Cyber Security Jobs in the Government: What Degree Do You Need?
Key Takeaways
Government cybersecurity careers require a college degree combined with multiple professional certifications and security clearance. Entry-level candidates should pursue CompTIA A+, EC Council, and ISACA certifications while gaining practical experience with small to medium-sized businesses.
- College degrees in cybersecurity provide foundational knowledge and credibility
- Multiple certifications from EC Council, CompTIA, and ISACA are essential
- Security clearance requirements vary by specific job and agency
- Practical experience with diverse businesses strengthens job applications
With cyber crime constantly in the news, you might be wondering what kind of education is required for cyber security experts. The truth is, cyber criminals are getting more sophisticated in their methods, and the best way to combat them is to have trained experts planning cyber security strategies and countering their actions.
This applies to the private sector as well as government jobs. Government cyber security experts protect all sorts of data. The recent WannaCry ransomware attacks that were first detected in hospitals in the UK, for example, may have originated from data stolen from the United States NSA.
So if you're interested in performing cyber security work for the government, what sort of experience, education, and other qualifications will you need? Read on to find out!
What Cyber Security Education do you Need to Become an Expert?
Although experience is key in cyber security, a college education in cyber security could be your ticket into this field. A good cyber security degree program could teach you what you need to know about basic and advanced IT security, and prepare you to take the certification exams which can keep you current with industry trends and innovations.
Even if you don't know much about cyber security when you start, a quality program will teach you the basics of computer science, giving you a handle on the language of computers. Then it will proceed on to the methodology, practices, and strategy of cyber security.
Even if you know very little about computers, it's never too late to start an education in computer science--after all, school is for learning! Nobody expects a student to be an expert.
Which Certifications and Credentials Should I Get?
Although a degree in computer science is useful, most potential workplaces will expect you to have multiple certifications as well. Certifications are provided by third-party groups, testifying that you are knowledgeable about specific areas of computer science expertise. Important basic computer science certifications include Microsoft, and Cisco Systems. Important cyber security certification programs include EC Council, CompTIA A+, and ISACA.
Some jobs require a security clearance. Be sure the jobs you are applying for are within your ability to work by reviewing the requirements ahead of time. If you’re not able to gain a security clearance, you can still work for the federal government, but your options might be limited.
How Can You Gain Valuable Work Experience?
Experience is as important as education. Consider offering your services to local small and medium sized businesses, which are increasingly being targeted by cyber criminals. In fact, according to cyber security firm Symantec, in 2015 attacks on small businesses surpassed the number of attacks on large corporations for the first time. You can help local businesses keep their data safe while gaining invaluable experience that looks great on a resume.
With some work under your belt and current certifications in tow, you could be qualified to work as a cyber security expert for the government.
Are you passionate about cyber security? If you want to take the first step by earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security - Cybersecurity Track, ECPI University offers this degree program at an accelerated schedule. To learn more, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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