It’s rush hour and you forgot to fill up the night before and there is not enough gas in the tank to make the entire morning commute. You get to the gas station and discover your bank card is overdrafted. You call the bank and it looks like there are some suspicious charges on your account. A cold sinking feeling comes over you as you realize you’ve been hacked. One and four Americans in the United States have felt that same feeling. A disappointing fact yet encouraging if you are considering getting a cyber security degree from a trusted institution such as CIAT.edu. This staggering statistic shows us that there is only room for growth in this career path.
Everyday companies, organizations, individuals, tech companies are being hacked, phished and terrorized over the digital network. Cyber security is a systematic practice put in place to interrupt cyberattackers, and hackers who are intent on destroying information, extorting money, or sabotaging organizational online structures. As more businesses than ever before join the digital space they become vulnerable to cyber attacks. To prevent this, organizations are aggressively looking for skilled cyber security professionals.
If you possess creativity, excel in detail-oriented tasks, and enjoy subjects like science and math, perhaps it’s worth exploring a career in cybersecurity. Presently, the demand for cybersecurity professionals exceeds the available talent pool in the United States. Consequently, it stands as one of the most lucrative entry-level career options nationwide. Given these circumstances, many individuals are pondering whether cybersecurity is a suitable career path for them.
Starting a cybersecurity career represents a significant transition for many individuals. This guide aims to outline various educational routes for beginners in cybersecurity. If you lack a comprehensive understanding of how applications, websites, and internet networks function, don’t feel disheartened. The advantages of acquiring basic skills essential for becoming a cybersecurity professional will outweigh the initial effort. This guide endeavors to assist you in determining whether pursuing a cybersecurity degree is a worthwhile endeavor.
Accreditation: How to choose a Cyber Security program?
To gain a thorough understanding of cybersecurity, it’s essential to explore critical aspects of a program. Leading the charge in cybersecurity education advancement are numerous government and nonprofit organizations dedicated to refining curricula and setting learning standards. This meticulous process of program evaluation and ensuring the highest educational standards is known as accreditation. When considering programs, seeking accredited ones is crucial. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) oversees cybersecurity accreditation, along with all technology and computer-related disciplines. Accreditation ensures quality standards upheld by industry professionals who volunteer their expertise.
In addition to ABET accreditation, there are other notable endorsements to consider when selecting an online cybersecurity degree. The National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, operated by the National Cryptologic School at the National Security Agency, collaborates with community colleges to establish and uphold cybersecurity standards. Institutions with this designation fall into three categories: cyber defense education, cyber research, and cyber operations. Therefore, depending on your chosen path, seek out this cybersecurity accreditation. With a wealth of information and resources available on your cybersecurity journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them. Programs bearing CAE or ABET cybersecurity accreditation offer secure educational investments.
Cyber Security Associate’s Programs
Online associate degree programs in cybersecurity can provide a solid start to a promising career path. These programs are available at both community colleges and universities. Opting for a four-year college or university can be advantageous if you plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree later on. Moreover, many community college programs offer extensive transfer options. An online associate’s degree in cybersecurity serves as a definite entry point into the computer and technology industry. Typically lasting two years or less, associate programs lay the groundwork for success in the cybersecurity field.
For those new to the field or lacking advanced math skills, preparing for the educational journey is essential. Here are some steps to consider:
- Familiarize yourself with coding.
- Seek out interdisciplinary programs.
- Evaluate whether cybersecurity aligns with your career goals.
A two-year online associate’s degree provides a focused and comprehensive education. These programs cover topics such as safe software development, network security, cloud technology, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Associate programs often collaborate with industry partners to prepare students for key certifications, a crucial aspect of entering the cybersecurity profession. Foundational knowledge gained in a cybersecurity associate’s degree includes:
- Basic computer forensic skills
- Technical and practical problem-solving abilities
- Understanding of cybersecurity across various platforms
- Knowledge of hacking techniques
- Awareness of different types of cyber threats
- Technical and interpersonal communication skills
- Risk assessment and monitoring strategies
Upon graduation, having an associate’s degree opens doors to cybersecurity jobs, as companies value credentials on resumes. While some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, internships during your education provide valuable real-world experience. Combining real-world experience with an associate’s degree enhances your chances of securing entry-level positions straight out of graduation.
