{"id":168,"date":"2021-09-28T15:02:39","date_gmt":"2021-09-28T15:02:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/he-cyberdegrees-org-sonic.lndo.site\/?p=168"},"modified":"2023-06-22T19:29:12","modified_gmt":"2023-06-22T19:29:12","slug":"cybersecurity-programs-in-iowa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/listings\/iowa\/","title":{"rendered":"Studying Cybersecurity in Iowa"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Known for its agricultural industry and famous state fair, Iowa might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of studying cybersecurity. However, the Hawkeye State &mdash; with a lower cost of living than the national average &mdash; is home to colleges and universities with cybersecurity programs across degree levels.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberseek.org\/heatmap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cyberseek's heat map<\/a>, Iowa had more than 5,000 job openings in this field from May 2022 to April 2023, with a total workforce of over 8,000 cybersecurity professionals in the state during that same timeframe.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Use our guide to learn more about why to consider earning your cybersecurity degree in Iowa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"bg-primary-50 px-5 py-1 rounded-lg\">\r\n<h2>Iowa at a Glance<\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Average Wage for Computer and Mathematical Occupations, 2022: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oes_ia.htm#15-0000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$88,210<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Percentage of Workforce in Tech: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberstates.org\/#interactiveMap?geoid=19__iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4%<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Economic Impact of Tech Industry: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberstates.org\/#interactiveMap?geoid=19__iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$10 billion<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Number of Higher Learning Institutions: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/programs\/digest\/d21\/tables\/dt21_317.20.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">56<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"text-sm\">Sources: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberstates.org\/#interactiveMap?geoid=0__usa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cyberstates&trade;<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/programs\/digest\/d21\/tables\/dt21_317.20.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NCES<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oessrcst.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OEWS<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"why-study-cybersecurity-in-iowa\" id=\"why-study-cybersecurity-in-iowa\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h2>Why Go to College for Cybersecurity in Iowa?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n<p>If you want to earn a <a href=\"\/listings\/\">cybersecurity degree<\/a>, Iowa offers relevant programs at various educational levels. The state boasts 56 degree-granting postsecondary institutions and a $10 billion tech industry that Iowa cybersecurity students can benefit from.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>If you earn a cybersecurity degree in Iowa and stay in the state after graduation, you can use the connections you made while enrolled to learn about job openings, get letters of recommendation, and land internships.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-primary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/states\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Find cybersecurity programs in other states<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\r\n<h3>Education Statistics for Iowa<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports Iowa has 39 four-year institutions and 17 two-year institutions. Only 49.1% of Iowa students enroll in distance education, compared to 59% nationally.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<table class=\"sonic-table rounded shadow\">\r\n<caption>Iowa vs. National Education Statistics<\/caption>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">Higher Education Statistics<\/th>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">Iowa Data<\/th>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">National Data<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th scope=\"row\">Four-Year Colleges<\/th>\r\n<td data-title=\"Iowa\">39<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">2,520<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th scope=\"row\">Two-Year Colleges<\/th>\r\n<td data-title=\"Iowa\">17<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">1,216<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th scope=\"row\">Students Enrolled in Distance Education<\/th>\r\n<td data-title=\"Iowa\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/ipeds\/TrendGenerator\/app\/build-table\/2\/42?rid=6&amp;cid=85\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">49.1%<\/a><\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/ipeds\/TrendGenerator\/app\/build-table\/2\/42?rid=6&amp;cid=85\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">59%<\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<p style=\"text-align:right\" class=\"text-sm\">Sources: <a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/programs\/digest\/d21\/tables\/dt21_317.20.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NCES<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3>Accreditation for Iowa Schools<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>Accreditation is a process that affirms schools offer a high-quality education. Accrediting agencies look at factors like instructor credentials, curricular offerings, and student outcomes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Attending an institutionally accredited college or university makes it easier to qualify for federal financial aid, transfer credits to another institution, or apply for graduate school. Organizations like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hlcommission.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Higher Learning Commission<\/a> offer institutional accreditation in Iowa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>The best Iowa cybersecurity programs may also hold programmatic accreditation from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abet.