Regardless of the type of job you’re looking for, it can be challenging to know if part-time or full-time training is the right investment for you. A handful of contributing factors helps determine the type of training you need to succeed in any given field.
Some jobs require formal college degrees, while others only require certifications and experience. Cybersecurity is one of those industries where your credentials can vary depending on the role you’re in.
Our world is digitizing at a rapid pace. As a result, there’s a growing demand for those in the cybersecurity field to step in and assist with the transition. Companies need quality cybersecurity professionals to manage their security risks and prevent cyberattacks to perform well and reach business goals.
If you’re interested in breaking into the cybersecurity field, it’s critical to decide what type of cybersecurity training will best suit you. Part-time training may include cybersecurity bootcamps, while full-time training includes formal classes and enrollment in a university. Knowing the difference between the two will help you make an informed decision on which route to take.
Let’s explore the ins and outs of cybersecurity training, including part-time and full-time options that are available to you.
What are Part-Time Cybersecurity Bootcamps?
More hiring managers in information technology (IT) and cybersecurity are finding value in cybersecurity bootcamps. But what are they? Essentially, cybersecurity training bootcamps are rigorous courses that take between 12 and 15 weeks to complete. They cover a broad range of topics that professionals in IT should know if they want to break into the field and earn an entry-level position.
Bootcamps provide aspiring IT and cybersecurity professionals the skills they need to succeed in jobs within the growing cybersecurity field. One of the main benefits of the various bootcamps is that they offer a flexible schedule for students who have other commitments.
Part-time bootcamps are not inherently lesser in value than, say, a four-year degree program at a college or university. What you put into these bootcamps determines what you’ll gain. Putting in hard work and maintaining a solid work ethic will likely result in better outcomes.
Keep in mind that any training will cost you, so considering your budget and researching the most cost-effective options will be vital as you embark on this journey.
Earning a Degree in Cybersecurity
Depending on your interest level, enrolling in a four-year program in cybersecurity at a college or university may be a viable full-time training option for you. You may want to consider working toward a bachelor’s degree in a computer science-related field.
Remember that participating in a full-time cybersecurity training program will require you to pause other commitments and prioritize your workload. It may be challenging to participate in extracurricular activities, especially if you want to graduate with honors.
The reward of completing a degree program is that higher-salaried jobs are usually given to those graduates, whereas lower-ranking jobs generally have fewer requirements. Earning a degree could mean the difference between a five-figure or six-figure salary.
If this is your top concern, you’ll know if a full-time training program is the right fit for you. Understand that compared to a cybersecurity bootcamp, you’ll have to spend more money upfront, and it will take longer to reap the benefits of earning that degree.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time: Which Is Right for You?
Everyone learns differently, and because there are several options for cybersecurity training available, it can be challenging to choose the right path based on your circumstances. Below you will find some tips to help you decide if part-time training or full-time training best suits your needs as you enter the cybersecurity industry.
If you’re interested in part-time training, be sure to:
- Prioritize your training schedule.
- Communicate with your current boss about your training.
- Set aside ample time to complete your training.
- Maintain a strong work ethic.
If you believe you’re a good candidate for a degree program, make sure you:
- Have enough time to dedicate to your studies.
- Are involved in relevant clubs and campus groups.
- Study outside of class.
- Limit your recreational activities.
These are only some of the tips that will help you during your cybersecurity training. Whether it’s full-time or part-time, understand that you’ll receive the valuable skills necessary to be hired for a job in cybersecurity and will be able to grow within the field.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to deciding if part-time or full-time training is right for you, but if you do your research and know what kind of job you’re looking for, it will make the decision much easier.
The Future of Cybersecurity
It’s expected that jobs in cybersecurity will grow by 31% up until 2029, which is much faster than the average job growth rate. Getting a head start and deciding to pursue a career in information technology and cybersecurity will pay off in the long run.
Because there are different types of training available to you, researching before committing to a bootcamp or a four-year degree program will also aid you in making the right decision. Launch your career at one of Cybint’s Partner locations. Find a bootcamp near you.
