how to become a cyber security expert

Securing Your Future: How to Become a Cyber Security Expert

Do you have a bachelor's degree in computer science, work in the IT field, or as an executive in your company? Whether you are already working in information security, or are interested in learning more, you may want to consider getting into the cybersecurity field. 

Why Are Cyber Security Experts So Important?

Hackers are getting smarter and that means major breaks in security are on the rise. News reports are convincing companies to increase their cybersecurity workforce after attacks like these:

  • Recently, hackers attacked 3 major health insurance companies, stealing social security numbers, phone numbers, birthdays and health information.
  • Cyber criminals took credit card numbers and other personal information from shoppers at Target, Michaels, Home Depot and Staples.
  • Banking account information was stolen from customers and employees of JP Morgan Chase.
  • Sony pictures suffered the loss of large amounts of data, probably at the hands of North Korean hackers angry about "The Interview" which showed an imaginary assassination of the North Korean leader. 

What Does it Take to Become a Cybersecurity Expert?

Not everyone is cut out to work in information security. To work in this field you need to have high skills in:

  • Math and computer science.
  • Problem solving and creative thinking.
  • Writing and communication with other people.
  • Self motivation for continued learning and studying to keep ahead of the hackers.

Personality Traits Needed for Success in Cybersecurity

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS), the field of cybersecurity requires not just technical abilities, but also certain personal traits, such as the ability to:

  • Sit for a long time working at a computer monitor.
  • Be ready and able to respond to emergencies and handle stressful situations.
  • Be willing to be on-call 24/7 and to work at odd hours, or even all night when there is a crisis.
  • Handle boring and detailed work.
  • Be able to not just build systems, but to also be able to attack and undo them so that you can see vulnerabilities.
  • Think like a criminal and imagine ways that hackers might try to attack a system.

Don't Wait to Learn More About ECPI University's Degree Programs!

Degree Needed for Cybersecurity

While people involved in security technologies are constantly learning on the job, most positions require a degree. A survey done by Homeland Security on government security experts showed that about a third had degrees beyond a bachelor's. The SANS Institute surveyed 4,000 people working in information security and found that in 2014:

  • 76% hold a bachelor's degree and over 30% hold a master's or higher
  • 72% want to move into management or leadership which requires more education
  • A majority report that certifications and education were the biggest asset for success
  • Formal education and proven certifications were key factors

Master's Degree for Cybersecurity Experts

Obviously, advancement to management positions is more common for people with advanced degrees. A Master of Science in Cybersecurity program will probably include:

  • Training in principles of cybersecurity and information risk management
  • Ethical and human aspects of information security
  • Cloud, wireless and mobile security
  • Architecture and design of security systems
  • Strategies for detecting intrusion
  • Cyber forensics

Certifications Needed to Show Cybersecurity Expertise

When you complete a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, you may be prepared to take the exams for certification which will prove your expertise. Exams a MSC may prepare you to take are:

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO)
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Systems Administration and Network Security (SANS)

Get on the Path to Become a Cyber Security Specialist!

Are you ready to start your Master of Science in Cybersecurity? At ECPI University, you could earn your master's degree in as little as 15 months through our accelerated, year-round schedule. If you are ready to work hard and earn your a master's degree, contact ECPI University to find out how a cybersecurity master’s may prepare you for this interesting and challenging field! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Technology TODAY!

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