Where You Can Study Cyber Security Part-Time at These Universities

The IU International University is a private, state-recognized university headquartered in Erfurt with over 35 locations in Germany. With more than 130,000 students, it is the largest university in Germany. It offers a wide range of over 100 degree programs in three study models: the flexible IU distance learning, the practical IU dual study, and the hybrid IU myStudy. IU is particularly known for its close collaboration with over 15,000 practice partners, including companies like ZURICH Insurance and Motel One. The university focuses on modern teaching methods, innovative digital learning platforms, and maximum flexibility in studies. It has been accredited by the Science Council for 10 years and has been awarded multiple times, including with FIBAA Premium Seals for outstanding study programs. Students can study fully online, part-time alongside work, or in person at one of the locations at IU. With its comprehensive range of courses in the IT and Cyber Security area, IU is an attractive choice, especially for tech-savvy students.

The Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule (WBH) is Germany's largest private distance-learning university for technical degree programs. Founded in 1997 under the name "Private Distance Fachhochschule Darmstadt," it is now part of the Klett Group. With around 5,400 students, WBH offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's programs that combine technology with management, leadership, and communication. All programs are approved by the state Central Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) and allow for a flexible start to studies. WBH is particularly strong in the fields of informatics, engineering, and industrial engineering. The university collaborates with numerous companies and emphasizes practical teaching. Students benefit from intensive support and can customize their studies to their professional and personal needs. WBH also offers flexible financing models and a four-week trial phase.

The University of Wismar is a state university with over 100 years of academic tradition and around 8,100 students. Its continuing education institute WINGS is one of the leading providers of part-time distance learning programs in Germany. WINGS offers flexible study models, including app-based online study, traditional distance learning with presence phases, and practice-oriented further education. The focus is on the fields of engineering, economics, and design. Particularly in the area of IT security, the University of Wismar offers the Master's program in IT Security and Forensics (M.Eng.), providing a solid education for professionals looking to specialize in Cyber Security and digital forensics. Through modern digital teaching methods, international cooperations, and a strong connection to practice, WINGS ensures high-quality and flexible further education.

The Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is one of the most research-intensive full universities in Germany, founded in 1743. With around 37,700 students, it offers a wide range of subjects in natural sciences, technology, humanities, social sciences, medicine, as well as economics and law. The FAU combines tradition with innovation and promotes interdisciplinary research and international exchange. Under the motto "Moving knowledge," it focuses on forward-looking teaching, lifelong learning, and close cooperation with industry and research institutions. In the field of IT security, FAU offers the part-time Bachelor's program in Computer Science/IT Security (B.Sc.), providing a solid foundation in Cyber Security, programming, and network security. The university places great emphasis on digital teaching concepts and flexible study models, which are particularly suitable for working professionals.

The University of Albstadt-Sigmaringen is a state university with around 3,100 students and locations in Albstadt and Sigmaringen. It offers practice-oriented degree programs in the fields of technology, informatics, economics, and life sciences and emphasizes individual support, modern labs, and close cooperation with industry. The university is internationally oriented and supports students with flexible further education offerings. Particularly noteworthy in the field of Cyber Security is the part-time Master's program in Digital Forensics (M.Sc.). This innovative program provides in-depth knowledge in IT security, forensic data analysis, and cybercrime prevention. It targets professionals looking to specialize in digital investigation techniques and security strategies.

The FOM University for Economics & Management is one of the largest private universities in Europe offering part-time and dual study programs. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Essen, it has over 57,000 students and cooperates with more than 10,000 companies. The university places special emphasis on practical teaching, digital learning formats, and flexible study models that enable a balance between work and study. In addition to business and engineering programs, FOM offers the part-time Bachelor's (B.Sc.) and Master's (M.Sc.) programs in Cyber Security Management in the field of Cyber Security. These programs provide comprehensive knowledge in IT security, data protection, and risk management, preparing graduates for leadership positions in Cyber Security.

The Cost of Distance Learning in IT Security

The costs of part-time studies in IT security vary depending on the university, degree level, and duration of studies. In general, the tuition fees for a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Cyber Security or IT Security range between 10,000 and 18,000 euros, with some programs being cheaper or more expensive. In addition to regular tuition fees, students should also budget for additional expenses for learning materials, examination fees, or optional attendance events.

Here is a comparison of the costs of Bachelor's programs:

Many universities offer flexible payment plans whereby tuition fees can be paid in monthly installments. For example, a study program at the IU International University with a duration of 72 months costs approximately 200–300 euros per month.

Here is a comparison of the costs of Master's programs:

Professional Prospects with a Degree in IT Security

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cyber Security offers excellent career prospects in a rapidly growing and highly relevant field. As cyber attacks and digital threats increase globally, the demand for well-trained IT security experts continues to grow. Companies from all industries are increasingly investing in security measures to protect sensitive data, networks, and IT infrastructures. Graduates of a Cyber Security program therefore have excellent career opportunities – both in the private sector and in the public sector.

A Bachelor's degree in Cyber Security qualifies for numerous entry-level positions in the IT security industry. Graduates often work in the following areas:

• IT Security Analyst: Monitoring and analyzing security incidents in companies
• Network Security Specialist: Protecting networks against attacks and unauthorized access
• IT Forensic Analyst: Investigating cyber attacks, data trace analysis, and digital evidence preservation
• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker): Conducting security tests to identify vulnerabilities in IT systems
• IT Security Consultant: Developing and implementing security concepts for companies

Most Bachelor's graduates start their careers in IT departments of companies, security consulting firms, the financial and insurance sector, or public authorities dealing with cybersecurity.

A Master's degree in Cyber Security expands knowledge and also opens up leadership positions and specialization opportunities. Graduates of a Master's program often work in strategic or research-related areas:

• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): Leading the IT security strategy of a company
• Security Architect: Developing and implementing secure IT architectures
• Incident Response Manager: Coordinating emergency measures in cyber attacks
• Security consultants for critical infrastructures: Protecting energy, health, or transportation systems from cyber threats
• Research & Development: Working on new security solutions and encryption techniques

A Master's degree often also enables entry into international companies or highly specialized Cyber Security units of governments and intelligence services.

Cyber Security experts are in demand across industries. Particularly sought after are professionals in the following areas: IT and telecommunications companies (e.g. Microsoft, IBM, Cisco), the financial and insurance sector (e.g. banks, credit card providers), industrial enterprises and the automotive industry (e.g. protection of networked systems, IoT security), healthcare (e.g. patient data protection), agencies, and intelligence services (e.g. BSI, Europol, Bundeswehr).

Cyber Security professions are among the highest-paying jobs in IT. The starting salary with a Bachelor's degree ranges from 45,000 to 60,000 euros gross per year depending on the industry and region, while professionals with a Master's degree or several years of experience can earn salaries from 70,000 to over 100,000 euros. Six-figure annual salaries are possible, especially in leadership positions.