In today’s networked society, there are few things more costly to a business than a cyberattack. But that also means that there are few roles more important than that of a cybersecurity professional. According to Indeed, “Cybersecurity professionals specialize in protecting networks, systems and software from cyberattacks. They ensure private information and data are secure within the system.” In other words, they are the frontline defense against bad actors in cyberspace.
For those interested in joining the cybersecurity industry, the Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Cyber Security program prepares students for many possible career paths including security analyst, security consultant and digital forensic examiner. These specialized careers are critical in mitigating the damage caused by cyberattacks, as well as preventing the attacks in the first place.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Cyber Security Degree?
Professionals considering a career in cybersecurity can benefit from an overview of job opportunities and the skills required for each. Graduates of TAMIU’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Cyber Security program qualify for roles in a number specialized areas of cybersecurity, such as:
Information Security Analyst: An information security analyst is a professional who plans and executes security plans to protect an organization’s digital systems, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). For example, they often monitor their company’s networks for possible security breaches and develop and maintain security practices. Information security analysts also play a central role in creating a company’s disaster recovery plan, which helps keep the organization functioning if critical systems are compromised.
Security Consultant: A security consultant is similar to a security analyst but is usually an outside contractor hired to enhance the work of a company’s in-house analyst. Security consultants help identify and strengthen an organization’s vulnerabilities, according to Indeed. In addition, they may recommend “specific security systems or products depending on the organization’s needs.”
Digital Forensic Examiner: Digital forensic examiners are akin to criminal investigators. In other words, they are the experts responsible for evaluating digital evidence in the aftermath of a cyberattack. As IBM explains: “Just as officials use specific processes to gather physical evidence from a crime scene, digital forensics investigators follow a strict forensics process.” Where information security analysts and security consultants are critical in preventing cyberattacks before they happen, digital forensic examiners are essential in cleaning up the damage.
Future-proof Your Career With an Online Degree in Cybersecurity
Expertise in cybersecurity is highly valued in any industry, and the jobs listed above are far from the only ones available to knowledgeable cybersecurity professionals. For example, graduates of TAMIU’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Cyber Security program may also consider possible careers as network security engineers or machine learning engineers, each of which command six-figure salaries on average, per Indeed.
No matter what cybersecurity career path a student chooses, TAMIU’s program offers a perfect opportunity to break into an increasingly important industry. After all, cyberattacks are becoming an increasingly significant threat due to the rise of sophisticated artificial intelligence. So now is the ideal time for professionals to acquire in-demand cybersecurity training and credentials so they can specialize in a dynamic field that offers a high level of future job security.
Learn more about TAMIU’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Cyber Security program.
