3 answers
hussayn
Student
Rochester, Minnesota
3
Questions
Updated
768 views
What classes or courses did you take to become an cybersecurity engineer?
How long did it take?
How old were you?
Did you pay anything for the online courses?
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3 answers
David Allen
Consultant
84
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
David’s Answer
I can describe the typical and successful educational journey taken by professionals who become Cybersecurity Engineers. This path often begins with formal education, where individuals take core Computer Science courses like Data Structures, Algorithms, Discrete Mathematics, and Operating Systems (Windows/Linux Administration), which provide the fundamental technical knowledge. Specialized security courses then follow, including Network Security and Protocols (TCP/IP, Firewalls, VPNs), Digital Forensics and Incident Response, Cryptography, Secure Systems Design, and Ethical Hacking/Penetration Testing. Many aspiring engineers also gain hands-on proficiency in scripting and programming languages such as Python, Bash, or PowerShell for automation and tool development, often validated by industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ for foundation and CISSP for advanced knowledge.
The time it takes to become a Cybersecurity Engineer can vary significantly based on the starting point. A typical path involving a four-year Bachelor's degree plus several years (often three to five years) in a related IT role (like a Network Administrator or SOC Analyst) before advancing to the Engineer title means the journey often takes seven to nine years. People pursuing this career are generally in their early to mid-twenties upon graduation, but many switch careers later, making entry age highly variable. Regarding cost, while a full university degree is expensive, the foundational and intermediate online courses are available across a wide price spectrum: from free (like entry-level training from organizations such as ISC2 and free content platforms) to deeply discounted courses ($10-$50) on major platforms, all the way up to specialized, high-intensity bootcamps or professional vendor training which can cost $5,000 to over $20,000.
The time it takes to become a Cybersecurity Engineer can vary significantly based on the starting point. A typical path involving a four-year Bachelor's degree plus several years (often three to five years) in a related IT role (like a Network Administrator or SOC Analyst) before advancing to the Engineer title means the journey often takes seven to nine years. People pursuing this career are generally in their early to mid-twenties upon graduation, but many switch careers later, making entry age highly variable. Regarding cost, while a full university degree is expensive, the foundational and intermediate online courses are available across a wide price spectrum: from free (like entry-level training from organizations such as ISC2 and free content platforms) to deeply discounted courses ($10-$50) on major platforms, all the way up to specialized, high-intensity bootcamps or professional vendor training which can cost $5,000 to over $20,000.
Val Mongina
Cybersecurity Engineer
10
Answers
McKinney, Texas
Updated
Val’s Answer
My path was a bit different because I actually started out as an accountant before moving into cybersecurity. I decided to fully commit to the field and completed my master’s degree in cybersecurity online at WGU when I was 34, graduating at 35. After that, I earned certifications like OSCP and CEH, along with many other online courses to fill in knowledge gaps as needed. Yes, I paid for my master’s program and my major certifications, but I also took advantage of free resources along the way. I read books I purchased online and spent time every day researching new topics, practicing hands-on skills, and staying curious. This combination of structured learning and continuous self-study is what really helped me grow into a cybersecurity engineer.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Starting a career as a cybersecurity engineer is an exciting journey. Begin by learning the basics of programming, operating systems, networking, and databases. Then, dive into network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, digital forensics, malware analysis, cloud security, and secure software development. Practical experience is key, so use tools like Kali Linux, Wireshark, and Metasploit, try Capture the Flag challenges, and explore virtual labs. Websites like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, Cybrary, PortSwigger Web Security Academy, and VulnHub offer guided labs and real-world practice. As you progress, you can focus on areas like IoT security or compliance, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CEH, OSCP, and CISSP can showcase your skills.
While a traditional degree may take three to four years, online courses or bootcamps can be completed in six months to a year, with additional time for certifications. Affordable learning options are available on platforms like Coursera, edX, and Cybrary. YouTube channels like NetworkChuck, The Cyber Mentor, John Hammond, and HackerSploit also provide practical tutorials. With dedication to online learning, hands-on labs, and certifications, you can build strong cybersecurity skills in less than two years.
While a traditional degree may take three to four years, online courses or bootcamps can be completed in six months to a year, with additional time for certifications. Affordable learning options are available on platforms like Coursera, edX, and Cybrary. YouTube channels like NetworkChuck, The Cyber Mentor, John Hammond, and HackerSploit also provide practical tutorials. With dedication to online learning, hands-on labs, and certifications, you can build strong cybersecurity skills in less than two years.