Defend the digital world with Lindenwood University’s Accelerated Online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity. Designed for students who want to master technical expertise and gain real-world experience, this program prepares you to think like an attacker – and respond like a defender – in one of today’s fastest-growing career fields.
Coursework explores key areas such as network defense, ethical hacking, and cloud security while examining how artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies are reshaping threat detection, data protection, and digital forensics. You’ll learn to apply these innovations responsibly and effectively to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks and safeguard organizations from evolving risks.
From securing cloud environments to countering cyberattacks, you’ll work with real tools and scenarios that mirror industry challenges building confidence and technical ability before graduation. Graduates of the BS in Cybersecurity program are prepared for diverse roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, digital forensics investigator, or cloud security architect, equipped to protect organizations and communities against emerging cyber threats.
100%
Asynchronous Online
24 Mo
Program Length
120
Credit Hours
$400
Cost per Credit
Essential Skills & Insights
Coursework in this online bachelor’s in cybersecurity program prepares you to safeguard digital systems, mitigate risks, and respond to evolving cyber threats. You’ll gain technical expertise, analytical skills, and the ethical foundation to thrive in one of today’s most in-demand fields.
- Network & Systems Security: Learn to identify vulnerabilities and secure networks, databases, and operating systems against attack.
- Cyber Defense & Incident Response: Develop the skills to detect, investigate, and respond to cyberattacks with effective prevention and mitigation strategies.
- Risk Management & Compliance: Understand cybersecurity laws, regulations, and industry standards to keep organizations compliant and resilient.
- Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing: Gain hands-on experience in identifying and exploiting system weaknesses to strengthen defenses.
- Data Protection & Encryption: Explore methods for safeguarding sensitive information through encryption, authentication, and secure access controls.
AI-Powered Learning, Real-World Impact
Our accelerated online programs integrate opportunities to engage with Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for learning and career preparation. Students apply AI in ways that build authentic skills and mirror how businesses are leveraging it across industries. We emphasize ethical and responsible use, ensuring that students develop the judgment to apply AI appropriately. This approach helps graduates enter the workforce with both technical knowledge and a clear understanding of AI’s role in their discipline.
Cybersecurity Capstone
The Cybersecurity Capstone is a culminating project course for cybersecurity students. The instructor of the course will act as a mentor to guide the completion of a portfolio, or project documents, or an internship.
Accreditations/Certificates
The BS Cybersecurity program will help you prepare to pursue industry-relevant cybersecurity and IT certifications. And… as a student of Lindenwood University you are eligible for discount pricing!
- ITIL 4 Foundation IT Service Management Certification
- CompTIA Certifications
- Linux Professional Institute/Linux Essentials
Careers in Cybersecurity
The cybersecurity field continues to expand rapidly as organizations seek skilled professionals to defend against increasingly sophisticated threats. A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity positions graduates for high-demand careers with strong earning potential and opportunities for advancement.
- Information Security Analyst — Median salary: $120,360
Protect an organization’s systems by monitoring networks, investigating security breaches, and implementing defense strategies. - Cybersecurity Consultant — Median salary: $99,000
Advise companies on best practices for risk management, compliance, and threat prevention while designing secure IT infrastructures. - Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) — Median salary: $102,000
Simulate cyberattacks to uncover vulnerabilities and provide actionable recommendations to improve system security.
Admissions Requirements
For admission to your online bachelor’s degree in communications program, you will need to complete your online application and submit the following documents:
- Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Visit apply.lindenwood.edu and submit your undergraduate application. - Step 2: Submit Official Transcripts
Request your official high school transcripts to be sent directly to Lindenwood Online at the email or mail address below.
If you have completed any college coursework, request official transcripts from those institutions as well.
Transcripts may be submitted:- Electronically to: [email protected]
- By Mail to:
Office of Admissions
Lindenwood University
8205 S Priest Dr #11480 Tempe, AZ 85284
- Step 3: Complete SmarterMeasure
The SmarterMeasure Learning Readiness assessment measures student readiness and learning preferences and helps us identify how we can best support you during your program of study. The assessment has three sections: Technical Competency, Technical Knowledge, and Learning Styles. Students who receive a score below 60% on the Technical Competency content are required to take the SmarterMeasure Technology for Success (ORN001) orientation.
Curriculum Overview
From securing cloud infrastructure to stopping hackers in their tracks, Lindenwood University’s accelerated online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity program prepares you to be on the front lines of digital defense. Our program is designed for students who want to build technical expertise, think like ethical hackers, and solve real-world problems in one of the fastest-growing fields in the world. You will gain hands-on experience working with real tools, scenarios, and systems to learn to think like an attacher – and respond like a defender. You will build skills in ethical hacking, cloud security, digital forensics, and secure software design and explore the legal and ethical dimensions of cybersecurity. Graduates of our program are prepared for roles such as security analyst, penetration tester, digital forensics investigator, or cloud security architect.
