We live in a world where cybersecurity attacks are increasingly causing problems for individuals, businesses, and governments. Yet our fast-growing technology sector is filled with innovation, introducing new software and information systems at a rapid pace. Who can keep up to date with developments in internet technology, while watching out for data breaches? Information security analysts are the watchdogs that organizations rely on to help keep confidential information safe from cyber criminals. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an accelerated online B.S. in Information Technology degree completion program for adult learners interested in this exciting field.
Choose
from seven bachelor completion degree programs
B.S. in Accounting
B.S. in Applied Psychology
B.S. in Business Administration
B.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership
B.S. in Healthcare Management
B.S. in Human Resource Management
B.S. in Information Technology
How to Become an Information Security Analyst
Earning an IT degree is the first step on the career path that leads to becoming an information security analyst. The next step is to gain experience working in IT. For example, aspiring information security analysts may first work as network administrators, data analysts, and computer systems administrators.
A period of work experience in another aspect of computer and internet technology is a good time to evaluate preferences and areas of special interest. Aspiring information security analysts can continue to learn about security and its applications. They also can develop the communication skills necessary for
future endeavors. While gaining work experience, they can continue their education and gain certifications to help them enter the field of IT security.
Certification Programs Boost Qualification in Cybersecurity
Certification programs are available at every level of IT security, including CompTIA Security+ for entry-level workers, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for more experienced information security personnel.
Information Security Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
If you like working with computer networks and are interested in protecting private data from criminals, you are a good candidate for the position of information security analyst. These IT professionals are tasked with protecting hardware and software applications from outside attacks. This role also may be known as compliance analyst or cybersecurity analyst within some enterprises.
Here is a snapshot of common duties and responsibilities for information security analysts:
- Monitor networks for weaknesses and investigate hacks or breaches
- Utilize software applications designed for IT security, including firewalls and data encryption
- Stay up-to-date with security innovations and trends
- Develop best practices suited to the enterprise
- Prepare and present reports to management regarding security breaches
- Recommend adjustments and upgrades to the security systems
- Assist users in maintaining security standards
Disaster plans, including data recovery, also are part of the responsibility of information security analysts. When emergencies, natural disasters, warfare, or other disruptions occur, companies need a plan for the continuation or eventual recovery and resumption of endeavors. Emergency plans and disaster recovery often require testing and drills, which may involve IT professionals and other employees throughout the organization.
Demand is growing for information security analysts, which is reflected in average salary figures reported at $112,000 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As analysts gain experience in security operations, they may advance to positions with titles, such as chief security officer or other management positions. Specialization in specific industries or types of networks also may boost their status and pay.
Online Degree Completion Programs in IT
The bachelor’s completion programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota are designed for students in the workforce. We want you to be able to keep working while advancing your education and career goals. These programs, including the B.S. in Information Technology, are relatively short and can be completed in as little as one year.
Another way these programs help working students finish their degree programs is by accepting all prior college credits, including those from technical colleges. We allow you to transfer up to 90 credits to these accelerated bachelor’s degree programs, which is 75% of those required. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota also allows students to transfer credits based on work experience and training, including military service. Once you submit your transcripts to our Admissions Department, a counselor will create a personalized degree program.
Complete Your IT Degree at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Wouldn’t it feel great to finish your bachelor’s degree in IT? If you know that’s the field in which you belong, earning a B.S. in Information Technology with our online program can be life-changing. Other degree completion programs can be a stepping stone to a career as an information security analyst, such as the B.S. in Accounting program. Get to where you can make a difference and use your talents to their fullest while supporting a safer world for everybody. For more information about the accelerated bachelor’s degree programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, contact us today. Or you can apply online.