13 answers
Gabriel
Student
Minot, North Dakota
1
Question
Updated
1147 views
Would having a dual major degree in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations have a negative impact while applying for work?
I'm wondering if hiring managers in tech might be biased against candidates with a specialized CS degree. Initially, I planned to pursue a degree in cybersecurity, but I was advised to opt for a more generalized degree. Given the course requirements, it was feasible to add a dual major, so I chose that route. Now I'm questioning whether I should reconsider my choice before it's too late.
Although I'm still aiming to specialize in cybersecurity after graduation, I’m also hearing advice to remain open to unexpected opportunities in the tech field. I want to ensure I have flexibility in the future, so this decision has been weighing heavily on me.
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13 answers
Joshua Allard, Ph.D.
Data Science & AI, Quantum AI designer developer
38
Answers
Port St. Lucie, Florida
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Tech hiring managers typically appreciate a blend of specialized knowledge and adaptability. The suggestion to aim for a more generalized degree while honing in on cybersecurity is a wise one, particularly in a swiftly changing sector like tech. Opting for a dual major equips you for success in two vital ways:
Expertise: Cybersecurity is a highly coveted field with increasing demand. By continually enhancing your skills in this domain, you're positioning yourself as a precious resource for companies in need of these unique skills.
Versatility: A more comprehensive degree lays a foundation that can unlock doors to unforeseen opportunities. The tech realm is expansive, and a generalized education can facilitate your transition into related roles, such as network architecture, software development, or data analysis. Numerous professionals discover that their career trajectories evolve, and possessing versatility enables you to grab opportunities that might not have been in your sight initially.
Feeling unsure while steering through career choices is normal, but bear in mind that your dual major offers you the best of both worlds. Post-graduation, you'll still have the option to specialize in cybersecurity through additional certifications, work experience, or advanced education. Simultaneously, the generalized degree will guarantee you're not confined to one path prematurely, providing you the capacity to adjust as your interests or the job market fluctuates.
Hiring managers typically seek candidates who can exhibit problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a robust computer science foundation—traits you're nurturing through your dual major. Ultimately, this decision endows you with expertise and versatility, which will be beneficial in the tech field.
For instance, I possess three degrees: one in cybersecurity, one in Information Technology, and one in Data Science and AI. The secret is to remain receptive to learning and new opportunities while chasing your cybersecurity passion. By doing so, you'll develop a skill set that will empower you to flourish wherever your career takes you. And remember, in this field, you will continually learn and acquire new skills. It's a dynamic sector, so never hesitate to broaden your skills to comprehend how everything operates.
Expertise: Cybersecurity is a highly coveted field with increasing demand. By continually enhancing your skills in this domain, you're positioning yourself as a precious resource for companies in need of these unique skills.
Versatility: A more comprehensive degree lays a foundation that can unlock doors to unforeseen opportunities. The tech realm is expansive, and a generalized education can facilitate your transition into related roles, such as network architecture, software development, or data analysis. Numerous professionals discover that their career trajectories evolve, and possessing versatility enables you to grab opportunities that might not have been in your sight initially.
Feeling unsure while steering through career choices is normal, but bear in mind that your dual major offers you the best of both worlds. Post-graduation, you'll still have the option to specialize in cybersecurity through additional certifications, work experience, or advanced education. Simultaneously, the generalized degree will guarantee you're not confined to one path prematurely, providing you the capacity to adjust as your interests or the job market fluctuates.
Hiring managers typically seek candidates who can exhibit problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a robust computer science foundation—traits you're nurturing through your dual major. Ultimately, this decision endows you with expertise and versatility, which will be beneficial in the tech field.
For instance, I possess three degrees: one in cybersecurity, one in Information Technology, and one in Data Science and AI. The secret is to remain receptive to learning and new opportunities while chasing your cybersecurity passion. By doing so, you'll develop a skill set that will empower you to flourish wherever your career takes you. And remember, in this field, you will continually learn and acquire new skills. It's a dynamic sector, so never hesitate to broaden your skills to comprehend how everything operates.
