How Can I Learn Cyber Security Online through a Formal Degree Program?
Is it worth it?
That's the question many people ask themselves before enrolling in college to study cyber and network security.
But a lot has changed in recent years in the world of cyber security. Criminals, terrorists, and political operatives with nefarious motives are becoming more sophisticated. Every day, they're scheming new ways of attacking American companies, government agencies, and even individuals.
And the threat is growing, according to the FBI. That's why people with the skills and knowledge to fight cyber crime are in such high demand, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. It's a fast-moving, quickly-growing industry.
But do you really need a degree? Is it worth it, when you can take free courses, watch some videos? According to an interview with a well-respected cyber security professional published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the answer is yes.
Options and opportunities
According to a 2015 study conducted by Burning Glass Technologies, 84 percent of all job postings for cyber security jobs require candidates to have at least a bachelor's degree.
There are many cyber security jobs out there. However, if you have a bachelor's degree, you could have even more options and opportunities.
Time is money
In the past, students working toward their degrees may have felt they were leaving money on the table. After all, being a student with a full-time schedule didn't leave a lot of time for work. If you did want to work while in school, you probably had to take a part-time class schedule, which meant it took longer to earn your degree.
But thanks to online courses, you no longer have to choose between school and work.
You can create an online schedule that allows you to work full time while at the same time doing your school work on your schedule, from wherever is convenient.
If you enroll in a formal online program, you can work and make money now and earn a degree that allows you to make more money later. Some online degree programs can be completed faster than a 4-year degree if they followed an accelerated schedule.
Put first things first
Many people who have worked in the network security field for many years are making the leap to cyber security. They can do this because they have learned, through the course of their day-to-day duties, the industry, business, networks, cloud solutions, and databases.
But people who have yet to learn their first job in the IT industry need to build a solid foundation on which to build their careers.
A formal degree program will help you put first things first. It will start from the beginning and walk you through all of the elements of cyber security so you'll have knowledge, skill, and experience when you start applying for jobs.
Certificates will always be there
There is a big difference between earning your degree and earning a certificate through an online class.
Degree programs take longer, require more work, and allow you to develop a broader and deeper understanding of the industry, the job, and the many different types of technology you might find yourself using. Certificate programs can typically be completed relatively quickly, don't require as much time or effort, and focus on specific skills or platforms.
So one smart strategy is to earn your degree first and then supplement it with certificates at a later date. This could look great on your resume and show employers that multiple sources have vetted your work.
The intangibles
There are some things you get in an online degree program that simply cannot be quantified.
You'll have direct access to expert instructors who can make sure you understand the tangible concepts and skills that will help you succeed in the real world. You could start building a network of classmates and even alumni who might be able to help you in your career down the road. And you'll be able to put your skills to work in a controlled environment, which allows you to make and learn from mistakes.
So, is it worth it?
If you think a degree program is worth it and 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 need. 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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Gainful Employment Information – Cyber and Network Security - Bachelor’s
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