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how long is schooling for security

I'm A student at job core and I was wondering how long is school is for security

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Subject: Career question for you

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V’s Answer

Looking to start a career in security? The educational requirements can differ greatly depending on the specific area of security you're keen on. Let's break it down:

1. **Security Guard**: The journey to becoming a security guard is often quite straightforward. A high school diploma or its equivalent is typically all you need. Some employers might offer you training on the job, while others might ask you to complete a brief training program that could last a few days to a few weeks.

2. **Private Investigator**: Becoming a licensed private investigator usually involves a mix of education and hands-on experience. The exact requirements can differ based on where you live, but generally, you'll need to complete a private investigator training program and rack up a certain number of hours doing investigative work.

3. **Law Enforcement Officer**: If you're drawn to a career in law enforcement, like becoming a police officer, you'll generally need to complete a police academy program. The length of these programs can vary but they usually last between 12 to 26 weeks, depending on the agency and the location.

4. **Cybersecurity**: For those interested in cybersecurity, a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity is usually necessary. This typically takes about four years. Some specialized roles in cybersecurity may require a master's degree, adding an extra 1-2 years of study.

5. **Security Management**: If security management catches your eye, you might need a bachelor's or even a master's degree in fields like criminal justice, security management, or business administration. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years, and a master's degree can add another 1-2 years.

6. **Homeland Security**: For a career in homeland security, you might need a bachelor's or master's degree in areas like homeland security, emergency management, or a related field. This could mean 4-6 years of education.

7. **Information Security Certification**: Certain information security roles can be secured with professional certifications, like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). The preparation and acquisition of these certifications can take several months to a year, depending on your existing knowledge and the time you can dedicate to studying.

Remember, it's crucial to research the specific requirements and educational pathways for the security career you're interested in, as they can vary based on your location, the type of security work, and your long-term career goals. Plus, the security field often requires ongoing professional development and training to keep pace with the ever-changing landscape of threats and technologies.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hey there, Blayne!

The time you'll spend studying for a career in security can differ based on the type of education and training you decide to go for.

If you're thinking about a certificate program in security, you're looking at a timeline that could be anywhere from a few months to a year. These programs are crafted to equip you with the basic know-how and abilities you'll need to kickstart your journey in the security sector.

Now, if an associate's degree in security is what you're after, you'll typically be in school for about two years. These programs offer a broader education in security, covering interesting subjects like criminal justice, computer science, and homeland security.

And if you're aiming for a bachelor's degree in security, you'll usually need to dedicate about four years. These programs dive deeper into the world of security, with classes on hot topics like cybersecurity, risk management, and emergency readiness.

Remember, some states might have their own rules for security professionals, like needing a license or certification. This could change how long you'll be in school.

If you're keen to find out more about how long you'll be studying for a career in security, here are some top-notch reference books you might find handy:

1. "Security Management: A Guide for the Security Professional" by the International Association of Security Management (IASM)
2. "The Complete Guide to Security Training and Education" by the Security Industry Association (SIA)
3. "Security Education: A Review of the Field and a Call for a National Agenda" by the National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC)

These resources offer a thorough look at the security field, including all the different education and training paths you can take. They're a great help when it comes to making a well-informed decision about your future career.
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Joe’s Answer

The pathway to a career in Information Security can vary greatly depending on your individual goals. The kind of job you're interested in, such as Penetration Testing, Security Operations, Security Architecture, or Security Management, will guide your educational journey. Some roles are more technical, while others are more people-oriented, and you'll need to decide which track suits you best. This decision will shape the type of training you'll need to kickstart your career.

Starting with a certification can be a solid first step, and with 1-3 months of dedicated study, you could achieve this. If you're looking for a more in-depth understanding, an Associate Degree in Cybersecurity might be the way to go, which typically takes about 2 years. For an even more comprehensive education, consider a 4-year Bachelor's degree in Cyber Security, or even a Master's degree, which would require an additional year.

The specific training you'll need will depend on the role you aspire to in the security field. You'll need to gain the necessary experience to fulfill your chosen role's responsibilities.

One of the exciting aspects of a career in security is the constant learning and training, as technology evolves at a rapid pace. The knowledge and skills you acquire today will serve as stepping stones in your security career.

Joe recommends the following next steps:

Investigate what interests you have in security.
Identify the skills needed for an entry level role.
Develop your skillset.
Track and share your skills to represent what you have accomplished and are capable of doing.
Network with professionals and join security groups/meetups/clubs to learn from other.
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