Christopher Bues
Senior Cloud Solution Architect
2
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Absolutely! While Computer Science graduates often possess a wealth of theoretical knowledge, they may find operational roles challenging. However, if your goal isn't exclusively software development, having a broader skill set can significantly increase your appeal to potential employers. Plus, it opens up a wider range of job opportunities after graduation. Keep going, you're on the right track!
Thank you for the response! It’s really helpful to get input from someone in Tech. If you don’t mind, could you explain your point about software development in more detail?
Gabriel
Sure - what are you looking for?
Christopher Bues
Michael Richtberg
Product management & engineering
16
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Michael’s Answer
You are on an excellent track if you pursue that dual major. The security space is the top information technology budget item. The sophisticated criminals are increasingly using AI. The key skill in AI is data science. Getting specialized is a good thing in your case.
I completely agree. I plan on exhausting my university’s AI courses and pursuing additional resources independently as well. Thank you for your response.
Gabriel
Greg McLeod
Customer Success
8
Answers
Flemington, New Jersey
Updated
Greg’s Answer
As a hiring manager, these dual degrees would not discourage me.. In fact working at a security company myself I'd be super interested to speak to you see if and how they compliment each other.
Rob Jansen
CEO
18
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Rob’s Answer
As an employer of both cybersecurity and CS majors, we would love to see a graduate who had experience in both areas. It would give you a more diversified perspective as well as give employers more flexibility in using your capabilities as the business needs change over time. I would definitely suggest staying the course of doing the dual major/minor. Best of luck and you can't go wrong either way as both are and will continue to be in high demand!
I hadn’t even thought about the possibility of fulfilling multiple roles at a company over time. Thank you very much for your advice.
Gabriel
Biplab Panda
Engagement Director
70
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
Being able to dual-wield will almost always be looked at as an asset and not a liability.
You've already got a lot of great advice specific to cybersecurity and leveraging your technical skills within the field, so I wanted to add some non-technical perspective as well.
Depending on the role you are interested in cybersecurity, you may have options to even get involved in non-technical roles when coming in with multiple CS degrees.
For example, some of our project management team come from a CS background and their technical understanding of computer science concepts enables them to more accurately identify potential blockers or issues on projects.
You've already got a lot of great advice specific to cybersecurity and leveraging your technical skills within the field, so I wanted to add some non-technical perspective as well.
Depending on the role you are interested in cybersecurity, you may have options to even get involved in non-technical roles when coming in with multiple CS degrees.
For example, some of our project management team come from a CS background and their technical understanding of computer science concepts enables them to more accurately identify potential blockers or issues on projects.
Nicole Cato
Security Partnership Manager
6
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hello Gabriel! That's an insightful question. Having a double major doesn't necessarily limit your opportunities or create a negative impression with hiring managers. In fact, a broad-based degree can equip you with the essential principles required for various roles. If you choose not to pursue a double major, it would be beneficial to diversify your course load to enhance your Computer Science degree. Consider courses in AI, cybersecurity, or even business. This approach can help you become a more versatile candidate, which is often what technology roles in today's job market require.
I personally pursued a double major in Computer and Electrical Engineering. From my experience, I can tell you that I utilize the concepts from my computer engineering degree more frequently, as electrical engineering was more focused on chip design principles. I've built diverse experiences based on the knowledge I gained from my degrees. Could I have succeeded without a double major? Absolutely. Do I regret it? Not really.
At the time, it made sense to double major as there weren't many offerings in fields like cybersecurity or AI that could have fulfilled my degree requirements. So, I decided to double major, hoping to gain expertise in both software and hardware aspects. My career, however, leaned more towards the software side, and it has served me well.
I personally pursued a double major in Computer and Electrical Engineering. From my experience, I can tell you that I utilize the concepts from my computer engineering degree more frequently, as electrical engineering was more focused on chip design principles. I've built diverse experiences based on the knowledge I gained from my degrees. Could I have succeeded without a double major? Absolutely. Do I regret it? Not really.
