Online Security Degree Programs

With technology crimes such as hacking and identity theft increasing, the need for information, network, and computer security professionals is growing as well. Over ten years ago, the number of individuals victimized by identify theft was less than 1 billion. Today this number is estimated at more than 10 billion. The average victim can spend around 175 hours and at least $1,000 repairing the damage. And last year, nearly $50 billion was lost due to identity theft.

With the rapid rise of the Internet, identify theft has skyrocketed, as access to personal and financial information is more widespread than ever.

Working in Computer Security

Computer security professionals work to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all types of data. Many work for large companies or corporations in need of database security, seeking safeguards against hacking and theft of large data networks.

You may work on a variety of security areas, including:

• Online consumer privacy
• User password applications
• Information privacy
• Information loss prevention
• Systems repair
• Data encryption
• Network firewalls
• Intrusion response
• Virus protection

Computer Security Career Training

Most employers of computer security positions require that applicants possess a college degree. These types of degrees are available online, such as associate's, bachelor's, or graduate degrees in computer science, technology management, network administration, or information technology.

Some degree programs specialize in computer and network security. Your course topics may include cryptography, viruses, network intrusion detection, cyber-terrorism, and investigation, and computer forensics, a growing sub-field within security.

Computer Security: A High-Growth Industry for Educated Professionals

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the responsibilities of computer security professionals have increased over the last few years, but that career opportunities will continue to increase for educated professionals.

In 2007, according to the BLS, computer support specialists earned a median annual salary of $42,400. That same year, network administrators took home over $64,000 in annual median earnings. Computer systems analysts earned $73,090 in 2007, and network systems analysts earned $68,220 in median annual salary. Continued education and experience in computer security can lead to larger salaries. For example, computer systems managers earned a median annual salary of $108,070 in 2007.

Individuals interested in a career in computer security would be wise to look to the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Minnesota--as these locations had the highest concentration of network administrators in 2007. However, for higher pay, don't discount New York, New Jersey, or California as they were the highest paying states in 2007.

With career training in computer security, a variety of fields offer employment opportunities. According the BLS, computer systems design, the public schools system, colleges and universities, as well as telecommunications hired more administrators than any other industries. On the other hand, securities and commodities, rail transportation, the postal service, and natural gas distribution were the highest paying industries in 2007.

Equipped with a degree or career training in computer security, you can take advantage of a quickly growing field and help maintain a safe and productive information system.

• Technology
• Security