Protecting Sensitive Data From Global Cyber Threats. Cyber Security Degree
The internet has revolutionized the way that businesses operate and how organizations interact with clients, but with this convenience also comes a lot of risk. Protecting their computer networks and client information is of the utmost importance to businesses and organizations, which is why they require the services of cyber security professionals. If you would love the challenge of protecting digital information from the threat of online attacks, then a Cyber Security degree can be an important first step. This type of degree can help to provide you with the skills and knowledge required to not only detect digital security intrusions, but also prevent them from occurring. Cyber threats are a global problem and as more and more businesses as well as other agencies are now dependent on the internet, there is a need for experts in this field to fend off potential attacks and security breaches.
Cyber Security Degree Information
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security
The Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security degree program can take up to four years to complete and is aimed at teaching students the fundamentals of dealing with computer security. Course topics may include Legal Issues in Cyber Security, Cyberwarfare, Access Control, Security Policies and Implementation Issues, Social Psychology, Introduction to Statistics as well as a capstone course. This type of degree should also provide adequate preparation for students interested in cyber security related industry certifications.
Master of Science in Cyber Security
The Master of Science in Cyber Security degree is aimed at students who wish to become leaders in the field of cyber security technology. It can help students prepare for careers in cyber security consulting, information security, cyber security and technology architecture, and much more. Typically, this type of degree also prepares students for certification exams such as Certified Ethical Hacker, Global Information Assurance Certifications and Computer Information Systems Security Professional. Required courses may include Cyberspace and Cybersecurity Foundations, Advanced Cyber Exploitation and Mitigation Methodologies, Digital Forensics Technology and Practices, as well as a Capstone in Cyber Security.
Certification
The completion of a Cyber Security degree often also enables students to sit for certifications in this field. While certification is typically not necessary to find employment in this field, it can open doors to further career opportunities.
Cyber Security Degree FAQs
Can This Type Of Degree Be Earned Online?
Online degrees in Cyber Security are available from various universities, especially as master’s degrees. Completing your degree online is not just convenient as you can attend class whenever it fits your schedule, but often also more affordable than the campus-based equivalent. An online degree also provides you with the flexibility to study at your own pace and wherever you are able to connect to the internet. In addition, online degrees also usually offer plenty of student support, so you can communicate with fellow students as well as academic advisors using a variety of online methods. While classes are taken online and assignments are done remotely, a good online Cyber Security degree program will feature the same type of curriculum as you’d find at a physical campus. One thing to keep in mind is that the technical nature of Cyber Security courses might require the use of specialized hardware or software, so be sure to check the requirements or talk to the Admissions office if you are unsure about what you would need.
Who Is An Ideal Candidate To Study Cyber Security?
Cyber Security is a field of study that is ideally suited to students who have a passion for computers and technology as well as the internet. You should be good at problem-solving and have a very analytical mind to excel in this field. Cybercriminals are constantly trying new techniques to breach the security of their online targets, so you must be willing to hone your skills and ensure that you are constantly up to date about what needs to be done to thwart their efforts. Finally, skills in engineering, critical math, and programming will be an advantage if you are interested in Cyber Security.
What Type of Career Options Are Potentially Available With A Cyber Security Degree?
Students who earn a degree in Cyber Security often go on to work in various positions related to the computer security industry. Many prefer to work as information security analysts, while others opt to become cybersecurity software engineers. It is not unusual to see people with this type of degree working as network and computer systems administrators either. Other career paths range from chief infosec officer and vulnerability assessor to security code auditor and penetration tester.
How Much Can I Potentially Earn When Working As A Cyber Security Professional?
There are different career paths for people with Cyber Security degrees, each with their own income potential. For example, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for those working as information security analysts was about $92,600 as of May 2016. In addition, there is an 18% growth projected for the employment of those with information security analyst qualifications.
What Type of Responsibilities Might I Have When Employed In This Industry?
Your primary responsibilities might differ depending on your employer and position in the company, but in general, the responsibilities of cybersecurity experts focus on protecting online data from being compromised by external threats. This can involve putting plans and measures in place to safeguard the networks and files of your employer, as well as monitoring for suspicious activity. The installation and activation of hardware and software security measures, such as firewalls might also fall under your responsibilities along with creating plans involving online security. Of course, in the event that a security breach occurs, it will be expected of you to not only identify the issue but also coming up with a quick solution. The end goal of everyone working in cybersecurity is to ensure that personal data and other sensitive information remains secure and cannot be accessed by those who would use it for malicious purposes.
What Are The Other Advantages To Studying Cyber Security?
While in the past it was mostly government agencies and large corporations that were concerned about cybersecurity, virtually all industries now require the skills of experts to safeguard their data. From finance and health care institutions to retail firms, nobody with an online present is safe from malicious attacks and data theft. Since even small and medium-sized businesses are now adopting cloud service, this means that there is a growing need for experts in the field.
