Rowan University Meets Growing Employer Demand Launching Its Online Master’s In Cybersecurity Degree
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields in today’s workforce. With the rise in cyberattacks and data breaches, professionals skilled in protecting digital information are critical to every industry.
In 2024 alone, the United States experienced a significant number of data breaches, with 1,089 incidents reported in the fourth quarter, impacting over 107 million people. Globally, the year saw approximately 20 major breaches. These incidents affected businesses, healthcare, and infrastructure across North America, Europe, and Japan. Notable incidents included ransomware attacks on Change Healthcare and CDK, as well as data theft targeting companies like Snowflake.
These statistics underscore the escalating frequency and severity of cyberattacks and data breaches, highlighting the critical need for skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive information and maintain digital infrastructure integrity.
That’s exactly why we study cybersecurity—because every system, every network, and every user depends on it.
If you are interested in contributing to solving these problems, here are 13 compelling reasons why earning a cybersecurity degree—especially from Rowan University—can set you up for a rewarding and lucrative career:
1. High Demand for Cybersecurity Experts
The cybersecurity job market is booming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. By earning a degree, you will step into a career with stability and long-term growth.
2. Lucrative Salary Potential
Cybersecurity professionals earn competitive salaries. The median annual salary for an information security analyst according to the BLS in 2024 was nearly $125,000. Entry-level roles, such as cybersecurity analysts, typically earn between $65,000 and $85,000. Experienced professionals in roles like cybersecurity managers, penetration testers, or cloud security architects can earn upwards of $150,000 annually.
3. Diverse Career Options
A degree in cybersecurity prepares you for a variety of career paths. Here are some job titles you could pursue:
- Database Architect: $136k/year (12% projected outlook)
- Data Warehousing Specialist: $136k/year (12% projected outlook)
- Computer Network Architect: $130k/year (6% projected outlook)
- Information Security Analyst: $125k/year (29% projected outlook)
- Information Technology Project Manager: $107k/year (13% projected outlook)
- Database Administrator: $105k/year (10% projected outlook)
- Clinical Data Manager: 112k/year (34% projected outlook)
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators: $97k/year (6% projected outlook)
- Security Management Specialist: $81k/year (9% projected outlook)
4. Industry-Wide Job Opportunities
Cybersecurity is needed in almost every industry. Typical sectors that hire cybersecurity graduates include:
- Technology: Companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and IBM frequently hire cybersecurity professionals.
- Finance: Banks such as JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo rely on cybersecurity to protect customer data.
- Healthcare: Organizations like Johnson & Johnson and hospital networks depend on professionals to secure sensitive patient information.
- Government: Agencies like the FBI, NSA, and Department of Homeland Security need experts to safeguard national security.
- Retail: Companies like Target, Walmart, and e-commerce giants like Amazon invest heavily in cybersecurity.
- Consulting Firms: Deloitte, Accenture, and PwC often hire cybersecurity experts to assist clients with digital protection.
5. A Growing Industry with Job Security
The rise in cyber threats has made cybersecurity an essential function in organizations worldwide. As technology advances, the need for professionals to secure networks, systems, and data grows stronger, ensuring long-term job stability.
6. Hands-On, Problem-Solving Work
Cybersecurity is an engaging field that challenges you to solve complex puzzles daily. From detecting vulnerabilities in networks to countering real-time cyberattacks, every day offers exciting and meaningful work.
7. Be at the Forefront of Innovation
Cybersecurity professionals are at the cutting edge of technology. As companies implement new advancements such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain, cybersecurity experts are needed to secure these innovations. A cybersecurity degree prepares you to tackle emerging challenges in these exciting, fast-evolving fields, making you a key player in shaping the future of technology.
8. Contributing to a Safer World
Cybersecurity professionals protect sensitive information, prevent identity theft, and help maintain the security of essential infrastructures like hospitals, banks, and even national defense systems. This is a career with tangible societal impact.
9. Flexibility and Remote Work Options
Many cybersecurity roles offer flexibility, with remote or hybrid work options becoming increasingly common. This allows professionals to achieve better work-life balance while remaining productive in a job they enjoy.
10. Opportunities for Advancement
A cybersecurity degree is the foundation for a long-term career. Starting as an analyst, you can progress to higher roles such as cybersecurity manager, director of security operations, or even chief information security officer (CISO).
11. Transferable Skills
The skills learned in cybersecurity—critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical expertise—are applicable to many other fields, such as IT management, software engineering, and data analysis.
12. Scholarships and Affordability
Cybersecurity students often qualify for specialized scholarships. For instance, Rowan University touts its affordability and offers scholarships for STEM fields, and government programs like the CyberCorps® Scholarship for Service provide financial aid in exchange for work in public-sector cybersecurity roles.
13. Build a Network in a Digital-First Industry
Online programs often bring together learners from across the country or even the world. These connections can grow into a professional network that supports your career with collaboration, referrals, and industry insights.
Rowan University’s Online Master’s in Cybersecurity
Rowan University offers a robust, fully online or in person Master of Science in Cybersecurity program that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning. Students gain practical experience through labs and projects designed to address real-world challenges.
Rowan also offers an in-person Advanced Dual Degree (4+1) program, enabling students to earn both a bachelor’s in computer science and a master’s degree in cybersecurity in just five years. This accelerated pathway not only saves time and money but also allows graduates to enter the workforce earlier, fully equipped with the expertise employers seek.
Why Choose Rowan University for Your Online Cybersecurity Degree?
Rowan is a 100-year-old institution and a Top 100 public research university, as well as one of the fastest-growing universities in the nation. Rowan has also once again been named within the U.S. News and World Report Best Global Universities in its most recent list.
Rowan University prioritizes student success, offering:
- Expert Faculty: Learn from professionals with industry experience.
- Strong Industry Connections: Partnerships with leading companies to provide internships and job placements.
- Dedicated Career Support: Guidance on landing internships, certifications, and full-time roles.
- Financial Aid & Scholarships: Make a master’s degree in cybersecurity within reach financially.
Secure Your Future in Cybersecurity Today
If you’re passionate about protecting sensitive data, fascinated by the digital world, or seeking a high-paying, stable career, a cybersecurity degree is the smart choice. Enroll at Rowan University to gain the knowledge, skills, and connections to thrive in this exciting field.
Interested in learning more first?
Check out these related blogs to explore further the benefits of an online master’s degree in cybersecurity in the profession:
- 7 Signs It’s Time to Get Your Cybersecurity Master’s Online – Considering a cybersecurity career? Here are 7 signs it’s time to get your master’s in cybersecurity online—and why it could be your smartest next move.
- Why an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Is a Smart Career Move – Having a master’s degree in cybersecurity sets you apart with advanced skills and opens doors to high-demand, well-paid roles in a fast-growing industry.
- 12 Diverse Career Paths With a Master’s in Cybersecurity – Experts with online cybersecurity masters’ degrees are in high demand across sectors—from government and finance to healthcare, tech, and global corporations.
These resources will help you make an informed decision about your educational path and next steps within the cybersecurity field.