Master's in Cybersecurity vs. MBA: Which Is Better?
For professionals in the cybersecurity industry, it can be tough to choose between a master's degree in cybersecurity and an MBA, but each has its own benefits.
For cybersecurity professionals, achieving a master's degree can create opportunities to move up in their careers. Combining a graduate degree with work experience and other accomplishments can lead to more prominent positions with higher salaries in the cybersecurity field.
Choosing a master's program can be a tough decision. For those pursuing cybersecurity jobs, there are different options to consider. It is often a choice between a Master of Science in Cybersecurity or a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA).
Both can appeal to employers and may open up different career paths, but how can you decide which is right for you? Let's break down the differences.
What Is a Master's in Cybersecurity?
A master's degree in cybersecurity is a graduate degree that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue high-level positions in the field.
As an information technology-centered degree, an MS in cybersecurity involves courses covering network design and management, penetration testing, cybersecurity management, and more.
These programs focus on upper-level cybersecurity skills, preparing graduates for leadership and management positions. Master's degrees in cybersecurity are also offered online.
Education Requirements
To complete any master's degree, students must complete a bachelor's degree. Typically, graduate students pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity have earned their undergraduate degree in computer science, information technology, information systems, cybersecurity, or a related field.
Completing an MS in cybersecurity will usually involve courses like:
- security foundations
- secure software design
- penetration testing
- information security risk management
- cloud security
These master's degrees will also generally involve a capstone course. This is a substantial project required to graduate, and students must demonstrate their competency and mastery of their studies. Additionally, many programs offer the chance to earn various certifications alongside a degree, providing opportunities for greater specialization.
Career Paths
After completing a graduate cybersecurity program, many potential career paths open up. These can include roles like:
- security architect
- chief information security officer
- IT risk manager
- cyber operations analyst
- information security analyst
What Is an MBA?
Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs are one of the most commonly pursued master's degrees, both on-campus and online. MBA degrees educate students in the varying aspects of business, and they can be used to pursue various career paths.
Learn More: Online MBA Programs
MBAs often allow the option of choosing an MBA concentration, such as marketing, finance, or technology. Students could also pursue an MBA degree program with a concentration in cybersecurity, which could open opportunities for grads to work in cybersecurity management roles.
Education Requirements
An MBA program will also require students to have completed a bachelor's degree; however, a significant difference is that they don't usually require a specific undergraduate degree.
According to U.S. News & World Report, business schools want non-business majors to enroll in their MBA programs. Students will be immersed in the world of business, completing courses like organizational management, operations management, marketing, and ethical leadership.
If students pursue an MBA with a concentration in cybersecurity, they will also have required cybersecurity courses. These can include:
- basics of information security
- risk management
- data networks, systems, and security
- cryptography and information security
Career Paths
Career paths for an MBA tend to be more varied, even if a concentration in cybersecurity is pursued. Some possible career paths include:
Master's in Cybersecurity or MBA: How To Decide
Knowing more about the differences between these degrees can help point you in the right direction. Here are some other things to keep in mind to help you decide.
Determine Your Career Path
This is the most essential thing to ask yourself when choosing your master's degree is, ''What career path do you want to follow?''
MBA degrees tend to be flexible, so if you're not certain you want to stay exclusively in cybersecurity, that could be a better choice. However, if you know you want to advance in cybersecurity, that may be the better option.
Decide If You're Ready for a Career Change
If you're pursuing a master's degree, you are probably looking to advance your career or make a career change. This is something you must be sure you're ready to take on.
If you are pursuing roles that differ from your current position, it may be hard to decide. Consider the long-term impact of the career change you want to make so you choose the right degree.
Consider the Program Length
Different programs may be more or less appealing depending on how much time you would like to invest in your education. Most master's degrees take about two years of full-time study; however, some institutions offer accelerated programs.
Speak With an Academic Advisor
Speaking with an academic advisor is essential when determining your master's degree. They have years of experience helping students make these decisions. They can help you organize your career plans, provide program options that fit your interests, and ultimately help you make the best choice.
FAQs About a Master's in Cybersecurity vs. MBA
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the differences between a master's in cybersecurity and an MBA.
Is an MS in Cybersecurity or an MBA Better for Career Advancement in the Tech Industry?
Both an MS in cybersecurity and an MBA can be good for career advancement in the tech industry. One or the other may be better depending on the types of roles you are interested in pursuing.
An MS in cybersecurity has more of a focus on technical skills and tactical components of working in cybersecurity. An MBA has more of a focus on leadership and team and resource management. Both can be useful in the tech industry in their own ways.
Is a Master's in Cybersecurity Worth It?
Earning a master's degree can help set you apart from others in the job market, as only 13% of the population have earned a master's degree.
According to research, earning a master's degree can increase earning potential. Looking at it with these statistics in mind, completing a master's in cybersecurity can be worth it.
Learn More: Is a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity Worth It?
What Can I Do With an MBA With a Concentration in Cybersecurity?
There are many different jobs you can pursue with an MBA, and with a concentration in cybersecurity, you will likely be more appealing to employers in the tech world. Often, graduates with an MBA have an advantage in management and leadership roles as these are some of the key focuses of an MBA.
What Are the Advantages of an MS in Cybersecurity vs. an MBA for a Career in Information Security?
An MS in cybersecurity has more of an advantage for technical roles that require direct skills in cybersecurity. On the other hand, an MBA has more of an advantage for leadership and managerial positions rather than technical ones.