Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

WGU Cyber Security Degree: Is It Worth Time & Money?

Cybersecurity jobs are growing. From protecting personal data to stopping cyberattacks on major companies, the demand for skilled professionals is growing, respectively. Whether you’re switching careers or moving up in IT, now is a great time to enter the field.

The Western Governors University (WGU) comes in the list of top institutes shaping experts in cybersecurity. But is a WGU Cyber Security degree really worth your time and money? In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into WGU cyber security programs, looking at cost, structure, job outlook, and whether it’s a smart move for your future.

Overview of WGU Cyber Security Programs

Let’s review the cybersecurity programs offered by Western Governors University (WGU):

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance (BSCSIA)

WGU’s bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is made up of 38 courses. Instead of following a traditional schedule, you complete courses by showing what you know. This “competency-based” model means you can move faster if you already have experience.

The program focuses on:

Network security
Ethical hacking
Digital forensics
Cloud security

You’ll also earn valuable industry certifications included in the cost—like CompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), and CCNA.

Master of Science in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance (MSCSIA)

The master’s degree builds on what you already know by giving you advanced courses in:

Testing for penetration

Risk management

Security in the cloud

The program also includes certifications like CySA+, Pentest+, CASP+, and optional CISM. At the end, you’ll do a capstone project to show off what you’ve learned.

How Does WGU Cyber Security Degree Work?

As you get an overview of WGU cybersecurity programs. Now, let’s understand how does they work?

Competency-Based Learning Model

At WGU, you’re not tied to a classroom or semester schedule. You move through courses by proving your understanding through tests or projects. If you already know something, you can skip ahead. This is great for people with IT experience or previous certifications.

Online & Self-Paced Structure

You can study anytime, anywhere. No scheduled classes. Whether you’re a night owl or early bird, WGU fits your lifestyle. That’s why many working adults and military personnel choose WGU.

Mentorship & Support

You won’t be alone. WGU gives you a Program Mentor who checks in regularly to help you stay on track. Plus, course instructors are available when you have questions about assignments or topics.

Cost & Financial Considerations

Next, the cost of each WGU cyber security program costs you:

Tuition Structure

WGU uses a flat-rate tuition model:

$4,410 per 6-month term for the bachelor’s program
$4,700 per term for the master’s program

No matter how many courses you complete in a term, the cost stays the same. So, moving faster means you save more.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

WGU accepts:

Federal financial aid (FAFSA)
Military benefits like Tuition Assistance (TA) and GI Bill
Scholarships for cybersecurity and tech students

This makes WGU more affordable for many students.

Time to Completion: How Fast Can You Graduate?

Now, let’s explore the total time completion WGU’s cybersecurity degree takes:

Bachelor’s Degree

Most students finish in about 29 months—almost a year faster than the 4-year average. If you have transfer credits or prior IT experience, you could finish even sooner.

Master’s Degree

The average time to finish the master’s program is 18 months, but some move faster. One WGU graduate completed the entire degree in just 5 months by using existing certifications and full-time focus.

Career Outcomes & Job Prospects

Getting the degree is one thing, and getting a job is another. Let’s explore the roles you can secure after completing degree:

Industry Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

There are over 1.1 million cybersecurity jobs in the U.S., but only 65% are currently filled. That means companies are desperate for trained professionals.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity jobs are expected to grow by 35% from 2021 to 2031—much faster than most fields.

Job Roles & Salaries

Here’s what WGU grads are aiming for:

Security Analyst: $60K–$102K
Penetration Tester: $87K
Cybersecurity Engineer: $95K
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): $165K+

The WGU Cyber Security degree prepares you for these roles through certification training and job-focused coursework.

Employer Recognition

WGU alumni are working at major companies like:

Amazon
Microsoft
U.S. Department of Defense

The included certifications boost your resume and help you stand out in job applications.

Pros & Cons of WGU’s Cybersecurity Degree

In Addition, when pros and cons of WGU’s cybersecurity degree:

Advantages of WGU Cyber Security Degree

Affordable: Pay less, learn more
Flexible: Self-paced learning fits busy schedules
Certifications Included: Save thousands on exams
Career-Ready: Curriculum aligns with NSA standards and the NICE Framework

Potential Drawbacks of WGU Cyber Security Degree

Requires Self-Discipline: No set schedule means you need motivation
Limited Hands-On Labs: Some students want more practice environments
Mixed Reviews on Courses: Some students rely on outside resources for help

Who Is This Degree Best For?

This degree is perfect for:

Working professionals needing flexibility
Military and veterans using TA or the GI Bill
Career changers with some tech background
Independent learners who want to move fast

If you’re self-motivated and eager to enter the cybersecurity field, WGU Cyber Security might be the right fit.

Conclusion

So, is it worth it to get a WGU Cyber Security degree? WGU is a great choice if you want to go into cybersecurity or move forward in your present IT job in a flexible, economical method. It could save you time and money because it comes with certifications, lets you learn at your own pace, and is well-known by employers.

Keep in mind that you need to be motivated and disciplined to do well at WGU. But for a lot of people, it’s well worth it.

FAQs

1: Is WGU’s cybersecurity degree respected by employers?

Yes. WGU is accredited and recognized by the NSA and DHS. Employers value the certifications and skills gained.

2: Are certifications really included in the tuition?

Yes! You’ll receive vouchers for industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and more.

3: Can I finish faster if I already have IT experience?

Absolutely. Many students speed through courses they already understand.

4: Is WGU good for beginners in cybersecurity?

Yes, but you’ll need to be self-motivated. Some prior IT knowledge helps, especially for the bachelor’s program.

5: What kind of support do students get?

Each student gets a mentor and access to instructors. There are also forums and study resources.

6: How much can I earn after graduating?

Salaries range widely—from $60K for entry-level jobs to $165K for leadership roles.

7: Can I use military benefits at WGU?

Yes. WGU accepts TA, the GI Bill, and offers scholarships for military students.

Table of Contents