Cybersecurity courses are in high demand as more jobs in the cybersecurity sector appear. With increased threats such as data breaches and ransomware, big and small companies are investing in cybersecurity solutions and looking for experts who can help protect their businesses.
It isn’t just computer science graduates who can get a job in the ever-growing cybersecurity industry. Anyone with a keen interest in the field can take a popular cybersecurity course and gain the knowledge and qualifications necessary to be a successful candidate.
The most popular cybersecurity courses don’t only prepare potential job candidates for essential roles; they also equip regular internet users with the necessary tools and know-how to decide whether or not a job in cybersecurity is for them. Here are the cybersecurity certifications companies want and the most popular cybersecurity courses that offer them.
Most in-demand cybersecurity jobs
The online world is continually changing, meaning cybersecurity job openings are increasing. Below are some of the most in-demand cybersecurity jobs, many of which require specific cybersecurity course certifications:
- Security administrator
- Security analyst
- Security auditor
- Security consultant
- Security engineer
- Security software developer
- Cryptographer
- Forensics expert
- Incident responder
- Vulnerability assessor
All of the above roles will require certain skills and certifications, which is why enrolling in a cybersecurity course is a good idea. You have a much better chance of getting one of the job roles above if you have studied for and completed a cybersecurity course.
Most popular cybersecurity courses
When browsing cybersecurity job listings, you’ll most likely come across the courses listed below. Fortunately, various online and offline schools offer these popular cybersecurity courses.
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The most popular cybersecurity course is the CISSP, which is highly sought after by employers. In fact, all top cybersecurity jobs require this certification, and you’ll often find it listed on job ads. This course demonstrates your knowledge of IT security and shows that you can design and manage a cybersecurity program.
2. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP)
This is a desirable cybersecurity course to enroll in if you want to work as a security administrator, security consultant, or security engineer. CASP is ideal for individuals who wish to create cybersecurity solutions for companies. This qualification shows a job candidate’s ability to analyze risk while implementing solutions.
3. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Completing a CISA course is necessary for would-be security auditors and demonstrates that a candidate has sufficient experience working in the cybersecurity field. Moreover, the CISA shows that individuals can assess security risks, audit systems, and adapt to new security threats.
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
If you’re more interested in the management side of cybersecurity, then CISM is a good cybersecurity course to do. The CISA reflects your proficiency in many management areas such as incident and risk management. However, individuals will already need some IT security experience to get this certification.
5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Security breaches are on the rise, and companies need to find solutions to stop hackers from infiltrating their networks. The CEH is a unique cybersecurity course as it teaches you to think like a hacker. With this certification, you can easily find work for companies, detecting vulnerabilities on their network.
6. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
The GCIH certificate from GIAC is an excellent course if you’re looking for a security administrator or incident responder role. With the GCIH, candidates show their ability to detect and respond to security threats and attacks appropriately.
7. Security+ (Plus)
The Security+ (Plus) certification is an entry-level cybersecurity course that provides candidates with the essential knowledge and practical skills to resolve IT security issues. While Security+ is marketed as a baseline certificate, it is best suited to people who already have a couple of years of IT experience.
8. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
For security administrators and analyst positions, having an SSCP qualification is a must. Completing an SSCP course enables you to design and implement a safe and secure IT infrastructure, as well as be able to respond to incidents and work directly with a company’s security system.
9. Computer Science Degree
All of the above courses are appropriate for IT professionals who want to move up the career ladder in the cybersecurity sector. However, without a computer science degree or relevant work experience, it is hard to get into the industry in the first place. Therefore, one of the most popular cybersecurity courses is a computer science degree since it opens up many opportunities in the IT security industry.
Read more about Computer Science Degree →
Choosing the right cybersecurity course
With many cybersecurity course options, it isn’t always easy to choose the right one. Certain job roles accept a few security qualifications, meaning you have can choose a course based on other factors:
- Job requirements: This is arguably the most important factor to think about when choosing a cybersecurity course. Which course does your dream job require?
- Online or in-person course: If you have a busy schedule, an online course might be better for you.
- Duration of the course: The length of a course may be a decisive factor if you don’t have a lot of time to spare for studying.
- Cost: Some courses are more expensive than others, so if you can find a cheaper qualification that gives you a similar set of skills, this may be better.
Do you need to do a cybersecurity course?
So, is a cybersecurity course necessary to get a job? If you want to work in IT security solutions, then yes. The most popular cybersecurity courses offer theoretical and practical knowledge to equip people with everything they need for most cybersecurity jobs.
If you already have a job in cybersecurity, it is still a good idea to enroll on courses every few years to keep your skills up-to-date and ensure you stay on top of the latest security developments.
Hi, I'm Madeleine. I'm a British writer with a global background, currently based in the UK.
I have always been interested in the online world and how it connects people worldwide. My keen interest in the internet led me to ...
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