Studying Cybersecurity: Where Do You Start?
No matter your level of computing skill, it's hard not to notice how big of a deal cybersecurity has become. Cybersecurity breaches have become such an issue that 80 percent of IT businesses now expect to be breached. Cyber-attacks are a huge problem, but the importance of cybersecurity has also made the industry quite lucrative. There might be as many as 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings around the world by 2021, as companies allocate more and more of their budgets to protecting data from attacks.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of cybersecurity jobs in the United States will grow by 28 percent through 2026. With cybersecurity experiencing a job boom, and with cybersecurity being an issue that will likely never fade in importance, it's easy to see why anyone would want to consider a cybersecurity career.
But what about me? I don't know a lot about computers
If you don't know a lot about computers, you might think that this lucrative field is off limits for you. Is possible for anyone to learn what it takes to start a cybersecurity career?
Actually, the answer is yes. Even if you know very little about computers, it's possible to get an education that will set you on the path for a career in cybersecurity. While it's possible to try to learn what you need to know on your own, there are definite benefits to going the degree route and getting a formal education. If you are interested in getting started on the path to a career in cybersecurity, here are things you should know.
Learning on your own vs. a formal education
The internet provides a wealth of knowledge on so many subjects, and cybersecurity is no exception. Because of that, it might be tempting to just start browsing with the expectation that it'll be just as effective as enrolling in a cybersecurity degree program.
However, odds are you will find that a formal education is well worth it. A good degree program offers structure, lesson plans, and a clear timeline for your education. It will also offer access to resources you just won't be able to find on your own, like lab spaces and simulation software that make putting IT and cybersecurity concepts into practice much easier.
A degree program shouldput you in touch with professors who know the cybersecurity landscape will and can offer advice for starting out your career. Also, a degree program should prepare you to take third-party certification exams, which allow you to showcase skills to potential employers.
A degree doesn't have to take years
You might think that getting a degree in cybersecurity has to take four years, or longer if you have a job, a family, or other responsibilities. However, there are plenty of cybersecurity programs that offer flexible course schedules designed to help you make the most of your existing skills and finish your degree quickly. When looking at programs, keep an eye out for accelerated schedules.
A degree can really help you launch your cybersecurity career
You might think that a cybersecurity career depends entirely on skill, and that a degree isn't relevant. However, gaining the skills needed to begin a career in cybersecurity is just much, much easier to do in a formal degree program. Your degree isn't just a piece of paper; it symbolizes the multitude of skills you have learned, your expertise in state of the art IT science, and your depth of knowledge in cybersecurity. Skills matter a lot, and a degree is proof that you have them.
Do you want to get started today?
Are you interested in learning cybersecurity and don't want to wait another minute? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security, consider ECPI University for the education you want. For more information about our accelerated classes, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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