Cybersecurity Degrees – A Complete Guide

Cybersecurity Field Overview

Cybersecurity involves protecting networks from harmful criminal attacks on their data. Thanks to the growth of digital record keeping and online transactions, cybersecurity workers play a vital role in safeguarding valuable information for individuals, companies, and government organizations. 

A Cybersecurity degree will teach you several important skills, including:

• Cloud security threat identification, combat, and mitigation
• Programming/Coding
• Data Analysis
• Communication
• Attention to detail

These skills are taught with varying levels of detail depending on the type of degree you receive.

Types of Cybersecurity Degrees Online

For many adult learners and non-traditional students, online cybersecurity degree programs offer several advantages. One of the primary benefits is the flexibility and convenience of being able to study at your own pace, balancing your education with work and personal commitments. Additionally, online programs often provide access to a wider range of programs and resources, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your educational needs and career goals.

When choosing an online cybersecurity degree program, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, ensure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, as this is a key indicator of quality and credibility. Next, review the curriculum and course offerings to ensure they align with your interests and desired career path. Faculty expertise is another crucial factor to consider, as experienced instructors can provide valuable insights and real-world examples that enhance your learning experience.

Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of support services and resources offered by the online program. This can include academic advising, career services, and access to online resources such as libraries and discussion forums. These support services can play a significant role in your success as an online learner, helping you navigate your education and career decisions with confidence.

Cybersecurity Associate’s Degree

Associate degrees are good options for students interested in learning more about cybersecurity without spending excess time and money on a bachelor’s degree.  These two-year programs teach cybersecurity fundamentals. Students learn how to combat digital security breaches while identifying potential security threats in their own systems.  Additionally, you can boost collaboration and communication skills among teammates, alongside specific technical skills depending on your program.

An associate degree in cybersecurity also gives you familiarity with basic programming languages critical to success in this field. Learning Python and JavaScript through the guided instruction of a class professor is a great option, especially if you’re not familiar with either before starting. These programming languages become necessities in mid to upper levels of cybersecurity work, so learning them early in your career means avoiding extra investment later on.

One of the biggest benefits of pursuing an associate degree in cybersecurity is flexibility. Because of an associate degree’s technical focus, you can choose to start working in a cybersecurity-adjacent field after getting it. This can be a great way to earn the experience often required for high-paying cybersecurity jobs without the time commitment of higher degrees.

However, if you want more education, you can transfer many credits earned from an associate degree towards a bachelor’s degree. 

Cybersecurity Bachelors Degree

A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is a four-year program that teaches everything you’d learn in an associate degree, plus broader concepts relating to technology and information security that will prove useful during your career. Most people working in cybersecurity have earned a baccalaureate degree or higher.

Where associate degrees offer flexibility in your career path, bachelor’s degrees give structure. Many cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs offer opportunities to complete internships that give students important real-world experience. Universities often offer certificate programs you can complete alongside your cybersecurity degree that make you seem more attractive to potential employers. These opportunities, along with networking events, serve as straightforward paths to meaningful cybersecurity work.

Unfortunately, bachelor’s degrees come with a higher cost and time commitment than associate degrees. On average, one year of university costs over $28,000, and that price has increased substantially over the past decade. With the four-year time commitment, it’s important to understand the costs of pursuing a bachelor’s degree before deciding whether to begin it or not. 

Overall, a bachelor’s degree is a great investment for anyone looking to get into cybersecurity if you have the time, funds, and ability to attend an institution. 

Cybersecurity Master’s Degree

A master’s degree in cybersecurity can be a great tool to boost your earning potential. Master’s programs can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study to complete. Most cybersecurity master’s programs will focus on learning a specific aspect of cybersecurity. Based on your specialization, your career can branch off into several different fields. 

Often, people from areas outside the realm of digital security will pursue a cybersecurity masters. For example, someone with a law background may earn their master’s in cybersecurity to specialize in digital security and privacy policy. However, cybersecurity professionals may use their master’s program to learn more advanced technology-related concepts and specialize. 

