How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist in the Modern IT World
The phrase "cybersecurity" evokes powerful images. Maybe it makes you think of agents on TV shows battling hackers in dark rooms, or computer wizards typing code like they're playing the piano. You might think that the world of cyber security is not easily accessible for the average person that a career in cybersecurity is out of reach. However, this assumption is completely wrong.
Unlike the world of movies and TV, cyber security is a career that you can enter with a regular college education. A degree in cyber security can launch you into a career in a field that is crucially important in today's world. There is a desperate need for cyber security workers; according to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there are 301,000 open cyber security jobs in the United States. That's one of the reasons the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of cyber security jobs to grow by 28 percent through 2026.
Getting an education is a great way to land a job in cyber security. If a career in cyber security sounds exciting to you, here are some reasons you might want to consider getting a formal education in this field.
A degree helps ensure that your knowledge is up to date
The world of cyber security moves and changes rapidly. Cyber criminals are growing more sophisticated and organized in their methods. Cyber security experts need to evolve with the times to effectively combat cyber criminals.
Even if you already possess some understanding of cyber security, a formal education helps to ensure that your expertise in all aspects of cyber security is completely up to date. It can be a huge confidence when searching for a job to be able to display that you have a complete understanding of modern cyber security to a prospective employer.
A formal education will train you for certification exams
Passing third party certification exams is essential if you want a career in cyber security. Certification exams prove to prospective employers that you have expert-level knowledge in specific aspects of cyber security. Some certifications, like CompTIA Security+, demonstrate your deep and thorough knowledge of core cybersecurity functions.
Others, like EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker, show that you're an expert in specific skills (in this case, recognizing vulnerabilities in a security system so they can be repaired before criminals find them). A good formal education won't just give you a degree; it will prepare you to take the certification exams you will need to begin your career.
School can help you hone your skills so you can thrive
No one is perfect, and learning from mistakes is the only way to improve your skills. A degree program is a place where you can learn from your mistakes in an environment that is conducive to learning, without the intense pressure of jumping into a cybersecurity job without formal training.
A formal education should prepare you for the challenges of the workplace, so that you can be prepared for anything on your first day of work. To work in cyber security you need to be able to keep a clear mind under pressure. You also need to be patient, communicate clearly, and be a good listener. Schooling can also help you recognize your strengths and work on your weaknesses.
Networking will help you land a job more quickly
Like many other careers, networking can give you a huge boost as you look for a cybersecurity job. Going back to school will give you the chance to connect with professors who understand the cyber security industry and with classmates who are going to be looking for opportunities as well. Finding a job is easier when it's a community effort, and education provides just that.
Are you interested in a career in cyber security? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security, ECPI University offers this degree at an accelerated rate. For more information, connect with a helpful admissions representative today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Cyber and Network Security - Bachelor’s
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