- Exploreseveral fields before choosing
- BTech CSEthe degree we recommend
- At homestart learning free, today
- Earlyinternships, as soon as you can
Every year after the Plus Two results, parents and students in Kerala ask us the same thing: "My child wants to do cybersecurity. Which course should they join?" The honest answer starts one step earlier: first make sure cybersecurity is really the field for you, and then pick the degree that will open the most doors.
Step 1: taste several fields before you choose
In the first months after 12th, learn the fundamentals of a few different areas side by side. Once you have a feel for all of them, you'll choose with confidence, and if you choose cybersecurity, you'll take it up properly.
Try a little of each
- CybersecurityHow attacks and defences work
- IoTSensors, boards and devices
- Web developmentHow web apps are built
- AIPrompt engineering and tools
Step 2: choose the right degree
For any computer science career, including cybersecurity, BTech in Computer Science is our first recommendation. Look at MNC job listings and you'll see why: most ask for a BTech in CS, a BTech in IT, or a BTech in another computer field.
| Degree | Our view |
|---|---|
| BTech CSE / IT | The best route. It matches what most MNC job posts ask for, so you get shortlisted more easily. |
| BCA or BSc Computer Science | Choose only if BTech isn't possible. Many employers then also expect a master's (MCA or MSc) before they consider your profile. |
| No degree (startups) | Startups often don't mind about degrees, but very few get in this way: maybe 1 in 100. |
The less standard your profile, the harder you'll have to work to get noticed. A BTech makes the first job much easier to find. If you can't do a BTech, read getting a cybersecurity job without an IT degree.
Step 3: start learning at home, now
You don't need to wait for college. Programming and cybersecurity can both be learned from home:
- YouTube: free lessons on almost every topic, including ours in Malayalam.
- The Edwhere Learning platform: learn.edwhere.com has courses on cybersecurity, programming and cloud, plus cybersecurity projects to practise on. Beginners can start with the Python course in Malayalam or the 5 Days Ethical Hacking Bootcamp for ₹999.
- Other free resources online: practice platforms like TryHackMe are a great way to try hacking legally.
Step 4: get an internship as early as possible
The earlier you get an internship, the better. Even a short one during college gives you something real to put on your resume and talk about in interviews. Start looking as soon as you can, don't wait for your final year.
When you're ready to go deeper, follow our step-by-step guide: how to become an ethical hacker in Kerala.
For students and parents
Not sure which path is right?
Talk to a mentor at Edwhere. We'll listen to what the student enjoys and suggest a sensible next step, in Malayalam or English.
Keep reading
Frequently asked questions
Which course is best for cyber security after 12th?
A BTech in Computer Science or IT is the best degree for a cybersecurity career, because most MNC job posts ask for it. Alongside it, take practical cybersecurity courses and certifications.
Is BCA good for cyber security?
It can work, but choose it only if BTech isn't possible. With BCA or BSc, many employers also expect a master's degree before they consider your profile.
Can I learn cyber security after 12th at home?
Yes. Start with YouTube, online platforms such as learn.edwhere.com, and free practice labs. Learn programming and networking basics first.
When should I do an internship?
As early as you can get one. Even a short internship early in college gives you real experience to show employers.
Should I choose cyber security straight after 12th?
Try the fundamentals of a few fields first, such as cybersecurity, IoT, web development and AI, then choose the one you enjoy. You'll commit to it much more seriously.