<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="15" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> Master’s in Cybersecurity Online From UC Berkeley </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> Earn a Master’s in Cybersecurity Online in Just 20 Months </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>The UC Berkeley School of Information’s online Master of Information and Cybersecurity prepares students to become leaders in cybersecurity. No GRE/GMAT required.</p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-15" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-15" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="https://ischoolonline.berkeley.edu/requestinfo/cyber/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/UCB-CYB_School-Secondary_Stacked_RGB_COLOR.png?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="https://ischoolonline.berkeley.edu/requestinfo/cyber/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> <table class="edu-card-table"> <tbody> <tr> <td>GRE Required</td> <td>No</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Part Time</td> <td>Yes</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="55" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> Hawai‘i Pacific University MS in Cybersecurity </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> Certification prep available </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>The online MS in Cybersecurity program from Hawai‘i Pacific University prepares students to defend their organization from data breaches, strengthen their résumé by taking key certification exams, and advance their career as responsible leaders in cybersecurity.</p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-55" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-55" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="http://onlinedegrees.hpu.edu/requestinfo/mscyb/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HPU-UMT_logo-university_primary_cmyk_rev.jpg?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="http://onlinedegrees.hpu.edu/requestinfo/mscyb/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="16" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> Online Syracuse University M.S. in Cybersecurity </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> Earn a Syracuse Univ. M.S. in Cybersecurity in 15 Months </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>Syracuse University’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity prepares students to effectively combat cybercrime. No GRE currently required, but a master’s degree is preferred. </p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-16" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-16" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinegrad.syracuse.edu/requestinfo/mscy/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SYR-UMT_Lockup_Eng-Comp-Sci_Full-Configuration_RGB_COLOR_900px.png?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinegrad.syracuse.edu/requestinfo/mscy/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

ad_Cyber

cat_Other

Low Intent

ptype_Explainer

Casey Bond

<p><a href="https://fortune.com/education/articles/top-cybersecurity-companies/">Cybersecurity</a> is a dynamic and growing field, with plenty of opportunities for people who are passionate about protecting digital assets from cyber threats. With the increasing importance of digital security, the demand for skilled professionals in this area is higher than ever. </p><div class="paywall-selector"></div><div class="paywall">



<p>But maybe you don’t have a related degree. Or maybe you don’t have a college degree at all. If so, you might be wondering if it’s still possible to start a career in cybersecurity. </p>



<p>A recent <a href="https://www.trellix.com/blogs/perspectives/trellix-survey-findings-a-closer-look-at-the-cyber-talent-gap/">survey</a> by cybersecurity company Trellix found that cybersecurity professionals are well-educated. Most have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and 95% have a bachelor’s/undergraduate degree. Similarly, 83% report holding vocational qualifications and certifications to help them grow in their career.</p>



<p>But despite this, 56% of current professionals believe a university degree is not needed to have a successful career in cybersecurity. “Many in the industry report being self-taught or being taught on the job the skills they need,” said Michael Alicea, chief human resources officer at Trellix. “The key to a career in cybersecurity isn’t in degrees and certifications, but rather in soft skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Do you need a degree to work in cybersecurity?</strong></h2>



<p>While many industry veterans came into cybersecurity through other disciplines, having a degree does ultimately help you to break into the field at many companies. However, it is possible to get your foot in the door—with some persistence—with the necessary knowledge and skills.</p>



<p>“A lack of a degree may present a challenge for getting hired into companies that require a bachelor’s, but most quality companies are more interested in knowledge areas that aren’t really taught widely in college,” says Jamie Boote, associate principal security consultant at Synopsys Software Integrity Group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Training and skills needed for a cybersecurity career</strong> </h2>



<p>A career in cybersecurity requires a blend of formal education, practical experience, and continuous learning to keep pace with rapidly evolving threats and technologies. Whether or not you have a relevant college degree, the following training and skills are essential for a cybersecurity professional.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Certifications</h3>



<p>Getting one or more certifications related to cybersecurity shows that you have relevant training and skills. Popular certifications include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>CompTIA Security+: </strong>An entry-level certification that covers basic cybersecurity knowledge.</li>