At the time, it made sense to double major as there weren't many offerings in fields like cybersecurity or AI that could have fulfilled my degree requirements. So, I decided to double major, hoping to gain expertise in both software and hardware aspects. My career, however, leaned more towards the software side, and it has served me well.
Jeff Sloan
Software engineer - firmware Retired
103
Answers
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
Really good question! In a college career, there are a lot of things that cause angst and everyone second-guesses their choices along the way! You are definitely not alone!
Having said that, I think you are on a great path! As a hiring manager, many years ago, I would look at that as you went well above and beyond and have multiple skillsets. It also shows that you have a passion for knowledge and can face challenges. From my perspective, I would consider a double major as a huge benefit that would give you a significant advantage over a candidate that had a general CS degree. There is a lot of overlap so the double major should not be a significant number of extra classes but if time and money is an issue, a general CS degree with a cyber security specialization or track would be a good way to go. If you can handle it, a double major will set you up well! As someone else mentioned, if you take the specialization track, you can always get a Master's degree in cyber security. Also, certs, such as CISSP, are valuable and a great way to show your knowledge and competence.
Cyber security is one of the most in demand fields in technology and, in my opinion, will only increase over time.
I suggest that you talk to your advisor or the CS department advisor. You might also want to reach out to hiring managers at companies you are interested in and see what their thoughts are. You can connect via LinkedIn.
Best of luck and remember that you are not locked in to a career at this point. Even after you enter industry, you can always change directions. I began my career as a high level application programmer on mainframes. I switched to hardware test development then spent lots of years developing firmware. I also transitioned into academia as a professor. You can change directions throughout your career. College sets you up with the basics but technology will change and evolve. Fresh out of university, I was hired by IBM as a PL/1 PL/s programmer. I didn't know either language but the hiring manager figured that, since I programmed in 20 languages in university, the 21st and 22nd would be easy for me to learn!
My best advice is to enjoy your college career and learn all you can! And, in the words of Douglas Adams "Don't panic!"
Really good question! In a college career, there are a lot of things that cause angst and everyone second-guesses their choices along the way! You are definitely not alone!
Having said that, I think you are on a great path! As a hiring manager, many years ago, I would look at that as you went well above and beyond and have multiple skillsets. It also shows that you have a passion for knowledge and can face challenges. From my perspective, I would consider a double major as a huge benefit that would give you a significant advantage over a candidate that had a general CS degree. There is a lot of overlap so the double major should not be a significant number of extra classes but if time and money is an issue, a general CS degree with a cyber security specialization or track would be a good way to go. If you can handle it, a double major will set you up well! As someone else mentioned, if you take the specialization track, you can always get a Master's degree in cyber security. Also, certs, such as CISSP, are valuable and a great way to show your knowledge and competence.
Cyber security is one of the most in demand fields in technology and, in my opinion, will only increase over time.
I suggest that you talk to your advisor or the CS department advisor. You might also want to reach out to hiring managers at companies you are interested in and see what their thoughts are. You can connect via LinkedIn.
Best of luck and remember that you are not locked in to a career at this point. Even after you enter industry, you can always change directions. I began my career as a high level application programmer on mainframes. I switched to hardware test development then spent lots of years developing firmware. I also transitioned into academia as a professor. You can change directions throughout your career. College sets you up with the basics but technology will change and evolve. Fresh out of university, I was hired by IBM as a PL/1 PL/s programmer. I didn't know either language but the hiring manager figured that, since I programmed in 20 languages in university, the 21st and 22nd would be easy for me to learn!
My best advice is to enjoy your college career and learn all you can! And, in the words of Douglas Adams "Don't panic!"
It's great to hear from a former hiring manager—thank you for your time! I’ll definitely follow your advice on reaching out via LinkedIn and will check out the certification you mentioned. I’ll do my best to keep Douglas Adams’ advice in mind!
