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Computers & Information Technology
Cybersecurity Specialist


Outlook & Growth
This career is expected to grow 27 percent—faster than average—through 2016. An increase in computer security jobs is expected as technology continues to advance and become more affordable. More businesses will add computers and will need specialists to make their networks secure.
In addition, use of the Internet by businesses should increase the demand for computer security specialists. Some specialists will work inside consulting firms dedicated exclusively to computer security issues.

Salary & Wages
Those in executive roles—with titles such as chief information security officer, chief security officer or security manager—earned $106,326 on average. Those in more technical roles (security engineer, security penetration tester or web security manager) earned an average of $75,275.

What is a Cybersecurity Specialist?
Computer security specialists work with companies to build secure computer systems. They question managers and staff about their current security methods. They find out what information the company wants to protect. Specialists also learn what information employees should be able to access. Computer security specialists use their findings to plan the security system. They regularly train staff on how to use security software and properly use computers to prevent any problems.
Some computer security specialists write rules and procedures for employees to follow. In some companies, specialists coordinate security for vendors and customers in addition to employees. Specialists evaluate security breaks and determine if there are problems or errors. If there is a problem, specialists track where the break came from and shut off the access point.
Education & Degree Path
There are many ways to become a computer security specialist. Many employers prefer to hire people with some formal college education. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems is excellent preparation for this occupation. Another route is to major in your area of interest and minor in computer science.
Bachelor’s degrees in computer security—also called information assurance—are available online.
An important part of preparing for this field is learning the latest technology. Some people learn through classes and others teach themselves.
Certification: As with other computer specialties, you can receive certification in certain products or groups of products, which can increase your appeal to employers.
Entering the Field: Many security specialists learn their skills on the job. They are paired with an experienced specialist who teaches them the job. This type of training can take between one and two years. The military has become a leading trainer in this specialty area. If you have skills and employment in any technical aspect of computers—repair, database and office systems—you can retrain to specialize in cybersecurity.
Career Changers: Many enter this field after working at a related computer specialty, such as programming or web mastering or network administration. You can re-tool quickly by earning a certificate or taking courses in cybersecurity or information assurance.

Find online degrees for Computers and IT now. >>

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Source for salary and growth data via The SANS 2005 Information Security Salary and Career Advancement Survey and Minnesota’s state iSeek site for career seekers. For more information on careers in cybersecurity, salaries, and job prospects visit: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Computer Support Specialists and System Administrators at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos268.htm and U.S. Department of Labor, Career Guide to Industries, Computer Systems Design and Related Services, http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/CGS033.htm.
 
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