How to Get Into the Cyber Security Field with a Bachelor's Degree
Cyber security is one of the most in-demand fields of work due to the digital transformation drive and the need to protect applications, software, and data sets. Cyber security professionals have a wide range of responsibilities, but the nitty-gritty of the job is to step up security and protect online data from being compromised.
Once a specialty only associated with defense contractors and government agencies, cybersecurity is now in the mainstream and many roles can be found with retailers, banks, finance, healthcare, and just about any organization that stores valuable personal information. Cyber security is a complex and multidisciplinary field with a vast range of job options to pursue. If you’re ready to join this fast-growing field, here are some common cyber career paths to explore.
Network Administrator
Network administrators are the experts who connect different devices together to develop effective and efficient networks. They handle day-to-day operations within companies and organizations while monitoring all networks and their related equipment.
Typical responsibilities of this job include identifying and solving problems with computer networks, budgeting for and assembling new systems, installing firewalls, evaluating software and hardware, maintaining existing systems and upgrading any that have become obsolete, and testing the network for weakness.
Information Security Analyst
An information security analyst is responsible for the digital security of an organization and works to protect the computer systems and networks. Security analysts are responsible for conducting an audit to determine any weaknesses and analyzing the security policies and protocols. They also have to plan and execute programs.
Network Security Analyst
These professionals keep an eye on the network to detect any hostile or suspicious activities and take necessary steps to defend against attacks on the system. Network security analysts communicate security issues to management, informing them of possible risks and suggesting ways to improve security. They also conduct research on emerging issues to gain awareness of the latest information security developments.
Network Applications Supervisors/Managers
Networks can exist in virtually any environment and network applications managers or supervisors implement and maintain business applications and computer systems. They also determine an organization’s requirements and conduct process analysis and prioritization. Network applications managers supervise technical staff and participate in hiring, training, disciplining, and recommending discharge staff as necessary. They create and oversee protocol, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
Technical Support and Help Desks
Helps desks and technical support professionals are vital to the cyber security workforce as they provide troubleshooting and technical assistance to end-users. There are two main types of help desk technicians: remote and in-house. These professionals need strong communication skills and must be able to offer technical and non-technical solutions. They’re methodical problem-solvers with resourcefulness, patience, and a desire to help others.
Information Technology Solutions Providers
An IT solution provider is a vendor who comprehensively handles the project needs of an organization from the initial stage to implementation. This process involves evaluating the organization’s needs, assessing the existing infrastructure, recommending hardware and software options to meet project goals, installing the new software and hardware, and providing ongoing support and service.
How Do You Get The Education Needed To Compete For Those Jobs?
To become well-versed in cyber security and get a top job, you’ll need to have an understanding of computer science and programming in general. You can work at obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science or another related field. This should equip you with a well-rounded education and give you a competitive advantage as most employers will require a degree such as this.
You can then focus on getting a cyber security certification. This will show prospective employers that you have aptitude in specific areas of computer science. Even better, having multiple certifications demonstrate that you have a deep understanding of cybersecurity and you take the job seriously.
Why Is Education So Important To This Field?
Cybercrime is on the rise and related damages are expected to exceed $6 trillion by 2021. Job prospects in this field are excellent and the demand outstrips supply by a significant margin and this situation is likely to carry on for the foreseeable future. In fact, the shortage of qualified cyber and network security professionals gets worse every year. A good cyber security degree can be a big step in building your career as it prepares you for the latest advancements in the cyber world. No matter how much you know in this field, there’s always more to learn. Also, the relationships you foster in school with your professors and classmates can go a long way in helping you succeed.
Are you interested in becoming a cyber security expert? Consider enrolling in ECPI University’s Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security. For more information, contact 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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