Cyber security professionals protect digital systems such as networks, data, and hardware from digital attacks. Cyber security certificates allow you to quickly meet businesses’ demand for secure digital systems. You can now get a cyber security college certificate at the undergraduate or graduate level.
This article will delve into various aspects of cyber security certificates including where you can get them, what courses you will study, and how long cyber security certificate programs to complete. We shall be looking at what cyber security jobs are available and other professional avenues students can pursue.
What Is a Cyber Security Certificate College Program?
A cyber security certificate college program teaches technical skills to protect digital systems against cyber and other digital threats. Although several individual introductory cyber security courses for beginners exist, cyber security certificate programs address more topics in depth.
What’s the Difference Between a College Cyber Security Certificate and Professional Certification in Cyber Security?
The difference between a college cyber security certificate and a Professional Certification in Cyber Security is that a college certificate is a program covering several courses. Professional certification is an industry-based qualification earned by taking a certification exam.
Cyber Security College Certificate vs Cyber Security Certification: Key Differences
| Cyber Security Certificate | Cyber Security Certification |
|---|---|
| Pursued as a student | Usually pursued by professionals |
| Has no expiration date | Often requires renewal |
| Higher cost due to college-related costs | One-off payment for the exam |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Cyber Security Certificate at College?
It takes about three to four semesters to get a cyber security certificate at college. Students must complete between 12 and 40 credits. Graduate Certificates in Cyber Security could take about a year and a half to complete. Below, we will look at a list of schools offering cyber security certificate programs.
Best Cyber Security Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| American Military University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $285/credit; $250/credit (with military grant) |
| Colorado State University Global | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $350/credit |
| DeVry University | Certificate in Cyber Security | $514/credit hour; $250/credit hour (military tuition rate) |
| Florida International University | Certificate in Cybersecurity Intelligence and Information Policy | $206/credit (in state); $619/credit (out of state) |
| Indiana University Southeast | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $242/credit (in state); $688/credit (out of state) |
| Oregon State University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $549/credit |
| Prince George’s Community College | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $209/credit (in state); $311/credit (out of state) |
| SANS Technology Institute | Certificate in Applied Cybersecurity | $17,875 for the program |
| Thomas Edison State University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $399/credit (in state); $519/credit (out of state) |
| University of Missouri – St. Louis | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $379/credit hour (in state); $1,019/credit hour (out of state) |
Best Undergraduate Cyber Security Certificate Programs: Explained
Due to the high demand for knowledge, skills, and expertise in cyber security, many universities and colleges offer some type of cyber security program. Below we shall assess some of the best undergraduate cyber security certificate programs available across the United States.
Cyber Security College Certificate Program vs Cyber Security Associate Degree
The differences between a cyber security college certificate program and a cyber security associate degree are the time it takes to complete, the curriculum content, the number of credits received, and the employment outcomes. There are many cyber security associate degree programs in which you can enroll. Find out more about a cyber security certificate program vs associate degree below.
- Duration. A certificate program will take about a year or less to complete in most cases, whereas an associate degree is a two-year program.
- Credits. An associate degree program will require you to complete at least 60 credits, while a certificate program will earn you less than 20 credits.
- Curriculum. A certificate covers the foundational elements of cyber security. An associate degree will often have an applied option and broader electives.
- Cost. It costs more to get an associate degree because of the number of courses you must take. Since a certificate program is shorter, it is usually less expensive.
- Income. You will be able to get higher-paying jobs with an associate degree. A certificate does however qualify you for entry-level jobs.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Cyber Security Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate cyber security certificate is worth it. A certificate program gives you a solid foundation to build upon should you choose to pursue higher degrees in a cyber security-related field. You will also be able to get entry-level employment. With a Certificate in Cyber Security, you can begin building your career in the field.
Best Cyber Security Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| The Citadel | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $595/credit hour (in state); $1,020/credit hour (out of state) |
| Colorado State University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $500/credit |
| Fairfield University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $950/credit |
| Georgetown University | Certificate in Cybersecurity Risk Management | $1,527/credit |
| Indiana University, Bloomington | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $721/credit |
| Lamar University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $1,566/3 credits (in state); $2,790/3 credits (out of state) |
| SANS Technology Institute | Certificate in Cyber Defense Operations | $22,000 for the program |
| Stanford University | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $1,352/unit |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Certificate in Cybersecurity Technology | $694/credit |
| University of Missouri – St. Louis | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $522/credit hour (in state); $1,282/credit hour (out of state) |
Best Graduate Cyber Security Certificate Programs Explained
Graduate certificate programs in cyber security are good for those wishing to advance their IT careers with in-demand skills and knowledge. Many universities offer online and in-person certificate programs in cyber security at the graduate level. We shall look at a few below.
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Cyber Security Graduate Certificate Program vs Cyber Security Master’s Degree
Depending on your career goals, you can pursue either a graduate certificate program or a cyber security master’s degree. Program length, certification options, and concentration areas are but some of the differences between the two. We’ve highlighted the differences between a cyber security certificate and a master’s degree below.
