How long does IT take to learn cyber security without a degree?

Does your past IT experience match work well with an entry-level job role as a junior cybersecurity specialist?

Although it will help, it’s not required to have previous experience in the field to qualify for an entry-level junior cybersecurity position. We had students who started with no IT experience and obtained a high paying job in cybersecurity. Having a degree in cybersecurity or IT is not required as well. You just need to focus on the training courses below and have the right mindset to move forward in a career in cybersecurity.

Table of Contents Show

Can you do cyber security with no degree?
Can I learn cyber security in 2 months?
Can a normal person learn cyber security?
Where can I start cyber security without a degree?

Look at these attacks and check if you can become a cyber warrior.

IT Training Courses and Certifications For People With No Experience

You have to consider that the United States Government requires a CompTIA Security + Training Course leading to certification when considering applicants. This course is a great foundation course in cybersecurity for any student starting a new career. The other common certifications include CompTIA CySA+ Training Course and the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Training Course.

IT-specific job roles that you previously had help you land an entry-level position. Having three to five years of IT-related experience will help in landing a job. Having a solid foundation in both infrastructure and development could place you on the right side of the application board. These foundational certifications are made available to Intellectual Point students as well.

The following would be great additions to your resume:

Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) Training Course in Security
CompTIA Linux+ Training Course
Python Fundamentals Training Course

We had students who received an entry-level IT job just by completing and passing three certifications. They understood the material and went through the practice scenarios in the cyber labs, and used the Rapid Simulations. Hiring managers not only look at your certifications but also look for your ability to be coachable. Your passion for cybersecurity, and willingness to learn more also plays a factor in the hiring decision. If you possess those attributes, then you will make their decision easier.

5 Cyber Security Career Paths With Job Roles and Salaries

Network and Use LinkedIn

Start networking with other cybersecurity professionals. These colleagues know who is getting hired and who is moving on to another position. One good contact can result in your next cybersecurity position. Locations in Northern Virginia and Silicon Valley are the driving hub for cybersecurity-related positions. You must get your name out there and look for an opening.

Read LinkedIn Tips

Think Outside the Box

Critical thinking is essential. Think outside of the box. Think like the hacker, the cybercriminal. Find ways to open vulnerabilities by thinking outside of the box. Cyber warriors must question everything, and make use of tools made available to them. How does the technology work? A cyber warrior must have a good foundation of how each piece of technology works. How do networks and cloud computing work? How can I make the technology work in a way that it is not designed? Analyze and understand technologies, policies, applications, and people who use them. When you discover a vulnerability or weakness in the system, then you have to determine the best course of action to reach a solution to protect the environment.

Most Powerful Habits of Cybersecurity Professionals

Keep a Close Eye on These Technologies

Internet of Things (IoT). Know how these devices can be hacked and find the vulnerabilities. The weakest link defines the strength of network security and often times this weak link lies within an Internet of Things connected device. Have a foundational understanding of this technology. Yes, a security breach can happen through a smart light bulb.
The Cloud – As many organizations, including the Federal Government, are moving to the cloud, they are finding that these cloud-based systems can also be hacked. From data breaches to hijacking accounts. These cloud-based systems are open to cyberattacks that could cost companies millions of dollars. It can cause an entire organization to go under as we experienced in various data breaches in history. Pay attention to what is happening in those technologies to have a competitive edge in the market.
Encryption technology – Financial firms, credit card companies, government agencies, and private companies of all sizes need the skills of cybersecurity specialists to keep their networks hacker-proof. Know how this technology advances to do just that.
Deep learning including AI and Machine Learning – These technologies are rapidly changing. AI can also be used to detect threats and other potentially malicious activities. Cybersecurity companies are teaching AI systems to detect viruses and malware by using complex algorithms so AI can then run pattern recognition in software.

Can you do cyber security with no degree?

There are countless entry-level cybersecurity jobs available to those who do not have a degree. That said, it is worth noting that many require applicants to have additional training to prove that they have the skills necessary for the job at hand.

Can I learn cyber security in 2 months?

How long will it take to learn basic cybersecurity skills? On average it will take between six months and two years to learn about cybersecurity. If only a basic understanding is needed, a six-month course may suffice.

Can a normal person learn cyber security?

It's beginner friendly. Unlike many other programs that require its students to have a foundation of the course they are planning to pursue a degree in, cyber security doesn't require you to have technical knowledge from the get-go. Being a beginner is perfectly okay; you will learn as you begin the program.

Where can I start cyber security without a degree?

Pursue a Cybersecurity Course or Bootcamp There are many reputable cybersecurity bootcamps from which you can choose—just make sure they're accredited by organizations like CompTIA. Bootcamps are also generally less expensive than traditional degrees in cybersecurity.