Shaima Aftab started her Cyber Security degree at Noroff University College, while managing family and work. Three years later, she has earned her diploma, gained IT experience, and achieved a strong sense of accomplishment.
- Completing my studies feels like reaching the top of a mountain. It’s been demanding, but also incredibly rewarding. I’ve learned so much, not just academically, but also about myself, says Shaima.
Read more about the Bachelor's programme in Cyber Security at Noroff University College here.
A career in transition
After working in textiles and HR, Shaima found it increasingly difficult to land relevant roles. She began exploring new opportunities and became curious about IT and security.
- I wanted to build a future-proof career where I could combine my previous experience with something new. Cyber Security turned out to be a perfect match. With a background in HR and business analysis, I now have a unique skill set I can apply within information security, data protection, and governance.
Studies, work, and family – all at once
Shaima managed to balance family life and a full-time job while studying full time.
- It was definitely challenging. But I made it work thanks to careful planning, a supportive family – and the flexibility of Noroff’s online learning. I often studied in the evenings and learned how to stay structured, prioritize, and remain focused. These are skills I bring with me into my career.
From theory to practice – and into employment
During her studies, Shaima landed a job as a Business Analyst at HCL. From there, she transitioned into a more technical role on the Vår Energi Jotun project. This summer, she steps into a new position at Quorum Software.
- Getting a job while I was still studying was incredibly motivating. It gave me practical experience and confirmed that I was on the right track.
Looking ahead, she dreams of working as an Information Security Analyst, with a particular focus on governance, risk, and compliance (GRC).
Advice to others in the same situation
To others considering education alongside work and family life, Shaima has a clear message:
- You’re capable of more than you think. It’s demanding, but the rewards are immense , for both you and your family. You show your children that learning is lifelong, and that it’s never too late to start over. It’s not just about your career, it’s about personal growth and believing in your own potential.
Grateful for the support from Noroff
- I found my time at Noroff to be very supportive. The digital learning environment made it possible to combine everyday life with studies, and I always got help when I needed it. I especially appreciated the clear feedback and the flexibility in submission deadlines.
Ready for the next step
Shaima is now looking ahead to new challenges in the Cyber Security field.
- This education opened doors I didn’t think were available. I’ve gained confidence, new knowledge, and a whole new direction in life. Now I’m ready to grow further, help create safer digital environments and never stop learning.
Study programmes at Noroff University College:
Årsstudium
Assurance in Cybersecurity Management
Lær å sikre organisasjoners digitale fremtid ved å mestre IT-styring, risikovurdering og etterlevelse av regelverk. Årsstudiet gir deg de essensielle ferdighetene du trenger for å beskytte sensitiv data, sikre juridisk overholdelse og styrke forretningsdriften.
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Årsstudium
Cybercrime Investigation and Response
Etterforsk digitale trusler og beskytt organisasjoner mot cyberkriminalitet. Du får praktisk erfaring med digital etterforskning, hendelseshåndtering og de grunnleggende prosessene som ligger bak effektive cyber-undersøkelser.
Nettstudier
Kristiansand
Online+ Oslo/Bergen
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Bachelor
Cyber Security
Utdanning som lærer deg å sikre digitale systemer mot nettangrep, nettkriminalitet og digital krigføring. Studiet gjør deg forberedt på en karriere der du jobber med å styrke det digitale forsvaret, samt beskytte data og informasjon.
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Kristiansand
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Bachelor
Applied Data Science
Studieprogrammet forbereder deg på en spennende karriere der du jobber med bedrifter for å forstå og bruke de enorme datamengdene de har tilgjengelig. I tillegg vil du utvikle ferdigheter innen intelligente AI-systemer.
Nettstudier
Kristiansand
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Bachelor
Digital Assurance and Security Management
Jobb med sikkerhetsstyring og sikring av verdifulle digitale eiendeler. Denne bacheloren dekker IT-kunnskap, fra forretningsprosesser til databasesystemer, ledelse og IT-arkitektur.
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Online+ Oslo/Bergen
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Bachelor
Digital Forensics and Incident Response
Fremveksten av cyberangrep, løsepengevirus og hacking har ført til et kritisk behov for dyktige digitale etterforskere med evnen til å svare på cybersikkerhetshendelser.
Nettstudier
Kristiansand
Online+ Oslo/Bergen
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Bachelor
Interactive Media - Games
Utdanningen vil gi deg varierte ferdigheter innen spilldesign og den kunnskapen som trengs for å lykkes i bransjen. Du vil få muligheten til å bygge opp en portefølje som vil gi deg innpass i en spennende bransje i stadig utvikling.
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Kristiansand
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Bachelor
Interactive Media - Animation
Studieprogrammet gir deg ferdigheter i å designe og animere 3D-karakterer. Animasjon blir stadig viktigere i underholdning og kreative næringer, noe som åpner opp for et bredt spekter av spennende karrieremuligheter.
Nettstudier
Kristiansand
Online+ Oslo/Bergen
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