When Should I get a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity?

Technological possibilities continue to expand rapidly. This is creating enormous demand for cybersecurity experts with the skills, knowledge, and experience required to keep information and systems secure. While this creates significant job security for individuals engaged in the industry, it creates even more opportunities for those who are looking to get ahead and take their career to the next level.

A Stellar Career Outlook

By the end of 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1.5 million job openings in the cyber security industry. As of 2015, companies spent $77 billion on cybersecurity efforts. By 2020, that number is expected to rise to more than $170 billion.

The rapid expansion and investment in the career field means that there are significant opportunities available for those with advanced skills and training. Those with specialized training in cyber security techniques, threat detection and aversion, personnel management, etc. can find themselves moving up the career ladder at a rapid clip as the industry grows at an expected 28% between now and 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Knowing When to Make Your Move

How do you know when the time is right to pursue a Master of Science in Cybersecurity? It is a common question and there are some common signs that the time has come to make your move. The first is if your company is poised to expand. When you find that the workload far exceeds the capacity of your team, management is already considering growth and the person with the experience and education required to lead can push for a promotion into a managerial position.

Similarly, if you notice that your company is specializing within a particular industry, i.e. banking, real estate, etc., it is time for you to pick up advanced training in those fields. A Master of Science in Cybersecurity allows you to expand your knowledge of the specific industries your company is servicing, which increases your value to the company's bottom line.

Finally, cybersecurity is a highly competitive field and not every business survives. While some thrive, others fall by the wayside due to any number of reasons. If you notice that things are thinning out, then it's time to start planning an exit strategy. Earning a master's degree now will put you in a solid position if the time comes that your company shutters its doors.

Company Support is Common

Cybersecurity is a competitive field and demand for experts far exceeds the available supply. As a result, companies are eager to retain their top talent and advance the skills of their workforce. This translates into financial assistance and flexible scheduling that makes it possible for cybersecurity experts to pursue educational opportunities.

In many cases, the cost of obtaining a Master of Science in Cybersecurity is often fully covered by the company, and/or government grants and scholarships. Moreover, your education and career experience provide a solid foundation that makes it easy to grasp the concepts and information that is taught within your courses.

Master's Degrees Lead to Management Positions

Approximately 24% of cybersecurity job postings require a master's degree. This number is rising at a steady rate. For those who want to start moving up the career ladder, now is the time to get ahead of the curve. Those who complete specialized training in leadership and management will be well positioned to move into managerial or C-level positions within their company.

Students in master's programs learn how to apply theory and concepts towards "the big picture." This includes developing defensive networks, evaluating potential threats, implementing security solutions over distributed cloud systems, and evaluating managerial systems and cryptographic solutions. Graduates of master's programs in cybersecurity have the skills and training required to position their resources to achieve maximum effectiveness. If you have the skills and training to do this, there truly is no limit to how far you can rise up the corporate ladder.

Making Your Mark

Individuals who earn a Master of Science in Cybersecurity can do more than just keep systems safe and secure. When you complete your degree, you will be in a position to chart the course of your company's security efforts. From designing and implementing security features, to adjusting protocols that counter pending threats, you will have the opportunity to make your mark a fast evolving industry.

You will also be better positioned to network with other professionals in the field. This can open innumerable doors to financially rewarding information, partnerships, and opportunities for career advancement that can take you all over the world.

Are you interested in earning your master's? If you want to earn a Master of Science Degree in Cybersecurity, ECPI University offers this program at an accelerated rate. For more information about this exciting opportunity, connect with a helpful admissions counselor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity - Master’s

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