<li><strong>Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP):</strong> A more advanced certification for experienced cybersecurity professionals.</li>



<li><strong>Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH):</strong> Focuses on offensive security through ethical hacking techniques.</li>



<li><strong>Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): </strong>Ideal for IT professionals seeking to move into management roles focused on security.</li>
</ul>



<p>Boote noted that some certifications can be helpful for more specific roles within the industry. “For example, the [OffSec Certified Professional] can allow a candidate to demonstrate proficiency in tools and techniques needed for penetration testers,” he says.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">On-the-job training</h3>



<p>Many cybersecurity professionals report that they learned much of what they need to know while working. So if you’re looking to break into cybersecurity, it can help to research companies that are open to providing this kind of on-the-job training and mentorship so you can get your foot in the door and work your way up. </p>



<p>“Cybersecurity companies should provide prospective talent professional development programs—mentorships, internships, and apprenticeships to help individuals feel more prepared to enter the field and encourage openness to those from non-traditional cybersecurity backgrounds,” Boote says. “In turn, these programs ensure that entry-level hires have a solid understanding of the skills they need to be successful in their role.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Technical skills</h3>



<p>Through a combination of general education, certification, and experience, there are certain skills that should be in your arsenal to be successful in cybersecurity. If you’re lacking in any of these areas, consider enrolling in a course or <a href="https://fortune.com/education/bootcamps/">bootcamp</a> to improve your hireability.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Knowledge of operating systems:</strong> Understanding the intricacies of various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and MacOS, is crucial since these are the platforms you’ll be protecting.</li>



<li><strong>Networking: </strong>A solid grasp of networking principles and protocols (such as TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS) is key for understanding how information moves across the internet and how it can be intercepted or manipulated.</li>



<li><strong>Programming: </strong>Familiarity with programming languages such as <a href="https://fortune.com/education/articles/python-bootcamps/">Python</a>, Java, C/C++, or PowerShell aids in automating tasks, analyzing malware, and understanding attacks.</li>



<li><strong>Security principles and technologies: </strong>Understanding firewalls, VPNs, anti-virus software, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) is vital for defending networks.</li>



<li><strong>Cryptography:</strong> Knowledge of cryptographic principles and techniques is necessary for securing data in transit and at rest.</li>



<li><strong>Ethical hacking and penetration testing: </strong>These skills are necessary for identifying vulnerabilities in systems before malicious hackers can exploit them.</li>



<li><strong>Incident response and forensic skills: </strong>The ability to respond to cyber incidents and conduct forensic analysis is important for mitigating damage and understanding how breaches occurred.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soft skills</h3>



<p>Aside from technical skills, there are certain “soft” skills that make cybersecurity professionals stand out:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Communication: </strong>Clear communication skills are needed for explaining technical issues to non-technical stakeholders and for effective teamwork.</li>



<li><strong>Ethics:</strong> You’ll need a strong ethical framework, as cybersecurity professionals must handle sensitive information responsibly.</li>



<li><strong>Teamwork: </strong>Cybersecurity is often a team effort, requiring collaboration and the ability to work well with others.</li>



<li><strong>Stress management: </strong>The ability to remain calm under pressure is important, especially during a security incident or breach.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The takeaway</strong> </h2>



<p>A career in cybersecurity can be rewarding, with plenty of opportunity for growth. If you don’t have a degree, certain employers may not be willing to hire you. However, across the industry, there are many more who are looking for talent with self determination and real-world experience over a piece of paper. </p>



<p>“Stay curious and observant,” Boote says. “The best security professionals are the type of people who will see some detail that’s out of the norm and go ‘Huh, that’s funny. I wonder why that is?’ Digging into little details like that often unearth security issues that put folks on the path to doing security full time.” </p>
</div>

Learn more about the training, skills, and experience you’ll need.

