Do You Need a Masters For Cyber Security? Will It Help Advance You?

Cyber security is a growing field of great importance to today’s business community. Attacks on network resources are increasing in number, speed, and sophistication. The average cost of a hacking attempt on a business enterprise has skyrocketed to $2.4 million. Many firms emphasize hiring the best cyber security talent.

If you are a current IT technician, security analyst, or holder of a related job title, getting a master’s degree in Cyber Security can be a major opportunity to move forward. That said, not every workplace considers hiring a senior cyber security expert a top priority. How can you be sure whether getting this degree will help you advance your career?

There are signs that suggest a master’s degree may pay off with your employer. If it doesn’t, your prospects at a competitor or even in a different industry may be enhanced by your studies.

Are you wondering if your current company will come through for you? Ask these questions:

Do You Work in a Field Sensitive to Hacking Attempts?

A data breach is a serious issue for any enterprise. It represents millions in direct losses as well as a blow to reputation. Seeing a company cannot safeguard data often drives consumers – and investors – to others who can. However, some industries are particularly alert to these dangers.

If a company handles sensitive financial or health data, odds are good it needs cyber security expertise at the highest level. Such enterprises are required to verify the health of their security practices on a regular basis to meet the standards of outside regulatory agencies.

Some other organizations might be especially focused on security, too. For example, tech-driven startups and multinationals tend to have strong security because of the importance of their proprietary data. When a firm’s workforce is distributed worldwide, that introduces tough security concerns usually handled by in-house talent.

Some municipal governments and hospitals have redoubled security efforts, too.

Does Your Employer Have IT Infrastructure to Support Excellence?

You can learn a lot about your company’s security policy by looking at its current situation.

As an employee, these are some factors you can learn about easily:

• During employee onboarding, are all staff taught data security basics related to their jobs?
• Are there written policies related to data security, and have those been communicated?
• Is there a top executive – a Chief Information Security Officer – in charge of security?
• Is there a defined division within your internal IT department that manages security?
• Are security staff full-time workers or has the function been outsourced to a third party?

Security should rank as a high concern “baked in” to each person’s employee experience. After all, an increasing volume of attacks target non-technical personnel. Many companies have been subject to huge ransom demands after HR opened unsolicited resumes. Likewise, if the org chart reflects the importance of security, it is a good sign.

Has Your Employer Suffered from Data Breaches in the Past?

Last, but certainly not least, is the old adage: Once bitten, twice shy.

Companies that have been targeted in the past are most likely to be targeted again unless they make foundational changes to their operations. Executives realize this. They also know that their leadership after a hacking crisis must persuade customers and investors to stay on board.

This usually leads to additional investment in cyber security roles and related technologies.

Is a Master’s Degree in Cyber Security Right for You?

Most people who obtain a master’s in Cyber Security already have 3-5 years of IT experience. IT professionals at this level are leaders who develop enterprise security systems from top to bottom. Before you decide to start a master’s degree, it’s important to be aware of your own interests and preferences. Do you enjoy working through complex security challenges?

What Does Your IT Department Say?

Believe it or not, many people in a company will be forthcoming if you ask to talk to them about their work. You can set up an informational interview with a colleague from your IT department to learn more about the culture of the department and what duties are like from day to day.

People who love their jobs are usually excited to talk about it. You can make a request directly through the office or by company email, but many prefer to discuss matters on a social network such as LinkedIn, or even after hours. Come prepared with questions so you spend the time well.

All in all, the right degree provides tremendous opportunities for professional growth – but it’s important to connect with an employer who’ll use it to the fullest. Many new degree-holders eagerly explore job opportunities outside their current company.

Are You Ready for a Master's Degree?

Are you considering higher education to move ahead in your career? If you want to earn a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, consider ECPI University for the education you want. If you're looking for a year-round schedule and accelerated classes, we offer this and the ability to take classes online as well as on campus. For more information, connect with a knowledgeable admissions professional today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity - Master’s

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