12 Best Countries to Study Cyber Security

With the exponential development of the internet and digitalisation, the risk of cyber attacks by hackers has also rapidly increased. To protect governments, organizations, and individuals from cybercrime and, at the same time, strengthen cybersecurity, top-tier universities in developed and developing countries offer cybersecurity programs. On the other hand, there is a heightened interest among students in finding the best countries to study cyber security for this very reason. Choosing a country to study cyber security can be tricky. To help you make the correct decision, we have provided detailed information on the best countries to study cybersecurity, including top universities, courses, and job opportunities.

What are the best countries to study cyber security?

Cyber security degree programs abroad have the best curriculum covering a wide range of specialisations that align with emerging industry trends. 

The list of best countries to study cyber security courses is given below.

1. United States of America (USA)

The USA is the leading country for cyber security programs with a wide range of specialisations offered by prestigious universities. US universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate cyber security programs like network security, computer forensics and cryptography. The country is home to more than 3,000 cyber security firms and that number is expected to grow further in the coming years. The US has a thriving job market for cyber security jobs such as Network Security Engineer, Cyber Security Analyst, Ethical hacker and Cyber Security Consultant with an average annual salary of  $88,322 to $103,035.

2. United Kingdom (UK)

In the last decade, the information technology and related industries in the UK have witnessed tremendous growth. Apart from the top cyber security companies, the UK also boasts the best cyber security programs offered by world-renowned universities. British colleges have well-equipped curriculums for cyber security programs designed with the help of leading cyber security companies in the country. Some of the notable cyber security courses offered by British universities include applied cyber security, computer security and computer forensics. Cyber security job opportunities in the UK are on the rise with an average annual salary of £25,000 to £50,000.

3. Australia

Australia is becoming a major educational hub for cyber security programs. Australian universities have a global reputation for their highly accredited cyber security programs. Cyber security experts work hand-in-hand with universities to design cyber security courses of the highest standard. Universities also offer international students with internship opportunities. Cyber security sector in Australia has promising job prospects for aspirants with an average annual salary of AUD $60,000 to $100,000.

4. Canada

Cyber security programs offered by Canadian universities are well known for their wide range of curriculum that’s up to date with the emerging trends in the industry. The degree programs include topics such as digital forensics, cyber threats and incident response. Scholarships and internships are offered for deserving international students. Canada has a thriving cyber security ecosystem and the federal government has plans to invest almost $1 billion dollars to fuel more growth in the sector. The pay scale for cyber security professionals ranges from $50,000 to $100,000. 

5. Switzerland

Swizz universities are known for producing highly trained and skilled cyber security professionals. This comes as no surprise as the cyber security industry in Switzerland is highly advanced and is supported by a sophisticated internet infrastructure. Universities over there follow a more hands-on teaching approach to ensure that students undergo thorough training and get industry-ready by the end of the program. Cyber security professionals in Switzerland earn an average of CHF 100,000 to 130,000 per annum.

6. Denmark

Denmark is considered one of the best countries in Europe to pursue cyber security programs. Danish universities are equipped with state of the art facilities and laboratories. Apart from top-tier colleges, the country has a good standard of living that international students would enjoy. Danish universities make it a point to design their cyber security courses to international standards in order for students to gain a global perspective. Job roles such as security consultant, cyber security manager and security engineer have a pay scale ranging from DKK 400,000 to 800,000.

7. Germany

German universities are known for providing high quality education at affordable prices for international students. According to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), approximately 330,000 international students enroll in German institutions every year. One-third of those candidates are Indian students. Cybersecurity aspirants seem to prefer German universities for their practice-oriented programs, scholarship and internship endorsed by the government. Furthermore, Germany has the cheapest living cost compared to other top countries. The demand for cyber security professionals is on the rise due to the increasing cyber attacks that the country is facing. The average annual salary for cybersecurity professionals in Germany is around  EUR 60,000 to 100,000.

8. Israel

Israel is often referred to as the “startup nation” due to its major contributions in technological innovations in several sectors including cybersecurity. Israeli universities are among the best colleges in Asia to study cybersecurity. They constantly collaborate with the Israeli government to foster innovation and overcome cybersecurity challenges. Despite being a diverse country with multiple languages, English is widely spoken. Adding to it, the affordability of education and cost of living makes Israel a favourable place for international students. Job opportunities for cybersecurity professionals are always in demand and they pay an average annual salary of 100,000 to 150,000 Israeli Shekels. 

9. Singapore

Singapore is one of the top learning destinations for international students. Apart from its thriving economy, the country is well renowned for its world-class education. Cybersecurity programs offered by top universities in Singapore are globally recognised for their excellence. Another reason why students prefer Singapore universities is the affordability. The Cyber security agency of Singapore reported that there was a 54 percent increase in cyber crime reports in the year 2020. With each passing year, the demand for cyber security professionals in Singapore is increasing. The country is facing a shortage of cyber security specialists which opens up huge opportunities for students to earn an average salary of $80,000 per year as cyber security professionals.

10. Sweden

Sweden’s dedication to data security has led to a significant development in the cyber security sector. Sweden universities are committed to produce top-tier cyber security professionals with their world-class cybersecurity courses. To make it convenient for the students, colleges provide both online and offline courses. Students also have the option to choose full-time, short-term or hybrid courses. Major cities in the country like Stockholm are key growing hubs for the cyber security sector in industries such as IT, finance and telecommunications. There’s plenty of job opportunities for cyber security professionals with a pay scale ranging from 300,000kr to 800,000kr.

11. Netherlands

The Netherlands was one of the first countries to create cyber security legislation. Cyber security programs in the Netherlands are top of the line and focus on providing high quality education for international students at affordable rates. Colleges offer ample opportunities for scholarships and grants to encourage students to pursue a career in cybersecurity. The job market has promising prospects for cyber security professionals with an annual salary ranging from EUR 75,000 to 100,000.

12. Austria

Austria has a strong and well established cybersecurity ecosystem. Cyber security courses offered in Austrian universities are some of the most sought after programs. Universities bring in experts for seminars to ensure that students are up to date with the latest trends in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity courses at all levels such as UG,PG & Doctorate (PhD)  are available for students to choose from. Cyber security graduates can pursue job opportunities in Austria as there’s a significant demand for cyber security experts and get paid up to EUR 100,000.

How much does it cost to study cybersecurity abroad?

• Bachelor Courses - Rs.10 Lakhs to Rs.1.8 Crore
• Masters Courses - Rs.10 Lakhs to Rs.40 Lakhs
• Certificate Courses - Rs.5 Lakhs to Rs.6 Lakhs

Final Thoughts

FAQs

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