Cybersecurity or Higher Ed?

So, back on topic:

What can you do with the EdD in Higher Ed that you can't do right now? How does that add to the story of your career? If you're already in a TT role or wanting to be in one, I feel like you'll end up exactly where you are now.

If you get the PSM/MS in Computer Science, you would be a Criminology professor who also does cyber on the side? If my experience in data science is anything to go by, learning the skills for cyber is a "full time job" in that it takes a lot of time and would be difficult.

You mentioned potentially wanting to pursue an LCSW/LPC, which is different still. I get the idea that you want a "backup option" if teaching doesn't work out. If that's the case, you could become a Salesforce professional for $200. Salesforce architects (who have 5+ years in the ecosystem and 5+ certificates, each of which is $200) are above $120K. At Salesforce itself (the "mother ship") they average $450K.

You might also consider consulting, just more broadly. Writing books. Being a dissertation coach. Reviewing statistical approaches. Lots of opportunities to make money on the side without needing to pursue a full degree program. It's your life of course, I also wavered between Psychology, History, Accounting, Social Work, Economics, etc., but I know how pursuing disparate education without a unifying goal can make you and your career seem muddled or indecisive.

 

I really don't see much value in earning an Ed.D. As I've mentioned elsewhere on this forum, a doctorate isn't essential to becoming a leader in any field. So, even if I aspire to become a dean or even higher, an Ed.D. wouldn't be a prerequisite. Achieving tenure and taking on increasingly responsible roles (program director, chair, etc.) would prepare me for where I would want to go. So, I feel like it's more about getting a degree for "free."

I wouldn't be doing cybersecurity on the side. I would focus mostly on earning tenure. However, the degree could serve as a backup plan if I do decide to leave academia.

I know Salesforce is a high-paying career. My friend did the training but hasn't taken the certification exam as yet. He said it's very hard. I am not motivated by money. So, Salesforce doesn't pique my interest.

As far as writing a book, I only plan to write an autobiography. I do not want to be a dissertation coach or engage in any side hustle of that nature. Too much work is involved in reviewing all those papers. I am already an adjunct online. My motivation is not to increase my earnings at the moment. It's more about being marketable for the future. I probably don't need another degree. Maybe I just need to resist the urge. Perhaps I need a love life haha!! I do not feel fulfilled despite my accomplishments. I am happiest when I travel, which is why I tried so hard to get a full-time remote faculty position for the upcoming academic year. I don't like being in one place too long.