I Want to be a Cybersecurity Expert: Where do I Start?

Cybersecurity is a fast-paced world, always trying to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals who will do anything to exploit vulnerable people on the internet and cause chaos wherever they go. If you've been considering entering this field then you are likely aware of the news stories concerning security breaches affecting millions of people:

• Cambridge Analytica, a data-consulting firm whose practices of mining data from Facebook users without their permission may have had an impact on the 2016 U.S. election as well as the United Kingdom's referendum on leaving the European Union. Cambridge Analytica's role in these campaigns is under criminal investigation.
• The Equifax breach, where the personal data of 143 million customers of this large credit reporting company was stolen.

These were just two of the most notorious data breaches but they are occurring all the time, around the globe, affecting millions of people. It is all any company or governmental agency can do to stay a step ahead of cyber criminals.

Why Go Into Cybersecurity?

Here are some things that should be true of any job in cybersecurity:

Enough variety to keep it interesting. Few of us want to be bored in our jobs and that's a big part of the appeal of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity pros work directly with a wide variety of systems and technologies, from cars, to robots, to business and home security systems, to patrolling websites that serve millions of users. Further, cybersecurity pros can expect to be constantly learning new technology as the field evolves.

Everyone loves a puzzle. Cybersecurity specialists are essentially solvers of puzzles, an aspect of the job that appeals to most who are successful at it.

Making a difference. We all like to think the work we do makes a difference and helps others. And what can be more helpful than protecting millions from the harm that hackers and other cyber criminals cause, including social engineering, malware, spyware, and viruses

Breaking into Cybersecurity?

The best way to break into cybersecurity is to earn a bachelor's degree in the field. It's not impossible to be self-taught and get hired, but you will likely reach your employment goals much faster if you have a degree. The most direct route would be to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a computer technology related field. Some of the things you would need to learn are how to:

• Monitor and defend networks
• Analyze vulnerability of organizations
• Protect data
• Manage and train personnel for better safeguarding of data

Although it traditionally takes four years to earn a bachelor's degree, you could enroll in an accelerated program and study year-round, earning your degree in as little as two and a half years.

As you move along in your studies, you will want to choose an area of specialization so you can concentrate at least part of your learning experience in that field. Some possibilities are these:

• IT supervision/management
• Network security analysis and implementation
• Tech support/help desks
• Information security analysis
• Security/network infrastructure support
• IT solutions

If the opportunity affords itself, try to work on an independent project in cybersecurity while you are studying. The topic should be directed at resolving a computer security issue. This type of project can help you stand out once you start looking for a job.

The program you enroll in should give you access to the latest equipment and software, while the instruction should be up to date on the latest cybersecurity developments.

Experience in Cybersecurity

Look for a school that not only offers externships, a chance to gain experience in a real working environment, but also provides hands-on education. If all you learn is cybersecurity theories, you're going to struggle to keep hackers at bay and out of company systems.

Interested in working in cybersecurity? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security - Cybersecurity Track, ECPI University offers this program at an accelerated pace. For more information about this exciting opportunity, take today to connect with a knowledgeable admissions counselor.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity Track - Bachelor's

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