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">agencies like ABET<\/a>. Programmatic accreditation &mdash; which is optional &mdash; verifies that a program's coursework prepares learners for jobs in the field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Considerations for a Cybersecurity Degree in Iowa<\/h2>\r\n\r\n<p>Many factors are involved in the school selection process and each prospective student's preferences vary. For example, you may want to prioritize <a href=\"\/listings\/most-diverse-cybersecurity-schools\/\">diverse cybersecurity programs<\/a> or look for schools that offer specific curricular concentrations that align with your career goals.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Prospective Iowa cybersecurity students should also consider factors like <a href=\"\/resources\/degree-required-for-cybersecurity-career\/\">degree level and program format<\/a> &mdash; online, in-person, or hybrid. According to NCES data, a higher percentage of students enrolled in on-campus programs in Iowa than the national average in 2021.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"everviz-s9v5YeWXL\" class=\"everviz-s9v5YeWXL\"><script src=\"https:\/\/app.everviz.com\/inject\/s9v5YeWXL\/?v=3\" defer=\"defer\"><\/script><\/div>\r\n\r\n<section class=\"-mx-4 md:-mx-1\/2vw py-12 md:py-16 mt-12 md:my-16 relative md:left-1\/2 md:right-1\/2 md:w-screen bg-accent\">\n    <div class=\"container content\">\n        \r\n<h3 class=\"text-center\">Explore rankings for top cybersecurity programs around the country:<\/h3>\r\n  \n\n  <section class=\"cards pt-2 pb-12 lg:pt-16 lg:pb-20 relative text-center text-gray-700 \" data-cy=\"cards\">\n    <div class=\"bg-full-width absolute top-0 right-1\/2 left-1\/2 block h-full w-screen -mr-1\/2vw -ml-1\/2vw bg-quaternary-700 \"><\/div>\n    \n    <div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 md:grid-cols-2 lg:grid-cols-4\">\n        \r\n<div class=\"cards-item bg-white flex flex-col justify-start mt-0 overflow-hidden rounded shadow\" data-cy=\"cards-item\">\n  <img decoding=\"async\"\n          src=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/GettyImages-1187635203-425x230-c-default.jpg\"\n        alt=\"Associate Degree Programs in Cybersecurity\"\n  \/>\n  <div class=\"cards-item__content h-full flex flex-col p-6\">\n    <h4 class=\"cards-item__title\">Associate Degree Programs in Cybersecurity<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"flex flex-col\">\n      <p class=\"cards-item__text text-xs leading-5\"><\/p>\n          <\/div>\n    <div class=\"flex mt-auto flex-col justify-between\">\n      <a class=\"sonic-btn large w-full md:w-max mx-auto bg-secondary-700 uppercase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/listings\/associate-degrees\/\">\n        Learn More\n      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\r\n<div class=\"cards-item bg-white flex flex-col justify-start mt-0 overflow-hidden rounded shadow\" data-cy=\"cards-item\">\n  <img decoding=\"async\"\n          src=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/GettyImages-961044020-425x230-c-default.jpg\"\n        alt=\"Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs\"\n  \/>\n  <div class=\"cards-item__content h-full flex flex-col p-6\">\n    <h4 class=\"cards-item__title\">Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"flex flex-col\">\n      <p class=\"cards-item__text text-xs leading-5\"><\/p>\n          <\/div>\n    <div class=\"flex mt-auto flex-col justify-between\">\n      <a class=\"sonic-btn large w-full md:w-max mx-auto bg-secondary-700 uppercase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/listings\/best-online-cyber-security-bachelors-degrees\/\">\n        Learn More\n      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\r\n<div class=\"cards-item bg-white flex flex-col justify-start mt-0 overflow-hidden rounded shadow\" data-cy=\"cards-item\">\n  <img decoding=\"async\"\n          src=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/GettyImages-589090389-425x230-c-default.jpg\"\n        alt=\"Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity Programs\"\n  \/>\n  <div class=\"cards-item__content h-full flex flex-col p-6\">\n    <h4 class=\"cards-item__title\">Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity Programs<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"flex flex-col\">\n      <p class=\"cards-item__text text-xs leading-5\"><\/p>\n          <\/div>\n    <div class=\"flex mt-auto flex-col justify-between\">\n      <a class=\"sonic-btn large w-full md:w-max mx-auto bg-secondary-700 uppercase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/listings\/top-online-masters-in-cyber-security-programs\/\">\n        Learn More\n      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\r\n<div class=\"cards-item bg-white flex flex-col justify-start mt-0 overflow-hidden rounded shadow\" data-cy=\"cards-item\">\n  <img decoding=\"async\"\n          src=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/GettyImages-619503664-425x230-c-default.jpg\"\n        alt=\"Top Doctoral Degree Programs in Cybersecurity\"\n  \/>\n  <div class=\"cards-item__content h-full flex flex-col p-6\">\n    <h4 class=\"cards-item__title\">Top Doctoral Degree Programs in Cybersecurity<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"flex flex-col\">\n      <p class=\"cards-item__text text-xs leading-5\"><\/p>\n          <\/div>\n    <div class=\"flex mt-auto flex-col justify-between\">\n      <a class=\"sonic-btn large w-full md:w-max mx-auto bg-secondary-700 uppercase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/listings\/doctoral-degrees\/\">\n        Learn More\n      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\r\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n  <\/section>\n\n\n\n\r\n\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\r\n\r\n<h3>Cybersecurity Concentrations and Similar Degrees<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>Degrees vary by school: Some institutions offer a standalone cybersecurity major, while others offer cybersecurity as a specialization within a field like computer science. In addition to cybersecurity programs with broad curricula, some schools may offer degrees with concentrations. These specialized programs can help students qualify for <a href=\"\/jobs\/\">in-demand tech jobs<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Below, we describe three cybersecurity-adjacent programs Iowa learners may encounter during their school search.