2027 Is National University's Online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management Worth It? What Students Should Know

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

What makes National University's online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management program stand out?

The value of National University's online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management program lies in its intentional design for working adults balancing career and education. Its asynchronous format allows professionals to manage demanding schedules while gaining skills relevant to cybersecurity roles that require both technical competency and managerial insight. This flexibility, however, can also present challenges for students who thrive with more structured, synchronous interaction.

The program's distinguishing feature is its broad faculty involvement, with 344 full-time and 2,668 part-time instructors supporting nearly 20,000 students, which helps mitigate common issues of accessibility in online education. The integration of applied learning through simulations and virtual labs ensures students receive hands-on experience, a critical factor that employers prioritize in cybersecurity hires where theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. While the 50% graduation rate signals moderate rigor, it also suggests that the program strikes a balance between accessibility and outcomes for a diverse student body.

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Is it difficult to get admitted to National University's online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management program?

Admission to a typical BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management program often involves competitive screening, with applicants facing requirements such as standardized test scores, minimum GPAs, and selective acceptance rates. Many programs reflect the intense demand for cybersecurity professionals by limiting entry to those with strong academic records or relevant experience, making initial access a potential barrier for some students.

In contrast, national university's online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management program adopts an open admission policy, significantly easing entry compared to traditional cybersecurity degrees. There is no requirement for SAT or ACT scores, and the overall admission difficulty is classified as noncompetitive. This approach opens doors for individuals who lack a conventional academic background or are returning to education, prioritizing accessibility over exclusivity. Without published applicant or admission data, the program's model suggests a focus on broad inclusion rather than selective enrollment.

This ease of entry offers practical value for learners aiming to break into the cybersecurity field without spending months on test prep or meeting tight academic cutoffs often seen elsewhere. However, this may also require students to be self-motivated and proactive since the program's noncompetitive admission does not guarantee outcomes or employer preferences, which in the cybersecurity job market often hinge on demonstrated skills and certifications beyond the degree.

One graduate recounted, "I applied late in the semester, unsure if my lack of recent academic experience would be an issue. Surprisingly, the process was quick; no tests, no hoops-just submitting documents and waiting for approval. Still, I felt a bit anxious about whether skipping traditional hurdles meant less recognition from employers later. It turned out that my practical work during the program proved more decisive than the simpleness of admission."

Aligning an online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management curriculum with real-world workforce demands requires more than covering technical content; it involves integrating evolving industry priorities into the program structure. National University's curriculum balances core cybersecurity competencies with essential management skills, a pairing that mirrors current employer expectations for graduates who must navigate both technical challenges and organizational complexities. This approach is particularly relevant in environments where professionals transition between hands-on roles, such as ethical hacking or incident response, and leadership functions, including compliance oversight and project coordination. Below are critical factors that demonstrate how National University's program addresses these demands:

  • Integrated Skill Set: The curriculum blends cybersecurity fundamentals like network security and digital forensics with management courses in project leadership and organizational governance, equipping graduates to handle technical problems and manage interdisciplinary teams effectively.
  • Hands-On Application: Incorporating labs and case studies simulates real-world cybersecurity incidents, fostering practical problem-solving skills critical for rapidly evolving threat landscapes where theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient.
  • Industry-Relevant Topics: Coverage of contemporary issues such as cloud security, risk management, and regulatory compliance aligns the program with employer priorities, which increasingly seek versatile professionals who understand both technology and the regulatory frameworks impacting cybersecurity operations.

With its curriculum design grounded in these industry trends, National University's BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management maintains relevance for students targeting roles such as cybersecurity analyst or IT security manager. However, candidates should weigh how the management emphasis complements their career goals, especially if their aspirations lie primarily in technical specialization. For those balancing technical and leadership roles, this program reflects broader workforce shifts demanding hybrid competencies found among the top degrees in demand for the future. Understanding this alignment helps prospective students assess the practical value of the degree in a competitive hiring landscape.

What Graduates Say About National University's Online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management Program

  • Jasmine: "Studying the BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management at National University gave me the flexibility I needed while working a full-time job. The program's practical approach meant I could immediately apply what I learned, which helped me land a remote position shortly after graduating. I found that, in actual hiring scenarios, employers heavily weighed my hands-on projects and internship experience over any certifications alone, which this degree emphasized well."
  • Hafsa: "National University's cybersecurity program was challenging, but it shaped my understanding of the industry's realities. After graduating, I realized that many roles I was interested in required professional certifications or specific experience, so I had to strategically pivot into a more technical specialist role. The degree gave me a solid foundation, but navigating career advancement often means balancing licensure with gaining real-world expertise in this field."
  • Saanvi: "What stood out about the BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management at National University was how it prepared me for both leadership and technical duties. I appreciated the focus on IT management alongside cybersecurity, which helped during interviews and on the job when explaining my strategic approach. However, I did notice that salary growth can plateau without further certifications or licensure, so I'm actively planning my next professional steps based on that insight."

Other Things You Should Know About Degrees

What admission documents are required for National University’s online BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management?

Applicants usually need a completed online application, official transcripts from every college attended, and proof of high school graduation or equivalent if transferring with fewer than 60 semester credits. National University also reviews prior college coursework for transfer credit, with up to 135 quarter units allowed toward the degree.

Does the program provide sufficient hands-on experience to prepare for real-world cybersecurity challenges?

While the program includes practical assignments and case studies relevant to IT management and cybersecurity, the entirely online format may limit access to certain kinds of lab-based or interactive simulations typically available on campus. For learners seeking extensive hands-on exposure, supplementing the curriculum with external labs or certifications can be necessary to build applied skills. This tradeoff means students should be proactive about gaining practical experience beyond coursework to meet employer expectations fully.

How well is a BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management from National University recognized by employers in 2027 compared to specialized cybersecurity certifications?

In 2027, National University's BS in Cybersecurity - Information Technology Management is valued by employers, particularly for roles requiring comprehensive IT management knowledge. However, specialized certifications often carry significant weight for niche cybersecurity roles and specific skill sets. Balancing both can enhance employability by offering a broad knowledge base and specific expertise.

Is the program's online format suited for students who prefer more direct interaction with faculty and peers?

The program primarily relies on asynchronous learning modules, which can limit spontaneous interaction and immediate feedback from instructors or classmates. Students who thrive on real-time discussions or collaborative learning may find this environment less engaging or supportive. For such students, supplementing their education with synchronous seminars, discussion groups, or networking through external professional communities is recommended to enhance their learning experience and build meaningful industry connections.