How to get into cybersecurity without a degree

Computer, woman programmer and man training for coding, cyber security or software on computer. Female IT specialist, male coder or talking to connect internet, information update and cloud computing

F-Search

Education

Education Articles

Jasmine Suarez

Cybersecurity

Tech

How to land a cybersecurity job when you don’t have a degree

Fortune earns a commission for purchases made from affiliate partners via some links on our site; other links are not affiliate partner links. <a href='/affiliate-disclosure/'>Click here</a> to read the full Fortune advertiser disclosure and how we earn commissions.

We have independently evaluated the products and services below. We may earn affiliate revenue from links in the content.

Fortune Editors

Fortune Education is designed to be your guide to navigating this new, rich and somewhat overwhelming world of education. Our team of experienced editors is committed to scouring the universe of online offerings in order to rank, rate, provide comparisons and recommend the right solutions for you and your career.

Fortune Education

Uncategorized

homepage

articles

Articles Hub

By Region

By State

By Cost

Business

Career Hub

Health and Wellness

EDUCATION

EDUCATION ARTICLES

HOW TO GET INTO CYBERSECURITY WITHOUT A DEGREE

How to land a cybersecurity job when you don’t have a degree | Fortune Education

How to get into cybersecurity without a degree | Fortune Education

Preston Fore

2024 real estate school review: AceableAgent

https://fortune.com/education/articles/real-estate-school-review-aceableagent/?itm_source=parsely-api

Rich Griset

10 free data analytics courses you can take online

https://fortune.com/education/articles/free-data-analytics-courses/?itm_source=parsely-api

Alyse Maguire

10 AI bootcamps taught by top schools, companies, and tech experts

https://fortune.com/education/articles/ai-bootcamps/?itm_source=parsely-api

Brit Morse

A law associate making $300,000 a year at Skadden Arps quit over the firm’s deal with Donald Trump

/article/rachel-cohen-making-300k-year-law-associate-skadden-arps-quit-protest-firms-deal-trump/

Get ready to pay more than $2,000 for a new iPhone: Experts say Trump’s 125% tariff on China is a ‘complete disaster for Apple’ akin to ‘Armageddon’

/2025/04/10/apple-iphone-16-price-complete-disaster-china-trump-tariffs/

It’s about to get a lot harder for job seekers as tariffs are set to make the hiring landscape even more daunting

/2025/04/07/trump-tariffs-labor-market-more-challenging-job-seekers-economists-say/

This company does peer performance reviews—And then lets everyone read each other’s evaluations

/2025/03/24/performance-review-process-company-allows-all-workers-read-garner-health-workplace-culture/

2024 health coach certification review: Catalyst Coaching Institute

/education/articles/health-coach-certification-review-catalyst-coaching-institute/

A guide to a nurse’s salary: Broken down by all 50 states and industry type

/education/careers/nurse-salary/

2024 health coach certification review: Institute for Integrative Nutrition

/education/articles/health-coach-certification-review-institute-for-integrative-nutrition/

10 high-paying public health jobs right now

/education/careers/public-health-jobs/

Jason Del Rey

Is eBay actually sexy again as the ecommerce old-timer’s stock surges to an all-time high?

/2025/07/31/ebay-earnings-live-sports-cards-trading-pokemon/

Erik German

Meet the CIA-backed venture fund behind Palantir, Anduril—and a spy tool that might be on your phone

/2025/07/29/in-q-tel-cia-venture-capital-palantir-anduril/

Dana Hull

Kiel Porter

Bloomberg

Tesla engineering VP Moravy says company in ‘big swing moment’

/2025/07/27/tesla-engineering-vp-lars-moravy-big-swing-moment-musk-robotaxi-optimus-semi/

Christiaan Hetzner

Volkswagen seeks audience with Trump, dangling more than $10 billion in U.S. investments in exchange for tariff exemptions

/2025/07/25/volkswagen-trump-tariffs-exemptions/

Whether you’ve just completed your undergraduate degree or you are a professional with years of experience, Fortune is here to guide you on the next step of your educational journey.

How to land a cybersecurity job when you don’t have a degree

About the Contributors

Top Articles

2024 real estate school review: AceableAgent

10 free data analytics courses you can take online

10 AI bootcamps taught by top schools, companies, and tech experts

Online Syracuse University M.S. in Cybersecurity