Cybersecurity is the act of protecting assets such as people, networks, systems and data. However, it's not to be confused with the 'cybersecurity industry' whose main responsibly is to enable the 'cybersecurity workforce'.
The workforce is responsible for the defending the above mentioned assets against attacks that come in many forms from cyber, physical, insider, unknown, and beyond.
There are many training options to begin your career in cybersecurity and various pathways. You can begin with the traditional or non-traditional or with technical or non-technical.
The traditional pathway usually starts with a 1-3 year program at a college or university. A non-traditional pathway can begin immediately, be self-paced, and completed part-time on your schedule.
Starting cybersecurity doesn't have to be expensive. If you're a woman or part of a marginalized group, there are many types of funding and scholarships available.
The cybersecurity industry is the fastest moving industry on earth. Degrees are good to have, but not necessary to enter the cybersecurity field. There are many full and part-time programs that can help get you started. Check out our digital learning platforms that provide 24/7 access from the comfort of your home to learn at your pace.
Simple, no. You can begin your career starting in other areas. Programming and secure coding is only one area in the industry. There are non-technical and technical pathways in networking, systems engineering, and more.
However, if you're interested in learning about programming, you can check out Code Academy, DataCamp or OWASP which provide training and resources to learn more about secure programming and coding.
No, certifications are not necessary. However, they can demonstrate you have a certain level of knowledge which can elevate your status when applying for jobs. Some employers give a lot of weight to certs while others understand experience is far more valuable than a 'piece of paper'. Others say, certifications only prove you know how to pass an exam. With so many one week bootcamps providing certifications, it's easy to see why experienced industry players don't always see their value. Especially when they come with high price tags!
Salaries range between countries and industries. The figures below are based on local market research from October 2020 across Canada and the United States.
Junior (1-5 yrs)
$70,000 & up
Intermediate (6-10yrs)
$100,000 & up
Senior (10+ yrs)
$120,000 & up
There are different scholarships available to a variety of groups globally with different needs. Some are for people with disabilities, indigenous, women, single moms, dads, institution based, and many more. Types include monetary and in-kind for things like training, housing, living expenses, travel, conference attendance, certifications and more.
Below are a few of the available types of training scholarships here in Canada and around the globe:
Check out these other online resources for more information:
An academic background isn't required when it comes to transitioning to the digital forensic field.
I like what you're doing now by reaching out to the network and conducting initial research. You're on the right path!
However, before you invest your time and a lot of money enrolling in expensive programs, check out all the low cost and free training already available.
Edx.org is one source for available courses which can be taken for free in Audit Mode or fee-based to receive a Verified Certificate once you complete the course.
Also, check out our 24/7 online digital learning platform which grants unlimited access across all security domains including forensics to make the most of your learning options.
The Women CyberSecurity Society fosters meaningful and safe spaces for online and local events to members of the community. Please review our Code of Conduct and abide by the rules when interacting with our members, visitors and attendees during events at all times. Violations may result in being banned from events and or removal of your membership privileges.
Thank you for respecting our community!