Cybersecurity Education Path: Where Do I Start?
Cyber security professionals, are known to be intelligent--but a field like this one requires more than intellect. Education is key in the complex and ever-changing world of cybersecurity. Curious to learn more? That's a great indicator that cybersecurity could be the right fit for you!
Educational Path for Someone Wanting To Study Cybersecurity
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Most jobs in this field require a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. The coursework prepares students for technical and analytical skills through ethics, computer forensics, programming, and statistics. You’ll also get the opportunity to delve into more advanced topics such as ethical hacking, cryptography, and artificial intelligence. A cybersecurity degree is relevant in an environment where data breaches are increasingly becoming the norm. It's imperative to ensure that the school and/or degree are accredited and aligned with your goals.
Certifications
Certificates in cybersecurity are important for those who wish to add credentials to their resume or develop further expertise in the field. Students pursuing these courses are able to explore digital forensics, legal issues in computer security, cryptographic techniques, and designs for network perimeter defense. Credits earned in a certificate program might be taken into consideration when applying for a graduate degree or a higher position within your field.
Master’s Degree in Cyber Security
Cybersecurity students learn how to be sophisticated practitioners through master’s degree programs. This level of education involves learning how to protect vital electronic infrastructure and computer networks from attack. The two-year program covers biometrics, cryptography and digital forensics. Further certifications can also be pursued after a master’s degree, as needed.
Importance of Cybersecurity Education
Cybersecurity remains one of the most critical issues affecting individuals and organizations today. From governments to families, the use of digital devices and enhanced connectivity results in increased threats to sensitive data, privacy, and safety. It’s necessary for organizations to improve cyber security efforts to help mitigate the rising cyber risks.
However, it has been challenging for organizations to ensure end-to-end cyber safety and computer protection owing to inefficient education, shortage of skills, and lack of awareness. Cybersecurity education is imperative for those within the field or those thinking about entering it. Here are just a few ways education could make a difference in a cybersecurity expert’s future.
Work from home -- or wherever!
Working on computers has its advantages. You could clock in from your couch! Working remotely has never been so prevalent, and with a largely online job, the case could be made that you could complete your work from anywhere that has a secure internet connection.
Work in many industries
Nearly every organization in every industry needs information security services. This means that when it comes to finding a job, you won’t be restricted to certain types of companies. You could find work in any field from insurance to education to law enforcement and healthcare.
Well-rounded experts
A bachelor's degree program does more than teach expertise in a field. It also works to develop a well-rounded person with sound ethics, broadened horizons, and a strong educational foundation on which to build. There is a good reason most include courses like Public Speaking, even if it's not related to your field of study--chances are good that at some point in life you'll have to present something. It's easier to do at work if it's not the first time.
Continuing educational opportunities
Certifications are a great way to continue your education after graduation. There are many available in this field, for many different niches. There is always more to learn, and another goalpost to reach for, should you choose.
Importance of Certifications
Many job descriptions today seek quantifiable ways of measuring the expertise of prospective employees, and cybersecurity qualifications are becoming increasingly imperative. There’s a wide range of disciplines and security trends covered in certifications. This may include cloud computing, secure software coding, and security management.
With that said, you should know where you want to end up in order to determine what credentials are right for you. Certifications are important since they validate that you have a specific set of skills and capabilities as a security professional.
Are you interested in the field of cybersecurity and wondering how to make a difference? Start with your education. If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security - Cybersecurity Track, consider ECPI University for the education you’ll need. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions counselor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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