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"grid md:grid-cols-2 lg:grid-cols-3 gap-5 my-8\"> \n  \r\n<div class=\"bg-tertiary-50 px-5 rounded\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/listings\/software-engineering\/best-programs\/\">Software Engineering Degree<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Software engineering programs can prepare you to become a security software developer, computer hardware engineer, or information security analyst. This degree covers topics like programming, cybersecurity fundamentals, and computer architecture.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"bg-tertiary-50 px-5 rounded\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/listings\/it-management\/best-programs\/\">IT Management Degree<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>An IT management degree focuses on the fundamentals of information technology management and can prepare you for a variety of tech jobs.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"bg-tertiary-50 px-5 rounded\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/listings\/best-computer-forensics-programs\/\">Computer Forensics Degree<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Computer forensics programs can give you the skills to apply for jobs like information security analyst, computer systems analyst, and incident responder. This degree explores IT and criminal justice issues.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\r\n\r\n<h2>Popular Online Programs<\/h2>\r\n<p>Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<sonic-editorial-listings limit=\"3\"><\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\r\n<h3>Paying for Your Cybersecurity Degree<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>Prospective students should consider <a href=\"\/resources\/how-to-pay-for-a-degree\/\">how to pay for a cybersecurity degree<\/a> in Iowa. Students can research financial aid that helps defray the cost of their degree.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Options like scholarships, fellowships, and grants do not require repayment, while student loans require repayment with interest. If you take out loans, ensure you understand the loan's terms and payment plan.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"everviz-rdu4BVb0e\" class=\"everviz-rdu4BVb0e\"><script src=\"https:\/\/app.everviz.com\/inject\/rdu4BVb0e\/?v=3\" defer=\"defer\"><\/script><\/div>\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"in-state-vs-out-of-state-tuition\" id=\"in-state-vs-out-of-state-tuition\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h4>In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition<\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>At public universities, in-state tuition typically costs less than out-of-state tuition. Private institutions usually do not charge different tuition rates based on student residency. Some online programs may offer in-state or otherwise discounted tuition to all enrollees.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4>Iowa's Cost of Living<\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Cost of living varies by state and can impact how you budget for your education. According to <a href=\"https:\/\/worldpopulationreview.com\/state-rankings\/cost-of-living-index-by-state\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">World Population Review<\/a>, Iowa's cost of living index score is 89.9, which falls below the national average. This score signifies that Iowa is, on average, more affordable than other states, so students in Iowa can expect to pay less for basic necessities like groceries, housing, and transportation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"grid md:grid-cols-2 lg:grid-cols-3 gap-5 my-8\"> \n  \r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-primary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/scholarships-military-veterans\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Explore cybersecurity scholarships for military and veterans<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-primary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/cybersecurity-resources-for-underrepresented-populations\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Find resources and organizations for underrepresented populations<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-primary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/lgbtq-scholarships\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Discover scholarships for LGBTQIA+ students<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<\/div>\n\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"cybersecurity-careers-in-iowa\" id=\"cybersecurity-careers-in-iowa\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h2>Careers for Cybersecurity Graduates from Iowa<\/h2>\r\n\r\n<p>According to CompTIA's 2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberstates.org\/#interactiveMap?geoid=19__iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">State of the Tech Workforce<\/a> report, leading tech <a href=\"\/resources\/best-industries-cybersecurity\/\">industry sectors<\/a> in Iowa include telecommunications and internet services, IT services and custom software services, and tech manufacturing. Career fields like cybersecurity and systems engineering, network engineering, and software are popular in the state.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>CompTIA data also reveals Iowa's tech occupation wages are 107% higher than the national median. Average salaries for cybersecurity jobs in the state exceed average salaries for other roles, too: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oes_ia.htm#00-0000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">According to the BLS<\/a>, the average annual salary for all careers in Iowa is $53,520, while information security analysts in the state make $132,590 per year as of 2022.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cybersecurity graduates in Iowa can benefit from a marketplace that seeks workers with these skills. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberseek.org\/heatmap.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CyberSeek's cybersecurity supply\/demand heat map<\/a> reveals the demand for workers with cybersecurity certifications like the certified information systems security professional and certified information systems auditor credentials currently outpaces the supply of professionals with these credentials in Iowa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Below, we discuss several cybersecurity careers in Iowa and employment trends for the state.