Online Masters Degree in Network Security

Network security has become far more demanding since 1983, when a fictional movie teenager brought the Pentagon to the edge of World War III in "WarGames." When desktop computers began to proliferate in the 1980s, some managers recruited hackers who demonstrated an ability to penetrate a firewall and tasked them with managing network security.

Today, it takes more than a reformed hacker to repel cyber invasions. Network security is a cornerstone of any large enterprise, and advanced studies can prepare you for a leadership role in this growing field.

Earning master's degrees in network security

A master's degree is more than simply a certification in a specialized IT area. Studies for master's degrees in network security cover topics like these:

1. Communication about network security issues
2. Legal issues surrounding network security
3. Network architecture and management
4. Understanding hackers and online intrusion

A graduate program should prepare you to lead teams and establish security measures. You will need to know the latest and best case response to cyber attacks, intrusions and malware. As new devices are invented and new software platforms and apps go online, security risks mount. With your education in network security, you could become a superhero.

Career outlook for network security

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $75,660 for information security analysts, web developers and computer network architects in May 2010. These professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree and 1-5 years of experience. The BLS anticipates that job growth for information security analysts will be faster than average from 2010 to 2010, at 22 percent. Opportunities are expected for data security specialists in government and health care.

With experience and leadership skills, you can break into the IT management ranks. The BLS reports that computer and information systems managers earned a median salary of $115,780 in 2010. Computerworld's 2011 Salary survey notes that staff-level information security specialists earned $89,088, surpassed by network manager salaries averaging $90,503 and security managers' compensation of $99,031.

Both updated skills and experience are vital in high-tech careers, and virtual classes allow you to continue working while you earn your IT security degree online. Web-based programs offer master's degrees in areas like information security or information technology with a concentration in cyber security.

Network security has become far more demanding since 1983, when a fictional movie teenager brought the Pentagon to the edge of World War III in "WarGames." When desktop computers began to proliferate in the 1980s, some managers recruited hackers who demonstrated an ability to penetrate a firewall and tasked them with managing network security.

Today, it takes more than a reformed hacker to repel cyber invasions. Network security is a cornerstone of any large enterprise, and advanced studies can prepare you for a leadership role in this growing field.

Earning master's degrees in network security

A master's degree is more than simply a certification in a specialized IT area. Studies for master's degrees in network security cover topics like these:

1. Communication about network security issues
2. Legal issues surrounding network security
3. Network …