How to Start a Career in Cyber Security

As technology has advanced over the past few decades, the use of computer systems has become more and more prominent in businesses of all sizes. In fact, even the smallest of companies depend on computer networks to store and track all kinds of business data, from their employee records to their financial records. Unfortunately, this kind of dependence on computer systems makes these organizations vulnerable to a growing problem - cyber attacks.

Hackers are targeting businesses and government institutions using cyber attacks in order to steal or hold valuable data for ransom. This has led to a growing demand for cyber security specialists, commonly known as information security analysts.

The Growing Demand for Cyber Security Specialists

Any organization, whether it's a small business, a corporation, or a government institution, can be left devastated by a cyber attack. Hackers can use ransomware to extort organizations or they can release sensitive data, such as customer information, employee information, company secrets, and even government secrets. The ability to hack into and control an entire network can also cause massive business disruptions, which can cost companies millions of dollars.

As you can imagine, it's no surprise that both businesses and government institutions are dedicating bigger portions of their budget to cyber security. As a result, there's a larger demand for cyber security professionals. In fact, the employment rate of information security analysts is projected to grow upwards of 18% over the course of a decade by 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a much faster rate of job growth than most other occupations.

Pursuing a Career in Cyber Security

If you have an interest in computers or even technology in general, then cyber security is a burgeoning field that you might find your niche in. The problem, however, is that many people simply don't know how to get started. What exactly does it take to get a job in cyber security? Where do you even begin? The following are a few tips that can help you launch a career in the cyber security field:

Earn a bachelor's degree in a related field

In order to become well versed in cyber security, you will need to have an understanding of programming and computer science in general. It's the educational foundation from which you can build towards a career in cyber security. It's especially necessary if you don't have that much experience or knowledge about programming language.

If this is the case, you're not going to be able to just dive right into learning about cyber security methods anyway. You can work at obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science  - or any other related field. Not only will you receive a well-rounded computer education, but most employers will require some kind of degree such as this.

Get cyber security certification

Once you have obtained a Bachelor's Degree and you have a good overall knowledge of computer science and programming, you'll want to focus your attention on getting a cyber security certification. There are many certification programs out there worth pursuing, and many employers will require some kind of cyber security certification. Even if they don't, having certification will make you look more attractive as a potential employee.

There are a number of different cyber security certification programs you should consider completing, some of which are more general and some of which are more specific. Some examples of certifications you may want to complete include the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) and the CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), just to name a few.

Gain experience in a related position

It can be frustrating attempting to obtain an entry-level cyber security position when so many employers require some kind of experience, even if you can provide proof of expertise. You may want to gain experience in a related position, such as a network or systems administrator in an IT department.

Another option is to gain experience by volunteering your services as an information security analyst to a smaller business or nonprofit organizations that may not be able to afford someone with experience. While you may not be paid much - or are paid at all - you'll get valuable experience that will not only look good on your resume, but will also help you to develop your cyber security skills.

Are you passionate about computers and interested in becoming a cyber security expert? 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 the education you need to make a difference. For more information about our cyber security degree programs, contact 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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