According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in 2020, cybercrimescaused $2.7 billion in damage in the US. Cyber security is becoming increasingly important for any business. Because of this, more positions are opening up, leading to an increase in demand for graduates from cybersecurity programs.
If you’re interested in starting a new career in cyber security, you may be confused about the best path. Should you complete a certificate program, an Associate’s degree, or a Bachelor’s degree?
We’re exploring why an Associate’s degree in cyber security may be a good option. Let’s get started.
For Students of All Backgrounds
Cyber security can sound more intense than it is. Many believe that pursuing an Associate’s degree in cyber security is something inaccessible for the average person. However, it is something students of all backgrounds can achieve.
The program can be effective for traditional students who have just graduated high school. The classes taught in high school may be enough preparation. This may allow these students to jump directly into working on obtaining this degree.
In addition, a degree in cyber security can also work for non-traditional students in the workforce but may want or need a career change.
The online nature of the program may make it easier to attend classes consistently. Students can complete their classes while maintaining their current employment. No matter what employment background these students have, they can choose to make the transition into this degree field.
The main requirement for starting an AAS cyber security program is that you have some basic computer skills. You should know how to use a mouse and keyboard and run basic programs. With computers as popular as today, this may be an easy task for most.
Cybersecurity specialists will likely require high-level security clearances to work in the field. This means you must have a “clean background” and be able to pass a thorough background check; this is very important, so consider this before you enroll in a cyber security program.
Jump into Employment
Some institutions have programs for students who want to transfer credits to a four-year degree program after earning their AAS. The cyber security Associate’s degree program at InterCoast Colleges is geared toward students who wish to pursue employment after graduation.
The program focuses on teaching knowledge that is important in information security. Students can then take this knowledge and apply it in their chosen jobs.
An Associate’s degree may take longer than a typical certificate program. However, it can provide you with a thorough starting education. Graduates may be ready to jump into an entry-level cyber security position.
This may prevent the need for additional training later on. Without the information provided by an Associate’s degree, you may enter a job and find that you don’t know as much as you need to know. With the knowledge gained while earning this degree, this is far less likely.
TheBureau of Labor Statistics projects that computer and information technology occupations will grow faster than average between 2020 and 2030. Since job openings surpass graduates, now is an excellent time to start a new field.
Many Options
Cyber security students study many different areas. This includes cybercrime, ethical hacking, network security, digital forensics, and security compliance legal issues. A broad background in relevant fields may help students learn which areas they are most interested in and wish to pursue further.
This is important anytime you are exploring a new interest. As you learn more, you may enjoy one aspect of the field much more than the others. The flexibility provided here will allow you to head in that direction.
In an Associate’s program, students learn both hard and soft skills. This may help you land a job after graduation. This is because these skills may be directly transferable to skills used in many workplaces.
In addition, a cyber security degree can open the door tomany different career paths. Qualified graduates may be considered for positions such as data security administrator, information security officer, information security specialist, information systems security analyst, information systems security officer, information technology security analyst, information technology specialist, network security analyst, security analyst, or systems analyst.
This wide range of jobs will make tackling the job market easier. This is an advantage in any economy, making this degree even more valuable.
Cost-Effective
Knowledge of cyber security is valuable. Some for-profit training companies charge thousands (or even more) dollars for a single cyber security course. Boot camps that only offer a week of training may be similarly priced.
Eventually, cyber security professionals may need to pursue advanced training within their field.
However, an Associate’s degree can provide you with a well-rounded initial education to get you in the door. This is usually a more effective option for those pursuing their first entry-level position in cyber security.
College students also have options that make this path even more affordable. They can apply for financial aid through the FAFSA. If you qualify, this may make paying for your degree easier.
Apply for an Associate’s Degree in Our Cyber Security Program
An Associate’s degree in cyber security is a great way to start a new career. InterCoast College’s program can help learners of all backgrounds learn the skills they need for an entry-level cyber security position.
Request more information about our online programs today!