Cybersecurity Master's Degree: Am I Ready for this Next Step in my Career?
Cybersecurity is one of the main concerns for anyone who participates in the modern society. It has become a big concern over the recent years to the extent that a few years ago, the former President Barack Obama decided to create the CNAP (Cybersecurity National Action Plan) and he appointed the first-ever federal government chief information security officer. As more and more cybercriminals intensify their attacks and technology, the need for more qualified cybersecurity professionals has become apparent.
Despite the dire need for more qualified cybersecurity professionals, there has been a severe talent shortage. In fact, this is one of a few industries where you will find a negative job unemployment rate. According to Steve Morgan, a tech analyst, it is estimated that the vacant cybersecurity job opportunities will be over 1.5 million by 2019. If you are considering entering this field, or you are considering advancing your career in this industry, then this is the opportune time.
Once a profession that was associated with defense contractors and government agencies, cybersecurity has entered the mainstream. Some industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail need cybersecurity professionals to ensure that they protect valuable information from hackers and data breaches. From hackers who exploit vulnerable web-based applications and networks to cryptographers that analyze hidden information, cybersecurity professionals ensure that data doesn’t isn’t accessed by the wrong individuals.
To advance your career in the cybersecurity industry, you should be highly educated, which means getting a master’s degree in cybersecurity. Although obtaining a master’s degree in this field may require a significant investment of both your time and money it may be worth it. Here are some tips on how you can determine if you are ready to obtain your advanced degree in cybersecurity.
Be Ready for More Responsibilities
One of the main reasons as to why you should pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity is to equip yourself with leadership and managerial skills. In most of the technology undergraduate programs, they won’t equip you with the required leadership skills to lead an IT team or department. If you want to achieve high leadership ranks, then you have to possess the necessary qualities including having profound business acumen.
You Should Be Ready to Focus on a Specific Area of Cybersecurity
Burning Glass stated that it takes over 17 percent longer to fill average cybersecurity job positions. However, by going back to school to pursue your masters, you could also choose the specialization that you would want to focus on and transform yourself into well-equipped cybersecurity professional.
Be Prepared to Balance Between School and Work
Most people believe that they are completely done with school after graduating. Unfortunately, the economic downturn and the highly educated and competitive workforce has led to many students furthering their education. Some decide to join the careers and further their education at the same time. Despite there being some benefits of entering into the work-study lifestyle, there are several challenges that can prove to be too taxing.
Juggling a family, full-time job, and full-time study can sound daunting. Although it won’t be easy, you can earn your degree while still working full-time. Lucky for you, many institutes now offer online master’s degrees in cybersecurity. This will give you the flexibility to work and complete the coursework at your own time and pace in the comfort of your home.
Apply for a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity if you are Good at Networking
This is something true that is applied across several industries. As you pursue your master’s degree in cybersecurity, you will meet different people in the industry. According to Jones-Kaminski, in-person networking is ideal, especially with other security professionals. However, if meeting in person is impossible, online networking is another good alternative.
Why You Should Complete your Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
Some employers require employees to hold a master’s degree in cybersecurity while others may be willing to offer tuition assistance to help you meet this goal. By pursuing a master’s degree, you will learn the practices, ethics, policies, and procedures of cybersecurity as they learn how to confront network security defense techniques. A master’s degree will help enhance your skills by providing you with hands-on experience.
Do you believe you’re ready to take the next step in your education? Earning a Master of Science Degree in Cybersecurity, could help you to reach the next level in your career. ECPI University offers this degree, both on campus and online. For more information about this innovate degree program, connect with a helpful admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity - Master’s
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