Why a Cybersecurity Degree is Worth It

Cybersecurity is one of the most significant tech challenges today’s companies face. In an increasingly data-driven world, businesses need to ensure that the information they collect from their customers, in addition to their own proprietary information, is protected from cyber-attacks and hackers. A data breach is not only costly; it can irreparably damage a company’s reputation.

“News stories about large-scale data breaches, identity theft, international hacking, and loss of intellectual property emerge daily,” said Chris LaBounty, System Division Chair of Technology Programs at Herzing University. “The IT security field is growing, yet employers and government agencies still face a significant shortage.”

In a 2017 report, the Center for Cyber Safety and Education predicted a shortage of 1.8 million skilled cybersecurity workers by 2022. A degree in cybersecurity is a smart choice if you’re interested in a long-term, fast-growing, and potentially high-paying technology career.

What do cybersecurity professionals do?

Information security analysts are responsible for detecting, preventing and safeguarding against IT security risks. While the work is fast-paced and often intense, it is also very rewarding. Information security professionals enjoy solving complex problems and are also passionate about learning new skills and technologies that will allow them to continue to innovate against emerging security risks.

What are the benefits of a degree in cybersecurity?

1. Your skills are in demand

Businesses are looking for information security professionals who can help them identify and resolve their cybersecurity gaps. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates employment for information security analysts is expected to grow by 28 percent from 2016 to 2026, adding 28,500 jobs. With a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, you can position yourself for entry-level roles in a rapidly growing field.

2. You can work in a variety of industries

Information security professionals are not limited to work in the technology sector. Companies that deal with vast quantities of sensitive data – such as government agencies, healthcare providers and financial institutions – have a critical need for cybersecurity professionals. With a degree in cybersecurity, you have the option to work in a variety of industry sectors and for large and small corporations.

3. There is plenty of room for advancement

If you already have some experience in the technology field, then a bachelor's degree program in cybersecurity can help you expand your job opportunities and advance to security-related roles with more responsibility. For example, a database administrator could advance to database security roles with a security-related degree.

Once you become a cyber security specialist and gain experience, you can position yourself for coveted leadership roles by earning your MBA. Herzing University students have the opportunity to earn credits toward their MBA while enrolled in the cybersecurity bachelor’s degree programs.