Cyber Security Bachelor’s Programs
A cyber security bachelor’s degree obtained online offers a clear path to a lucrative and promising career in the field. We’ve curated a list of the top 25 online bachelor’s programs in cybersecurity, providing an excellent opportunity to specialize in an area of passion. With numerous applications for cybersecurity, it’s crucial to choose a path aligned with your interests to maximize fulfillment. Specializations to consider include:
- Cybersecurity policy
- Cyber terrorism
- Ethical hacking
- Forensics
- Threat intelligence
- Vulnerability management
During an online cyber security bachelor’s degree program, you’ll delve into the fundamentals of cybersecurity extensively. When pursuing a bachelor’s degree, exploring scholarship opportunities through your chosen university or other organizations is advisable. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, efforts to diversify the workforce are underway, with organizations actively reaching out to minority and gender groups. Noteworthy scholarships include the Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship by ESET, the KnowBe4 Scholarship for Black Americans in Cybersecurity, and the Malwarebytes $100,000 scholarship for STEM college or graduate students.
For individuals transitioning into cybersecurity as a new career path, several interdisciplinary skills prove transferable to a bachelor’s degree in the field. Being detail-oriented is crucial for tasks such as reporting, tracking, and safeguarding internal controls and information within technology systems. Adaptability is also vital, as responsibilities in cybersecurity positions continuously evolve alongside industry developments.
A cyber security program will equip you with a diverse skill set covering core topics such as information systems, digital forensics, ethics, policy, laws, cyber defense, and data communication and networking. Cybersecurity offers a unique career path, combining professional success with personal passions. Whether protecting online networks for major art museums or engaging in other diverse applications, the field presents unparalleled perks and freedoms. For those returning to education after a hiatus, pursuing an online cyber security bachelor’s degree allows for learning from home while continuing to work, ultimately unlocking increased earning potential as a cybersecurity professional.
Bachelors in Cyber Security Jobs and Salaries
Having a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity opens up various career paths, and understanding the job market can help you choose the right role to pursue. Job opportunities and potential salaries can vary based on location, with digital hubs like Silicon Valley offering higher compensation in some cases. Here’s a compilation of cyber security careers and their corresponding salaries:
- Information Technology Auditor: $68,431
- Information Security Analyst: $72,723
- Cryptographer: $99,157
- Security Software Developer: $71,979
- Forensic Computer Analyst: $74,199
- Cyber Security Specialist: $108,724
These roles are increasingly available and are ideal for individuals with a bachelor’s in cybersecurity. Factors such as years of experience also impact cyber security salaries. For instance, according to Payscale, a cyber security engineer earns an average salary of $96,772, with actual earnings varying based on experience level.
Other factors influencing cyber security salaries include:
- Degree type and certifications
- Location
- Organization or agency
Salaries can range significantly depending on these factors. For example, a Cyber Intelligence Analyst at a government agency like the National Security Agency may earn a base average of $25,240 to $27,143, whereas an IT Security Analyst at Facebook might earn substantially more. When considering job applications, it’s crucial to assess the potential maximum benefit for your skill set to secure a position with excellent earning potential.
Master of Cybersecurity Degrees
Obtaining either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity offers strong entry points into the field, but advancing to leadership positions often necessitates a master’s degree in cybersecurity. Online degrees cater well to working professionals, allowing flexibility in scheduling with learn-at-your-own-pace programs. As cybersecurity grows increasingly competitive, a master’s degree becomes a valuable asset for gaining promotions or advancing to new roles within the industry.
