The purpose of this article is to provide the Top 5 Cybersecurity School Programs in Minnesota in 2024 based on my opinion. All of these schools are MNSCU schools, meaning that they belong to the Minnesota State Colleges and University System. These are schools that employers know and trust in and around the state of Minnesota.
1. Metropolitan State University – Computer Forensics
Award: Certificate
Cost: See Tuition and Aid ($285.70/credit)
Credits: 24
Description: This certificate caters to individuals intrigued by computer forensics, offering foundational courses enabling in-depth exploration within this field. Upon completion, graduates will possess a foundational understanding of computer science, information assurance, computer incident investigation, cyberspace ethics, and computer law. Specifically crafted for individuals with degrees in different disciplines, this certificate serves as an entry point into the realm of computer forensics, providing a comprehensive foundation in key areas relevant to the field.
2. University of Minnesota Cybersecurity Boot Camp
University of Minnesota Cybersecurity Boot Camp | St. Paul (umn.edu)
- Term: 24 weeks (6 months)
- Cost: ~ $11,245
Description: The University of Minnesota Cybersecurity Boot Camp offers a rigorous, part-time program spanning 24 weeks, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of networking, systems, web technologies, databases, and both defensive and offensive cybersecurity techniques.
Throughout this challenging program, participants will:
- Gain hands-on experience with a variety of widely used tools like Wireshark, Kali Linux, Metasploit, Nessus, and others.
- Acquire skills aligned with certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Network+, Linux+, Server+, Cloud+, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
- Attend convenient evening classes, ideal for those currently employed or pursuing other educational endeavors.
- Access a full suite of career services aimed at preparing individuals for success, whether transitioning to a new career path or seeking advancement in their current role.
The program’s multidisciplinary approach and comprehensive curriculum aim to equip participants with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge, providing a solid foundation for a career in cybersecurity.
3. Inver Hills Community College – Advanced Cybersecurity Infrastructure
Awards: Certification
Credits: 18
Cost: See Tuition & Costs ($207.67/credit)
Description: This certificate program offers IT professionals with existing network security and information assurance roles an opportunity to delve deeper into advanced cybersecurity concepts and configurations, extending beyond the scope covered in the Network Technology and Security degree program. The curriculum includes essential industry-standard subjects like security incident management, firewall systems, penetration testing, VPN implementation, intrusion detection, and comprehensive security policies and practices.
Completion of these certificate courses aids in preparing students for various professional security certifications such as Cisco CyberOps Associate, EC-Council CEH, as well as other prominent certifications like CCNP Security, CISSP, GSEC, CISM, or CISA. The choice of certifications aligns with the students’ career trajectories and personal interests, ensuring a customized and focused learning experience.
4. Anoka-Ramsey Community College – Computer Network Security
Awards: Certificate
Credits: 30
Cost: See Costs ($202.52/credit for Online, $164.72/credit for In-House)
Description: Networking certificates emphasize the acquisition of job-specific or career-oriented skills within a condensed timeframe. Numerous courses within these certificates can count towards the completion of an Associate of Science in Computer Networking. This program aims to equip individuals with the expertise to evaluate the security requirements of computer and network systems. It further prepares them to suggest protective measures and oversee the deployment and upkeep of security tools, systems, and protocols.
5. Minneapolis Community & Technical College – Computer Security Specialist
Awards: Certificate
Credits: 28
Cost: See Costs (Online: $179.95/credit)
Description: The Computer Security Specialist Certificate, offered as a segment of Minneapolis College’s Computer Support and Network Administration program, delivers a comprehensive and industry-centered education focusing on network support and Internet technologies. This dynamic program, utilizing cutting-edge technology, is designed to equip individuals with skills in network administration, client/server installation and support, and database implementation at an accelerated pace.
Expert instructors with real-world business experience provide guidance throughout the program, offering a valuable edge in this dynamic industry. Upon finishing the program, you will have honed robust problem-solving abilities and developed essential interpersonal and communication skills, providing a valuable foundation as you step into the workforce.
What Kind of Jobs Can I Get With a Cybersecurity Degree?
There are several jobs and career paths you could take by getting your cybersecurity degree. Any one of these degrees could help you land a job as an Information Security Analyst. According to the BLS, the 2022 median pay for information security analysts was $112,000/year. As an Information Security Analyst, you could be working for a large enterprise or managed services provider, or managed security services provider.