Gabriel
Jared Allison
CyberSecurity
3
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Jared’s Answer
A dual-major won't impact your flexibility in the future. It's a great basis for many different career paths and where you take your career will be up to you. I studied electrical engineering in school and worked in a Cybersecurity team with coworkers who studied biology and chemical engineering! I recall it can be intimidating to make choices about your major or field of study, but perhaps even more important than the specific major you choose is to be open to trying different types of jobs. What you study in school does not define your career and I'm sure you'll be able to find something you like and can excel at.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Gabriel !
Great question ! I agree with the advice you have received from someone you've mentioned in your inquiry. I have some advice even though I am not a Computer Science person, I think that you may need to have confirmation on the advice the person you know gave and some ideas on how you can qualify and specialize, too.
Definitely major in Computer Science, the more generalized degree that your in-person adviser suggested. My advice ? Do not double major. You will be perfectly fine with focusing on Computer Science and sharpening skills that are needed with a special attention to Cyber Security. You can do it without the burden of Double Majoring. Consider the expense and work overload of double majoring. I suggest doing this in a way that will have your course work go smoothly so you can achieve high grades in your courses. You also might have to take longer than four years if you double major.
If you know what college you will be attending, look at their Computer Science program in their catalogue or on their website. I'm not sure of this, but you can find out, but it seems to me that there should be some Cyber Security courses right within the program that you can take as a Computer Science major. There's no reason to double major. Just take your Cyber Security courses and those credits/units of those classes may probably count towards your major.
The person who advised you, whom you've mentioned, gave you good advice. Employers may want people with a Computer Science Degree and you can highlight your Cyber Security experience on a resume. You can do some projects and volunteer work in Cyber Security. Because double majoring can possibly affect obtaining good grades because it will be so much work, a single major is normally expected from employers and it will be great to get high grades in whatever classes you take. Employers aren't out there expecting people to have two Bachelors Degrees. Later on, if you feel that you want to do a Masters Program for Cyber Security, you can do that too. So you not only have to consider what employers will think, but also how to make your college experience as smooth and as successful as possible in four years. Also find out about what Certifications you can take for Cyber Security in the future.
You can be flexible by learning everything your college's Computer Science program offers. Meet with your academic counselor on the campus of the college you will attend and learn more about what the Computer Science program entails. It's true that you never know what opportunities you will encounter in the next six years, so it is best to learn various computer skills and spend some extra time on the subjects you particularly like. You'll have to know many aspects of computers in order to obtain work and you can even offer your services independently as a freelancer.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best ! Just to let you know, I was a Theatre Major student leaning on Acting, but I had to take set design, stage craft, costuming, make up, theatre literature but before and after graduation I did acting, the aspect of it that I loved the best. You can do it !
Great question ! I agree with the advice you have received from someone you've mentioned in your inquiry. I have some advice even though I am not a Computer Science person, I think that you may need to have confirmation on the advice the person you know gave and some ideas on how you can qualify and specialize, too.
Definitely major in Computer Science, the more generalized degree that your in-person adviser suggested. My advice ? Do not double major. You will be perfectly fine with focusing on Computer Science and sharpening skills that are needed with a special attention to Cyber Security. You can do it without the burden of Double Majoring. Consider the expense and work overload of double majoring. I suggest doing this in a way that will have your course work go smoothly so you can achieve high grades in your courses. You also might have to take longer than four years if you double major.
If you know what college you will be attending, look at their Computer Science program in their catalogue or on their website. I'm not sure of this, but you can find out, but it seems to me that there should be some Cyber Security courses right within the program that you can take as a Computer Science major. There's no reason to double major. Just take your Cyber Security courses and those credits/units of those classes may probably count towards your major.
The person who advised you, whom you've mentioned, gave you good advice. Employers may want people with a Computer Science Degree and you can highlight your Cyber Security experience on a resume. You can do some projects and volunteer work in Cyber Security. Because double majoring can possibly affect obtaining good grades because it will be so much work, a single major is normally expected from employers and it will be great to get high grades in whatever classes you take. Employers aren't out there expecting people to have two Bachelors Degrees. Later on, if you feel that you want to do a Masters Program for Cyber Security, you can do that too. So you not only have to consider what employers will think, but also how to make your college experience as smooth and as successful as possible in four years. Also find out about what Certifications you can take for Cyber Security in the future.
