The cyber security sector is currently experiencing a severe talent shortage. In fact, it is one of the few professions with a negative unemployment rate, and analysts are projecting that there will be 1.5 million cyber security job openings by 2019.
Therefore, this is an advantageous moment for those who have been contemplating the possibility of entering the field or advancing their career within the industry. However, in order to accomplish this, it is necessary to possess a master's degree in cyber security. This is one degree that may be well worth the investment of both time and money, despite the fact that obtaining an advanced degree can be a significant undertaking. There are four compelling reasons to pursue a master's degree in cyber security.
1. Job Security
IBM's Chairman, CEO, and President Ginni Rometty stated the following last year, as reported by CSO:
"We think that the modern phenomenon is data. It is the newest natural resource on Earth. It is revolutionizing all fields and industries as the new foundation for competitive advantage. If everything stated above is accurate, even inevitable, then cybercrime is the biggest threat to all businesses, industries, and professions worldwide."
As businesses and governmental organizations struggle to safeguard their data and information, cyber security has taken center stage due to the ongoing improvements in technology and the growing expertise of cybercriminals. Because of this and the severe skill shortage, job security in this profession is great.
In a Washington Post story, Alec Ross, Senior Adviser for Innovation at the State Department, stated:
"I would say cybersecurity if a college student asked me what career would most likely guarantee me 30 years of reliable, well-paying work."
2. High Pay
According to the law of supply and demand, if there is a substantial shortfall of supply and a surplus of demand, prices will rise dramatically. This is the case with cyber security salary. Entry-level roles in the field average around $90,000 and can reach six figures in some areas, so if you have experience and an advanced degree, you will be highly compensated.
According to Dice, the average yearly income for a security software engineer is $233,333, while a chief security officer earns $225,000. When it comes to the well-compensated technology industry, cyber security experts are among the highest paid, with a 9% wage premium over IT occupations overall.
3. Financial Incentives for Higher Education
One of the causes of the severe talent shortage in the cyber security business is the high level of education required to fill most positions. Because of this significant skills gap, the government and many commercial firms have offered financial incentives to anyone interested in pursuing a degree in computer security. Two such government-funded scholarships are the Information Assurance Scholarship Program (IASP) and the National Science Foundation Scholarship for Service (SFS).
The Yellow Ribbon Scholarship is another program available at universities that collaborate with Veterans Affairs (VA). This scholarship program provides assistance to veterans through yearly scholarship funds that are then matched dollar for dollar by the VA. At the University of San Diego, one of the schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon initiative, the scholarship would amount to around $14,896 per year in funding for a cyber security degree.
4. Career Options Open Up
According to a Burning Glass Technologies research, 84 percent of cyber security job listings require at least a bachelor's degree, while 23 percent require a master's degree. While there are several chances and job openings in the cyber security area, the educational level required to obtain these positions is considerable. For individuals with the necessary education and experience, however, the prospects are numerous, with job openings in practically every state and sector, both private and governmental. Furthermore, when you earn a master's degree, you should be trained in leadership and management, which are essential qualities for C-level or managerial employment.
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These are only four reasons why pursuing a master's degree in cyber security is worthwhile. But if you need another justification, simply look at the numbers. About the University of San Diego's Online Master of Science in Cybersecurity Operations and Leadership The University of San Diego's 100% online Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership (MS-CSOL) is intended for bachelor-prepared students who want to make a positive difference in minimizing cyber security threats and become leaders in their businesses.
This degree program is intended to meet the demands of a wide range of persons who are currently employed in cyber security professions as well as those who want to pursue a career in cyber security.