Studying Cyber Security

There has been an explosion in the number of people connected to the internet through computers, phones (or even their cars, televisions and pets!). By 2020, there will be nearly 200 billion such connected things. We use these devices to store and process personal information, financial information and confidential and sensitive information, like trade secrets, government records and business plans.

This leaves all of us, governments and firms included, vulnerable to cyber security attacks. Being a victim of these attacks can have consequences ranging from loss of information to financial woes to even national security breaches. To avert and minimise these negative episodes, we need suitably qualified cyber security professionals.

Some of the most sought-after French universities, colleges and institutes you could study at are:

• EPITA
• ESAIP Engineering School

Salary and Career Prospects

Cyber security graduates find work in virtually every company in every sector, including IT and tech (Microsoft, Apple), retail and hospitality (Hilton, Carrefour), banks (BNP Paribas, SociétéGénérale), pharmaceutical companies (Sanofi, Novartis) and the government.

Some of the roles they take up are Cyber Security Engineer, Cyber Security Consultant, Cyber Security System Architect and Cyber Security Sales Engineer.

Salaries vary based on experience, qualifications, skills and location. As a guide, cyber security professionals earn around €40,000 a year (32 lakhs INR).

Why study in France?

France is a popular study destination for international students. Some of French universities are several centuries old and are held in high esteem across the world.

The country is one of the largest economies in both Europe and the world. It has spawned conglomerates like Airbus, AXA, BNP Paribas and Capgemini. In addition to these, several tech, banking and financial services giants like Google, HSBC and Microsoft operate out of here.

France is the most visited country in the world and is the fashion, food, wine and art capital of the world. French cuisine, fashion, literature and films have a strong influence on rest of the world. Brands like Chanel, Dior, L’Oreal are French in origin. France hostsworld-famous events like Cannes Film Festival and Tour de France.

Paris, the capital of France, is among the world’s biggest and most beautiful cities. It has spectacular museums and art galleries, grand hotels, cafes and restaurants, luxury retail stores and literature and film houses.

French is the national language, although people living in big cities can speak varying degrees of English.

International students are able to apply for a post study work permit lasting up to 2 years.