Things To Consider Before Applying To EC-Council University

If you have a strong interest in venturing into the field of Cyber Security, you might have encountered EC-Council and EC-Council University. I would like to shed light on a few important factors that should be taken into consideration before applying to EC-Council University.

Establishment and Evolution of EC-Council

EC-Council, short for the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants, was established by Sanjay Bavisi, a prominent attorney hailing from Malaysia. Headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, this esteemed organization specializes in training and certifying individuals in the field of information security, boasting the highly sought-after Certified Ethical Hacker certification. In due course, EC-Council grew to encompass an extensive certification body while simultaneously evolving into an esteemed online university.

My Experience with EC-Council: A Review

In 2013, while studying to become a Certified Ethical Hacker (C|EH), I came across EC-Council. Over the years, their certifications, including Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (C|HFI), have gained popularity in the infosec industry. Personally, I found their self-study materials and the certification bootcamp I attended to be valuable in preparing for the exam. The syllabus provided practical knowledge with numerous exercises and examples.

One of the major advantages of becoming C|EH certified was the opportunity to renew my CompTIA Security+, Network+, and A+ certifications without having to retake the exams. This not only saved me time but also money. However, I must mention that EC-Council’s reputation in the industry is mixed. Some consider them to be a serious authority, while others argue that they are overrated and resemble a diploma mill. Nevertheless, I believe they have made improvements over time and it is worth noting that C|EH is now included in the United States Department of Defense Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program.

Considering the accreditation, I plan to continue renewing my C|EH certification and might pursue the C|HFI certification in the future, despite the exams being costly. It is crucial to mention that Deakin University offers students credits for taking forensics and ethical hacking subjects as part of their Cyber Security degree program. Additionally, students can enroll in SIT002 and SIT003 courses to become C|EH and C|HFI certified. However, it is important to note that university credits are not granted for these certifications.

In conclusion, my experience with EC-Council has been positive overall. While their reputation in the industry may be debatable, I found their certifications and study materials to be useful. The benefits of maintaining these certifications and the inclusion of C|EH in government programs make them worthwhile investments, despite the associated costs.

Thoughts on EC-Council degrees

EC-Council offers the Bachelor in Cyber Security and the Master of Cyber Security, boasting comprehensive program outlines that catch the eye. However, it is important to note that compared to most universities, ECCU demonstrates greater flexibility with respect to English proficiency requirements for international students pursuing higher education. While other institutions enforce rigorous English language standards, ECCU only necessitates a TOEFL score of 71 to satisfy the criteria.

ECCU’s website stipulates a list of developing countries whose students are exempted from demonstrating their English proficiency. Regrettably, from my standpoint, this is disappointing as effective communication in English is imperative when composing scientific research papers. For non-native English speakers, academic English differs significantly from everyday English, presenting a novel language in its own right. Even after years of globetrotting and working overseas, non-native English speakers often find themselves confronted with this unfamiliarity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the absence of EC-Council in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) undermines the credibility and recognition of its degrees, making it challenging to pursue career opportunities or advanced education abroad. This limitation particularly affects individuals seeking employment, master’s or Ph.D. programs in the EU, Middle East, Asia, Australia, or public institutions in the U.S. Despite these concerns, I will still continue my pursuit of certifications from EC-Council. Additionally, it is worth noting that EC-Council University imposes significantly higher tuition and fees on individuals from the EU, Australia, New Zealand, or North America, which further adds to the potential drawbacks of choosing EC-Council.

Top Accredited Online Cyber Security Degrees: Pursue Your Career from the Comfort of Home

If you are seeking a flexible and convenient way to pursue a career in cyber security, online degree programs are a fantastic option. In response to numerous reader inquiries, we have compiled a comprehensive list of accredited online cyber security degrees offered by reputable institutions with a long-standing history. Rest assured, this article is not sponsored, ensuring the utmost transparency. We encourage you to thoroughly explore each program before making an informed decision about your educational journey.

• Quality Assured Cyber Security Degree Programs: We understand the importance of obtaining a degree from a reputable institution. Hence, all the cyber security degree programs recommended in this list are accredited by recognized bodies, ensuring their commitment to excellence and high educational standards.
• Flexibility and Convenience: Enrolling in an online program means you have the freedom to study at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home. These programs allow you to maintain your current job or personal commitments while progressing towards a valuable cyber security degree.
• Comprehensive Course Offerings: Each cyber security program offers a wide range of courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field. From network security to threat intelligence, ethical hacking to digital forensics, these programs cover all fundamental aspects of cyber security, providing a holistic education.
• Faculty Expertise: Our recommended programs boast experienced faculty members who are industry leaders and experts in the field of cyber security. Their extensive backgrounds, coupled with their dedication to student success, ensure a top-notch learning experience.
• Cutting-Edge Resources and Technology: These online cyber security degree programs offer access to cutting-edge resources, virtual labs, and the latest tools in the industry. By utilizing state-of-the-art technology, students gain hands-on experience in real-world cyber security scenarios, preparing them to tackle challenges in their future careers.

Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia – Cloud Campus

Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia, is well-known for its strong computer science programs, with a particular focus on cybersecurity. The university has gained recognition for its expertise in this field and is regarded as a pioneer in distance learning.

Deakin recognized the challenges posed by Australia’s vast geographical landscape and started offering programs through distance learning even before the advent of the public internet. This approach has allowed students from all corners of the country to access quality education in computer science, including cybersecurity.

The university offers two distinct master’s degrees in cybersecurity, catering to students with different backgrounds and career aspirations. These programs provide comprehensive knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, covering topics such as network security, data protection, digital forensics, and ethical hacking. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary expertise to address emerging cybersecurity challenges.

One of the notable advantages of studying at Deakin University is its public status, which ensures a high standard of education and recognition both locally and internationally. The university is internationally recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), which further enhances the value of its degrees.

By choosing Deakin University for your studies in computer science and cybersecurity, you can benefit from its strong reputation, experienced faculty, and access to industry partnerships. These factors contribute to a well-rounded education and provide undeniable advantages for your future professional journey in the field of cybersecurity.

Master of Cyber Security

The first program, the Master of Cyber Security, is specifically designed for those who are relatively new to the field of cybersecurity. This degree focuses on fundamental subjects and does not require a thesis. It would be an ideal choice for individuals who hold an undergraduate degree in business or economics but have limited prior experience in IT. By offering a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and practices, this course equips students with the necessary skills to succeed in this rapidly evolving industry.

Master of Cyber Security (Professional)

On the other hand, the Master of Cyber Security (Professional) program offers a more comprehensive and research-oriented approach. Students in this program have the option to undertake a major thesis or a minor thesis along with professional practice, such as an internship. Opting for the major thesis route provides students with additional research experience, making it an ideal choice for those intending to pursue a Ph.D. or seeking recognition for their degree in the European Union as a Master of Science (M.Sc.). It should be noted that this program does not include the fundamental courses offered in the previous degree, meaning that students should anticipate a more challenging learning curve.

Both programs at Deakin University provide students with excellent educational opportunities in cybersecurity, enabling them to specialize in this increasingly crucial field. The university’s reputation for academic excellence and strong industry connections ensures that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in cybersecurity, whether they are starting from scratch or seeking to advance their existing knowledge and skills.

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