The average salary of a cybersecurity professional in the US is high, and the number of open positions is on the rise. This prompts many people to inquire about how to begin a career in cybersecurity. In this article, we will discuss the essential things you need to know about cybersecurity careers, including the training and credentials required.
Cybersecurity Training
The first step in pursuing a career in cybersecurity is to gain relevant training. A degree in computer science or IT is one of the traditional paths to becoming a cybersecurity professional. Adding a cybersecurity concentration to this degree is also beneficial. Some colleges and universities offer cybersecurity concentrations as part of their computer science and IT degree programs. Another training option is an associate degree. This degree usually takes two years to complete and is less expensive than a bachelor’s degree.
Another route is to take a boot camp course, which is an intensive, short-term security training. There are also free online courses such as IBM’s Coursera certificate. Keep in mind that the more expensive the training, the more opportunities and doors it may open for you. Therefore, you should consider all of the options to enter the cybersecurity career space.
Cybersecurity Credentials
Once you have completed your training, the next step is to obtain professional credentials. These are important for proving that you are qualified for the job. Professional certifications are the most common credentials sought by employers in the cybersecurity field.
The CISSP (Certified Information System Security Professional) certification is considered the gold standard in the cybersecurity field. However, it is not an entry-level certification, as it requires five years of experience in the field, a 100 to 150-question exam, and an ethics statement. You also need an existing CISSP to endorse you and ongoing education credits to maintain this certification.
Another certification to consider is Security+. Security+ has a lower bar to meet, requiring only two years of experience and a 90-question exam. Many more people have Security+ than have CISSP, and many job positions require this certification.
Other certifications that may be useful include the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) for auditors and the CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) for managers.
Cybersecurity Resources
There are many resources available to help you gain the necessary training and credentials to become a cybersecurity professional. The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) provides a framework for cybersecurity education and workforce development.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is another valuable resource. It provides cybersecurity guidance, training, and certification to the public and private sectors.
Additionally, many cybersecurity associations offer training, certifications, and networking opportunities. Examples include the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA), the International Association of Computer Security Professionals (IACSP), and the Cybersecurity Association of Maryland (CAMI).
Conclusion
A career in cybersecurity requires a combination of training and credentials. There are various training options available, including traditional degrees, associate degrees, boot camp courses, and free online certificates. Obtaining professional certifications such as CISSP and Security+ is essential for proving your qualifications to potential employers. There are many resources available to help you navigate the path to becoming a cybersecurity professional, including NICE, CISA, and various cybersecurity associations. By taking advantage of these resources, you can embark on a fulfilling career in cybersecurity.