Do you love computers and solving problems?
Do you constantly find new digital solutions to old problems?
Are you looking for a degree that will give you job security in the future?
If so, a cyber security online degree may be right for you. There are always new threats coming up in any field, especially in the tech world. Sometimes it feels like hackers are constantly finding new ways to exploit loopholes and get into systems that they should not have access to.
And it’s not just personal computers or cell phones that need this kind of protection; everything from medical devices to appliances and even cars needs cyber security software.
A cyber security online degree tackles these issues from multiple angles—whether that be from a computer science point of view, an analytical perspective, or even an ethical standpoint. With so many different hacker types and vulnerabilities popping up everywhere, this is one of the most well-rounded fields to enter at this time.
What Is a Cyber Security Degree?
A cyber security degree is a type of degree that focuses on protecting digital information. This includes everything from securing computer networks to securing online data and even securing mobile apps from hacking.
A cyber security degree program will typically include classes in computer science, ethical hacking, math, information security, and data analytics. You will learn how to analyze networks, use programming languages to fix network bottlenecks, and use data visualization to find hidden patterns in big data sets.
You may also focus on cryptography, cyber law, and the psychology of online threats. Most cyber security degree programs take two years to complete, but there are also accelerated programs that allow you to earn a degree in one year. Some cyber security degree programs are offered as Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs, while others are offered as Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs.
Why You Should Take a Cyber Security Degree Online
In this day and age, it’s more important than ever to choose an online program over a campus-based program. There are several reasons for this. First, online degree programs are a lot more flexible than campus-based programs. You can start an online program when you want and finish it on your own timetable.
After completing an online program, you can practically apply for jobs anywhere in the world. This is great if you want to remain in your current location but want to work in a different industry. Most online degree programs cost less than their on-campus counterparts.
This is because most online programs charge per credit hour while on-campus programs charge per semester. You can also complete an online cyber security degree at a fraction of the cost of an on-campus degree.
This is because you don’t have to pay for room and board, as well as travel expenses. You also don’t have to worry about taking time off from work or asking for time off from your employer.
The Job Prospects for Cyber Security Professionals
There are currently more than one million open cyber security jobs in the US, and this number is only expected to grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment rate for computer and information systems managers to increase by about 10% between now and 2026.
Because there are so many open positions and only a small number of qualified applicants, the average salary for cyber security professionals is $93,000 per year. The demand for cyber security professionals is only expected to increase as technology continues to advance. More and more devices are being connected through the Internet of Things (IoT).
Conclusion
There are a lot of reasons why now is a great time to pursue a cyber security degree. The demand for cyber security professionals will only increase as new threats appear and technologies advance. Plus, you can complete an online cyber security degree program in your time frame and at a fraction of the cost of an on-campus degree. So, if you want to work in a field that’s in high demand and will never go out of style, now is the time to pursue a cyber security degree.