3 answers
Bryan
Student
Atlantic, Iowa
3
Questions
Asked
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What kind of degree do I need to work for the FBI cyber security?
How long is the degree?
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3 answers
Hemant Gupta
Software Engineer
8
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Hemant’s Answer
To work in cybersecurity for the FBI, you typically need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as:
Recommended Degrees:
- Computer Science (Cybersecurity focus)
- Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
- Computer Engineering
- Digital Forensics
- Information Technology (IT) with a Security focus
- Criminal Justice with Cybersecurity (less common, but possible for investigative roles)
How Long is the Degree?
A Bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 years to complete. However, some students accelerate their studies and finish in 3-3.5 years with extra coursework.
Do You Need a Master’s Degree?
A Master’s degree (e.g., in Cybersecurity, Information Security, or Digital Forensics) is not required but can help for higher-level positions. If pursued, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 years.
Additional Requirements for the FBI:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Security Clearance (extensive background check, takes months to complete)
- Certifications (optional, but helpful):
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Work Experience: FBI cyber roles often prefer candidates with 3+ years of experience in cybersecurity, IT security, or a related field.
Recommended Degrees:
- Computer Science (Cybersecurity focus)
- Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
- Computer Engineering
- Digital Forensics
- Information Technology (IT) with a Security focus
- Criminal Justice with Cybersecurity (less common, but possible for investigative roles)
How Long is the Degree?
A Bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 years to complete. However, some students accelerate their studies and finish in 3-3.5 years with extra coursework.
Do You Need a Master’s Degree?
A Master’s degree (e.g., in Cybersecurity, Information Security, or Digital Forensics) is not required but can help for higher-level positions. If pursued, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 years.
Additional Requirements for the FBI:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Security Clearance (extensive background check, takes months to complete)
- Certifications (optional, but helpful):
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Work Experience: FBI cyber roles often prefer candidates with 3+ years of experience in cybersecurity, IT security, or a related field.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Bryan
Sneha Deb
Tech Consultant
189
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hi Bryan! To work in cybersecurity for the FBI, you'll typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field like **Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or Digital Forensics. Most bachelor's degrees take about 4 years to complete. Some roles may also require prior experience or security clearance, and advanced roles might prefer or require a master’s degree or certifications like Security+ or CISSP. Good luck!
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
70
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Dear Bryan,
I appreciate your interest in cyber security and the desire to work in a prestigious institution such as the FBI.
To be able to become an engineer, you need to study foundational subjects in high school. Mathematics introduces us to analytical skills that all engineers require. Physics helps understand some of the basic laws of nature e.g. gravity, motion, electromagnetism, sound, heat, the different states of matter etc. All of these are applied extensively in engineering work. Chemistry is important because it helps engineers understand the properties of materials so they can select the right materials of construction when turning designs in to products. Computer applications add productivity & efficiency to their work. Design & graphics are necessary for engineers to turn ideas & concepts in to designs that provide the basis for construction of products. Engineers also need problem solving skills to be able to identify & address root causes of the many challenges they face in the course of their duty.
Engineers often work in teams. Therefore, they need good communication skills & the ability to work in teams.
Hermant has ably elaborated the software engineering competencies for the career you desire. AI is increasingly being applied in the field of cyber security. Forensic engineers may also need to know the basic laws & regulations that govern their work.
I appreciate your interest in cyber security and the desire to work in a prestigious institution such as the FBI.
To be able to become an engineer, you need to study foundational subjects in high school. Mathematics introduces us to analytical skills that all engineers require. Physics helps understand some of the basic laws of nature e.g. gravity, motion, electromagnetism, sound, heat, the different states of matter etc. All of these are applied extensively in engineering work. Chemistry is important because it helps engineers understand the properties of materials so they can select the right materials of construction when turning designs in to products. Computer applications add productivity & efficiency to their work. Design & graphics are necessary for engineers to turn ideas & concepts in to designs that provide the basis for construction of products. Engineers also need problem solving skills to be able to identify & address root causes of the many challenges they face in the course of their duty.
Engineers often work in teams. Therefore, they need good communication skills & the ability to work in teams.
Hermant has ably elaborated the software engineering competencies for the career you desire. AI is increasingly being applied in the field of cyber security. Forensic engineers may also need to know the basic laws & regulations that govern their work.