Earn an Online Cyber Security Degree (Bachelor of Science)
The objective of the Cyber Security degree program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to enter the workforce and advance in professional cyber security or information security roles. Required coursework builds a foundation and broad base of skills in network protocols, advanced security concepts and operating systems and system architecture. Courses are aligned to the Network+, Security+ and CISSP industry-standard certifications.
The Importance of Cybersecurity Degrees
Cybersecurity is one of the most important security components in society today. Throughout this section, we’ll discuss common security issues in various business sectors in the U.S. The need for new, qualified cybersecurity specialists may even be greater than you might expect.
Healthcare, one of the largest employment fields in the country, has fallen victim to continuous cyberattacks in recent years. During each of these security breaches, countless people may have been affected when their personal data was exploited. Attacks occur within industries and companies of all sizes, and the simple truth is any computer system connected to the internet can be vulnerable to attack.
Another field affected by frequent security breaches in the last decade is consumer banking. Organizations that offer banking services to the public may constantly need cybersecurity experts to help safeguard their systems from financial predators. The implementation of information security experts in the banking field can help protect banks and financial institutions from unwanted attacks, which can increase their quality of service to customers.
Websites of businesses, personal social media accounts and even individual storage clouds have also been breached through cyberattacks. As common websites and social media giants grow more secure using updates and software, hackers typically follow closely behind them. The job of the cybersecurity specialist may be to stay steps ahead of cyber attackers to protect the organizations in which they are employed. Hackers can gain access to personally identifying information through viruses and malware placed in downloads, emails and infected websites.
The work of a cyber criminal can be very technologically advanced and sophisticated. The best weapon to defend against attacks and breaches may be educated and experienced cybersecurity specialists. Through online cybersecurity programs such as our Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, you can learn methods to help identify potential risks and thwart breaches by cyber criminals. This degree program can also help you learn about software updates, security programs and personal methods for protecting computer information systems from cyberattacks. As technology continues to advance, the need for educated and dedicated cybersecurity specialists may continue to rise.
What will I learn in this online Cyber Security degree program?
Your curriculum focuses on operating systems, computer architectures, networking protocols and security basics. After graduation, you will possess the knowledge to analyze the role of security within an organization, as well as educate employees within the business about their security responsibilities. Plus, you’ll be prepared to sit for industry-standard certifications in Network+, Security+ and CISSP, where otherwise qualified.
Note: Grantham cannot guarantee successful completion of those exams. In some cases, field experience and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or successfully pass the exams.
What careers can I pursue with a Cyber Security bachelor’s degree?
You could pursue a number of information security careers, such as information security analyst, network administrator or IT security specialist1.
Other career possibilities include2:
Security Policy Analyst
The security policy analyst may be an important part of a cybersecurity team. Most employers expect security policy analysts to be knowledgeable of information technology, the types of security programs available for use, and methods to deter cyberattacks on personal and business-specific information. Professionals in this position should have extensive knowledge in servers, databases, web applications and virtual storage.
In business and organizations, these professionals may be responsible for analyzing current systems for possible weak points and areas that need improvement. Through a thorough assessment, analysts may be able to provide their clients with a plan of action to help increase the level of security and avoid potential threats.
Security policy analysts can promote a great deal of reliability for the companies they serve. Their job is to provide support and assistance in creating safe systems that contain secure elements to protect information and data within. In the U.S., security analysts can potentially earn $95,510 per year on average. Due to the higher need for security analysts in various organizations, the growth in this field may be must faster than other careers throughout the country. The estimated growth is currently at 15% or higher over the next decade.
Information Systems Security Administrator
The information systems security administrator may be a leading professional in the realm of information security. If you move into a career such as this one, you can review and implement security policies set to protect organizations from cyberattacks. This may include identifying and researching current breaches, presenting resolutions that can stop the breach before massive damage has been incurred, and implementing future policies to protect against such threats.
These management professionals in security administration may also be responsible for overseeing a staff of security personnel, providing training and monitoring their work environment. Throughout the country, security administrators may have the ability to earn $105,610 per year on average. This field may see a growth of 5-9% over the next decade.
Cybersecurity Software Engineer
One of the most effective methods for keeping computers and other electronic systems safe from cyber criminals is investing in reliable security software. The professionals responsible for creating this software can be an influential part of cybersecurity. Those pursuing a career in this field can assist with analyzing the needs of their clients, creating helpful security software that can meet their needs, and monitoring it for progress.
More responsibilities for software engineers in this field may include reviewing current software for potential improvement, intervening during a cyber threat, and teaming with other security specialists to determine the best methods for deterring cyberattacks. These professionals can earn $101,790 per year on average while employed in the U.S. The growth for this field may be much faster than other career fields involving security, with an expected rate of 15% or more over the next decade.
How long is this online Cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program?
At 120 credit hours, your accredited online cyber security degree program is designed to be completed in 38 months. It could take less time depending on how much transfer credit you receive and how many classes you take every term.
How much will the Cyber Security online degree program cost?
The undergraduate rate is $265 per credit hour. This rate may be lower if you’re a member of the military, a veteran or part of a military family. Additionally, Grantham University offers scholarships and financial aid for students who qualify.
When can I start?
Courses begin monthly, so you may start whenever you are ready.
Call us at (888) 947-2684 to learn more about our accredited degree programs, financial assistance opportunities or enrollment process.
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