EIU Online Cybersecurity Program a top option in Illinois for 2026
Dec-03-2025(Charleston, IL) —Eastern Illinois University is celebrating a major achievement: The university’s Online Cybersecurity program has been named the second-highest-ranked program in Illinois for 2026 by OnlineCybersecurity.org. This recognition underscores EIU’s growing reputation as a leader in cybersecurity education and workforce preparation.
The ranking reflects the program’s strong academic foundation and its continued commitment to advancing learning opportunities in a field that is expanding rapidly across industries. OnlineCybersecurity.org evaluates institutions nationwide through a detailed review process that considers program quality, accessibility, student experience, and career outcomes. Additionally, EIU’s Online Cybersecurity master’s program was ranked in the top ten in the nation by Fortune Magazine, just below the University of Arizona and the University of California—Berkeley.
“This ranking highlights the exceptional work of our faculty and the quality of instruction our students receive,” said Rigoberto Chinchilla, EIU professor and M.S. in Cybersecurity coordinator. “Cybersecurity professionals play a critical role in defending digital systems and securing vital information, and we are deeply committed to equipping students with the skills and expertise they need to excel.”
Built for both emerging professionals and experienced learners, EIU’s online cybersecurity program offers flexible course delivery and a curriculum focused on practical, hands-on learning. Students engage with real-world scenarios and cutting-edge tools aligned with current industry standards and certification pathways.
To view the full list of Illinois program rankings, visit: onlinecybersecurity.org/state/illinois/#show. OnlineCybersecurity.org’s ranking methodology can be found at onlinecybersecurity.org/methodology.
“We are grateful for this recognition and proud of the impact our program continues to make,” Chinchilla added. “Our ongoing mission is to prepare graduates who are ready to meet evolving cybersecurity challenges and contribute meaningfully to the profession.”
EIU’s M.S. in Cybersecurity program prepares highly marketable graduates with the technical and professional skills to take lead roles in applications of information security. Chinchilla encourages interested applicants to explore the program eiu.edu/cyber. He also shared that, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for information security analysts as of May 2024 was $124,910, and that those with a master's in cybersecurity advancing to management roles can earn an average of $171,200. The highest earners can exceed $186,000 for information security analysts and $239,000 for managers.
Other EIU rankings and distinctions listings are available at eiu.edu/distinctions/distinctions. Recent EIU achievements include earning distinctions as a 2025 CPN Seal of Prevention organization, a 2025 Transfer Honor Roll designee, and being named a Designated Military-Friendly School with Silver Status by the Military Friendly® Schools survey.
EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, or any of EIU's other community-based services and opportunities, visit eiu.edu or call EIU's public information office at (217) 581-7400.
