How to Become a Cyber Security Professional

Becoming a cyber security professional can be difficult, but it can be worth it. The financial gains are great, but also the knowledge you’re helping make the world a safer place is more important. Computer security specialists work with companies to make sure computer systems are secure, train staff in proper procedure, and protect data. They are often hired by the government, financial institutions, and IT services companies.

The Education Needed to become a Cyber Security Professional

First of all, some people start off as a network administrator or in a similar position and then move up into cyber security, sometimes in the same company. (Given the sensitive nature of the work many firms prefer to hire in-house and keep specialists for extended periods of time).

There are relatively few degrees offered in cybersecurity specifically. Another option is to get a computer science or information technology degree and then learn cybersecurity on the job. There are various certificates that can be acquired in either field.

However, some institutes are now offering associate, bachelor’s and master's degrees in cybersecurity. Some companies will take employees with only an associate degree, but others are likely to prefer a bachelor's degree. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field of computing, a master's degree in cybersecurity can be a perfect route to take, and can often be acquired while working another job, say as a system administrator. Because cybersecurity tends to pay better than other computing fields, this is a worthwhile investment.

On the job experience is always useful and, again, many firms like to hire in-house. However, if you do not already have a job in computing, then you should consider a bachelor's degree either in cybersecurity.

How to Find a job as a Cyber Security Professional

Finding the right route for you to get into this profession requires keeping tabs on what employers are asking for and being aware of whether you do better with formal training, on the job learning, or some combination of the two. The lack of standards provides flexibility but also uncertainty, making it hard to set goals. It is wise to develop skills that can also cross over into security analysis, management, or network/system administration. 

ECPI University offers three levels of formal training in cyber security, at an associate level, bachelor’s level, and master’s level degree programs. So, whether you are trying to get into this field, or trying to make the switch from network administration or web development, or already working in cyber security but needing to improve your skillset and qualifications, these programs might be for you! Contact us today to find out which course is right for you.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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