In today’s world, cyber security is key to almost every business and organization. Professionals in computer and information security defend digital information on computers, and their servers, mobile devices, networks and other electronic systems from cybercrime and attack. They have a wide range of responsibilities with different roles in government, industry and other organizations. On the job, they are expected to safeguard an organization’s data, computers and networks, as well as creating security plans and monitoring activities. If a breach occurs, they’re responsible for identifying the problem and finding a solution quickly. It requires well-trained professionals skilled in network security, information security and application security to help organizations remain safe from the risk of digital attacks, and we at Marshall University prepare our students well for these challenges.
Students constantly work with faculty in various research projects. Here are some examples of projects that Marshall’s cyber security students and faculty have undertaken
- Deployable Remote Online Network Evaluator (DRONE) sponsored by the West Virginia Office of Technology Cyber Security unit.
- P Reputation Tool for West Virginia Office of Technology to identify malicious IP or domain name and alert users
- Undergraduate research on “Analysis of Cryptocurrency for Protecting from Social Engineering”
- Students in the program have participated in various internships as well, including an internship with the West Virginia Governor’s Office and opportunities provided through the Faculty Mentored Internship Program
Career Outlook
Cyber security is a national priority, and there is a severe talent shortage in the cyber security field. Analysts have estimated 1.5 million cyber security job openings in 2019. If you have been considering entering the field or advancing your career within the computing industry, this is the field of choice
While the opportunities and job openings in the cyber security field are high, you need to be highly educated to maximize the benefits of this opportunity and to land highly paid jobs. A recent report shows that 84% of cyber security postings require at least a bachelor’s degree and 23% require at least a master’s. A master’s degree in cyber security is valuable, as many employers seek a combination of both experience and education
Some of the possible jobs for a Graduate with a Master’s degree in cybersecurity can include:
- Information security analyst
- Security specialist
- Cryptographer
- Security administrator/ Manager
- Security Architect
- Security Consultant