Although both cybersecurity and software engineering jobs are in high demand, there are distinct differences between the two.
Boise State University’s online Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience and online Master of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience can prepare you to walk either career path.
Both cybersecurity and software engineering roles require an interest in solving problems, communication and collaboration, strong programming experience, along with mathematical and analytical skills.
Cybersecurity involves protecting computer systems, networks and data from theft, unauthorized access and damage. Software engineering is the process of coding, designing and maintaining software applications and systems.
One key difference is that the demand for cybersecurity professionals will continue to rise as more artificial intelligence comes online.
Unlike traditional cybersecurity programs that focus narrowly on tech or coding, Boise State’s programs train you to build resilience across people, processes and technology using a systems-thinking model to set you apart in the marketplace.
Roles for cybersecurity vs software engineering
There are many different areas of expertise to learn to become a successful cybersecurity or software engineering professional.
In cybersecurity, those areas include threat analysis and prevention, security policy development, incident response and security auditing and compliance.
In software engineering, you must know software development, problem-solving, collaboration and be open to continuous learning.
Three potential career paths for online Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience graduates are: computer and information systems manager ($104,450-$239,200 salary range), information security analyst ($69,660-$186,420) and systems administrator ($60,320-$150,320).
Three potential career paths for online Master of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience graduates are: cybersecurity specialist ($75,000-$90,000 salary range), deputy chief information security officer ($140,000-$160,000) and cybersecurity analyst ($100,000-$120,000).
Customize your degree
You can work toward your goal of becoming a cybersecurity or software engineering professional by tailoring your degree to match your goals.
The undergraduate degree has three optional certificates that can be added to your degree or earned as stand-alone credentials. These 12-credit cyber certificates can be completed in as few as two semesters:
- Certificate in Cyber Operations: Create and protect resilient systems and networks with an education that is more than theory-based.
- Â Certificate in Applied Computing, Systems and Network: Learn the fundamental principles of secure design, computational thinking, cloud computing, python programming and more.
- Certificate in Cyber for All: All students, regardless of major, need to understand fundamental cyber defense skills and the implications of good versus bad cyber hygiene. This certificate bridges that gap.
The master’s degree offers three nine-credit certificate options that can be earned as part of the degree or as a stand-alone credential and completed in as few as two semesters:
- Graduate Certificate in Analyst and Threat Intelligence: Prepares to be an industry-ready professional and create and protect resilient systems and networks through analytics and threat intelligence.
- Graduate Certificate in Governance Policy Administration: Find out how to make decisions based on the ethics, laws, policies and governance of the cybersecurity field.
- Graduate Certificate in Resilience Engineering: Learn to analyze operation and resiliency policies, metrics, testing and security solutions for an entity using both rigorous risk assessment and threat intelligence people, processes, tools and measures.
Boise State’s expert faculty and access to free, high-quality training through partnerships with VMware, Cisco and Palo Alto adds direct value to your degree and helps you gain industry certifications alongside your degree.
Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program
Boise State’s cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.