Are you a tech-savvy student seeking a great career? It’s worth exploring what subjects you’ll study in an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree program. This degree path could be an important stepping stone to a high-paying career that offers plenty of opportunity for growth.
Core Courses in Cybercrime
Much of what you study in an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree program involves core courses in information technology (IT). U.S. News & World Report says some of the most important coursess are:
- information security
- cybercrime law
- ethics
It’s also common for students to take classes such as:
- the foundations of cyber security
- cybercrime investigations
- network forensics
- network security management
- mobile forensics
- digital evidence analysis
- cloud computing and virtualization
- foundations of information system security
- enterprise risk management
- security administration
- security quality management
- the threat of terrorism
- crime and security policies and procedures
To develop a well-rounded IT background, you’ll also take more general computer classes such as:
- concepts and applications of information technology
- introduction to data communication and networking
- information systems and project management
- computer systems technology
- computer architecture
- introduction to C++ programming
In addition to these core computer courses, aspiring cyber security experts should have a strong business and mathematics background. You may take classes such as discrete mathematics. You might take some business classes like communication in business and strategies in marketing management.
Cyber Security Specializations and Concentrations
Depending on the school you choose, there’s a good chance that part of what you study in an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree program will include specialized courses. Many online undergraduate cyber security programs offer you the opportunity to choose an academic concentration. Some popular concentrations include:
- cybercrime investigations and forensics
- information assurance
- network security
- wireless and mobile security
- management information systems and business analytics
- government contact management
- information management
- international business
- math modeling and healthcare information and assurance
Pursuing an in-demand specialty can help you develop expertise in a niche subject area that will appeal to prospective employers.
Gaining Real-World Experience in IT
Not all of what you study in an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree program will take place inside the virtual classroom. Having hands-on work experience is valuable, particularly when you start looking for a cyber security job. Some programs encourage or even require students to complete an internship before graduating.
With job opportunities rapidly increasing and average salaries well above that of other IT professionals, it’s no wonder online students are interested in preparing for a cyber security career. Whatever you study in an online bachelor’s in cyber security degree program, you should equip yourself with the skills to keep an organization’s digital information private and protected from virtual threats that have real-world consequences.
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