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3>Select Cybersecurity Careers in Iowa<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/jobs\/penetration-tester\/\">Penetration Tester<\/a><sonic-icon icon=\"cursor-click\" size=\"small\" type=\"solid\" color=\"#1222B6\"><\/sonic-icon><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Penetration testers, also called pen testers, protect an organization's data and computer networks by locating potential vulnerabilities. Pen testers usually need a bachelor's or master's in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Average Salary for Penetration Testers: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.payscale.com\/research\/US\/Job=Penetration_Tester\/Salary?loggedIn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$90,840<\/a> (June 2023)<\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Job Outlook in Iowa (2018-28):<\/strong> Projections Central includes penetration testers in its information security analyst career category. The organization projects <a href=\"https:\/\/projectionscentral.org\/Projections\/LongTerm?AreaName=&amp;AreaNameSelect%5B%5D=19&amp;Name=security&amp;items_per_page=10\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">47.7% job growth<\/a> for information security analysts in Iowa from 2018 to 2028.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/jobs\/security-engineer\/\">Security Engineer<\/a><sonic-icon icon=\"lock-closed\" size=\"small\" type=\"solid\" color=\"#1222B6\"><\/sonic-icon><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Security engineers create systems that protect data and prevent cybercrime. This role typically requires a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Average Salary for Security Engineers: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.payscale.com\/research\/US\/Job=Security_Engineer\/Salary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$98,970<\/a> (June 2023)<\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Job Outlook in Iowa (2018-28):<\/strong> Projections Central includes security engineers in its information security analyst career category. The organization projects <a href=\"https:\/\/projectionscentral.org\/Projections\/LongTerm?AreaName=&amp;AreaNameSelect%5B%5D=19&amp;Name=security&amp;items_per_page=10\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">47.7% job growth<\/a> for information security analysts in Iowa from 2018 to 2028.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<h4><a href=\"\/jobs\/incident-responder\/\">Incident Responder<\/a><sonic-icon icon=\"exclamation\" size=\"small\" type=\"solid\" color=\"#1222B6\"><\/sonic-icon><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Incident responders aim to minimize damage from cyberattacks and data breaches. They usually need a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Average Salary for Incident Responders: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.payscale.com\/research\/US\/Job=Security_Incident_Response\/Salary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$85,430<\/a> (June 2023)<\/li>\r\n<li><strong>Job Outlook in Iowa (2018-28):<\/strong> Projections Central includes incident responders in its information security analyst career category. The organization projects <a href=\"https:\/\/projectionscentral.org\/Projections\/LongTerm?AreaName=&amp;AreaNameSelect%5B%5D=19&amp;Name=security&amp;items_per_page=10\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">47.7% job growth<\/a> for information security analysts in Iowa from 2018 to 2028.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>Learn about Iowa-specific employment trends for cybersecurity and related positions below.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3>Iowa Employment Trends<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<table class=\"sonic-table rounded shadow\">\r\n<caption>Projected Job Growth for Computer Hardware Engineers, Computer Network Architects, and Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers<\/caption>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th col>Year<\/th>\r\n<th col>State<\/th>\r\n<th col>National<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr class=\"bg-accent\">\r\n<td colspan=\"3\">Computer Hardware Engineers<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2020 Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">270<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">66,200<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2030 Projected Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">300<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">67,300<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">+11.1%<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">+1.7%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr class=\"bg-accent\">\r\n<td colspan=\"3\">Computer Network Architects<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2018 Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">1,540<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">165,200<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2030 Projected Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">1,800<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">174,200<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">Projected Job Growth, 2018-2028<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">+16.9%<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">+5.4%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr class=\"bg-accent\">\r\n<td colspan=\"3\">Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2020 Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">9,960<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">1,847,900<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">2030 Projected Employment<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">12,340<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">2,257,400<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Year\">Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"State\">+23.9%<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National\">+22%<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<p style=\"text-align:right\" class=\"text-sm\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/projectionscentral.com\/Projections\/LongTerm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Projections Central<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<table class=\"sonic-table rounded shadow\">\r\n<caption>Salaries for Cybersecurity and Related Careers, 2022<\/caption>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">Career<\/th>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">Iowa Employment<\/th>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">Iowa Annual Mean Wage<\/th>\r\n<th scope=\"col\">National Median Annual Wage<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer and Information Systems