Is computer security the way to go?

Discussion in 'Employment & Jobs' started by darrenwis, May 19, 2009.

  1. darrenwis

    darrenwis Bit Poster

    34
    0
    17
    May 19, 2009 #1
    Remove Advertisement - Premium Membership
    Hi,

    Hoping to get some advice to kick start my career.


    I have a BSc in Business Information Systems and hold a keen interest in computing. However, due to my local area I have yet to get my first real foot on the computing ladder.

    I am considering taking a MSc Computer Systems Security (http://www.glam.ac.uk/coursedetails/685/532)

    It looks a very interesting course and studying it over 3 years (p/t) I think it maybe a good choice to study? What do everyone think of this course?

    Also I currently work for a Barclays contact centre as there don't seem to be any entry level jobs going here in South Wales.

    What I am trying to find out is if I completed the MSc, do you think the I.T. security industry is one that is going to grow and progress? What roles can I go for when I have completed this?

    I know I have asked a lot of questions here but hope I can get some answers from you guys,

    Darren
     
    Certifications: BSc (hons)
    WIP: A+
  2. Kitkatninja
    Highly Decorated Member Award 500 Likes Award

    Kitkatninja aka me, myself & I Moderator

    11,143
    559
    383
    May 19, 2009 #2
    Remove Advertisement - Premium Membership
    I do believe that IT Security is a field that will grow and progress. However I do not believe that by completing the MSc, you'll walk into an IT security post straight away. The majority of IT Security jobs expect you to have x amount of years already in IT systems adminstration, and especially in this climate finding any job is going to be alot harder.

    You haven't stated how long you've been trying to get into the IT field. But even with a degree and certs it doesn't guarantee you a job. It took me 5 years to get my foot in and that was way before the resession :)

    -Ken
     
    Certifications: MSc, PGDip, PGCert, BSc, HNC, LCGI, MBCS CITP, MCP, MCSA, MCSE, MCE, A+, N+, S+, Server+
    WIP: MSc Cyber Security
  3. JK2447
    Highly Decorated Member Award 500 Likes Award

    JK2447 Petabyte Poster Administrator Premium Member

    7,200
    951
    318
    May 19, 2009 #3
    Hi Darrenwis, I agree with Ken. An MSc will give you no guarantee's and will leave a chasm in your finances. I too want to move into security. I'm lucky in that I already work in IT and its easier to move around once your in the door. Look into the CompTIA Security+ which I'm taking. As Ken said, certs don't mean you'll get a job but at least if you've got a Security related cert you can show you have done some study and who knows, an IT Sec manager might offer you a trainee Security Analyst job.

    On another note, Cisco jobs seems to be going from strength to strength so maybe consider looking into a trainee Network Analyst role.

    James
     
    Certifications: VCP4, 5, 6, 6.5, 6.7, 7, 8, VCAP DCV Design, VMConAWS Skill, Google Cloud Digital Leader, BSc (Hons), HND IT, HND Computing, ITIL-F, MBCS CITP, MCP (270,290,291,293,294,298,299,410,411,412) MCTS (401,620,624,652) MCSA:Security, MCSE: Security, Security+, CPTS, CCA (XenApp6.5), MCSA 2012, VSP, VTSP
    WIP: Google Cloud Certs
  4. onoski

    onoski Terabyte Poster

    3,120
    51
    154
    May 19, 2009 #4
    Hi Darren, the others have provided good responses to your question so I would only add one or two points.

    The Bsc in business IT you currently hold is very good and would be a stepping stone. I would advice you start looking for an entry IT service desk role and also self study to obtain Microsoft's cert MCP on 70-270 and progress from there on.

    Experience, experience and some more experience coupled with your certs and qualification would take you a long way in the very demanding and competitive field of IT.

    Best wishes and start looking for that IT related role now and don't limit yourself by thinking your location is an obstacle. Cheerio:)
     
    Certifications: MCSE: 2003, MCSA: 2003 Messaging, MCP, HNC BIT, ITIL Fdn V3, SDI Fdn, VCP 4 & VCP 5
    WIP: MCTS:70-236, PowerShell
  5. darrenwis

    darrenwis Bit Poster

    34
    0
    17
    May 19, 2009 #5
    Hi,

    Thanks for the replies so far.

    Security+ and Cisco sound interesting paths. Do you believe I should also complete the MCDST aswell? Will it help me get into the security field at all?

    Darren
     
    Certifications: BSc (hons)
    WIP: A+
  6. onoski

    onoski Terabyte Poster

    3,120
    51
    154
    May 19, 2009 #6

    You'd be best concentrating on one or the either at a time in other not to get side tracked. The security+ cert is more in line with your future career prospects, but ultimately experience gained working in an IT role is the real deal breaker:)
     
    Certifications: MCSE: 2003, MCSA: 2003 Messaging, MCP, HNC BIT, ITIL Fdn V3, SDI Fdn, VCP 4 & VCP 5
    WIP: MCTS:70-236, PowerShell

Share This Page

Loading...
Remove Advertisement - Premium Membership
  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Accept Learn More...