How to become a qualified cybersecurity professional

Imagine being able to earn good money and rack up professional experience before you’ve completed your college degree. In the cybersecurity field, that’s a perfectly feasible option – especially if you’re able to obtain key certifications used in the industry.

Cybersecurity students at Capitol Tech have the opportunity to take a course early on that prepares them for the CompTIA Security+ certification, regarded widely as the crucial entry-level certification for those going into the field.

The course, titled Comprehensive Computer and Network Security, covers a full range of methods for securing a network – from locking down workstations to segregating networks, filtering traffic, managing firewalls, and hardening endpoints.

“CompTIA Security+ is one of the most sought-after lower-level certifications, and it really opens doors for students,” says Dr. Mary-Margaret Chantré, who teaches the course. “Not only will it give you an edge in landing a job, but you’ll be paid more compared to others who are coming in without the certification.” 

In addition to building their expertise, students gain hands-on experience in the lab that accompanies the course, Chantré says. “That makes students especially appealing to industry. When you walk in the door, not only do you have book smarts and the certification, but you have the practical skills that prepare you for a full spectrum of jobs, from help desk technician to security analyst.”   

Dr. William Butler, chair of the cybersecurity program at Capitol, says it is common for Capitol students to obtain the certification and obtain work opportunities in systems administration or at a security center. “By the time you graduate, you’ll already have work experience, doing many of the same things that college graduates do,” he said.

Comprehensive Computer and Network Security is only the first of several courses at Capitol that are mapped to industry certifications. Students can go on to prepare for certifications in forensics, certified ethical hacking and Linux Plus, and ultimately go for the industry gold standard – status as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).  In the process, they will open up ever-wider employment opportunities.

“Stackable credentials, which you earn as you go, are important now, and our program gives you the opportunity to build those credentials. By the time you’ve completed the program, you have certifications, you have the degree, and you have employment experience. That’s a hard combination to beat!”

Chantré agrees. “With a degree from Capitol Technology University plus the certification and the hands-on experience, there are no limits to where you can go.” 

Join the ranks of qualified cybersecurity professionals and earn a degree from Capitol Technology University. For more information, contact admissions@CapTechU.