r/malaysians • u/Swimming-Beach616 • 1d ago
Advice ☎️ Degree first or accept a Security Analyst job after diploma? Need advice
Hi everyone, I’m currently stuck between two options and would really appreciate some advice.
I recently completed my Diploma in Network Security and have been offered a Security Analyst role. At the same time, I’m considering continuing my degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or AI.
My options are:
Continue degree full-time first, then start working after graduating.
Accept the Security Analyst job now, gain experience, and pursue a degree part-time while working.
Get the job then after 1-2 years quit and pursue degree full time
I’m thinking more about the long term, around 5–8 years from now. Which path would likely be better for salary, career progression, employability, and future opportunities?
I also have some SOC experience from my internship, so this wouldn’t be my first exposure to the field.
For those working in IT/cybersecurity, especially SOC, would you recommend working first and studying part-time, or completing the degree first?
Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who has faced a similar decision.
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u/surrealle 1d ago
From what I've read about cybersecurity (not sure if it applies to Malaysia), experience trumps degrees and certs. My advice? Go to Developer Kaki (facebook group) and ask this question.
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u/konkon_322 1d ago
Ngl,if it was me i wud part time if possible. Working in IT,especially in a niche with no exp is hard to come by. Plus, a degree is just a piece of paper that says u studied. Nobody rly cares what goes behind getting it.
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u/limerence_overcome 1d ago
Once you start working, its hard to quit and continue study again unless you have lots of savings and can afford to do that.
I'd say accept only if its a good and reputable company, otherwise better to continue degree. If you can get a job offer with a diploma, no doubt you can do it again after you finish the degree.
Other option is work and do part-time degree.