From Associate Degree to Bachelor's: Build Your Future Online in Cybersecurity

Meet Kiera: Building a Cybersecurity Career One Credential at a Time 

Instead of wondering whether earning a bachelor's degree was possible, Kiera Varela focused on taking one step at a time.

As a mother of two who works part-time, she needed a college experience that could fit into her busy life. As an online student at St. Philip's College, she needed a college experience that fit her busy life. Online learning through Alamo Colleges gave her the flexibility to continue her education while balancing work and family responsibilities. 

School: St. Philip's College Degree: BAT Cybersecurity Study Routine: As a parent with two kids, a daily schedule keeps me on task Go-To Study Snack: Coffee

Rather than stopping after one credential, Kiara continued building her future.

She first earned an Associate of Applied Science in Web and Mobile Development before completing a second associate degree in Cybersecurity. Along the way, she earned technical certificates in Cybersecurity that strengthened her skills and helped prepare her for opportunities in one of today's fastest-growing industries.

When St. Philip's College launched its new Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity, continuing her education was the obvious next step. 

Today, Kiera continues gaining valuable experience through Cyber Tigers, cybersecurity competitions, and internship opportunities while preparing for her goal of becoming a Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst.

Her story is proof that earning a bachelor’s degree doesn’t have to follow a traditional path. With stackable credentials and flexible online learning, students can continue building toward their career goals one step at a time.

Continue Your Journey with the BAT in Cybersecurity

For students like Kiera—and anyone ready to build on an associate degree—the Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity offers a clear pathway to the next level. 

Interested in the BAT Cybersecurity program?

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A Growing Program Making an Impact

St. Philip's College launched its Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity to help prepare students for careers in information technology and digital security. As workforce demand continued to grow, the college expanded its opportunities.

In 2024, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) approved the Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity, making it the first bachelor's degree offered by St. Philip's College.

The program was developed to strengthen the regional workforce by preparing graduates with advanced cybersecurity knowledge and practical technical skills. 

Just one year later, St. Philip's College celebrated its inaugural graduating class, marking another milestone in the college's commitment to expanding educational opportunities.

In 2026, the BAT in Cybersecurity was recognized by Cybersecurity Guide as one of the most affordable cybersecurity bachelor's degree programs in the United States.

Why Earn a BAT in Cybersecurity at Alamo Colleges?

Students in the program can:

• Build on an associate degree in a technical discipline
• Continue learning through a flexible online format with AlamoONLINE
• Gain hands-on experience through student organizations, competitions, and interships
• Prepare for careers in cybersecurity operations, network security, digital forensics, cloud security, and risk management
• Develop leadership skills for advancing within the cybersecurity workforce

Quick Facts About Cybersecurity Careers

Fast-Growing Occupation

Employment for information security analysts is projected to grow 29% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

High-Demand

Over 42,000 job openings in Texas for Cybersecurity. (Source: cyberseek.org/heatmap.html)

Competitive Salaries

The median salary for Information Security Analysts was approximately $124,910 in May 2024. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers as:

• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Information Security Analyst
• Incident Response Analyst
• Network Security Specialist
• Vulnerability Analyst
• Cloud Security Analyst

Is the BAT in Cybersecurity Right for You?

Whether you're finishing an associate degree, changing careers, returning to college after time away, or looking to advance in the IT field, the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity provides an affordable pathway to earn a bachelor's degree while balancing work and life through AlamoONLINE.

Complete the form below today and connect with an Enrollment Coach to learn more about admissions, transfer credits, and getting started.