You can be flexible by learning everything your college's Computer Science program offers. Meet with your academic counselor on the campus of the college you will attend and learn more about what the Computer Science program entails. It's true that you never know what opportunities you will encounter in the next six years, so it is best to learn various computer skills and spend some extra time on the subjects you particularly like. You'll have to know many aspects of computers in order to obtain work and you can even offer your services independently as a freelancer.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best ! Just to let you know, I was a Theatre Major student leaning on Acting, but I had to take set design, stage craft, costuming, make up, theatre literature but before and after graduation I did acting, the aspect of it that I loved the best. You can do it !
Thank you for the helpful advice! I’d been so tunnel-visioned on my current path that I overlooked the potential of a master's program. Your suggestions to seek hands-on learning and certification are spot on.
Gabriel
You are very welcome, Gabriel ! I am happy to help out !
Michelle M.
Rajesh Kumar Subbiah
Manager
39
Answers
Florham Park, New Jersey
Updated
Rajesh Kumar’s Answer
Having a dual major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations is generally seen as a positive asset in the tech industry. Here’s why it can be advantageous and how you can position yourself to make the most of this dual major:
Advantages of a Dual Major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations
1. Broader Knowledge Base:
Computer Science: Provides a solid foundation in programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development, which are essential skills in almost any tech role.
Cybersecurity & Operations: Offers specialized knowledge and skills in protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber threats, making you highly valuable in a niche but critical area.
2. Increased Job Opportunities:
Versatility: A dual major allows you to apply for a wider range of roles, from software development to cybersecurity analyst positions.
Specialization with Breadth: Companies often look for candidates who have deep expertise in one area but also possess a broad understanding of related fields.
3. Future Flexibility:
Career Path Flexibility: If you start in a cybersecurity role but later decide to switch to a more general tech role (or vice versa), your education will support that transition.
Adaptability: The tech industry evolves rapidly, and your education prepares you to adapt to new technologies and roles.
4. Competitive Edge:
Unique Skill Set: Combining general computer science knowledge with cybersecurity expertise can set you apart from candidates with only one specialization.
Problem-Solving Skills: The dual major enhances your problem-solving abilities, as you’ll be equipped to tackle a wider variety of challenges.
Addressing Potential Concerns
1. Perception of Over-Specialization:
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight both your general computer science skills and your cybersecurity expertise. Emphasize how the combination makes you a well-rounded candidate.
Interview Preparation: Be prepared to discuss your interest and capabilities in both areas. Show how your dual major equips you to handle diverse roles and challenges.
2. Employers’ Bias:
Showcase Flexibility: During interviews, express your openness to various roles and how your comprehensive education allows you to contribute effectively in multiple capacities.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have internships, projects, or any hands-on experience, make sure to highlight those on your resume and during interviews. Practical experience often speaks louder than the specifics of your degree.
Strategies for Positioning Yourself
1. Build a Strong Portfolio:
Include projects from both computer science and cybersecurity. Showcase your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems.
2. Gain Practical Experience:
Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in both fields. This will not only build your resume but also help you determine which area you enjoy more.
3. Network:
Connect with professionals in both fields. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and events to build a network that can offer guidance and job opportunities.
4. Certifications:
Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications relevant to both fields. For example, CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for cybersecurity, and relevant programming or software development certifications for computer science.
Conclusion
A dual major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations is unlikely to have a negative impact and is more likely to enhance your job prospects by providing you with a broad and versatile skill set. By effectively communicating your flexibility, adaptability, and the unique value you bring to potential employers, you can leverage your dual major to open up numerous opportunities in the tech field. Stay open to various roles, and use your broad education as a strength to navigate your career path.
Advantages of a Dual Major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations
1. Broader Knowledge Base:
Computer Science: Provides a solid foundation in programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development, which are essential skills in almost any tech role.