Managers<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">3,580<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$133,270<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$173,670<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer Hardware Engineers<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">280<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$92,720<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$140,830<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer Network Architects<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">1,130<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$110,460<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$129,490<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer Network Support Specialists<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">1,830<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$62,990<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$129,490<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer Programmers<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">980<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$87,770<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$102,790<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Computer Systems Analysts<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">5,050<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$91,380<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$102,790<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Information Security Analysts<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">1,240<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$132,590<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$119,860<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Network and Computer Systems Administrators<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">3,320<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$86,650<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$97,160<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Software Developers<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">9,310<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$103,140<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$132,930<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td data-title=\"Career\">Web Developers<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Employment\">490<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"IA Wage\">$72,000<\/td>\r\n<td data-title=\"National Wage\">$87,580<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<p style=\"text-align:right\" class=\"text-sm\">Source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oes_stru.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BLS OEWS<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p>Iowa offers a number of cybersecurity roles with faster-than-average growth projections and higher-than-average salaries. These include jobs like computer hardware engineer, computer network architect, and software developer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<section class=\"-mx-4 md:-mx-1\/2vw py-12 md:py-16 mt-12 md:my-16 relative md:left-1\/2 md:right-1\/2 md:w-screen bg-accent\">\n    <div class=\"container content\">\n        \r\n<div class=\"grid md:grid-cols-2 lg:grid-cols-2 gap-5 my-8\"> \n  \r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-secondary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/jobs\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Discover more cybersecurity jobs<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-secondary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/government-cyber-security-careers\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Consider a cybersecurity career in government<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-secondary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/careers-for-vets\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Which cybersecurity careers are best for veterans?<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<div class=\"sonic-interlink duration-500 flex hover:shadow-lg bg-secondary-700 \">\n    <a\n        target=\"_self\"\n        href=\"\/resources\/transitioning-from-general-it\/\"\n        class=\"flex items-center p-8 relative rounded w-full transition-opacity duration-500 hover:opacity-75\">\n                <span class=\"text-white block w-full\">\n          <span class=\"interlink-content flex justify-between items-center\">\n            <div>\n                                                <span class=\"title leading-snug\">Transition From IT into cybersecurity<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n            <sonic-icon class=\"ml-3 md:ml-0\" icon=\"arrow-circle-right\" size=\"small\" color=\"#fff\"><\/sonic-icon>\n          <\/span>\n        <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n<\/div>\n\r\n\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\r\n\r\n<h2>Popular Online Programs<\/h2>\r\n<p>Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<sonic-editorial-listings limit=\"3\"><\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\r\n<h3>Cybersecurity Employers in Iowa<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Marco Technologies:<\/strong> Marco Technologies boasts offices in various Iowa cities, including Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, and Waterloo. The company's over 650 certified systems engineers and tech representatives provide technical and security services in 12 states.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Valeo Networks:<\/strong> Valeo Networks offers technology services like compliance, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and managed IT. It has locations in seven states, including Iowa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Wells Fargo:<\/strong> With over 12,000 employees in the Des Moines area, Wells Fargo hires cybersecurity professionals to help protect their sensitive financial data.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"professional-organizations\" id=\"professional-organizations\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h3>Professional Cybersecurity Organizations in Iowa<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"pl-4\" style=\"border-left:3px solid #1271E4\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyio.iastate.edu\/about\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Center for Cybersecurity Innovation &amp; Outreach<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Located at Iowa State University, this multidisciplinary center works on cybersecurity teaching, outreach, and research. It has achieved recognition multiple times as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Education from the National Security Agency.