Cary, NC, Nov. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, has launched an initiative calling on higher education institutions to incorporate cybersecurity training as a core element of their curricula. This initiative comes in response to increasing cybersecurity threats that affect both national security and personal privacy. This underscores the urgent need for hands-on training alongside theoretical knowledge traditionally offered in colleges and universities; preparing the next workforce for real world scenarios.
Incidents, including the 2023 MOVEit cyberattack that impacted nearly 900 educational institutions and the 2024 CrowdStrike outage that paralyzed the airline industry, emphasize the growing threat. A 2024 IBM report highlights a significant rise in the cost of breaches—up 10% to an average of $4.88 million—increasing the stakes for those looking to hire entry-level cybersecurity professionals.
This growing threat landscape is prompting a surge in student interest in college cybersecurity programs. From 2016 to 2021, cybersecurity program completions jumped from 10,013 graduates to 23,746, marking an annual growth rate of 19%, according to research from Gray Di. In light of the pressing need for students, educational institutions must prioritize cybersecurity training, especially for beginners, to equip students with essential hands-on practical cyberecurity skills.
Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, emphasized the importance of building a security-aware society: “Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. By integrating cybersecurity training into our education system, we empower young people to make safer choices online, protect their personal information, and even consider rewarding careers in cybersecurity. We need a well-trained workforce to navigate and secure the digital world we live in.”
The Growing Relevance of Cybersecurity Education
Incorporating cybersecurity education into higher education not only addresses the urgent shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals but also provides students across IT disciplines with practical knowledge and skills. The ability to recognize threats and take preventive actions benefits individuals and enhances national security by building a generation that is more aware of and prepared for cyber risks.
Proof Points: The Case for Cybersecurity Certification and Training
Successful partnerships emphasize the benefits of cybersecurity education:
To meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, institutions are increasingly collaborating with training providers such as INE Security. Through these partnerships, students gain access to specialized, industry-aligned cybersecurity courses that align with current workforce needs. Certifications offered by providers like INE Security are designed to cover a broad range of security disciplines, helping students gain hands-on experience and become proficient in critical security concepts.
Best Practices for Integrating Cybersecurity into Curricula
To effectively incorporate cybersecurity training in higher education, institutions should consider the following approaches:
Looking Ahead: The Need for Proactive Cybersecurity Education
As our world becomes increasingly digitized, cybersecurity education must become a priority for higher education institutions. Schools must equip students with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their communities from digital threats. By investing in cybersecurity training for beginners and promoting career pathways in information security, colleges and universities can play a critical role in shaping a more secure digital future.
For more information on INE Security’s cybersecurity training and certification programs, visit INE Security.
About INE Security:
INE Security is the premier provider of online technical training for the IT/IS industry. Harnessing the world’s most powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity, cloud, networking, and data science. INE Security is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in a cybersecurity career.
Kathryn Brown INE 917-715-0911 kbrown@ine.com