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What can I do with a Bachelors in Cyber Security?

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What Can I Do With A Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity?

Skip to >> Our ranking of the 20 best online bachelors degrees in cyber security

Fact: Bachelor’s Degrees in Cybersecurity Have an Excellent Career Outlook

Governments, corporations, and private citizens all need the kind of information assurance that comes from trained cyber professionals who can monitor, protect, and serve the best interests of their online accounts, networks, and data. That’s why Cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing professions in the world. Because as cyber criminals find more and more ways to infiltrate our computer systems and digital infrastructure every day, the demand for cyber professionals will only grow, especially for those who possess fundamental skills and specialized knowledge in computer network architecture, digital forensics, and intelligence and investigation, all of which learners can earn with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity.

FYI: 3 Common Bachelor’s Degrees in Cybersecurity

Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Cybersecurity

A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity will train learners with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge they need to earn careers as cyber security professionals in an number of areas, including but not limited to cybercrime, cyberwarfare, cyberlaw, biometrics, cryptography, digital forensics, homeland security, and wireless or mobile defense mechanisms. Many affordable B.S. programs in Cybersecurity also provide preparation to sit for certification in the learner’s preferred area of cybersecurity specialization.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Assurance

A Bachelor of Science in Information Assurance will typically train learners to tackle tough subject areas that include but are not limited to hackers, data protection, Internet security, network security, infrastructure design, e-commerce, and digital forensics. Some affordable B.S. programs in Information Assurance also provide preparation to sit for certification in the student’s preferred area of specialization in cybersecurity.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science

A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science often requires learners to sample from a wide range of classes in computer science, including but not limited to computer programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and information theory. This degree program is ideal for prospective cybersecurity professionals who want to experience a full range of computational awareness and build a strong foundation in the basics that form the foundation of cybersecurity. Some affordable B.S. programs in Computer Science also provide preparation to sit for certification in the student’s preferred area of specialization in cybersecurity.

FYI:Job Prospects for Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree-Holders

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a much faster than average job growth rate between now and 2024 for cybersecurity jobs that require a bachelor’s degree to work, which include jobs titles like Computer Network Architect and Information Security Analyst. Professionals who work either of these jobs will be at the top of the IT industry, working to monitor and secure digital infrastructure with their field-specific knowledge of cybersecurity. There are quite a number of other jobs that a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can prepare learners to earn, including those on the following list:

Cybersecurity Jobs that a Bachelor’s Degree Can Prepare You To Attain and their Median Salaries

  • Computer Support Specialist: $52,160
  • Computer Programmer: $79,840
  • Database Administrator: $84,950
  • Information Security Analyst: $92,600
  • Computer and Information Research Scientist*: $111,840

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Tip: Possess High-Demand Skills and Pass Certification Exams

With the future of cybersecurity so bright and expansive—particularly via the online format that is its natural habitat, considering cybersecurity professionals work and communicate via connected computer systems—the skills that a Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity will prepare online learners to possess are in high demand. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, one of the world’s largest employers of cybersecurity companies and professionals, lists the following areas of expertise among their most high-demand skillsets for new employees and partners to possess:

  • Cyber Incident Response
  • Cyber Risk and Strategic Analysis
  • Vulnerability Detection and Assessment
  • Intelligence and Investigation
  • Networks and Systems Engineering
  • Digital Forensics and Forensics Analysis
  • Software Assurance

These skills are also highly tested. Cybersecurity certifications have increased immensely in popularity over the past several years, with over two dozen certifying bodies providing testing to degree-holders who need professional credentials to kickstart their careers.

And as more cybersecurity programs emerge to meet growing demand, the certification and regulation processes become more rigorous, meaning it’s more important than ever to earn a Bachelor’s degree that will prepare you for certification properly.

Want a little more job security? See What Can I Do with a Master’s in Cybersecurity? for more information on how completing a master’s degree in cybersecurity can help ensure you pass all your examinations and secure the job you want.

*Job titles with an asterisk can also require a master’s degree.