Common specializations for cybersecurity workers include: 

• Master of Science in Cybersecurity
• Master of Computer and Information Science (Cybersecurity Concentration)
• Master of Business Administration (Cybersecurity Concentration)

Master’s degrees help prepare you for leadership positions in your specialization, so they can be a worthwhile investment for people looking to earn more money faster. However, the extra time and money cost of a master’s degree may be more suitable for people working later in their careers.

Alternative Education Options in Cybersecurity

It’s worth mentioning that there are alternatives to the traditional degree pathway into cybersecurity that may work well for you. An online cybersecurity degree is an excellent option for students looking to advance their education while maintaining their current lives. 

Getting a cybersecurity degree online promises extra convenience and flexibility. Many online cybersecurity degrees are self-paced and leave scheduling up to you. Finding an online cybersecurity degree is a fantastic option for busy parents, working adults, or students without the proximity to a good cybersecurity program in their area. 

Online cybersecurity degrees are also less expensive than their in-person counterparts. With a lower cost of tuition and the ability to work from home, an online program can provide the same great education you’d get in person at a fraction of the price. However, while online programs cost less, they may require more work on your end to find a job.

Cybersecurity bootcamps are also great options for students looking for low-cost, fast ways to learn about cybersecurity to supplement previous information technology work experience. They offer super-accelerated, 6–20-week programs that are low-cost and teach the fundamentals of cybersecurity. These programs may also provide preparation for important certification exams. 

When choosing an online program, find one that fits your learning style and comes from an accredited school. This ensures the quality of your education and that you get the best use out of the time and money you’ve invested in your career.

How to Choose the Right Cybersecurity Degree

Selecting the right cybersecurity degree is crucial for your success in this rapidly evolving field. To make an informed decision, start by assessing your personal interests and career goals. This will help you determine which degree level and program focus align best with your aspirations. For example, if you’re passionate about securing computer networks, a degree with a strong emphasis on network security may be the best fit for you.

Next, evaluate the reputation and track record of the programs you’re considering. This can include factors such as the program’s accreditation status, graduation rates, and alumni success stories. Researching these aspects will provide you with valuable insights into the quality of the education you’ll receive and the potential career outcomes.

Determining the level of degree needed for your desired career path is also essential. For example, if you aspire to hold a leadership role in the cybersecurity field, a master’s degree or higher might be necessary. On the other hand, an associate or bachelor’s degree may be sufficient for entry-level positions or to build a foundation for further education.

Finally, consider the financial investment and potential return on investment when choosing a cybersecurity degree. While higher education can be costly, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Research the average salaries and job growth projections for your desired career path to ensure that the degree you choose will lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Careers

In general, cybersecurity is a constantly evolving technology field. The cybersecurity job market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with a wide array of opportunities for professionals at all levels. The increasing reliance on technology, coupled with the constant evolution of cyber threats, has led to a high demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect valuable information and systems.

Among the high-demand job roles in cybersecurity are security analysts, security engineers, and security consultants. Security analysts play a crucial role in monitoring networks and systems, detecting and responding to potential threats. Security engineers, on the other hand, are responsible for designing and implementing secure systems and infrastructure. Security consultants often provide expert advice and guidance to organizations, helping them identify vulnerabilities and develop strategies to mitigate risk.

Salaries and job growth projections in the cybersecurity field are generally quite favorable, reflecting the high demand for these professionals. However, specific salary ranges and job growth rates may vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and industry. Overall, the cybersecurity field offers substantial earning potential and excellent prospects for career advancement.

Opportunities for career advancement and continuing education in cybersecurity are abundant. Professionals can pursue advanced degrees, certifications, and specialized training to enhance their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. By continually investing in their education and professional development, cybersecurity professionals can unlock new opportunities and contribute to a safer digital world.

