Federal government to hire cybersecurity professionals

Federal government to hire cybersecurity professionals

In an announcement that may be of interest to those who pursue online degrees in information technology, the Department of Homeland Security (DHL) has said it plans to hire as many as 1,000 cybersecurity experts in the next three years.

The announcement, made by Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, specifies that this is part of the government's effort to enhance the protection of U.S. computer networks.

Cyberanalysts, developers and engineers will be among the specialists whose skills will be in the highest demand at the DHS.

"Cybersecurity is one of our most urgent priorities," said Napolitano, quoted by CNN.

"This new hiring authority will enable DHS to recruit the best [talent] in the world to serve their country by leading the nation's defenses against cyberthreats," she added.

There are many online degrees that can prepare individuals for rewarding careers in technology both in the private and in the public sector. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job growth for computer and information scientists will average 22 percent during the next seven years, with top salaries exceeding $144,880.