The Student Room Group

35 and decided to go back to uni but i dont know which degree to choose

So, i work within cybersecurity for the past couple of years. My bachelor was in sociology, and i have an MSc in cybersecurity from abroad. Ive noticed that even though ive been working in cybersec for a few years now, i find it very difficult to find a new, better job. Some recruiters have told me its cause of my bachelors. I would like to work in cyber intelligence, im currently in incident response. Ive made some applications to some unis, but im unsure what would be the best choice. I was accepted in a top up computer science BSc 1 yr long in a rather small uk uni, i got into Kings intelligence and security MSc, and Middlesex MSc in digital forensics. Would the 1yr bachelor help more than an MSc or is the name of the uni more important? My friends get a lot more interviews than me, and i feel my cv is 'lacking' in degrees but im unsure what type.
(edited 1 year ago)
@ali3n
There is nothing inherently wrong with a Sociology degree, I did mine ten years ago and got a 1st, and have worked happily in Education ever since. It sounds like there might be stronger candidates for some of the positions because their degree was more in line with the computers/cyber security/digital theme of the roles you have applied for. When you say your MSc is from 'abroad' where did you do the qualification?

Marc
Arden University Student Ambassador
I loved my sociology degree, but it doesnt help me with cybersecurity. Even though i know cybersec, the jobs are still given to those with the typical degrees. And im not sure how to cover that void. I did my Msc in Romania, none really pays attention to balkan unis.
Original post by ali3n
I loved my sociology degree, but it doesnt help me with cybersecurity. Even though i know cybersec, the jobs are still given to those with the typical degrees. And im not sure how to cover that void. I did my Msc in Romania, none really pays attention to balkan unis.


Have you considered doing professional cybersecurity certifications instead of a degree? They tend to be more recognised, up to date, and more appreciated than degrees in the IT industry.

See the following:
https://www.coursera.org/articles/popular-cybersecurity-certifications
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_computer_security_certifications
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/cyber-security-certifications
https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10708-information-security-certifications.html
Original post by MindMax2000
Have you considered doing professional cybersecurity certifications instead of a degree? They tend to be more recognised, up to date, and more appreciated than degrees in the IT industry.

See the following:
https://www.coursera.org/articles/popular-cybersecurity-certifications
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_computer_security_certifications
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/cyber-security-certifications
https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10708-information-security-certifications.html


Ive thought about it, but im in general quite confused, because i get different views from different recruiters. All i know is that having a cybersec msc from abroad its something nobody cares about. Only sans certs would make a difference i think, but imagine not passing the first time, will need to give 8k again
Reply 5
Cyber intelligence, do you mean threat hunting?

Red teaming seems to be the dream job for everyone, it's a job title that encompasses so many different vectors. I'm not sure if more degrees will help your situation. You might want to look into certifications like OSCP, Crowdstrike, etc. I'm sure you qualify for the CISSP?
Hi there,

As eForensicsMag, we'd like to point out that a formal degree isn't the only path to gain expertise in cybersecurity. Vocational courses and certifications can help you develop skills and enhance your credibility. While a degree from a well-known university might be helpful, practical experience and specialized certifications in cyber intelligence or digital forensics can be just as valuable, if not more, to potential employers.

Don't underestimate the power of professional courses and certifications to boost your career. Good luck!

Best regards,
eForensicsMag Team

Original post by username6115822
So, i work within cybersecurity for the past couple of years. My bachelor was in sociology, and i have an MSc in cybersecurity from abroad. Ive noticed that even though ive been working in cybersec for a few years now, i find it very difficult to find a new, better job. Some recruiters have told me its cause of my bachelors. I would like to work in cyber intelligence, im currently in incident response. Ive made some applications to some unis, but im unsure what would be the best choice. I was accepted in a top up computer science BSc 1 yr long in a rather small uk uni, i got into Kings intelligence and security MSc, and Middlesex MSc in digital forensics. Would the 1yr bachelor help more than an MSc or is the name of the uni more important? My friends get a lot more interviews than me, and i feel my cv is 'lacking' in degrees but im unsure what type.

Quick Reply

Latest

Trending

Trending