Jun 21, 2017 09:37 AM EDT By Chris Brandt, UniversityHerald Reporter

Cyber security has become much more important as cyber criminals become much bolder and more sophisticated in their attacks. Because of this, there is also a need for people who have expertise in this area. For those who want to pursue a degree in cyber security, here are 10 of the best colleges that offer the program.

University of Southern California in Los Angeles

USC in Los Angeles tops the list in the best cyber security colleges. The school's computer security specialization is available at the masters level. Those who want to pursue the degree at USC will learn about statistical analysis of cyber attacks, artificial intelligence, and security technologies among other things.

Iowa State University In Ames

The Iowa State University's computer science department offers programs in information assurance, which was one of the first seven schools certified by the National Security Agency. The program is offered both in the masters and undergraduate levels.

DePaul University

DePaul University is one of the best cyber security colleges in America. One of the advantages of the university is that students can get their computer security degree online.

George Mason University

George Mason University is ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as the 10th up and coming schools in 2015. It also has a dynamic cyber security program for students who wish to pursue it.

Northeastern University

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and the Office of Naval Research have given cyber security grants to Northeastern University.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is one of the best cyber security colleges in the United States. In fact, both the NSA and the Department of Homeland Security designated NSU as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education.

University at Buffalo

The university's computer science and engineering department is ranked 26th by the National Science Foundation.

University of Houston

The University of Houston created the Cyber Institute in collaboration with the local government, local businesses, and federal agencies. The institute provides cyber education for businesses and high school students.

University of Maryland - University Colleges

UMUC is not only one of the best cyber security colleges in the nation but it also has one of the best cyber security competition team. The UMUC team was the champion at the 2015 Cyber DiploHack competition.

The University of Texas at San Antonio

The University of Texas at San Antonio has one of the best cyber security programs. Students who pursue the program can also participate in the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

See Now: Covert Team Inside Newsweek Revealed as Key Players in False Human Trafficking Lawsuit