Major Coursework – 60 Credit Hours
Foundation courses are provided to support student readiness for MBA coursework and are required if students have not taken prior undergraduate courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ICS 21300 | Foundations of Information Technology | 3 |
| ICS 21400 | Foundations of Networking | 3 |
| ICS 31000 | Foundations of Cybersecurity | 3 |
| ICS 32700 | Network and Cloud Security | 3 |
| ICS 32800 | Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation | 3 |
| ICS 41200 | Linux Server Installation & Configuration | 3 |
| ICS 41500 | Cloud Computing Essentials and Best Practices | 3 |
| ICS 41700 | Hybrid Cloud Architecture and Management | 3 |
| ICS 42100 | Ethical Hacking | 3 |
| ICS 42300 | Advanced Penetration Testing | 3 |
| ICS 42400 | Cybersecurity Analysis | 3 |
| ICS 43200 | Secure Software Development | 3 |
| ICS 43300 | Web Based Application Security | 3 |
| ICS 48900 | Cybersecurity Capstone | 3 |
| IIT 21500 | Programming Logic and Design | 3 |
| IIT 22000 | Hardware and Operating Systems | 3 |
| IIT 33400 | Ethical Issues in Cybersecurity | 3 |
| IIT 33500 | Blockchain Technology for Business | 3 |
| IIT 35100 | Database Analysis and Design Concepts | 3 |
| IIT 48100 | Project Management in Information Technology | 3 |
Foundations of Information Technology
This course will give students foundational knowledge in the Principles of Information Systems topics that will provide insights into the challenging and changing role of the IS professional and will provide a set of core IS principles and concepts that prepare students to function more efficiently and effectively as leaders in the Information Technology industry. Therefore, developing a solid foundation for further study in more advanced IS courses such as programming, systems analysis and design, project management, database management, information system security, big data and analytics.
Foundations of Networking
This course consists of an examination of the application of statistical analysis in business and the use of quantitative techniques in managerial decision making. Topics include measures of central tendency, probability and distribution, sampling and statistical inference, techniques of statistical analysis, and modeling techniques.
Foundations of Cybersecurity
This course will give students foundational knowledge in cybersecurity. Topics covered will include the topics tested in the CompTIA Security+ certification. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 21300; ICS 21400.
Network and Cloud Security
This course provides students with insights into securing enterprise networks including the cloud. Basic techniques and tools for securing a network and the cloud will be explored. Physical security, data security, and specific network and cloud security concerns and vulnerabilities, as well as security best practices, will be explored. Prerequisite: ICS 21400; ICS 31000; IIT 22000; MTH 14100.
Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation
This course focuses on the use of the most popular forensics tools and provides specific guidance on dealing with civil and criminal matters relating to the law and technology. The course will include discussions on how to manage a digital forensics operation in today’s business environment. Some topics covered includes, Data Acquisition, Live Acquisitions, E-Mails and Social Media Investigations. Prerequisite: ICS 32700.
Linux Server Installation & Configuration
This course will give students intermediate knowledge related to installation and configuration of Linux Server. Topics covered will include the topics tested in the CompTIA Linux+ certification. This course prepares the student to be a practitioner in the network field of Information Technology. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 21300; MTH 14100; and IIT 22000.
Cloud Computing Essentials and Best Practices
This course will give students intermediate knowledge related to fundamental, vendor-independent cloud computing concepts. The topics covered will include the topics tested in certification examinations currently in use (such as the CompTIA Cloud+ certification examination). This course prepares the student to be a practitioner in the field of cloud computing. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 21300; IIT 22000; MTH 14100.
Hybrid Cloud Architecture and Management
This course will give students intermediate knowledge related to administering and integrating on-premises server technologies. The topics covered will include those tested by industry-backed certification exams. This course prepares the student to be a practitioner in the infrastructure field of Information Technology. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 41500.
Ethical Hacking
This course will introduce students to computer incident response and computer forensics. Topics covered will include the topics tested in the EC Council Certified Ethical hacker certification. This course prepares the student to be a practitioner in the network field of Information Technology. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course alone does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 32700.
Advanced Penetration Testing
This course educates students in the specific security discipline of computer forensics from a vendor-neutral perspective. Topics covered will include the topics tested in the EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker certification. This course prepares the student to be a practitioner in the network field of Information Technology. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course alone does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 42100.
Cybersecurity Analysis
This course will give students intermediate knowledge related to the skills necessary to successfully perform the duties of a security analyst. Topics covered will include the topics tested in the EC Council Certified Security Analyst certification. Extra study and experience may be required outside of the course work to prepare the student to pass the certification examination. Taking this course does not guarantee the student will pass the certification examination. Prerequisite: ICS 42100.
Secure Software Development
This course exposes students to the concept of secure software development by teaching them the methods, techniques, and tools within software development relating to cybersecurity and how they are used to develop software securely. Specific application security configuration techniques and security concepts applicable to each phase of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) will be explored. Security testing and the role of project management in ensuring secure software development will be studied. Prerequisite: ICS 31000; MTH 14100; and IIT 21500.
Web Based Application Security
This course covers the techniques and tools for developing, implementing, managing, and/or protecting web applications. Students will study web safety and browser vulnerabilities, privacy concerns, and other web related security issues and concerns. Students will explore how to avoid vulnerabilities in web applications and the tools used to program web application servers. Finally, students will be introduced to the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) and its top 10 vulnerabilities. Prerequisite: ICS 32700; IIT 21500.
