Should I Major in Cybersecurity or Computer Science?

Cybersecurity and computer science are two disciplines with many similarities. They're both computer-based and require knowledge of programming languages, algorithms, and computer systems; however, their core focuses differ.

Computer science focuses on computer networks and systems, while cybersecurity focuses specifically on securing those networks and systems. While a computer science degree can lead to cybersecurity careers, a cybersecurity degree won't lead to many computer science jobs.

Keep reading to learn how to determine if you should major in cybersecurity or computer science.

How To Decide Between a Cybersecurity or Computer Science Major

There's a lot of overlap between cybersecurity and computer science, and cybersecurity is often considered a specialty within computer science or information technology. Below, we've listed a few things that can help you decide whether a computer science degree or cybersecurity degree is best for you.

Assess Your Interests and Passions

One of the best ways to determine what type of major is best for you is to consider your interests and passions. While there are many similarities between cybersecurity and computer science majors, there are also differences.

Cybersecurity programs focus primarily on computer defense, which includes assessing systems for vulnerabilities and protecting those systems against hackers. Computer science is a broader field that encompasses software engineering, operating systems, artificial intelligence, and more. Students should determine whether their interests align with the focuses of each area of study.

Evaluate Your Skill Set

Both cybersecurity and computer science require a range of technical and soft skills. Some key concepts that are necessary to understand for cybersecurity jobs include:

• computer network and computer system administration
• different operating systems
• network security
• programming languages (i.e., Python, JavaScript, C, and C++)
• cloud security and blockchain security measures
• Internet of Things (IoT)

Computer science also requires these skills, plus additional skills like software development, web development, and understanding of data structures.

Most students don't have a firm grasp of these concepts until they begin computer science or cybersecurity courses. However, if you know your skill set is better matched with one or the other, it can help you determine which major to choose.

Additionally, both majors require soft skills like attention to detail, communication and collaboration, organization, and problem-solving.

Consider Career Paths in Both Fields

With both majors, you're preparing for a career path in technology. Still, the career options are slightly different between the two.

Cybersecurity careers focus on securing data, preventing data breaches and malware, and swift incident response. Common roles for those in the cybersecurity field include:

• cybersecurity specialist
• digital forensics analyst
• ethical hacker
• information security analyst
• penetration tester
• security consultant
• security engineer

Meanwhile, computer science careers have a broader scope, meaning it can lead to a variety of career opportunities, like:

• computer programmer
• computer scientist
• database administrator
• software developer
• systems analyst
• web developer

Examine Job Market Demand in Both Fields

Generally speaking, demand for both cybersecurity professionals and computer science experts is high. Still, this demand can vary and will depend on your specific role, your experience level, and where you live.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that jobs for computer scientists will increase by 23% by 2032. While it doesn't provide a job outlook specifically for cybersecurity experts, it categorizes those roles under information security analysts, which the BLS predicts will see a job increase of 32% in the same time frame.

Speak to an Academic Advisor

Academic advisors work for colleges and universities and help guide students in the right direction. They're a great resource if you're still deciding on the merits of cybersecurity versus computer science.

They'll sit down with you and review each option's pros and cons. They can also help you determine which courses to take and help you apply for internships.

Cybersecurity Career Paths

Cybersecurity careers are focused on implementing security systems and preventing cyberattacks. There are many types of cybersecurity specializations, and we've listed some common jobs below.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity specialists work for a company or organization and are in charge of monitoring that company or organization's security measures and watching for potential data breaches.

Their job duties may include:

• developing, testing, implementing, and monitoring security systems
• troubleshooting and fixing issues with network security tools
• determining areas of vulnerability in the security systems
• creating incident response procedures
• performing data analytics on security data

Some cybersecurity specialists advance their careers by earning a master's degree or obtaining certification, like the CompTIA Security+ credential.

Penetration Tester

Penetration testers are responsible for testing and stressing certain aspects of a cybersecurity system. It's similar to ethical hacking, in which hackers are permitted to perform a data breach in the interest of finding security vulnerabilities.

Penetration testers break into networks, databases, and apps that are currently up and running. They often focus on a specific method or type of attack.

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts are IT security professionals who focus on analyzing security systems and offer feedback or assistance to make these systems stronger. Job duties of information security analysts often include:

• identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities
• investigating security breaches
• recommending and installing defenses like firewalls
• testing security systems
• educating employees and clients about security procedures
• researching new types of cyberattacks

The role of an information security analyst is not entry-level and usually requires a few years of cybersecurity experience. Some employers may require master's degrees and industry certification.

Computer Science Career Paths

As mentioned, computer science is a broad field. Typically, computer scientists focus on one specific aspect of the field, but computer science programs will train you in computer science fundamentals so you can pursue numerous career options. Below, we've listed a few common computer science careers.

Computer Scientist

Computer scientists develop computer and network solutions for organizations. The job duties of a computer scientist may include:

• analyzing new computer systems, software, or devices
• creating and modifying algorithms
• developing new technology and systems
• researching computer science information and data
• upgrading computer systems
• writing new code or programming languages

Often, computer scientists have a specialization, such as cloud computing, machine learning, computer engineering, or robotics.

Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts work for organizations to ensure that the organization's IT systems are meeting the needs of that organization. They then suggest changes or even design new programs for the organization.

Systems analysts may have job duties like:

• consulting with clients to determine their information system needs
• researching different and new technologies
• analyzing the costs and benefits of different IT systems
• designing new information systems
• testing systems and troubleshooting issues

Systems analysts and computer scientists have similar roles, but systems analysts are usually more hands-on in working with clients. They often specialize in a specific business sector, like healthcare or finance.

Software Developer

Software developers create, test, and maintain computer software and programs. Their job duties often include:

• developing software to a client's specifications or to meet a user's need
• assessing new and current software
• testing and improving computer programs and software
• scripting code for new software and updates

Some software developers focus on specific aspects of the software development program, while others cover the process from beginning to end.