Type of Degree?

[m2m]

I was wondering what type of degree makes a person more marketable in the IT industry. I am interested in information security. Should I pursue a degree in information technology and security or a computer science degree. Also is an associate degree enough to get started or do you need a bachelor's degree. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

[HHunter]

In the "olden" days the way into IT (aka DP - Data Processing in the olden days) was with a Comp Sci degree. But these days, you can enter the field not only with a Comp Sci degree, but just about any other degree (in particular, business-oriented) along with a bunch of computer classes. Reason being is that IT touches upon every facet of a company's business and IT dept's are always looking for people who are not just techies, but can bring other valuable skills, experience & understanding to the table.

On the other hand, if you enjoy science, engineering, technology in it's own right, you probably should be a Comp Sci major - since there's always a need for techies who can focus on the systems-side and R&D-type of applications.

Regarding security, you can get there either way. Information & data security combines business and comp sci understanding. Systems, networking, communications security is more techie-oriented.

Re: Associates degree... while some companies require a Bachelor's, you certainly can find a job with an Associates degree. If that's what you've got, go with it - but I would suggest continuing towards your Bachelor's since in the long run it will command you more $ and not limit your career advancement which not having a 4 year college degree might.

Hope this helps and good luck!