles such as Security Administrators and Cloud Engineers, and offers the potential to earn an average of $48.41 per hour, with up to 9 credits articulated towards St. Petersburg College's Cybersecurity A.S. Degree.
Rasmussen University (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
Bachelors - Rasmussen University’s online Cyber Security Bachelor's Degree program can be completed in as few as 18 months and prepares students to enter the field with essential information security knowledge and investigative skills.
The program includes training with tools like Windows®, Linux®, Cisco®, VMware®, and Microsoft Azure, and prepares students for industry certification exams such as SSCP, CCNP, CISA, and CySA+, with up to three exam fees reimbursed. Students will also develop transferable skills like critical thinking, digital fluency, and communication, and can save time and money with self-directed assessments. Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a laddering curriculum that builds from a Network Support Certificate to a Cyber Security Bachelor's degree.
Santa Fe College (Rating: 4 out 5)
The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Security provides comprehensive cyber-security knowledge for careers in the public and private sectors, focusing on protecting critical systems and networks. The program aligns with industry standards and includes courses on network security, computer operating systems, cloud computing, and incident response, preparing students with technical skills and proficiency in security tools and techniques.
South College (Rating: 3.5 out 5)
South College’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program, offered 100% online, prepares students to defend and develop secure software systems by addressing technological needs, threats, and common cybersecurity weaknesses.
The program focuses on skills in computer architecture, cyber defense strategy, programming, secure software design, system administration, and applied cryptography, and prepares students for industry certifications, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving, equipping graduates to analyze, plan, implement, and update security solutions for businesses and customers.
Strayer University (Rating: 3.6 out 5)
Certificate -Strayer University’s Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management program, consisting of three 11-week courses, emphasizes technology and management strategies to protect organizational data and operations from cybersecurity threats, covering topics like access control, risk identification, cryptography, and disaster recovery planning.
With a focus on real-world case studies and advanced techniques, the program requires 10 to 14 hours of weekly work per course, and maintains a low student-to-instructor ratio to enhance learning.
Masters - Strayer University’s Master of Science in Information Security and Assurance (MSISA) program prepares students to defend against cyberattacks using the same technology employed by hackers. The program includes 10 11-week courses focused on conceptualizing secure IT systems, providing IT support and maintenance, managing security policies, analyzing and mitigating IT threats, and investigating cybersecurity incidents.
Designed around industry certifications like ISC2 SSCP and EC-Council CHFI, the MSISA program meets national security standards set by NICE and is validated by the NSA, with flexible class sizes and a commitment to academic quality. Completion time depends on the number of courses taken concurrently, with each course requiring 10 to 14 hours of weekly work.
MBA - Strayer University’s Cybersecurity Management program covers the latest concepts in cybersecurity, teaching students to develop IT strategies and mitigate cybercrime risks to improve organizational quality and competitiveness. The program includes 12 11-week courses, focusing on security management theories, strategic use of information systems, risk assessment, and cyber threats, with a low student-to-instructor ratio to enhance learning.
Completion time depends on the number of courses taken concurrently, with each course requiring 10 to 14 hours of weekly work, translating to quarter hour credits.
Tallahassee State College (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
The Applied Cybersecurity Career Certificate Program at TCC provides essential skills for further education and careers in cybersecurity within the information technology sector. The program spans 750 clock hours and is designed to be completed in one year, with courses offered in the evening.
Graduates of the program will be prepared to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam, equipping them with recognized credentials for cybersecurity roles. Admission requires a standard high school diploma or GED and applicants must be at least 18 years old. The curriculum includes 600 hours of coursework in Cybersecurity Associate and 150 hours in Information Security Manager.
University of West Florida (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
The University of West Florida offers a range of specialized programs designed to enhance students' skills and marketability in the cybersecurity and business administration fields. The UWF Cyber Technologies Undergraduate Certificate prepares students for the CompTIA Security+ certificate, providing fundamental industry skills that complement any major.
The M.S. in Cybersecurity and its associated certificate focus on data and system security, equipping professionals to lead in protecting data assets and analyzing potential threats with real-world, hands-on experiences. Additionally, the Graduate Cybersecurity Management Certificate, available online, teaches students to develop policies and procedures for safeguarding information assets, performing risk assessments, and addressing ethical dilemmas in cybersecurity.
