Last updated on September 26, 2019
In today’s society, it’s convenient to have technology at your fingertips; however, our interconnected world makes us more prone to cybercrime. Cyber security risks are everywhere and are unpredictable. Get ahead of cybercrime and study Cyber Security at Dallas Community Colleges. Are you a problem-solver with a mind for details? Or do you want to improve your computer skills and open doors to other career possibilities? Here is what you need to know if this career sounds like you.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber security and digital forensics is the study of gathering, preserving and analyzing the data found in digital devices. It is often used in relation to solving cybercrime and describes a chain-of-evidence process to gather electronic data in a way that can be used in a court of law. With new digital devices coming into our lives daily, it’s important to properly train individuals on how to protect electronic data and prevent, investigate and solve cybercrimes.
What Will My Job Look Like?
Every company is different and will tailor your job responsibilities to their needs, but here are a few examples of possible job duties.
- Prepare reports that document security breaches and the extent of the damage caused by the breaches.
- Monitor an organization’s networks for security breaches and investigate a violation when one occurs.
- Develop security standards and best practices for an organization.
Is a Cyber Security Degree Worth It?
In order to move up in your career, you may need to earn a bachelor’s degree in cyber security. Starting with an associate degree or certificate will give you a glimpse into what this field looks like and what it is like to be in this job day-to-day. Check out these five facts about cyber security degree or certificate.
1. Cyber security jobs are on the rise. Did you know that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of cyber security jobs will increase by 28 percent through 2026? That’s much faster than the average for all occupations.
2. Cyber security professionals are in demand in all job fields. Technology surrounds us, therefore, nearly every company has a need for some level of cyber security. Think about it — more than likely you protect your own devices and computers from hackers and other threats. It is no different in the business world.
3. Qualified cyber security professionals are hard to find. Believe it or not, it can be hard to find qualified cyber security professionals to fill job vacancies.
4. Cyber security job opportunities increase with education level. Starting with an associate degree of certificate gets you on the right track, and then you can easily transfer to the college or university of your choice to complete a bachelor’s degree.
5. The cyber security field has room for career advancement. There are lots of job opportunities that will be available to you as you gain more experience. Cybersecurity experts are employed by attorneys, private investigators, businesses, government agencies, law enforcement agencies and a variety of other businesses. Some of these jobs include:
- Computer forensics analyst
- Digital forensics security consultant
- Technology risk management professional
What Degrees and Certificates Are Available in Cyber Security?
We have degrees and certificates that fit your schedule. The degrees and certificates listed below are only offered at Richland College but you can take your basic, core curriculum courses at any of the seven colleges of DCCCD.
- Cyber Security Associate of Applied Science degree. Learn about the information security world with an emphasis in cyber security and digital forensics. Can be completed in two years if you are a full-time student.
- Digital Forensic Analyst Advanced Technical Certificate. This certificate will provide you the opportunity to advance your knowledge and skills about digital evidence related to criminal or civil investigation. You can complete the certificate in two semesters.
What If I Want to Transfer to a University?
If you want to transfer to a university, you’ve come to the right place! Dallas Community Colleges can help you transfer to a four-year institution with ease. Visit our Transfer Services website for more information about the transfer process and to learn about transfer scholarships.
Ready to Get Started?
If you are ready to get started in the cyber security field, we can help! The first step is to complete admissions process and meet with a CTE/STEM advisor at Richland College.
You can also check out all of our technology and data systems programs on the Dallas Community Colleges website.
While you’re here, you should consider checking out our previous programs of the month.