How to Get Into Cyber Security

By DeVry University

January 10, 2024
5 min read

In our interconnected world, cyber security is extremely important. It's no surprise that many people are exploring how to get into cyber security or reroute their current career path. Luckily, there are several options. 

At DeVry University, we offer an Undergraduate Certificate in Cyber Security as well as a variety of other technology-focused degree programs to help you start building your career. 

In this article, you'll learn some key elements of what you need to know about this rapidly expanding profession as we explore the following topics:

Cyber security is a discipline within the technology field that involves data, networks, computer systems and information security. The goal of cyber security professionals is to keep these digital spaces safe from cyberattacks and other breaches.

These days, everyone needs to have a basic understanding of how to protect their information online. In fact, the very act of keeping secure passwords for your accounts on the internet is an act of cyber security.

Of course, professional-level cyber security is far more complex than just installing antivirus software on a home computer. People who work in this field engage in a variety of practices that help keep data safe, from establishing and setting up best practices for a company, to simulating a hacking attempt to discover a system’s weak points.

While some candidates may already have a background in IT or network management, you don't necessarily need to be a tech pro to work in this field.

Pursuing an education in cyber security before applying for jobs in the field might help you prepare to make the transition. Earning a degree or certificate in cyber security can help demonstrate to future employers that you have learned vital skills related to this industry.

At DeVry, we offer an Undergraduate Certificate in Cyber Security, an Associate Degree in Cybersecurity and Networking, and a Bachelor’s Degree Specialization in Cyber Security Programming that can help you build skills focused on keeping data and customers safe from digital attacks.

In addition to a certificate or degree, the following industry certifications may also help you stand out while pursuing a career in cyber security:

By combining one or more of these industry certifications with an undergraduate certificate or degree, you may be able to distinguish yourself from other candidates when seeking a job.

Because there are so many different paths and specialties within the cyber security field, there’s no specific amount of time it would take to earn a degree. But in general, most positions within this industry usually require at least a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degree programs take roughly four years to complete. At DeVry, our Bachelor's Degree Specialization in Cyber Security Programming can be completed in as little as 2 years and 8 months¹.

Programming language requirements may be different between jobs, and some jobs may look for candidates who know certain programming languages over others. However, there are some languages that are worth knowing no matter where you wish to work:

As the world becomes more reliant on web services and digital assets, cyber security becomes more important. Thanks to the expansion of technology across nearly every industry, there are a variety of different specialties and disciplines that offer distinct career paths within the cyber security sector².

¹ Not including breaks. Assumes year-round, full-time enrollment.
²US Bureau of Labor Statistics - Information Security Analysts. Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location.
³At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied.