Can I Do Cybersecurity Without an IT Background?
Have you ever wondered how to enter into cybersecurity with a nontechnical background? Learn.org identifies the best ways that individuals without a prior background can enter into the field.
Cybersecurity professionals play a crucial part in the IT industry. They are ultimately responsible for identifying and protecting computer systems from various cyber-attacks and threats.
Because technology has become a major part of day-to-day life, the cybersecurity field has become increasingly popular and contains some of the most in-demand careers today.
This article explains whether or not a cybersecurity program is necessary for a career in the field and identifies the best entry-level positions available today.
What Is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity protects data, devices, and networks from attackers and criminals. Computer systems that contain sensitive information, such as medical records and financial information, become more vulnerable to various attacks and threats.
Companies and organizations recruit cybersecurity professionals to guard these systems against cyber attacks.
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What Skills Are Needed For A Career In Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is a broad field that consists of many different jobs and careers. Because of this reason, employers are in search of new recruits who possess a wide range of skill sets.
The following list contains some of the skills needed for a cybersecurity career.
Hard Skills
Cybersecurity professionals use a variety of technical skills in their day-to-day activities.
Some of these technical skills are:
- risk analysis and mitigation
- digital forensics
- wireless security
- coding and scripting
- network security
Soft Skills
Although technical skills are important for a successful career in cybersecurity, there are several soft skills that cybersecurity professionals need.
Some of these skills are:
- problem-solving
- communication
- detail-oriented
- creativity
- teamwork/collaboration
- leadership
Do You Need A Degree In Cybersecurity?
Although a degree in cybersecurity certainly helps, it is very possible for individuals to pursue a career without a degree.
As stated above, many institutions have created online training and certification programs that can teach individuals the technical skills needed for success.
Many of these programs can be completed in three to nine months and cost less money in comparison to earning a degree. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages and they become important when making a decision.
How To Get Started In Cybersecurity Without A Degree
There are two main educational pathways for individuals to take to enter into cybersecurity: self-guided study and boot camps.
Self-Guided Study
There are numerous resources for individuals to use to learn all about cybersecurity.
The most popular resources are:
- books
- trade magazines/blogs
- podcasts
- free online courses
Although there are many different resources available for interested individuals, the quality of these resources can vary. It is important to make sure these resources are credible in providing you with the correct information.
Bootcamps
Cybersecurity bootcamps have become a popular option for gaining the knowledge and technical skills needed for success in cybersecurity. Bootcamps are accelerated programs that place an emphasis on practical skills necessary to enter the industry.
Along with the knowledge given, the programs offer structure to an individual's learning process as well as flexibility.
Most programs offer part-time, full-time, online, and in-person courses for their enrollees to complete on their own schedule. The majority of the programs can be completed in three to nine months and are more cost-effective in comparison to a degree.
Pros And Cons Of Starting A Career In Cybersecurity Without A Degree
Like many other professions, starting a career in cybersecurity without a degree consists of several advantages and disadvantages.
The following are some of the pros and cons of entering a cybersecurity profession without a degree:
Pros
- the training received will be focused on marketable technical skills
- less money and the least amount of years dedicated to upskilling
- training programs provide a more efficient pathway toward a career
Cons
- self-motivation and dedication are needed to plan an educational path
- hard work is required to convince employers of skills
- time and money are required to invest in education
Jobs Available Without A Degree
There are many different entry-level cybersecurity careers available to individuals without a degree.
Some of these careers include:
Information Security Analyst
An information security analyst helps protect an organization's computer networks and systems by:
- monitoring networks for security breaches
- research IT security trends
- documenting and reporting all security breaches
- developing strategies to protect an organization's system
Digital Forensic Examiner
Digital forensic examiners are responsible for retrieving information from computers and other digital devices to discover how a system gains unauthorized access.
Their daily duties include:
- collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital evidence
- recovering data from damaged hard drives
- assisting law enforcement in criminal investigations
- providing expert testimony in court proceedings
IT Auditor
IT auditors assess an organization's technology for potential issues with security, efficiency, and compliance.
They are also responsible for:
- planning and performing audits
- documenting and presenting audit findings
- designing plans to fix any security risks
- identifying opportunities for better efficiency
Become A Cybersecurity Professional Today
Numerous training and certification programs are available for individuals interested in a cybersecurity career. If you are interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, please reach out to an online training or degree program near you today.
