Degree vs. certification in the late career: Cybersecurity analyst

Introduction

Being a late-career cybersecurity analyst puts you in an elite category of this job role. Those in the late stage of their career make up only 3.8% of all cybersecurity analysts, and they can expect around a 36% increase in pay (equaling around $102,000). For many interested in being a cybersecurity analyst, this is as good as it gets. 

The question remains: is getting a degree or a certification better for getting to this career pinnacle? This article will detail the different degrees and certifications useful for late-career cybersecurity analysts and will wrap up with some tips for how to get to the top of this career mountain.

What is a cybersecurity analyst?

Cybersecurity analysts play a pivotal role for organizations in that this role combines many information security skill sets and responsibilities into one well-rounded package. This role has the goal of developing stronger information security by analyzing and assessing weaknesses and vulnerabilities within an organization’s IT environment — from hardware to software, networks and potentially even devices if needed. Cybersecurity analysts conduct risk analyses, perform vulnerability management activities and use network visibility of networks to identify potential attacks. 

As you can see, it takes more than a baseline level of skill to successfully perform this role. Those in the late stage of their careers may find that their wealth of skills and knowledge will be tested more than those with less experience in this role as they are more likely to take leadership roles in their department or team.

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Degrees for late-career cybersecurity analysts

While earning a degree probably occurred years if not decades ago for those in the late stage of their career, it can still be important. This arguably comes up the most when these seasoned cybersecurity analysts apply for new jobs (Read more...)