Is Investing In Cybersecurity Certifications Worth It?
By Tom Seest
Are Cybersecurity Certifications Worth the Investment?
At BestCybersecurityNews, we help entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, young learners, and seniors learn more about cybersecurity.
If you’re seeking to begin a new career or advance within your current role, earning a cybersecurity certification can offer numerous advantages. These include access to an expansive job market, competitive pay rates, ongoing learning opportunities and mobility.
Depending on your objectives, you have the option to pursue either a certificate or degree program. Research each option thoroughly and decide which option is most beneficial for you.
Are Cybersecurity Certifications Worth the Investment?
Table Of Contents
Can Cybersecurity Certifications Get You a Job?
No matter your experience level in cybersecurity, having a certification can be an asset to your career. However, it’s essential to remember that certifications aren’t the only requirement for landing a cybersecurity job.
Starting a cybersecurity career without a degree is possible, and one of the best ways to gain practical experience. This can be accomplished through entry-level jobs in information security or even full-time employment as an analyst or engineer in this field.
Thus, you can build your resume with relevant work experience and increase your credentials as you advance. You can find cybersecurity jobs through job boards and company websites, as well as using social media platforms like LinkedIn to promote yourself.
Cybersecurity is an ever-expanding field, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects computer and information technology jobs to grow at a rate of 13% by 2030 – far faster than the overall occupation average of 13%.
This means there are numerous cybersecurity jobs available in both private and public sectors. If you’re successful in securing a position within this field, you’ll enjoy steady pay and many advancement opportunities.
If you’re interested in a job in cybersecurity but lack the time or funds for a college education, an online certificate program might be your perfect solution. These typically short and affordable programs will give you a head start while building your career.
Another option is to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science with an emphasis on information technology. You’ll need a strong background in math, computer programming, and data analysis, as well as some expertise in networking and other IT-related fields.
Finally, you can obtain a certification in digital forensics. These can be beneficial in protecting your personal data and helping you get the security clearance necessary for government employment.
Earning a certification in cybersecurity can give you an edge during interviews and make you more attractive to employers, who might offer certified candidates an $18,000 salary boost.
Can Cybersecurity Certifications Get You a Job?
How Can Cybersecurity Certifications Advance Your Career?
A cybersecurity certification can be a great asset to your career in the information technology sector. Although it’s time-consuming and costly, having the correct certification can help you progress in your current role or transition into another one.
In today’s fast-paced environment, staying ahead of your game is essential. That is why many employers encourage their employees to pursue certifications and recertify regularly – this helps them keep their systems secure while still having a competitive edge.
Certifications may be an expensive and time-consuming undertaking, but they’re also a great way to establish credibility in the industry and show your expertise. Furthermore, certifications could potentially open doors for better jobs or increased pay in the future.
As you consider becoming certified in cybersecurity, take into account what areas of the field most interest you. You may want to pursue a general certification like (ISC)2’s CISSP or something more specialized like CISA or CCSP from ISC2.
If you have experience in the security industry, obtaining your first cybersecurity credential could be easier. An entry-level certificate such as the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate could prepare you for an in-demand cybersecurity role and build your skills within six months.
For IT professionals with more experience, earning a higher-level cybersecurity certification can give you an edge when seeking your next move or improving pay. (ISC)2’s CISSP certification is one of the most coveted security credentials available and may lead to advancement opportunities – especially if you want to move into an executive or management role.
Certification from ISC2’s CCSP program can enhance your expertise in cloud architecture, design operations and service orchestration. This highly sought-after skill set may earn you up to a $15,025 salary premium over non-certified individuals according to Forbes 2020.
Another option is earning the CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+). This certification marks a step up from lower-end CompTIA credentials such as Security+ and Network+, which are targeted towards beginners. Earning this credential requires ten years of IT administration experience with at least half of that in an IT security role.
How Can Cybersecurity Certifications Advance Your Career?
Can Cybersecurity Certifications Increase Your Earnings?
Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving industry with numerous career options. Plus, it’s one of the few industries where you can significantly boost your earnings with just a certification!
When selecting a cybersecurity certificate, it’s essential to determine your individual needs. Based on your level of cybersecurity experience and desired job title, you should determine what certification best fits your situation.
Once you know which cybersecurity credentials are most relevant to your career objectives, it’s time to take action. You can opt for an online program, study independently or enroll in a course at a nearby college.
To maximize the benefits of your certification, find a program that fits within your schedule and budget. While you must commit some time to study, you’ll have access to on-demand courses and other supplementary learning materials – making it not an insurmountable task to make the effort.
Aside from the certification fee itself, you may need to invest in a test prep course or other expenses. Some companies even provide free certification prep so it’s worth exploring your options before making your final decision.
Some of the most valuable cybersecurity certifications require extensive work experience. For instance, (ISC)2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional requires at least five years of paid cybersecurity experience before you can sit for the exam; however, if you possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, then this requirement can be waived.
Likewise, the CompTIA Network+ certification is a globally recognized indicator that employers recognize your skills in managing networks. While more expensive than other entry-level credentials, this certification will ultimately pay for itself by increasing your earnings and positioning you as an expert in your field.
Can Cybersecurity Certifications Increase Your Earnings?
What Skills Can Cybersecurity Certifications Teach You?
Cybersecurity is a rapidly developing field, and employers are searching for qualified experts who can protect data. Certifications are an ideal way to acquire the necessary abilities to succeed in this challenging career.
According to a study by CompTIA, 91% of hiring managers require certification as part of the job application process. Furthermore, those with cybersecurity credentials are more likely to get promoted and earn higher wages.
Entry-level certifications for beginners and mid-level professionals alike, as well as advanced credentials are available. Some courses are self-paced while others require live sessions for guidance. The best way to determine which cybersecurity certification is right for you depends on your current skill set, interests and career objectives.
Your certification will demonstrate to employers that you possess a deep-seated understanding of cybersecurity and are ready to tackle new challenges. You may even decide to specialize in one area within the field, which is another reason why certifications are beneficial.
Some of the more esteemed cybersecurity credentials, such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, are designed for professionals seeking to progress in their careers. If you’re interested in managing or leading other cybersecurity teams, this certification could be ideal for you.
However, you’ll need plenty of experience to earn a CISSP credential. Many cybersecurity professionals opt to work at an IT company or another security-related role before taking on the challenge of earning their CISSP credentials, according to Hendrickson. Doing this will guarantee you have sufficient preparation and meet the experience requirement needed to pass the exam successfully, she adds.
It may also be beneficial to investigate other certifications, such as those offered by CompTIA and organizations like EC-Council or ISACA. These organizations offer prep courses and practice exams for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
Women working in technology often benefit from earning a cybersecurity credential. Not only does it make you stand out from other job applicants and boost your salary, but it also gives you the assurance and skillset needed for success in your career; plus, it may open up new doors for you.
What Skills Can Cybersecurity Certifications Teach You?
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