Your Ultimate Guide to Pursuing a Cybersecurity Master’s Degree from WGU

Without enough stress in one’s life, one will not grow. ~ I think me

WGU is the BEST solution for working professionals that already have a career and or family.

In this post, I will share my experience of completing the WGU Master’s of Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Degree in just 5 months and the methods I used, which were both time-efficient and cost-effective. I aim to inspire others to pursue higher education by demonstrating that there are alternative ways to achieve your goals.

My Background

I have worked in IT for over 15 years, but my career path has been unconventional. While most people tend to follow a traditional route of getting a degree, working as an intern, pursuing certifications, and then landing an entry-level position, I took the exact opposite approach.

I failed High School, worked some jobs, joined the Army, went through some Army schools, and earned my Associate’s Degree. Only took 6 years for me to earn my Bachelor’s Degree.

Why Pursue a Master’s Degree?

The Fallacy of Settling for an Undergraduate Degree

The number of students enrolled in undergraduate courses is steadily increasing every year. However, a bachelor’s degree will only get you so far in today’s job market. In fact, it has become the norm that candidates with advanced degrees are preferred for senior-level positions and better-paying jobs.

Employers seek individuals who quickly adapt to fast-paced environments and handle more complex tasks. Furthermore, pursuing a Master’s degree not only increases one’s earning potential but also opens up career advancement opportunities.

You’ll be at an advantage over your peers with just a bachelor’s degree as your credentials will stand out. You’ll be viewed as someone dedicated to your craft and willing to push yourself outside your comfort zone on your journey toward professional development.

Statistics Tell A Story

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers that require advanced degrees are expected to grow by 11 percent from 2016-2026 compared to occupations that only require a bachelor’s degree, which has an estimated growth rate of 7 percent during the same period. This means there will be more demand for individuals who hold advanced degrees than those who don’t.

Moreover, studies show that professionals with Master’s degrees earn significantly higher salaries than those with just a Bachelor’s degree. The National Center for Education Statistics states that, on average, individuals with graduate degrees earn $12,000 more annually than those without one.

While pursuing an undergraduate degree is commendable and necessary in most fields today, it is not enough if you want long-term success in your career. A master’s degree provides the edge needed to compete successfully within your industry while opening up new opportunities previously unattainable through an undergraduate degree alone.

The benefits of pursuing an advanced degree and why WGU is the right choice for you

In today’s fast-paced job market, it’s becoming increasingly essential to possess relevant skills and knowledge to remain competitive. Pursuing a Master’s degree is one way to do so, and it can lead to numerous benefits, such as increased earning potential and career advancement opportunities.

However, with so many institutions offering post-graduate programs, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. This is where Western Governors University (WGU) comes in.

WGU is a private, non-profit institution that offers a wide range of online Master’s degree programs across various fields such as Business, Education, Healthcare, and IT. As someone who has benefited from pursuing a Master’s degree with WGU, I can attest to the quality of education this institution provides.

WGU provides flexibility in terms of learning pace and schedules, and its unique competency-based learning model ensures that students are equipped with practical skills that can be applied directly in their careers. Moreover, because it is an online university with no physical campus requirements or traditional semester schedules, tuition rates at WGU are significantly lower than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions – making it an affordable alternative without compromising quality.

If you’re considering pursuing a Master’s degree but aren’t sure where to start or which institution best suits your needs both academically and financially – look no further than Western Governors University. It may be the key to unlocking your full potential and advancing your career!

My Thoughts

I realized that many employers are now requiring applicants to have a Master’s Degree as part of their selection criteria. So, I decided to pursue one. After researching various options, I chose Western Governors University (WGU) because of its affordability and flexibility. WGU was the perfect fit for me since it allowed me to complete my degree on my own schedule and at my own pace (which is fast!).

I happened across Dr. Blake Curtis, Sc. D’s article, “How to Complete Your Master’s Degree in One Semester at WGU !!!!” inspired me and cemented my decision to WGU.

