Getting a Masters in Cyber Security: Is it Really Worth It?
Cyber security is a broad field, with a lot of room for professional growth and plenty of subjects to master, which means there are countless places where a master’s degree could be useful. Baccalaureate degree holders working as cyber security professionals or in related IT fields can use a master’s to distinguish themselves and establish them as assets to current or future employers, especially if they already have a little experience.
IT and cybersecurity team managers and executives have a critical role as leaders, and a master’s in cyber security can give them the fundamental skills needed to coordinate their teams against threats as effectively as possible.
Learn the State of the Art in Cybersecurity
Keeping up to date on the state of cyber security on a theoretical level and following the latest technological developments is tough once you’ve joined the workforce. Your day-to-day work will mostly involve the specific systems that you work on and solving problems as they develop or become apparent. One of the great benefits of studying for a master’s degree, especially if it’s been a few years since you earned your bachelor’s, is learning what’s new and what’s important from top-level cybersecurity experts.
Remove your Blinders and Become More Versatile
If there’s one hurdle that cyber security experts and hiring managers alike have to face, it’s the fact that just like the systems themselves, the people who work on them often become isolated in their specific work functions and stop developing new skills and knowledge. In other words, they can start moving through their jobs with blinders on.
It’s possible removing the blinders could be as easy as asking your supervisor for more variety in your workload or working on an open source project in your downtime. However, you’ll still most likely end up playing to your existing strengths rather than developing new ones so while your silo may grow bigger, you’ll still be in it.
A master’s program is designed to force you out of your comfort zone, exposing you to cyber security concepts and tools that you’ll never have worked with before in a variety of different courses. The breadth of skills and knowledge that you will develop will extend far outside your day-to-day work, getting you back into the flow of things – not to mention that you’re almost certain to learn something new within your areas of expertise as well.
Choosing a Master’s Program that Works for You
Is getting a master’s degree in cybersecurity worth it? Absolutely, especially if you have a few years’ experience in cyber security or a related field and want to break into the next level of your career. Earning one from a university is a clear signal that you’re serious about your career and are a highly competent subject matter expert. The best part is, if you’re already employed in cyber security or a related field, you don’t have to quit your position to pursue higher education.
Are you interested in moving on to the next step in your cyber security career? If you want to earn a Master of Science Degree in Cybersecurity, ECPI University offers this program in a convenient online format. For more information about this exciting program, connect with a knowledgeable admissions counselor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity - Master’s
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