Entry-level Cybersecurity Jobs:

• Cybersecurity Specialist
• Incident Analyst
• IT Auditor
• Junior Cloud & Security Engineer

These jobs accept candidates that have a combination of a relevant degree and experience. Typically, they require a strong understanding of basic concepts within the field of security, 0-3 years of experience, and offer opportunities for growth within the company.

Mid-level Cybersecurity Jobs:

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cybersecurity Consultant

These usually require a bachelor’s degree and 4-7 years of experience before applying. Mid-level jobs see employees taking on more leadership roles on their teams and doing custom code writing to track cybersecurity threats. 

Additionally, more experience with key information security technologies is a requirement for workers to respond to potential cybersecurity threats faster. 

Advanced-Level Cybersecurity Jobs:

• Cybersecurity Engineers
• Cybersecurity Managers
• Cybersecurity Architects 

These jobs require 8+ years of experience and seek candidates with: 

• Demonstrated success in project management
• Knowledge of the latest information in cybersecurity
• Innovative, creative problem-solving capabilities

At this level, workers are considered subject-matter experts, and they design security technology.

In addition to doing this work for private companies, cybersecurity workers can do all of these jobs and more for the government. Working for the Cybersecurity Infrastructure & Security Agency (CISA) at the federal level means protecting critical infrastructure from cyber-attacks to keep American citizens safe. Jobs titles range all the way from IT Specialist to CISA Director. 

At the highest levels of leadership, members of this agency require nomination and confirmation by the president and Congress. If you’re interested in a federal cybersecurity career, you can apply for the CISA Pathways Internship to get hands-on experience working with the government while pursuing your cybersecurity degree.

How Much Do Cybersecurity Professionals Make?

Typical entry-level cybersecurity workers make anywhere from $55,216 to $66,320 per year. These entry-level positions help provide the experience to climb to higher-paying positions. 

At the mid-level of cybersecurity work, employees make anywhere from $88,596- 102,600 per year. This pay typically justifies the cost of an undergraduate cybersecurity degree.

Then, at the profession’s highest level, cybersecurity engineers make six figures, with annual average salaries ranging from $124,000 to $152,000. 

On average, cybersecurity workers make 23% more in the private sector than in the federal government after leaving an entry-level position.

Cybersecurity Hiring Statistics

There were nearly 600,000 job openings for cybersecurity workers in 2021.

The field of cybersecurity is currently experiencing a massive worker shortage. Right now, companies need 2.72 million more workers globally than they have available.

On average, half of the hiring managers surveyed don’t believe that their Cybersecurity applicants are well qualified. With that in mind, pursuing a cybersecurity degree can dramatically impact your qualifications for the work and skill.

Cybersecurity FAQ

Should I major in Cybersecurity or Computer Science?

Choosing between a cybersecurity major and a similar one depends on how certain you are about your career path. If you’re sure you want to go into cybersecurity, a cybersecurity degree will better prepare you for the work ahead than a computer science, mathematics, or general engineering degree.

Who is a good fit for a Cybersecurity major?

People who do well in cybersecurity possess certain traits, including:

• Comfort with technology
• Analysis and problem-solving skills
• An eye for detail
• Curiosity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

 All of these can be improved with cybersecurity education.

Is a Cybersecurity Degree Hard?

Cybersecurity degrees involve challenges different from other degrees. The writing and research requirements of a cybersecurity degree are less excessive than other programs. 

Similarly, the science requirements are simpler than many degrees in similar fields. However, the field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, meaning that the content you study can quickly become outdated. Your difficulty in obtaining the degree can change depending on how adaptive your learning style is to new material.

Final Thoughts- Is a Cybersecurity Degree Worth It?

Cybersecurity is a fantastic industry with fast growth, high earning potential, and rewarding work that keeps people safe. A degree is an important qualification for most cybersecurity jobs, but they come in several forms. 

While everyone working in cybersecurity will benefit from pursuing some form of cybersecurity degree, you should weigh the costs and outcomes of each type to decide which one is right for you.