Also, no discussion boards! Write 500 words on topic X, then respond to two other people’s posts. I dreaded that so much it was one of my main questions to the admission person.

WGU offers an online Master’s Degree in Cyber Security, which I completed in just 5 months. The courses were challenging, and the workload was intense, but it was worth it!

I gained tremendous knowledge about computer security while also developing important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management while also validating and leveraging the knowledge I already had.

Is A Master’s Degree Worth It?

In short, yes! Completing a Master’s Degree is no easy feat, but I would say it was worth every minute. Not only did I gain valuable knowledge and skills, but it also opened the door to new opportunities. By having this degree on my resume, I was able to land a better job with more responsibilities. Plus, I now have the satisfaction of knowing that I accomplished something big.

My experience has taught me that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. So, don’t let anything stand in your way of achieving your educational goals.

Choosing the Right Program

WGU’s Diverse Range of Programs

When it comes to pursuing a Master’s degree, deciding on a program that aligns with your personal interests and career goals is crucial. Luckily, Western Governors University offers a diverse range of Master’s degree programs spanning multiple fields, including Business, Education, IT, and Healthcare. With over 20 different degree programs, WGU allows students to choose a program that best suits their career aspirations.

Whether you’re interested in pursuing an MBA or an MS in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, WGU’s competency-based learning model allows students to earn their Master’s degree at their own pace while still maintaining their professional and personal commitments. With the ability to start courses on the first day of any month year-round and no traditional semester schedules to follow, students have the freedom and flexibility required to balance work with academic pursuits while pursuing a degree that can lead to higher earning potential.

Personal Interests & Career Goals

When choosing a program at WGU or any university for that matter, it’s important for students to evaluate what their interests are as well as long-term career goals. Some factors that should be considered include job growth within the specific field or industry they are considering; whether they want an online or campus-based program; if they want full-time or part-time study options; accreditation status; affordability, etc. It is also wise for prospective students at WGU to review program descriptions in-depth and assess the prerequisites needed for each course before making final decisions.

In addition, contacting department representatives can help answer any questions about class size limits and availability and provide more insight into what level of education may be required beyond graduation – such as necessary certifications or licenses. While obtaining a Master’s degree can be challenging – especially with other life commitments – by choosing a program that aligns with personal interests and career goals, students can make the process both enjoyable and rewarding.

WGU’s Advantages

• Online
• Accelerated
• Affordable
• Accredited
• Competency-based/Certifications
• Easy admissions process
• Flexible start dates
• Classes are sequential
• Quick grading

The Competency-Based Learning Model

In a world where traditional universities still rely heavily on lectures, textbooks, and testing, WGU’s competency-based learning model is fresh air. Instead of following a strict timeline with predetermined deadlines for assignments and tests, students are free to study and progress at their own pace.

If you’re a busy professional who can only dedicate a few hours per week to your Master’s degree studies, you won’t be penalized for not keeping up with the class. You can take as long as you need to master each concept before moving on to the next one.

But wait, it gets even better. The competency-based learning model also means that if you’re already an expert in some areas of your chosen field, you won’t have to waste time reviewing material you already know.

Instead, you’ll be able to focus solely on the areas where you need improvement. This can save you countless hours of studying and help accelerate your progress toward earning your Master’s degree.

Affordable Tuition Rates and Lack of Traditional Semester Schedules

Let’s face it: traditional universities are expensive. Between tuition fees, textbooks, housing costs, meal plans, and other expenses, pursuing a Master’s degree can put a serious dent in your bank account. But at WGU, tuition rates are affordable enough that most students can pay out of pocket without needing loans or scholarships.

Plus, there are no hidden fees or extra charges for textbooks or online resources – everything is included in the tuition. Another perk of WGU is the lack of traditional semester schedules.

Unlike most universities that follow an academic calendar with specific start and end dates for each semester or quarter (meaning if you miss an enrollment window or fall behind schedule due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or work obligations), at WGU, you can start and finish your degree program whenever it suits your schedule. This flexibility is priceless for busy professionals who may need to pause their studies and pick them up again later.

