Get Hands On Cybersecurity Skills with Walsh's Master's Program

Summary

The speaker discusses the challenges of transitioning from theoretical education to practical application in academia, particularly in cybersecurity programs. They emphasize the importance of hands-on experience, noting that graduates from other institutions often lack this crucial skill set. The speaker highlights the unique approach of their institution, Walsh, in providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that students are employable upon graduation with the necessary competencies to excel in the field.

Takeaways

• 🎯 The speaker transitioned from a theoretical approach to academia with a goal to revamp a program.
• 🚀 The program aims to meet the needs of hiring supervisors and fulfill the requirements of organizations.
• 🌟 The vision is to build graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies that make them immediately employable.
• 📚 The program emphasizes teaching theory alongside significant hands-on experience.
• 🙅‍♂️ The speaker refrains from naming specific institutions to maintain a respectful comparison.
• 🎓 Students from other institutions, despite having cybersecurity bachelor's degrees, seek further education for practical skills.
• 🛠️ Walsh College stands out by providing the hands-on skills that are often lacking in other programs.
• 🏆 Walsh College is considered the best by some due to its comprehensive approach to education, combining theory with practical skills.
• 📈 The emphasis on hands-on learning is a key factor in students' ability to secure jobs in the field.
• 💼 The ultimate goal is to prepare students with the necessary skills to perform effectively in their jobs right from the start.

Q & A

What was the speaker's initial experience with academia?

The speaker initially had a theoretical approach to academia, lacking hands-on experience.

What did the speaker aim to change in the program they were involved with?

The speaker aimed to revamp the program to ensure it met the needs of hiring supervisors and organizations by producing graduates with the necessary skills and competencies.

What was the guiding principle or strategy behind the program's revamp?

The guiding principle was to build a program that would graduate students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that employers are looking for.

How does the speaker describe the process of integrating hands-on learning into the curriculum?

The speaker emphasizes that while theory is taught, a significant focus is placed on hands-on learning to prepare students for the workforce.

What issue did some students face with their previous cyber security education?

Some students who had completed cyber security bachelor's degrees from other institutions felt they did not receive any hands-on experience.

Why do students choose to attend Walsh for their master's degree after getting a bachelor's elsewhere?

Students choose to attend Walsh for their master's to gain the practical, hands-on skills that they believe are necessary to land a job in the field.

What makes Walsh different according to the speaker?

Walsh is different because it not only provides theoretical education but also backs it up with practical, hands-on skills training.

What is the speaker's perspective on the importance of hands-on skills in education?

The speaker believes that hands-on skills are crucial for students to be job-ready and competitive in the job market.

How does the speaker address the challenge of delivering a curriculum that balances theory and hands-on practice?

The speaker acknowledges that while the goal is straightforward, the process of delivering such a curriculum is not easy and requires a deliberate focus on practical skills.

What is the speaker's advice to those looking to pursue a degree in cyber security?

The speaker advises prospective students to seek out programs, like the one at Walsh, that offer a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience.

What is the ultimate goal of the program as described by the speaker?

The ultimate goal of the program is to produce graduates who are equipped with both the theoretical understanding and practical skills needed to excel in their cyber security careers.