Start your new career with an associate degree in network security

A job in network security can be an excellent career with many different opportunities. Jobs prospects are excellent for professionals who have the proper education in network security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in network security are expected to grow by 23 percent from 2008 to 2018. More and more businesses will require the expertise of professionals as security concerns increase. As companies invest in new technologies, they will need qualified professionals with a network security degree to keep their business safe from outside threats.

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Network security degree information

In order to work as a network security professional, most employers prefer potential employees to have a degree in network security. Employees can have a wide variety of education, ranging from associate degrees to master's degrees. The more education you receive the more competitive you will be, but the most important skill you need is strong computer skills. An associate degree in network security can provide you with the same information as a bachelors degree, but the coursework can be completed in two years versus the typical four years required for a bachelors degree. Some of the coursework you can expect to take can include but is not limited to:

Computer science
Computer programming
Computer engineering
Mathematics
Systems security

Students can pursue their education from either in-house institutions or online programs. Both can provide you with the required education to earn a degree in network security. An online degree program not only can provide you with an online associate degree in network security, but can also provide you with the flexibility to complete your studies on your own time frame.

An internship program can also benefit students who are interested in network security by providing you with real world experience that you may not receive from a degree program. It can also give you a competitive edge against others because of the experience you can receive from an internship program.

Careers in network security

An online associate degree in network security can provide you with numerous career opportunities in a fast growing job market. Some of the top careers include but are not limited to:

Computer security specialists work with companies to secure their computer security systems. They plan, coordinate and maintain security systems in order to prevent security breaches or cyber attacks from outside sources. The BLS reports the mean annual salary in May 2009 was $78,010.
Network and computer systems administrators work to design, install and support a company's computer system. They maintain and make recommendations for computer systems. The mean annual salary in May 2009 was reported as $70,930 by the BLS.
Network engineers help to design security network systems. They must analyze and test network systems as well as address the information security issues. The mean annual salary was $96,620 as reported by the BLS in May 2009.

You can also enhance your opportunities by earning extra certifications, which can be offered through computer training associations. The extra certifications can help you acquire the latest skills in the ever changing technology of computers.