Advice for someone interested in a security career?

["Chris Rodgerson" <Chris.Rodgerson () oracle com>]

Hi all,

I'm a student nearing the end of my degree course in Computer Science
(currently on sandwich placement year, hence the @oracle.com email address),
and I have decided that computer, and network security in particular, is the
career I wish to pursue. I have a few options:

1) Finish my MEng Computer Science, and try to get a job (without any
security-specific qualifications, save for a couple of courses completed as
part of my degree)  (2 Years more study)
2) Finish my degree a year early, qualifying with a BSc Computer Science,
and then apply for Masters degree in a more specialised Security-related
topic. (3 years)
3) Finish my MEng and then do a PhD in a more specialised Security-related
topic.(4-5 years)

In your opinions, which would be the better option in furthering my career
in Security? Would more on-the-job experience be preferable to employers, or
would they rather have someone with more (relevant) qualifications? I'm not
sure if I would have the patience to complete a PhD, but then again you may
think it's worth it.

As a sidenote, I am based in Europe (specifically Ireland), which may or may
not influence your answers.

Thanks in advance,
Chris


---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------