Cybersecurity training with the end result in earning a certificate gives you several paths to consider. Several universities and schools have cybersecurity programs, as well as other industry associations and institutions, have classes which culminate in a cybersecurity certificate.
Thought needs to be given to the primary focus of the cybersecurity certificate program. Some programs cater more towards the “managerial” side of cybersecurity, whereas some other programs, like the certificate track at Stanford University, have a focal point on the technical side of cybersecurity and need you to have a base knowledge in programming or development.
Also, the ways or methods for earning a cyber security masters program certificate vary. You can earn one either online or in-person. Some schools and learning avenues only offer one or the other, though programs exist which let you make the choice of online or classroom based training.
A degree in cybersecurity can be the end-goal, through using certain certificate courses if that is what you desire. A degree in cybersecurity will most certainly require that additional courses be taken. Additionally, thought will need to be given with respect to the funds required for those additional courses and the resulting degree.
Give thought to what you want to get out of your training as well, in addition to just the certificate. You probably want a thorough understanding of the generally accepted best practices associated with the field of cybersecurity. Think along the lines of “what does the industry as a whole see as the requirements for a thorough understanding of cybersecurity”? As well, what do you want to get out of your cybersecurity training, in addition to the certificate you will earn?
Also, what style of learning suits you best? Do you learn better in-person with guidance from a teacher? Someone you can ask questions and get customized responses from? Or are you more of a self-starter who can seek out the answers you need online? Can you motivate yourself, or do you need some external push to get you to learn?
While getting the certificate is a goal in and of itself, don’t make that the only focus of your education here. There is more to be gained through training to earn your cybersecurity certificate. The real learning about the subject of cybersecurity should be the number one thrust behind earning your certificate. Because without that subject matter knowledge, having the certificate itself won’t mean all that much. Make sure you consider how you will best learn more about cybersecurity in general.