Success Stories from Past WGU Graduates

Still not convinced that WGU is the right choice for you? Just take a look at some of the success stories from past graduates. One graduate, Melissa, earned her MBA in IT Management from WGU and immediately applied her newfound skills to her job as a project manager, resulting in a promotion and raise.

Another graduate, Tony, earned his Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree from WGU and landed his dream job as a high school history teacher shortly after completing the program. In fact, according to recent data from WGU’s 2020 Annual Report, 89% of surveyed employers said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the performance of their employees who earned their degrees from WGU.

And 97% of surveyed graduates said they would recommend WGU to others seeking higher education. The competency-based learning model, affordable tuition rates, and lack of traditional semester schedules at Western Governors University are helping students achieve success in their careers without breaking the bank or sacrificing other aspects of their lives.

WGU’s Disadvantages

• Limited social contact – could be an advantage
• Limited networking opportunities
• Inability to Ask Questions During a Lecture (but the course advisors are helpful)

My Schedule

I did receive credit for C725 – Information Security and Assurance & C727 – Cybersecurity Management 1 – Strategic with my Certified Cloud Security Professional (CISSP) credential. Having a “few” certifications helped out as many of the class overlaps in theory and practice.

My start date was July 1st, 2022, we were at my mom’s house in Colorado for the 4th of July celebration. My daughter and I got C0Vid around the 3rd, I had it bad. The whole family got it, and we were down for the week. We had to push our flight back to Alaska back a few days.

We got home around the 12th of July, and I started. The kids had equestrian camp the week of the 18th, and when they came home, we got sick again.

Tips:

• Watch the other videos at 1.5X or 2X speed.
• Reddit is your friend! If you get stuck, just search the class code, and you will find the help.
• Create outlines for papers with the RUBRIC! This is spelled out in Dr. Blake Curtis, Sc. D’s article, linked above.

Navigating

Navigating through a Master’s degree program can be a daunting experience, but with Western Governors University, students have access to resources that make the journey a little smoother. The WGU Student Success Center offers personalized support to students throughout their academic journey. This includes online tutoring, writing assistance, academic advising, and career services.

Additionally, students can access a robust online community of peers and faculty members who can provide additional support and guidance. When pursuing a Master’s degree with WGU, it is essential to stay organized and disciplined to succeed.

This means setting realistic goals and creating a schedule that allows you to balance coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family obligations. It also means taking advantage of the flexibility offered by WGU’s competency-based learning model by working at your own pace and utilizing resources like course mentors when needed.

Is a WGU degree a real degree?

Yes, WGU is fully accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Is WGU a legit accredited school?

Yes, and you will find more alumni, like me, in many industries and managerial positions.

What GPA does WGU require?

To transfer into a BS, achieve a minimum of 2.0 cumulative GPA or higher. To get into the Master’s program 2.5 GPA or higher is required.

Is Western Governors University a degree mill?

No, it may seem simple, but it is not easy.

What county and city is WGU in?

WGU is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States.

Is WGU accredited?

Yes, WGU is fully accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Reflections

Before I decided to return to WGU for my Master’s, I researched many other Universities. I wanted to the full-time programs face-to-face because that is an experience that I missed out on. But after careful consideration, I decided that the flexibility and affordability of WGU was a better fit for me.

I’m so glad I made that decision because it gave me the opportunity to complete my Master’s Degree in an accelerated timeline while learning valuable skills that will help me in my career.

My journey at WGU taught me the importance of time management, setting goals, and working hard to achieve them. I am proud that I was able to complete my Master’s Degree in such a short amount of time, and I hope that my story will serve as an inspiration for others.

If you’re considering going back to school, don’t wait any longer. With WGU’s flexible and affordable options, you can get the education you want on your own terms. I’m living proof that anything is possible if you set your mind to it!

So, don’t put off any longer – take the leap today and invest in yourself!

Good luck!