Cybersecurity & Operations: Offers specialized knowledge and skills in protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber threats, making you highly valuable in a niche but critical area.
2. Increased Job Opportunities:
Versatility: A dual major allows you to apply for a wider range of roles, from software development to cybersecurity analyst positions.
Specialization with Breadth: Companies often look for candidates who have deep expertise in one area but also possess a broad understanding of related fields.
3. Future Flexibility:
Career Path Flexibility: If you start in a cybersecurity role but later decide to switch to a more general tech role (or vice versa), your education will support that transition.
Adaptability: The tech industry evolves rapidly, and your education prepares you to adapt to new technologies and roles.
4. Competitive Edge:
Unique Skill Set: Combining general computer science knowledge with cybersecurity expertise can set you apart from candidates with only one specialization.
Problem-Solving Skills: The dual major enhances your problem-solving abilities, as you’ll be equipped to tackle a wider variety of challenges.
Addressing Potential Concerns
1. Perception of Over-Specialization:
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight both your general computer science skills and your cybersecurity expertise. Emphasize how the combination makes you a well-rounded candidate.
Interview Preparation: Be prepared to discuss your interest and capabilities in both areas. Show how your dual major equips you to handle diverse roles and challenges.
2. Employers’ Bias:
Showcase Flexibility: During interviews, express your openness to various roles and how your comprehensive education allows you to contribute effectively in multiple capacities.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have internships, projects, or any hands-on experience, make sure to highlight those on your resume and during interviews. Practical experience often speaks louder than the specifics of your degree.
Strategies for Positioning Yourself
1. Build a Strong Portfolio:
Include projects from both computer science and cybersecurity. Showcase your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems.
2. Gain Practical Experience:
Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in both fields. This will not only build your resume but also help you determine which area you enjoy more.
3. Network:
Connect with professionals in both fields. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and events to build a network that can offer guidance and job opportunities.
4. Certifications:
Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications relevant to both fields. For example, CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for cybersecurity, and relevant programming or software development certifications for computer science.
Conclusion
A dual major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity & Operations is unlikely to have a negative impact and is more likely to enhance your job prospects by providing you with a broad and versatile skill set. By effectively communicating your flexibility, adaptability, and the unique value you bring to potential employers, you can leverage your dual major to open up numerous opportunities in the tech field. Stay open to various roles, and use your broad education as a strength to navigate your career path.
Betsy Walters
Technical Writer
25
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Betsy’s Answer
Gabriel,
You're receiving some excellent guidance, and I wholeheartedly concur with it.
Pursuing a dual degree could significantly enhance your appeal as a candidate. A degree in computer science often leads to a specialization in a specific technological field, so a dual degree puts you at an advantage.
Cybersecurity is a thriving field currently, and its importance is only likely to increase as our world continues to globalize and become more technologically advanced.
As a tech writer, I've noticed a surge in demand for Cybersecurity Technical Writers. To keep up with this trend, I'm currently taking a Cybersecurity certificate course on Coursera to further develop my skills.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
You're receiving some excellent guidance, and I wholeheartedly concur with it.
Pursuing a dual degree could significantly enhance your appeal as a candidate. A degree in computer science often leads to a specialization in a specific technological field, so a dual degree puts you at an advantage.
Cybersecurity is a thriving field currently, and its importance is only likely to increase as our world continues to globalize and become more technologically advanced.
As a tech writer, I've noticed a surge in demand for Cybersecurity Technical Writers. To keep up with this trend, I'm currently taking a Cybersecurity certificate course on Coursera to further develop my skills.
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
In class, we often hear about the importance of keeping our skills and technical knowledge up-to-date, but hearing it from someone actually in the field makes it hit home much more. Thank you for sharing your insights!
Gabriel
David Beabout
Consulting, Blacksmith, Coach
3
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
David’s Answer
You don't have to put both degrees on every application or resume. You fortunately get to pick and choose what is most appropriate for each role you decide to go after. The good news is you have a degree...this is most important.