Educating The Next Generation Of Computer Security Professionals: The Rise And Relevancy Of Professional Certifications

Abstract

This paper discusses the recent ascent and proliferation of computer security professional certifications. Based upon the premise that secure information technology not only underpins the current US economy but also represents a pivot point for future economic growth, it highlights the recent phenomenon of many information technology professionals complementing their Computer Science (CS), Information Systems (IS), and Information Technology (IT) degrees with highly specialized certification-based training to secure jobs that help to protect our national IT infrastructure. It also raises the question as to whether the trend of narrowly-focused specialized training signals a possible shift away from traditional academic computer security programs. If the present trend continues, the longer-term consequences for traditional academic degree programs could be dramatic. However, from the short-term perspective of this study, the proliferation of certification programs as a source of supplementary education is viewed as a positive phenomenon, helping to mitigate the disastrous effects associated with the continuous onslaught of domestic- and international-sourced cyber-attacks that threaten our national economic livelihood.