Overview of Launching an Information Security Career
Shifting from military to civilian life comes with both opportunities and uncertainties. One of the biggest questions for many U.S. Military veterans is “What career path offers stability, purpose, and growth?” For thousands of veterans, the answer is information security (also known as cybersecurity). With cyber threats exponentially increasing and rapidly evolving, skilled professionals are in demand like never before, both in private and public sector organizations. The good news is that veterans already have the discipline, leadership, and mission-focused mindset that employers seek in this field. Their advantage is even stronger because veterans can use their GI Bill® education benefits to pursue an online degree in information security, making the transition into this high-demand career path smoother and more affordable.
Why Information Security Fits Veterans Perfectly
1. Mission-Oriented Work
In the military, protecting people and high-value assets is a core part of most missions. In information security, the mission is similar and is carried out in the digital realm. Veterans excel at strategic defense, quick decision-making, and risk management, all of which directly apply to critical cybersecurity roles.
2. Transferable Skills
Skills like problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability are second nature to service members. Many veterans also have exposure to IT systems, communications, and classified information security protocols during their service, which creates a natural bridge to careers in cybersecurity.
3. Growing Demand
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for information security analysts is projected to grow 32% between 2022 and 2032, far faster than most professions. This means veterans stepping into the field now can expect long-term job security and competitive salaries.
How the GI Bill® Supports Veterans
The Post-9/11 GI Bill® and other VA education benefits provide a powerful way for veterans, service members, and their dependents to fund their education. These benefits can cover:
- Tuition and fees for online information security degree programs
- Housing allowances for eligible students
- Certification costs for industry-recognized credentials like C|EH (Certified Ethical Hacker), C|ND (Certified Network Defender), and many more.
By choosing an online degree program, veterans gain the flexibility to:
- Study at their own pace while adjusting to civilian life
- Balance coursework with family or work commitments
- Access programs designed with cybersecurity professionals and veterans in mind
- Earn multiple certifications during their studies to fast-track employment opportunities
Click here for a complete guide to GI Bill® Education Benefits with EC-Council University
Information Security Job Roles That are Ideal for Veterans
An information security degree, especially when paired with certifications, opens doors to a variety of exciting career opportunities. Some of the most sought-after job roles are:
Cyber Security Analyst: Monitor and protect networks from attacks.
Incident Response Specialist: Respond to and recover from cyber incidents.
Ethical Hacker / Pen Tester: Identify vulnerabilities before adversaries exploit them.
Information Security Manager: Lead teams and develop organizational security strategies.
Compliance and Risk Analyst: Ensure organizations meet industry regulations and security standards.
Why Veterans Should Consider Starting Now
The global cybersecurity talent shortage means employers are actively seeking candidates with the right mindset and discipline to succeed. Veterans, with their unique combination of leadership, resilience, and mission-first mentality, are among the most highly valued candidates in the field.
With GI Bill® benefits making education affordable and online programs offering the flexibility needed during transition, there has never been a better time for veterans to step into this rewarding career path.
How ECCU Helps Veterans Build Successful Information Security Careers
The key to making a successful career transition into information security lies in equipping yourself with the right education and credentials, and that’s where EC-Council University (ECCU) comes in. ECCU’s world-class online cybersecurity programs are designed to bridge the gap between military experience and civilian career success. With a flexible learning format, a curriculum developed and taught by cybersecurity experts, and the integration of globally recognized certifications, ECCU ensures that veterans not only gain academic knowledge but also industry-ready skills. Best of all, ECCU accepts GI Bill® benefits, making it easier for veterans, active-duty service members, and their dependents to pursue their education without financial stress.
By choosing EC-Council University, veterans gain more than a degree. They gain an educational partner committed to helping them achieve their career goals. Whether the goal is to become a cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, or a leader in digital defense, ECCU provides the tools, training, and support to make it possible. For veterans eager to continue serving, this time in the digital arena, getting a degree in information security from ECCU is more than just gaining useful qualifications. It equips them for a future of making meaningful contributions, provides a strong sense of purpose, and offers lasting opportunities to enhance their careers.
