Frequently asked questions
Most frequent questions and answers
Why Cybersecurity?
In the last six years, cybersecurity jobs have seen a 94% increase. If you are interested in a career that is constantly evolving and changing, this is the time to start a career as a cybersecurity professional. Cybersecurity is a fast-growing industry that offers many career opportunities. Cyberseek estimates that there are nearly 500,000 job opportunities. For example, the Tampa / St.Petersburg/ Clearwater job market has over 6,000 open positions. These numbers indicate that cybersecurity professionals must always be in demand.
Degree vs Certifications
While a certificate is cheaper than a degree in cybersecurity, it takes longer and costs more. Although the degree gives you a broad understanding that can be used in many industries, it does not have as many hands-on skills.
A certification shows that you are able to demonstrate the skills employers require. Also, there is a legal requirement (see above). According to Information Week’s Dark Reading salary survey, 70% said that certifications are the most important training for their careers. Only 10% said they had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.
How Much Can I Make In A Cybersecurity Career?
The average salary of cybersecurity professionals in the United States was $112,974 on February 20, 2021. The average cybersecurity salary is between $65,000 (25th%) to $145,000. (75th%) Entry-level positions have lower salaries, but offer great opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility.
How can I get trained in just five weeks?
Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association are globally respected industry leaders. The Cyber Security IT Pro program curriculum and hands on labs were developed by Microsoft and CompTIA and is designed to be able to be completed in five weeks (or ten weeks if you choose evening classes).
How Can I Get Hired in Cybersecurity Even Without a Degree?
CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ are the most crucial certifications you’ll need if cybersecurity is your first topic. This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570. It has been technically updated to DOD-8140. However, it still uses the DOD-8570 chart. The document states that you need to have at least one certification if you are in a job that could expose you to sensitive data. Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+. Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification. These certifications are highly desirable and will help you to be placed.
What's next if I want to get started?
Are you unemployed? If so, you may be eligible for a WIOA Grant that could pay for your training and job placement assistance (yes, that means it might be free if you qualify!) Call today or make an appointment for us to call you.