A master’s program in cybersecurity builds upon the foundation of real-world experience and prior academic achievements. It provides an opportunity to specialize in a particular area of interest, thereby enhancing expertise in that domain. Choosing a concentration helps narrow down program options. Some specialization areas to consider in online cybersecurity master’s programs include:
- Computer security
- Cybersecurity engineering
- Cybersecurity management and policy
- Cybersecurity and cloud computing
However, these are just a few examples, as there are numerous specialties within cybersecurity. The field continually evolves, creating new demands for advanced skills, such as cybersecurity training for executives. Pursuing a master’s degree not only opens up new job opportunities but also leads to salary increases, especially with emerging software and expertise in a specialized area.
Earning a master’s degree garners respect from colleagues and positions individuals as valuable assets to organizations. However, it’s essential to choose an in-demand specialization to ensure a return on the investment of time and money. Topics covered in an advanced cybersecurity program typically include governance, risk management, compliance, digital and computer forensics, and cryptography. With such a breadth of options, individuals can tailor their education to align with their career goals and contribute meaningfully to the cybersecurity field.
Master’s in Cyber Security Jobs and Salaries
Advancing your career in cybersecurity can lead to significant financial gains. Let’s explore some careers you can pursue with a master’s degree in cybersecurity and their potential salaries. The job outlook for computer technology is promising, with positions projected to grow by 31% from 2018 to 2028, as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Armed with a master’s in cybersecurity obtained online, you can confidently enter the job market. Here are some of the top in-demand cyber security jobs:
- Cyber Security Engineer: Average salary of $96,772
- Malware/Forensics Analyst: Average salary of $74,388
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance Professional: Average salary of $58,749
- Cloud Architect
- Database Administrator
- Programmer Analyst
- System Analyst
- Software Developer
Among these roles, cyber security engineers, also known as information security engineers, offer one of the highest cybersecurity master’s salaries. The average annual salary for this position is $96,772, according to payscale. This role is ideal for individuals proficient in development, programming, and coding, although experience is crucial for attaining such salaries, particularly in top tech companies.
Cybersecurity management and policy roles are pivotal for IT professionals seeking career advancement. These positions serve as gateways to government agencies for tracking down cybercriminals. With a master’s degree, individuals can access rewarding opportunities in this field, leveraging their expertise to make significant contributions to cybersecurity efforts.
Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Programs
It’s important to distinguish between graduate certificates and certificates in the context of cybersecurity education. While certificates are typically pursued by individuals without a college degree, graduate certificates are designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree, often in a related field. Some graduate certificate programs may admit students without prior postsecondary education, but they often require completion of prerequisite coursework before enrollment.
If you’re considering a cybersecurity graduate certificate online, chances are you’re already working in the computer technology field. These certificates offer a shorter time commitment compared to master’s programs, yet the coursework can often be transferred into a graduate program if you decide to pursue further education. Topics covered in cybersecurity certificate programs may include:
- Security Administration
- Database Management
- Ethical Hacking
- Network Systems and Security
- Cryptography
- Digital Forensics
- Cyber Law
- Risk Management
- Operational Security
- Data Communications
Completion of a graduate certificate in cybersecurity can qualify you for various positions in the field. It’s essential to carefully evaluate certificate programs to ensure they align with your career goals. Like any educational investment, it’s crucial to choose a program that effectively meets your criteria and helps advance your career in cybersecurity.
Graduate Certificate Jobs and Salary
Before delving into whether you can secure a job with a cybersecurity certificate, let’s explore the positions attainable after obtaining a graduate certificate in cybersecurity. The salary for cybersecurity certificate holders varies based on factors such as location, position, and company type. After completing a graduate certificate, you might wonder about the job prospects available. Let’s examine some cybersecurity certificate jobs along with their associated salaries:
- Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker: $85,615
- Information Security Manager: $118,261
- Cyber Security Architect: $124,619
- Cyber Security Consultant: $85,430
- Cyber Security Analyst: $98,350
- Systems Administrator: $59,804
- Network Administrator: $55,936
As evident, cybersecurity certificate salaries and job opportunities span a wide range. Many individuals use certificate programs as a stepping stone toward pursuing a master’s degree in the field, which often leads to increased earning potential in most cases.
