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Cyber security degree and training programs train students to prevent cyber crimes and enforce various laws after illegal online activity. Students who successfully complete a cyber security course program have advanced skills and knowledge in the areas of Internet surveillance, network security, digital forensics, and cyber security policy.
Cyber Security Degree Programs
Many online and offline educational institutions offer bachelor's degrees in cyber security, as well as master's programs and certificates. Some of the most commonly available programs at accredited colleges and universities around the United States include:
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Bachelor's Degree in Cyber Security
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Master's Degree in Cyber Security
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Master's Degree in Cyber Security Policy
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Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security Technology
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Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security Policy
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Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Cybersecurity
Some colleges and universities that offer these training programs also offer a graduate degree in information technology with a specialization in information security or information assurance. Students may also have the option to complete a cyber security degree at the bachelor's level, or a master in cyber security online.
Types of Cyber Security Courses
A cyber security course provides specialized training in the field of cyber protection and database security, and many programs include a variety of different courses in areas of information architecture, network security and the legal system. In addition to a basic or introductory course, students may be required to take the following types of cyber security courses during their training:
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Introduction to Computer-Based Systems
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Contemporary Moral Issues
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Problem Solving and Algorithm Design
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Introduction to Criminal Justice
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Information Literacy and Research Methods
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Information Systems Architecture
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Information Systems in Organizations
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Computer Forensics
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Information Security Needs Assessment and Planning
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Cyber Crime and Cyber Terrorism
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Infrastructure Security Issues
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Foundations of Forensics Psychology
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Psychology of Criminal Behavior
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Cryptopgraphy Fundamentals
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Cyber Crime Criminalistics
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Hacker Techniques
Degrees in Cyber Security
Many colleges and universities offer several degrees in cyber security. Completing a bachelor's degree may help graduates find an entry-level or assistant position immediately after graduation. A master in cyber security opens up more career options, including management or supervisory positions, and training positions.
Some of the key skills learned when completing these degrees include:
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Protecting sensitive information
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Cyber security best practices
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Risk management
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Implementing security solutions
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Risk and vulnerability assessments
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Cyber crime investigation
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Operations recovery protocol
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Short- and long-term organizational cyber security strategy planning
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Detecting risks and threats
Advanced Skills Learned with Cyber Security Training
Programs train students to perform a number of advanced tasks. In addition to collecting data and evidence to prove a cyber crime, a cyber security specialist or analyst may be involved with the following:
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Maintaining and monitoring an organization's information database
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Installing different types of security software
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Monitoring an organization's computer networks for a security breach
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Detecting and diagnosing security problems
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Responding to a cyber attack
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Prosecuting cyber crimes
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Educating users about safe computer, Internet and network practices
Getting a Masters Degree
If you are interested in completing a master in cyber security, you will need to take several advanced courses and complete a rigorous training program. A cyber security master's degree program is typically comprised of the following courses and training requirements:
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Intrusion Detection Systems
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Hardening the Operating System
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Cryptography
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Math for Security Professionals
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Viral Activity and Malware
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Cyber Terrorism
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Cyber Law and Research Methods
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Network Traffic Analysis
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Secure Transmission Systems
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Firewalls, Proxies, and Bastion Hosts
Career Outlook with a Cyber Security Degree
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for cyber security professionals and analysts will continue to remain strong as cyber attacks become more sophisticated in the oncoming years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that as of May 2008, the median annual wages of network and computer systems administrators were $66,310 and median annual wages of network systems and data communication analysts were $71,100 in that same year.
Career options include:
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Computer Systems Administrator or Analyst
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Network Designer
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Data Communications Analyst
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Information Technology Manager
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Cyber Security Specialist
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Antivirus Software Manager
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