“To be blunt, it does not make sense to employ AI tools when your patch management and authorizations are not under control. The basics always need to be right”
Koos Wolters
Head of Cybersecurity, KPMG Netherlands
That is not being rude, instead the right people will applaud you for taking the right steps in the right time. Cybersecurity is a time game! If not timed well, a security architecture can fail you in the face. Yes, you read that right! Understanding the pulse of urgency that this cybersecurity threats levy on us does get overwhelming at times. But, the resolve is to take one informed step at a time. A cybersecurity specialist job role is not just about securing your systems and information on the cloud; there is more what needs to be catered to. Skills can be earned, but when done right; that form the basis of a lasting relationship between a secured information system and a thriving business community.
“Cyberattacks have increased by 18% globally in the first quarter of 2025 compared to last year”
SQMagazine.co.uk
You cannot imagine what these cyberattacks could mean to the big or small business houses that were being attacked. This is why entering into the world of cyberattacks without proper education or skills could mean entering the war without your armor. This notion completely sits right when thinking of the long term repercussions of these attacks. However, if you wish to explore a career in cybersecurity without a degree; there are numerous other ways to go about learning the nuances. Let us explore together!
Alternate Ways to Gain Cybersecurity Knowledge
- Work Placements– Internships and placements expose you to different aspects of the industry, giving you a broader understanding of the field.
- CTF Events– Capture The Flag competitions are cybersecurity challenges in which participants exercise their skill to find and exploit vulnerabilities in a system to capture a ‘flag’ or piece of information. These are an incredible way of alternate cybersecurity training as these are clear face off competitions between security professionals and/or students learning about cybersecurity.
- Volunteering– With many small businesses in need of cyber volunteers; volunteering is a great way to capture experience and advance your skill professionally.
- Networking– Networking through conferences and events allows you to create and strengthen business connections. It is a great way to meet business leaders and recruiters.
- Setting up Home labs- Setting up home labs is handy when you lack experience or qualifications in cyber, as it demonstrates that you can successfully implement independently.
- Open-source Projects– Contributing to open-source projects can be a valuable and practical way of getting your hands dirty in real-time learning and skill gain. This is a great mark up on your portfolio as well.
- Bug Bounties– Bug bounties offer an interesting opportunity to gain practical cybersecurity experience while offering the potential for earning financial rewards.
- Pragmatic Learning– Gaining practical experience can be made fun and addictive with sites offering short, gamified real-world labs and learning resources.
If you think that is all that you have as an option to long tiring university degrees; keep reading. The suggestion enumerated above are interesting ways of revving up your cybersecurity adrenaline; but when it comes to recruitments and placements- Global giants want more. What exactly? A trusted proof of your mastery of cybersecurity skills in a well-documented format; authenticated by a legit international credentialing body. Yes, we are talking about getting certified without the pain of long wait of grabbing your hard-earned certification badge. Let’s delve deeper!
In a massive wave of IT layoffs, there are well-documented proof of the fact that cybersecurity talent shortage is for real. This is why companies worldwide are seeking certified cybersecurity professionals more than ever. In 2025, hiring managers prioritize certifications that validate both advanced technical capabilities and strategic risk management. The following illustrated cybersecurity certification programs are the top rankers in the worldwide list.
- Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
This certificate is part of the ‘Grow with Google’ career certificates; offered via Coursera as an online certification. It aims at covering security fundamentals, networks, system administration, incident response, threat detection, and includes hands-on training with industry tools for beginners.
- United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®)
USCSI® is a worldclass reputed name in the credentialing circuit that offers diversified cybersecurity certifications that rank high at global listings. Talking about their programs- Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™) for beginners; Certified Cybersecurity Consultant (CCC™) for mid-level industry professionals; and Certified Senior Cybersecurity Specialist (CSCS™) for the senior industry experts and stakeholders- cater to a large audience worldwide. Picking the most suited certification that take you a notch higher at the interviews as the recruiters only look for precision over qualifications. These credentials serve as a valid proof of skill and enlarge your horizon to land your dream cybersecurity job with much finesse and a greater salary package.
- Certified Information Privacy professional (CIPP)
Offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP); CIPP focuses on regional privacy laws and regulations and demonstrates your understanding of the privacy laws, how to apply them, and ways to manage personal data responsibly. It is offered based on geographical concentrations across the globe for US, Europe, and Asia separately.
Wanting to get into cybersecurity without pursuing a long-term university degree is possibly- this read proves just that. The cybersecurity certifications listed above are among the top rated that can amplify your employability manifold; while garnering the attention of your dream recruiter in a jiffy. Are you keen to take the leap? Make an informed decision today!
