laptop reviews

Question

by Jonathan: Is a degree in Computer Science good for computer security jobs?

I’m studying Computer Science in school. Right now, I am interested in computer security (such as an information security officer). I want to know if Computer Science is a good degree for this field. I do know that what classes I take are important, too. I would switch majors to Information Assurance and Security Engineering, but I am worried that I might want to go into a different job area that is computer related.

I do plan to speak with an adviser at my school, but I cannot meet with one right now.

Best answer:

Answer by Richard L

There are several paths that can take you into the Computing Security job area. This is the area I work in. Here are some common degree programs that would align with the Security major.

1. Computer Science

2. Computer Information Systems (this is a general IT degree that may be called by a variety of other titles). This is the degree I have.

3. Specialty Computing Security (may be called by a variety of titles)

Computer Science is the top dog degree as far as versatility and going sideways into other areas than Programming which is the primary CS outcome.

Computer Science includes many Programming and advanced Math courses which makes it the most difficult of the IT degrees to obtain. Many CS students will find themselves having to transfer out into other IT majors because they can’t keep up their grades or they realize they can’t see themselves being a Programmer and slamming out code as their entire job. Some others will graduate in the major but then seek work in other sectors.

In any of these majors keeping your grades above a 3.0-3.5 GPA average is important. Many employers look at these grades on potential employees. Having a higher average well help you to find a job or internship situation easier. Remember that many gifted students have 3.8-4.0 averages and if you have a 2.8 average you may be competing with others with much higher averages. A 2.5 or 2.8 GPA is not a death sentence to you finding employment but it will make it a longer process for you to find a job. For some employers the GPA minimum is not optional – they have it posted in their job postings. Where I work the 3.0-3.5 minimum is a posted policy minimum. This used to be higher at 3.5 but was recently lowered.

If you decided to go with a Computing Science degree you would need to honestly assess if you can pull a 3.0-3.5 average in that major. In most 4 year Bachelor’s degree programs you can transfer out into other Tech majors up to the start of your 3rd year (Junior). After that you will probably lose some credits and it will take more money and time for you to graduate. So right now you could stick with CS and see how it goes for you. If Math is a weak area for you or you see yourself having a tough time keeping a 3.0 you could immediately switch out your degree into CIS or a Security specific major.

Best wishes!

Add your own answer in the comments!

IndieGoGo – http://tinyurl.com/Brocardo Servers Provided by Aim2Game: Tell them I sent you! http://www.aim2game.com/brocardo My Server Info: http://brocardo….

Skyblock w/ Alison #15 – Yes, A computer stress ball