BS in Computer Science then 10 years blank, what now?

MariaFL · September 2013

Hello,

I earned BS in Computer Science in 2004. I had to run my parents small store and I have never worked in IT filed since, except making some websites with wordpress.

Now, I need to get a real job. I'd like to be in Computer Security field.

Any advice????

I looked University of Central Florida, MS in Forensics Computer. Because my GPA is low, I could probably get in the certification program, not MS, but it does not look practical(I mean no CCNA, CISSP etc).

Also WGU, BS in Computer Security. It seems very practical since I can get all computer network and security certifications when I graduate. This will be my 2nd BS, but do you think it's worth it?? or MS in Security, insted of BS?

Or where should I get a job???

Or just forget to back to this field??

What would you do if you have 10 years blank and try to get back?

Any adivice appreciated!!

Iristheangel · September 2013

If you already have a BS in Computer Science, it wouldn't make sense to get back into school and get a less technical degree. I would say that your biggest obstacle is probably a simple one to fix: Updating your knowledge and making yourself a tad more marketable. Certifications will definitely help with that. I'm not sure what your financial situation is and I'm not really one to suggest getting your CompTIA certifications (Don't feel that the ROI on the exam fees is great but that's my personal opinion), but it might be good for you to pick up the Network+ and A+ books (All-In-One are great) to review that core knowledge. Since you're into security, it might actually be beneficial to go all the way and acquire the Security+ certification. After you review the A+ and Network+ material, it's a WHOLE lot easier to get that certification since there's a lot of overlap.

Computer Security can be pretty broad - From the policy writers and auditors to the pen testers who poke and prod at networks and applications to the network security specialists in charge of firewalls/IPS and general network device hardening

If you're looking to be a policy writer, security manager, or auditor - Security+, SSCP, CISSP, CISA, CISM will all help you out
If you're looking to be a pen tester or something along those lines - Security+, OSCP, OSWP, OSCE, OSEE, OSWE, SSCP, and maybe the CISSP to top it all off in time. Don't both with the EC-Council certifications such as CEH or CHFI - They won't teach you much in terms of technical or skills that you could apply to real-life
If you're looking to be in network security: CCNA, CCNA:Security, CCNP, CCNP:Security, the various flavors of Juniper Security certs, etc

Hope that helps. Of course the above certifications aren't a clear roadmap or formula for instantaneous success but hopefully you can research the certifications, get an idea for what you like, and dive in whatever order you want.

ptilsen · September 2013

Agreed completely, and I also don't think a master's degree enhances no experience very much, especially in this field. Listen to the above advice on certifications, and carefully consider what you think you'd like to do.

networker050184 · September 2013

So while you were running the store did you cover the IT portion as well? If not you should! It's at least something to put on the resume to show some experience. Maybe right up a few security policies for the place. Something to show you have not been completely out of the technology loop.

I wouldn't worry about getting another BS if you already have one. You have enough education now to find a job. Adding more formal education is not likely to help you land that first job at this point.

NetworkVeteran · September 2013

Iristheangel wrote: »

If you already have a BS in Computer Science, it wouldn't make sense to get back into school and get a less technical degree. I would say that your biggest obstacle is probably a simple one to fix: Updating your knowledge and making yourself a tad more marketable. Certifications will definitely help with that.

+1. I have an over 10-year-old CS degree and I completely agree. You don't need another degree or a masters. You need to figure out what you want to do, update/improve your knowledge within that sphere with a certification or online course, and dive into the field. I also agree, finding any opportunity to practice these skills at your current job is wise.

MariaFL · September 2013

Thanks a lot!!!

My financial stuation is pretty bad. The store shut down with debt.

I'm currently working at friend's restaurant and trying to get whatever job for now.

But I need to plan for the future!!

because of tight budget, I will study for Security+ and SSCP for now. I hope I pass without taking any training classes.

Those classes are too expensive and I can not afford it..... If you know any affordable price, please let me know.

Thanks again.

Iristheangel · September 2013

@MariaFL - It's totally doable. When I started studying, I was making $12/hr and working a second job doing security (as in security guard). Self-study isn't for everyone but if you were able to get through a CS degree, you got this. If you want to review core concepts or take a look at the materials out there, check out Youtube, Security Tube, Professor Messer, Udemy, etc. Lots of cheap or free resources out there for you. I wish you the best of luck!

sratakhin · September 2013

NetworkVeteran, don't you have an MS in CS?

YFZblu · September 2013

No, you don't need another degree. In fact, you don't *need* a degree at all - I'm sure that's up for debate among different types of posters; however I feel that I've done pretty OK without one. So you already have a leg up in some respects, paper wise.

Degree or not, experience or not - Determine which piece of IT interests you the most, and make the commitment to bust your @ss. Good things will happen. Good luck!

BS in Computer Science then 10 years blank, what now?

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