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"pl-4\" style=\"border-left:3px solid #1271E4\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"http:\/\/www.iowacyberhub.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Iowa Cyber Hub<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>The Iowa Cyber Hub connects cybersecurity students, professionals, and employers in the state.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"pl-4\" style=\"border-left:3px solid #1271E4\">\r\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.meetup.com\/Iowa-InfoSec\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Iowa InfoSec<\/a><\/h4>\r\n\r\n<p>This group holds monthly meetings for information security professionals in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. These gatherings facilitate connection and discussions about cybersecurity in an informal setting.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"top-schools-in-iowa-with-cybersecurity-programs\" id=\"top-schools-in-iowa-with-cybersecurity-programs\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h2>Schools With Cybersecurity Degrees in Iowa<\/h2>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n<div class=\"grid md:grid-cols-2 gap-5 md:gap-12 items-baseline -pt-2\">\r\n<div>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dmacc.edu\/it\/Pages\/digitalforensics.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Des Moines Area Community College<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/eicc.edu\/classes-programs\/pathway\/information-solutions\/networking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Eastern Iowa Community Colleges<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indianhills.edu\/academics\/tech\/computer_networks.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Indian Hills Community College<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.iastate.edu\/collegeofengineering\/cybersecurityengineering\/#undergraduatemajortext\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Iowa State University<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nicc.edu\/academics\/programs-by-career\/information-technology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Northeast Iowa Community College<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dbq.edu\/Academics\/UndergraduatePrograms\/ComputerStudiesandMathematics\/BSCybersecurity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">University of Dubuque<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www2.witcc.edu\/programs\/5\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Western Iowa Tech Community College<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<h2>Popular Online Programs<\/h2>\r\n<p>Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<sonic-editorial-listings limit=\"3\"><\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\r\n\n        \n  \n  <a class=\"subnav-waypoint\" name=\"faq\" id=\"faq\"><\/a>\n\n\r\n<h2>Questions About Cybersecurity in Iowa<\/h2>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"border-thick rounded-lg px-5 border-secondary-50 mb-4\">\r\n<h3>Can I get a cybersecurity degree at Iowa State?<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>Yes, you can earn a cybersecurity degree at Iowa State. The school offers multiple undergraduate and graduate options in the field, including a BS in cybersecurity engineering, a cybersecurity minor, an MS in cybersecurity, and a graduate certificate program.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"border-thick rounded-lg px-5 border-secondary-50 mb-4\">\r\n<h3>Are there good cybersecurity schools in Iowa?<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>If you want to earn a cybersecurity degree, Iowa offers several options. For example, students who pursue cybersecurity degrees at Iowa State benefit from studying at a school designated with National Security Agency designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Education.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"border-thick rounded-lg px-5 border-secondary-50 mb-4\">\r\n<h3>What is the average salary in Iowa for cybersecurity?<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/current\/oes_ia.htm#00-0000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">According to the BLS<\/a>, information security analysts &mdash; a broad career category that includes many cybersecurity roles &mdash; earn an average annual salary of $132,590 in Iowa as of 2022. Pay varies by education, job, and location.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"border-thick rounded-lg px-5 border-secondary-50 mb-4\">\r\n<h3>Is studying cybersecurity in Iowa worth it?<\/h3>\r\n\r\n<p>Cybersecurity programs are designed to prepare learners for cybersecurity jobs in Iowa. These careers offer higher-than-average salaries and faster-than-average growth projections, which can signal a positive return on investment for earning a degree in this field.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Last reviewed June 8, 2023.<\/em><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Ready to study cybersecurity in Iowa? Start with our list of campus and online programs, and learn about cybersecurity jobs and scholarships in IA.","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2110,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/template-dcs.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"states":[15],"resources-overview":[],"degrees":[],"jobs-overview":[],"rankings":[],"class_list":["post-168","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","states-i"],"acf":[],"menu_order":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/168","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=168"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/168\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7790,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/168\/revisions\/7790"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2110"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=168"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=168"},{"taxonomy":"states","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/states?post=168"},{"taxonomy":"resources-overview","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources-overview?post=168"},{"taxonomy":"degrees","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/degrees?post=168"},{"taxonomy":"jobs-overview","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/jobs-overview?post=168"},{"taxonomy":"rankings","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rankings?post=168"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}