- Duration. A graduate certificate can take about four semesters to complete, whereas a master’s degree could take up to four years to complete.
- Certification options. Some certificate programs have partnerships that allow students to receive a certificate and certification at graduation. Master’s degrees tend to not have this benefit.
- Project. Most master’s degree programs require the completion of a capstone project. Certificate programs do not have this requirement.
- Concentration areas. Master’s degree programs often have a wide range of concentrations in particular aspects of cyber security. The limited scope of coursework in a certificate program does not leave much room for specialization.
- Career outcome. Both certificate and master’s programs offer a positive job outlook. With a master’s degree, you are likely to have better job stability and higher income.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Cyber Security Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate cyber security certificate is worth it because it allows you to enhance your knowledge and skills in a rapidly-growing field. Cyber security skills are increasingly becoming a necessity for those working in information technology, whether you are a network security engineer or part of a team of security consultants.
Cyber Security Certificate Program Coursework
Cyber security certificate programs cover a wide range of topics. Each school will have a preferred program outcome and will design its courses to meet these outcomes. Below is a detailed description of courses you may find in your cyber security certificate program.
Introduction to Cyber Security and Digital Crime
This foundational course covers what risks, threats, and dangers are faced by organizations. By securing its information, you will be able to analyze where the areas of vulnerability are and assess the impact this could have on digital assets.
Cyber Security Policies, Programs, and Compliance
This course addresses security policies that govern the standards and best practices of cyber security programs. You will learn to apply frameworks and performance metrics to ensure that there is no abuse of resources and information in the practice of cyber security.
Security Essentials
Security Essentials is designed to teach you how to detect cyber adversaries. Students learn the most effective steps to use in preventing cyber attacks. They also learn how to develop easy-to-understand security measures for organizations that can be implemented and validated.
Advanced Cyber Security
This graduate-level course addresses security risk assessment and management. These topics are weighed concerning secured network protocols, software security issues, disaster recovery, and the legal and ethical elements of cyber security.
Communication Strategy for Information Security Professionals
This graduate-level communications course is geared toward leadership in the cyber security field. You will learn how to communicate in a wide variety of environments using various approaches to effectively plan and implement cyber security awareness campaigns.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Cyber Security Certificate from College?
With a cyber security certificate from college, you can apply for various cyber security-based roles such as a consultant or analyst. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for information security analysts is projected to grow by 33 percent, meaning there will be 16,300 openings for this position each year until 2030.
Cyber security certificate holders can be part of a team of security architects or head an entire department as a chief information security officer. They can also pursue entry-level cyber security certification and become a security specialist.
Best Cyber Security Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Network Administrator | $80,600 |
Best Cyber Security Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
There are many high-paying cyber security jobs you can get without a degree. Although top positions may require a bachelor’s degree, cyber security certificate holders can still expect successful careers. Let’s look at some of the best cyber security jobs and career paths you can get with a certificate in this field.
Should I Also Get a Cyber Security Certification?
Yes, you should also get a cyber security certification. Certification is a beneficial complement to your cyber security certificate and other IT-related degrees you may hold. It usually consists of a single exam and is a pathway to job security in the field. Certification validates not only your knowledge and skills but your understanding of best practices in cyber security.
Best Cyber Security Certifications
- CompTIA Security+. This entry-level certification can be obtained with two years of work experience in IT as a cloud security professional. There aren’t any formal requirements to take this exam, but you will be tested on core security principles. The exam will cost you $370.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). Ethical hacking is the lawful hacking of an organization’s digital security systems to uncover vulnerabilities. The CEH certification is offered by the EC-Council. You can take the official EC-Council training before sitting this exam.
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). A CISM certification is ideal for those seeking advanced managerial roles. You will need at least five years of experience in information security management. It costs $575.
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC). This entry-level security certification is for those with information systems and networking backgrounds. It costs $2,499, which includes two practice tests in addition to the official exam.
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP). IT professionals dealing with organizational security systems can get this advanced certification. You will need at least one year of work experience or a degree in a cyber security-related program. The exam itself will cost you $249.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Cyber Security Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for cyber security is worth it because there are many types of cyber security jobs available a the continuously-expanding field. A Certificate in Cyber Security qualifies you for security program development, asset security, and even offensive security. It is particularly valuable if you already have a degree in an IT-related field or have equivalent work experience.
Cyber Security Certificates FAQ
Typically, certification requires sitting for and passing a certification exam. In cyber security, there are a variety of entry-level and advanced cyber security certifications. Some certification exams require prior relevant work experience.
Although there are several entry-level cyber security certifications, it is recommended that you get the CompTIA Security+ certification. It is considered the best entry-level certification in the industry.
Certification requires sitting for an exam, so getting certified depends on how much education and work experience you have. Applicants must bridge the gap between what they already know and what they may additionally need to learn to be well prepared for the exam.
Yes, a career in cyber security is worth it. If you are interested in how computer networks work, detecting vulnerabilities of digital assets, and developing secured digital systems, you will find this career very fulfilling. If you have a knack for analysis and want experience in auditing systems, this career path could be ideal for you.
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