Online Associate of Science in Cybersecurity (AS)
Learn how to combat cyber warfare and safeguard information assets through proactive security measures. This associate degree program at American Military University (AMU) provides a foundational overview of the complex real-world challenges cybersecurity professionals must navigate.
Program Overview
This online degree program engages students through hands-on learning as they examine fundamental information security principles. Courses address how cyber criminals exploit system vulnerabilities to infiltrate information technology and steal sensitive data.
AMU’s curriculum centers on career-readiness with coursework that emphasizes critical thinking and problem solving. Students focus on proactive cyber defense tactics for combating real-world security threats.
Assignments include ethical hacking exercises in the University’s Online Cyber Lab. Learners build technical skills as they conduct basic penetration tests and practice the techniques that cybersecurity professionals employ to detect intrusions. The program also familiarizes students with scripting languages that security practitioners use to run custom programs and automate tasks.
Learners complete a final capstone project to demonstrate their competence and conclude their studies. This capstone presents an opportunity to showcase career-relevant skills and produce portfolio-ready work.
American Military University is part of American Public University System, which has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the National Security Agency (NSA).
Discover How This Online Cybersecurity Degree Program Prepares Students to Pursue Their Goals
This associate degree program explores the relationship between cybersecurity and information assurance. AMU’s online courses also introduce students to incident-response techniques and proactive security measures that help combat cyber threats.
Students will:
- Identify common uses of cryptography in creating a secure infrastructure and safeguarding digital assets for government and military agencies
- Implement various strategies to maintain network security and mitigate cyber threats
- Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of local and wide area networks
- Explain legal and ethical issues related to network security and technology implications
Students in this online degree program learn how to safeguard information technology against cyber threats. Courses address a wide range of real-world security problems, and learners sharpen their technical skills through hands-on lab exercises.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Cyber defense analysts, who assist with monitoring security events, documenting incidents, and following standard operating procedures to support mission assurance
- Computer network support specialists, who help maintain and troubleshoot networks and support access control, configuration standards, and uptime in service-oriented environments
- Junior network and computer systems administrators, who support network/server administration, apply patches and configuration baselines, and assist with security controls under supervision
- IT support specialists, who provide technical support for users and systems, help enforce account practices, assist with device configuration, and maintain secure operations
This online degree program explores the foundational principles that technologists apply to maintain secure systems and protect sensitive data. Through AMU’s Online Cyber Lab, learners also gain hands-on experience using the cyber defense tools and techniques they discuss in class.
Coursework prepares students to:
- Apply cybersecurity fundamentals to service-minded environments
- Support basic cyber defense activities such as enabling access control, hardening operating systems, and logging incidents
- Interpret security alerts and follow standard operating procedures for incident response/incident triage, reporting, and escalation
- Demonstrate security-focused decision-making aligned with military values, policy compliance, and chain-of-command communication
- Apply network security principles to protect sensitive data in distributed/remote operational settings
- Communicate technical information clearly and concisely in a structured reporting environment
“ Our cybersecurity program centers on understanding a range of cybersecurity topics. You will be able to connect with faculty who are both educators and practitioners, peers, and with alumni members for further networking. ”
Review AMU’s Curriculum for This Online Cybersecurity Degree
Courses also address how increasingly sophisticated computer crimes have had a lasting impact on federal legislation. Learners conclude their studies with a final capstone project that demonstrates their understanding of security infrastructure and incident response techniques.
Grow Your Network While You Pursue Your Cybersecurity Degree Online at AMU
Classmates and faculty members are encouraged to connect beyond the virtual classroom through AMU’s dozens of online student clubs and organizations. Learners studying cybersecurity and information technology may be especially interested in the University’s Technology Professionals Group or wSEC. Other online communities include cultural and faith-based groups, as well as clubs for veterans, servicemembers, and military spouses.
Learn more about student life at AMU and discover more ways to get involved.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
APUS signature skills.
Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.
The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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AMU is here to support your student journey
Your mission matters, but so does your well-being. That's why we provide supportive resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.
• Career Coaching• 24/7 Mental Health Support
• Admissions & Advising Support
• Student Life
CAREER COACHING
Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or pursuing advancement within your branch of service, AMU’s Career Services are here to help. Our coach-guided experiences empower you to translate your military skills into new opportunities, develop your professional strengths, and chart a course to your next mission.
Learn More24/7 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Resilience is critical to mission success, and that starts with your mental health. AMU offers confidential, flexible, 24/7 access to support resources to help you manage stress, find balance, and stay mission-ready.
Learn MoreADMISSIONS & ADVISING SUPPORT
We understand the unique needs of military students. That’s why our admissions and advising teams provide personalized guidance from day one, helping you navigate enrollment, maximize your benefits, and plan your academic journey around your service commitments. We’re here to help you succeed wherever duty calls.
Learn MoreSTUDENT LIFE
At AMU, you’ll be part of a strong, service-minded community that understands your goals and values. Through student organizations like the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and access to the university directory through ecampus, you’ll connect with peers and mentors who can help you build your professional network and lifelong camaraderie.
Learn MoreCybersecurity Education is Affordable at AMU
Low-cost tuition rates and University grants help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for students in this online degree program. AMU also has a generous transfer credit policy and awards college credit for military training, professional experience, and prior education.6
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
AMU Removes Barriers
Quality Education Shouldn't Break the Bank
We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
- Financial Aid
- Private Loans & Scholarships
- Military & Veteran Benefits
Transfer Credits
AMU recognizes the value of your service and experience. Our generous transfer credit policy ensures that you get credit for prior college coursework, military education and training, exams, and certifications so you can save time, keep costs low, and stay focused on your education mission.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
In addition to special rates and grants for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families, we also participate in federal financial aid programs for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office team can help ensure you have the support you need.
Learn MorePrivate Loans & Scholarships
AMU students may explore private education loans or scholarship options to supplement their education funding. Before pursuing these options, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn about your eligibility. We encourage all borrowers to research their choices, review interest rates and repayment terms, and make an informed decision that aligns with their goals.
Learn MoreMilitary & Veteran Benefits
As a leader in higher education for the nation’s military and a top choice for veterans using education benefits, AMU proudly accepts Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits. Our experienced Military Tuition Assistance team can help you understand your eligibility, apply your benefits, and make the most out of your available resources.
Learn MoreApply to the Online Cybersecurity Degree Program Today
AMU is committed to making higher education accessible through online learning. This cybersecurity degree program is designed to accommodate active-duty servicemembers and remote learners who may be balancing their studies with other obligations.
Online courses begin monthly and have no set login times. Students may participate in weekly class discussions and complete weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT®3 required for undergraduate programs
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All AMU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the AMU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Studying Cybersecurity Online at American Military University
Transfer credit eligibility depends on various factors, including academic performance and the specific terms of a university's transfer credit policies. However, AMU’s online associate degree program in cybersecurity is designed to provide a seamless transition into our cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program.
AMU’s cybersecurity courses incorporate a wide range of tools, including:
Related Programs
American Military University offers more than 200 career-relevant degree and certificate programs online.
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The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
