Do we need a Cyber Security Degree, in order to get into Cyber Security?

Basic85

Hello, I'm stuck in a dilemma and I hope this is the right area.  Can you work in cyber security with a computer networking degree or any other degree besides cyber security?  I"m about get my AA degree in computer networking, however maybe one of these days I might decide to get into cyber security.  Also is it important to know programming in cyber security, like python?  

Thanks in advance

UnixGuy

Not at all, a specialised degree in cyber security is not a requirement, and knowing python/programming might only be needed for Pentesting. There are a lot of cyber security sectors that don't need programming knowledge

H-bomb

Absolutely not. No, you do not need a cybersecurity degree or programming experience.

If anything, cybersecurity is related more towards supporting business goals. 

yoba222

First available computer science degree: Around 1953
First available cyber security degree: For many colleges this is like 2014-2019!

JDMurray

No, but it helps. The job advice in the book Tribe of Hackers says about the same thing.

Basic85

yoba222 said:

First available computer science degree: Around 1953
First available cyber security degree: For many colleges this is like 2014-2019!

Meaning?  So your saying it doesn't matter which degree you get in IT?  Since cyber security degree's wasn't around until recent times.  

JDMurray said:

No, but it helps. The job advice in the book Tribe of Hackers says about the same thing.

So this book is saying it helps to get a cyber security degree, ok.  

Thanks for everyone's input.  I'll think this over.  

EANx

The degree helps but every employer wants something different. I'd say the degree helps most with auditing and compliance, universities tend to avoid hands-on activities like pen-testing.

Basic85

Thanks everyone!  I've decided to stick with my computer networking degree and maybe someday get into cyber security with that AA degree.  I'm also looking to gain some certs in cyber security in the future.  

jeremy_dfir

I would advise the same. I have come across "senior" analysts or pentesters who know nothing about networking... Stick to the IT basics and then go for any cert you want...