Security Analyst job after diploma vs degree first — which would you choose?
I recently completed a Diploma in Network Security and have been offered a Security Analyst role.
At the same time, I’m considering pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or AI.
So I’m stuck between:
Degree first — study full-time, then enter cybersecurity after graduating.
Work first — accept the Security Analyst role now, gain experience, and complete a degree part-time while working
Work for 1-2 years then quit and get a degree full time
I already have some SOC experience from my internship, including SIEM, EDR, alert triage, and incident investigation.
For those already working in cybersecurity, which route would you choose if the goal is to be in the strongest position 5–8 years from now in terms of salary, career progression, and job opportunities?
Also, how realistic is it to do a part-time degree while working in a SOC, especially with shift work?