Cybersecurity Capstone
This course will be a culminating project course for the student’s degree program. The instructor will act as a mentor to guide students through the completion of a portfolio, or other project documents, or an internship that will demonstrate their successful completion of the goals of the degree. Prerequisite: Must be taken upon completion of all cybersecurity coursework or concurrent with last course.
Programming Logic and Design
This course will introduce students to computer programming concepts and approaches to computer logic. A popular programming language will be used to demonstrate these concepts. Prerequisite: ICS 21300; MTH 11000 or passing the math placement test.
Hardware and Operating Systems
This course introduces students to computer operating systems and hardware and the interactions between these two critical components of the functioning and architecture of computers. Common operating systems and hardware issues that could affect the function of computers and how to address them will be analyzed. Additionally, students will learn about different operating systems and how to install and configure them with special attention to security issues, embedded tools and features to ensure security of hardware and operating systems. Prerequisite: ICS 21300.
Ethical Issues in Cybersecurity
This course will discuss information technology law and ethics. Students will investigate real-world cases through a law and ethics filter. Students will develop a personal code of ethics for use as information technology professionals. Prerequisite: ICS 31000.
Blockchain Technology for Business
This course discusses the invention of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Blockchain is now entering the business world to enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency in many areas. The uses for blockchain are just now being discovered and this course will explore the areas in which blockchain will enable businesses to compete in the global economy in the future. Prerequisite: IIT 21500.
Database Analysis and Design Concepts
This course explains the components of a database system. It stresses data modeling, data normalization, and database design. Prerequisite: IIT 21500.
Project Management in Information Technology
A course in the theory of project management involving planning, organizing, staffing, tracking, measurement, and evaluation. Topics include defining projects, developing networks, managing risk, scheduling resources, inter-organizational relations, Agile methods and international projects. Prerequisite: ICS 21300.
General Education Mathematics Coursework – 6 credit hours
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MTH 14100 | Basic Statistics | 3 |
| Any GE-Math Course | 3 |
Basic Statistics
This course is an introduction to the theory and applications of statistics, including probability, descriptive statistics, random variables, expected values, distribution functions, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: MTH 11000 with C or better; or passing the placement test.
Any GE-Math course
Quantitative Coursework – 3 Credit Hours
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MGMT 56080 | Business Analytics | 3 |
Business Analytics
This course introduces business analytics, by providing an overview of ‘big data’, data analytics/business intelligence, as well as hands-on use of mainstream commercial data analytics toolsets. Applications will include sport management, marketing, purchasing, and finance oriented analyses. Students will also gain an understanding of data warehouses, data management, and web analytics. Prerequisite: MGMT 56070
Technology Requirements
Throughout your studies, you will work with the same tools and platforms professionals use every day giving you practical, hands-on experience with current technology.
What You’ll Need:
- A personal computer that meets minimum standards for graphics, processing, and storage
- Ability to install and run specialized software and development tools used in your courses
- Reliable internet access to support downloads, updates, and online collaboration
You will receive a detailed list of required software, platforms, and setup instructions during Student Orientation and in each course. These resources are updated regularly so you’re always working with current industry tools.
Program Length Details
Lindenwood University’s (LU) Accelerated Online programs offer you choice and flexibility to support your education journey. Time to complete a master’s degree can vary based on course load, transfer credits, and individual pacing. You will tailor a course schedule that keeps you in the driver’s seat
- Transfer Credit: LU allows 9 transfer credits toward a master’s degree and you can complete your degree in as few as 27 credits.
- Accelerated Courses: LU accelerated online programs offer 10 5-week terms per year. By enrolling in two courses per term, you can potentially begin and complete your master’s degree in 9 months.
- Frequent Start Dates: LU offers multiple start dates throughout the year so you can begin your studies when you are ready allowing you to graduate sooner.
- Personalized Degree Plan: LU academic advisors will work with you to tailor your degree plan to support your education goals while balancing your personal and professional responsibilities.
Transfer Credits
Lindenwood offers a generous transfer policy of up to 90 credits toward your bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity online completion to further offset tuition costs. This means you can complete your BS in cybersecurity degree in as few as 30 credit hours at Lindenwood — saving you time and money on your education!
Plus, you can personalize your transfer experience through Lindenwood’s Transfer Guides. These guides are part of our articulation partnerships with area community college to help you get the most value from your transfer credit.
Related Programs
We’re Accredited
Lindenwood University’s current accreditation status can be viewed at the Higher Learning Commission.
Lindenwood University’s HLC accreditation is exclusive to Lindenwood University and does not extend to other institutions(s) of higher education within the Lindenwood Education System.
The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604-1411
Telephone: (800) 621-7440 or (312) 263-0456
Fax: (312) 263-7462
https://www.hlcommission.org
[email protected]
We are committed to helping you succeed.
Supporting Copy: You’re never alone on your Lindenwood University Accelerated Online journey with Li. From the moment you enroll to the day you graduate, your support team is right beside you—helping with tuition planning, keeping you on track, and cheering you on every step of the way.