Have you been told you won’t be able to get a cybersecurity job without a degree? Many cybersecurity professionals have entered the field through alternative paths, by gaining practical experience, and certifications. The field is known for being skill-focused and here are some considerations regarding the necessity of a university degree:
1. Skills and Industry Certifications:
· Cybersecurity is a skill-intensive field, and employers often prioritize hands-on experience and relevant certifications over formal education.
· Certifications like the ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and the ISACA CISM are industry-recognized and require passing exams and acquiring experience that validates practical skills and broad knowledge.
· Some employers may prefer certifications over a traditional degree. IBM has stripped the bachelor’s degree requirements from more than half of its jobs. Companies like Accenture and Google have opened the doors for candidates of online certificate programs and holders of industry recognized certifications. With a global shortfall of 4 million workers the Cyber, Networking and Software employers can’t wait for typical post-secondary graduates in order to staff up.
After completing a Cybersecurity Architect certificate through self-paced online learning, I was told I’d never get a job without prior experience and that I should switch to another field. To build up that experience, I prepared for and successfully wrote the CISSP exam. More proof that I know the theory.
Then, the Cyber Catalyst team encouraged me to write up my military experience in a manner that the ISC2 civilian review board could understand, and I was delighted to get full credit for the experience gained in my military roles. The result was the full designation of CISSP – widely recognized as requiring five years of related experience!
I’ve had five interviews for great jobs already.
Steve Ossinger, WO rd
2. Hands-on Experience:
· Practical, real-world experience is highly valued in cybersecurity. Individuals who have hands-on experience gained through internships, projects, or personal initiatives can be competitive candidates when experiential learning is added to their studies.
3. Self-Taught Professionals:
· Some successful cybersecurity professionals are self-taught and have developed their skills through online resources, tutorials, and practical projects.
· Building a strong portfolio showcasing your capabilities can be an effective way to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
4. Specialized Training Programs:
· Specialized training programs and bootcamps focused on cybersecurity skills have become popular alternatives to traditional degrees. These programs often provide practical, hands-on training that aligns with industry needs.
5. Job Requirements:
· Job requirements in the cybersecurity field can vary. While some positions may specify a degree as a requirement, many job listings emphasize practical experience and relevant certifications.
6. Continuous Learning:
· Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, and professionals are expected to engage in continuous learning to stay updated on the latest threats, technologies, and best practices. Practical experience and ongoing education are often more critical than a degree obtained years ago.
While a university degree may be an asset and may be required for certain positions, it’s not the sole entry pathway into the cybersecurity field. Employers in this industry often value a combination of practical skills, certifications, and a proactive approach to learning.
By attaining an industry certification and drawing attention to the hands-on experience you gained during your tenure in the Canadian Military, you can demonstrate your unique blend of skills that would contribute to the success of any organization.
Individuals choose the educational path that aligns best with their goals and circumstances, whether that involves certifications, self-study, a traditional degree, or a combination of these approaches. Cyber Catalyst offers veterans a number of ways to accelerate their cybersecurity career that includes job-focused microcredentials and opportunities for experiential learning as well. We support you throughout your journey of asynchronous online learning, challenge labs, experiential work assignments, and real-time assistance from online instructors, coaches, and peers. Check out our Career Accelerator Framework.
But, never underestimate the effort of actually applying for and securing that entry job, or moving up in your career. Cyber Catalyst starts with job-focused training and will be there to assist you throughout the recruitment and hiring process too.