Utica University (Rating: 4 out 5)
Salary Range in Florida
Annual average salary data for cyber security specialists in the state according to major employment web sites:
- $84,082 – Indeed.com
- $98,027 – Salary.com
- $99,493 – ZipRecruiter.com
- $113,002 – Bureau of Labor
- $115,492 – Talent.com
- $122K – Glassdoor.com
Below are some average salaries and hourly wages for areas of the state.
| Area | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $44.78 | $93,150.00 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $55.49 | $115,410.00 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $48.73 | $101,360.00 |
| Gainesville | $48.78 | $101,460.00 |
| Jacksonville | $55.84 | $116,140.00 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $40.22 | $83,670.00 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $55.91 | $116,280.00 |
| Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island | $55.75 | $115,950.00 |
| North Florida | $55.82 | $116,110.00 |
| North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton | $54.63 | $113,630.00 |
| Ocala | $43.90 | $91,310.00 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $51.67 | $107,470.00 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $50.21 | $104,440.00 |
| Panama City | $55.04 | $114,490.00 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $50.31 | $104,650.00 |
| Port St. Lucie | $45.38 | $94,380.00 |
| South Florida | $55.70 | $115,860.00 |
| Tallahassee | $46.72 | $97,180.00 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $55.98 | $116,430.00 |
Occupation: Information Security Analysts (SOC Code151212)
source: data.bls.gov
What Do You Study?
Typical cyber programs might include courses like the following:
Digital Systems Architecture
- Examines the structure and operation of digital computers in providing data and infrastructure security.
- Emphasizes strategies to select, deploy, integrate, and administer modern computing environments.
- Topics include hardware components and their deployment in compliance with cybersecurity laws and policies.
Enterprise Network Security Strategies
- Focuses on strategies to design, administer, and maintain a comprehensive enterprise security infrastructure.
- Covers protection of IT assets and infrastructure from external and internal threats.
Cyber Operations and Ethical Control
- Presents typical cyber operations, including access and control, and provides tools for legal and ethical decision-making.
- Topics include stages of cyber operations, U.S. regulations, and ethical implications.
Digital Forensics Methodologies
- Systematic methods for conducting computer forensic investigations and acquiring digital data.
- Topics include creating a forensics lab, investigating cybercrime, and forensic evidence collection and analysis.
Principles of Cryptography
- Covers symmetric and asymmetric encryption techniques, including classical and modern algorithms.
- Explores the use of cryptography in securing information in organizational settings.
Capstone in Information Assurance
- Integrative capstone course solving real-world cybersecurity problems.
- Addresses policy, risk, and control opportunities within cyberspace and IT environments.
Threat Intelligence and Defensive Tactics
- Examines risk factors and vulnerabilities in information security.
- Introduces threat actor motivations and threat modeling principles.
Managing Identity and Access
- Explores the importance of user identity, trust, access, roles, integrity, and auditing.
- Examines policies and procedures for ensuring access based on least privilege.
Network Security and Virtual Systems
- Examines network security and software-defined networks.
- Focuses on securing networks against threats and attacks and maintaining network integrity.
Professional Technical Writing
- Teaches effective technical document writing for specialized audiences.
- Covers various styles of technical writing and associated drafting and revising techniques.
Foundations of Cryptographic Security
- Examines algorithms and cryptographic principles used to protect information.
- Covers hashing, symmetric and asymmetric encryption, and digital trust models.
Compliance and Privacy in Security
- Provides context and understanding of legal and privacy frameworks regulating information security.
- Explores laws and compliance parameters for various governing jurisdictions and industry bodies.
Protecting Systems and Data
- Explores differences between securing data on one network versus multiple networks.
- Examines challenges and workflows for safeguarding data and responding to threats.
Cybersecurity Program Development
- Combines hands-on learning with portfolio assessments.
- Develops a holistic security program plan, including policies and user access control.
Application Security Fundamentals
- Introduces security vulnerability issues in applications.
- Explores data disclosure, system exploits, and principles of defense-in-depth.
Data Analysis and Visualization
- Provides in-depth exploration of statistical concepts and data visualization.
- Uses Microsoft Excel for data organization, analysis, and presentation.
Auditing and Compliance in Information Assurance
- Navigates security program oversight through internal and external audits.
- Examines risk management and compliance with applicable requirements, policies, standards, and laws.
Advanced Cybersecurity Portfolio Development
- Extends the written security program plan to appraise the security life cycle.
- Assesses vulnerabilities, performs threat modeling, and develops process management plans.
Virtualization Technologies
- Studies current virtualization technologies for servers, clients, and applications.
- Covers distributed virtual switching, server-side vs. client-side virtualization, and virtual appliances.
Hacking Techniques and Countermeasures
- Introduces hacking tools and incident handling.
- Covers vulnerabilities in operating systems, software, and networks, and methods for handling security compromises.
Malware Analysis and Engineering
- Examines tools and methodologies for designing and analyzing malware.
- Focuses on understanding malware of unknown origin and auditing closed-source software.
Career Preparation and Readiness
- Researches the job market and develops personal branding.
- Creates résumés, cover letters, and professional portfolios for specific audiences.