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Are there advantages to completing a masters degree in cyber security or would it be more beneficial in completing a bachelors degree and also having cyber security certificate?

I am considering a major in cyber security and would like to possibly work for a government security agency.

I don't know if the bachelors program is better to have with several certificates or should I continue my schooling and get a masters program? #engineer #computer #software #it

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Tori’s Answer

I would recommend getting your Bachelors and some Certificates. Work in the Security field for a while before getting your Masters degree because:
1) Most educational institutions are behind what's going on "in the real world" so you'd get more recent technical information by working in the field.
2) Often people get Master's degrees if they want to reach the Architect level or (gasp) Management. You should work for a while and see if that's what you really want.
3) Security may or may not be your passion. The sooner you get out and work for a while, the sooner you'll find out what really gets you jazzed. Most people's career path is zig-zag and unplanned, so get out there and explore the many facets of IT and see what you like. Good luck, Alex!
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Ollie’s Answer

The infosec (cybersecurity) field is just emerging.

And, honestly, lots of people are scrambling to capitalize on its visibility, including educational institutions. If you're thinking of enrolling in a specialized advanced degree program in any field like that, take a careful look at the curriculum. Find out what they're reading in the classes, and what kind of laboratory facilities they offer. Figure out whether their offerings are worth a year or more of your life.

Considering how fast the software / networking / infosec fields change, you may be better served by a more general master's degree than a specialized one.

Your employability probably will be enhanced as effectively with a certificate and some real-world experience as by a master's degree of that degree of specialization.
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Hanish’s Answer

I would recommend majoring in cybersecurity and getting certificates. A masters would only be beneficial if you’re planning to get into research. If research is not what you’re interested then it’s better to focus on gaining practical skills through certification and undergrad coursework because at the end of the day that’s what really matters to employers. They’re looking for skills and if you can prove that you’ve got the skills for the job then you’re good.
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Brian’s Answer

I would suggest a BA with some certificates as was mentioned above. The BA will keep the options a bit more broad, should you need something to fall back on at any point in your career. That said, if you can walk out of college with some major IT and info sec certificates, you should have a lot of options. Cyber security is changing so fast, keeping the newest and in demand certifications will be what a lot of recruiters and employers are focusing on. Additionally, nothing will replace the hands on experience once you get a foot in the door and make a name for yourself. That experience will really tell you what you're passionate about as well. I had no desire to work in IT or tech leaving college, it wasn't until later in my career where I found how much I loved and enjoyed cyber security.

Try to find a company who will encourage growth out of college and offer educational incentives and tuition reimbursement and ride that at as best you can. That will allow to stack certifications, sharpen your business acumen, as well as develop those often overlooked soft skills (more people lack them than you'd think). Good luck!
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