How to Get Into Cyber Security with Formal Education
In the last couple of years, both public and private sectors have suffered major cyber security breaches. According to a recent survey, it was discovered that nearly 80 percent of businesses in the U.S. had reported successful system attacks that aimed to steal, change or leak important data to the public. The results of such attacks include lost jobs, lost money and lost personal data.
The loss of vital business data is particularly distressing because data has become the world’s lifeblood. From the Department of Homeland Security to tech giants (Apple) to big box stores (Target) and small startups, they are now seeking and using cyber security professionals to protect themselves from cybercriminals.
Unfortunately, the number of cybercriminals outweighs that of highly qualified cyber security professionals. Therefore, if you have an interest in computers, the Internet, smartphones, security or how businesses operate today, then you should consider a career in cyber security and help to stop hackers in their tracks.
A Booming Career Field
The demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals is quickly increasing. According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), cybersecurity jobs will increase by 28 percent by the year 2026 which is nearly three times the national average growth rate.
The shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals is also a guarantee for job security. According to Cisco, in the year 2016, there were over one million job openings for cybersecurity professionals around the world, and 20 percent of them have remained unfilled. The demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals is also expected to grow to over six million by 2019.
You will participate in Important Work
Cybersecurity training varies by college or university but generally includes:
- Digital forensics
- Cyber incident response
- Investigation techniques
- Network engineering
- Vulnerability and detection assessment
- Cyber risk analysis
These are some of the most important problem-solving skills that private employers, government agencies, and other parties need to ensure that their clients' or citizens’ data doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
There are two main ways that you can become security savvy, either informal or informal.
Informal Cybersecurity Education
Most cybersecurity professionals are bright, and they tend to explore things on their own. Informal cybersecurity education has a low cost because one can study from home and at their own pace. However, when you learn on your own, you don’t know the key areas that you should focus on or where to begin. Keep in mind that not all information on the internet about cybersecurity is true, and you may not always know the right information.
Formal Education for Cyber Security Professionals
Experts always emphasize the importance of formal education in cybersecurity. Although it has a large monetary cost, at the end of any formal education, you will acquire documentation proving that you have completed the course and you are competent. If you want to advance your cybersecurity career, the absence of a degree can impede promotions and make it difficult for you to get the jobs you want. A degree is a baseline that recruiters will be looking for on your resume. Formal education also provides you with a structure, which is more reasonable than informal education.
Most cybersecurity jobs require a bachelor’s degree at a minimum, while others require a master’s degree and more advanced certification. Some cybersecurity jobs in government organizations will also require you to obtain clearance. Ensure that you choose a degree that meets your career goals and that is accredited.
How a Degree in Cybersecurity can help you Advance in Your Career
Perhaps you have certification, and you now want to take the next important step in your career. In most places, an undergraduate degree is almost compulsory, and it can boost your qualifications.
Most job positions today require previous job experience. By pursuing a cybersecurity degree, you could gain experience through projects and assignments that provide you with hands-on experience. You should keep these samples safely for future use to demonstrate your knowledge and experience to potential employers. Potential employers will also evaluate your grades and the courses you completed. Although first-hand experience is often more preferable, hands-on practical exercises can also help you achieve your goals.
Are you interested in earning a degree in cybersecurity to help launch your career? 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 your education. With accelerated classes and a year-round schedule, you could earn your degree in as little as 2.5 years. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions advisor 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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