Choosing Between IT vs Cyber Security Careers

Information technology (IT) and cybersecurity share an intricate connection as they both revolve around safeguarding computer systems from potential threats and vulnerabilities. If you find yourself immersed in the tech world, it’s crucial to understand their meanings and distinctions that define their approaches to securing data. Gaining a firm grasp of the terminologies and the factors that set them apart can empower you to effectively implement these protective measures. In the following sections, we will explore the rationale behind IT vs. cyber security, elucidate the meanings of both terms, and shed light on the disparities that exist between them.

What’s the Main Difference Between Information Technology and Cyber Security Degrees?

The primary contrast between cybersecurity and information technology lies in their scope. Information technology tends to be broader, while cybersecurity usually involves a more specific focus.

In practical terms, information technology covers a wide range of areas, including computer and network usage, software development, and infrastructure management. On the other hand, cybersecurity is all about protecting these systems from potential attacks. It also includes areas like digital forensics and incident response, which are essential responsibilities for cybersecurity experts.

IT or Cyber Security – Which Career Path Suits You Better?

Curious about whether you should opt for a career in information technology or cybersecurity? Let our guide walk you through the commonalities and distinctions between these two career choices.

Information Technology

The realm of information technology offers a diverse array of job roles and skill sets. IT experts are primarily focused on constructing, overseeing, and safeguarding an organization’s computer systems and networks. Within the IT domain, you’ll find computer programmers, software developers, and chief information officers, among others. It’s worth noting that cybersecurity professionals also fall under the IT umbrella.

The field of IT is experiencing rapid expansion and boasts a robust demand for skilled professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there’s a projected 15% growth in overall employment for computer and IT occupations from 2021 to 2031, significantly outpacing the average job market growth rate. If you’re considering a career in information technology, exploring options like IT certificate programs or pursuing an IT management degree can be a promising path.

Cyber Security

Cybersecurity experts play a crucial role in safeguarding their organizations against unwelcome computer and network intrusions. Within this field, you’ll find various job titles such as information security analyst, security engineer, and security director. The essential skills required can differ depending on the specific role but often encompass scripting, ethical hacking, critical thinking, and effective collaboration.

With the rise in cyberattacks and the increasing digitization of data by organizations, the demand for cybersecurity professionals has surged. Currently, there is a shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts to fill the growing number of job openings in the field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a robust demand for information security analysts, a key category within the cybersecurity profession. If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, it’s wise to explore options like completing a cybersecurity certificate program, pursuing a degree in the field, or enrolling in a cybersecurity bootcamp to meet this burgeoning demand.

Cybersecurity vs Information Technology Salary

When it comes to job prospects and earning potential, both cyber security and IT specialists have bright horizons. According to experts, the typical yearly salary in the field of cybersecurity stands at $93,395, which is significantly higher than the cross-industry average of $47,520. Likewise, IT specialists also enjoy healthy earnings, with an average annual salary of $81,241. The salary brackets for each profession exhibit similarities, ranging from approximately $69,000 to $125,000 for cyber security professionals and from around $58,000 to $113,000 for those in IT roles.

Career Differences: Cyber Security vs Information Technology

Graduates holding advanced degrees in information technology typically find themselves employed in the following positions:

• IT Director
• IT Program Manager
• IT Technician
• Software Developers
• Computer Programmers
• Computer and Information Research Scientists

Individuals who have earned an advanced degree in cybersecurity have secured roles in the following positions:

• Information Security Analyst
• Security Manager
• Cryptanalyst
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst
• Cybercrime Investigator
• Malware Analyst
• IT Security Architect

How to Know the Best Career for You

Still grappling with the decision between IT and cybersecurity? Take a moment to reflect on your existing interests and abilities, weigh the academic prerequisites, and contemplate the opportunities for career progression in the long run.

Furthermore, consider the potential earnings, job stability over time, and the level of professional esteem that each field offers as additional factors to shape your choice.

It’s worth noting that both cybersecurity and IT are poised to maintain robust demand. If you’re inclined toward honing a more specialized skill set that opens doors to niche positions, giving cybersecurity a thought might be wise. Conversely, if your goal is to acquire a broader knowledge base within a vast domain, then opting for IT could be a fitting choice.

Remember that the realms of cybersecurity and IT intersect, overlap, and mutually influence each other in various ways. Deciding on one path now doesn’t preclude you from exploring the other in the future. Keep your options open and adapt to your evolving interests and career goals.

Make the Best Choice for Your Future

The choice between IT vs Cyber Security is a significant decision. To make the right choice, consider your interests, skills, earning potential, and long-term job security. Both fields offer promising futures, with high demand and competitive salaries. If you lean toward specialization and safeguarding digital frontiers, Cybersecurity may be your calling. Alternatively, if you seek a broader spectrum of tech expertise, Information Technology could be your path. Remember, your choice today doesn’t lock you into one field forever; you can adapt as your interests and ambitions evolve.