Make sure to opt for a degree program for a security specialist which offers access to several certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional . By doing so, you’ll also be learning the material that each certification requires, putting you ahead as you get ready to graduate and land your first job in this exciting field. “You need to understand the technology for you to be able to secure it,” Ahamad says. “In the context of cybersecurity, it’s networks, and computers and software.” However, for some master’s program tracks, you might need a computer science or engineering undergrad degree. Some top programs include Georgia Tech, New York University, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of California, Berkeley.

Senior-level cybersecurity analysts can earn an average of $105,652 with up to six years of experience and $116,323 for more than ten years of experience. On the other hand, security analysts monitor networks and systems to detect potential threats how to become a security specialist or security breaches that could lead to a cyberattack against an organization’s network or computer systems. Payscale reports that cybersecurity professionals are widely compensated for their experience, responsibilities and geography.

What Do Cyber Security Specialsts Do?

Cybersecurity professionals with bachelor’s degrees earn more than those without. It generally doesn’t matter if this is a cyber security degree or one from a related field, such as a degree in computer science. Statistics say that only 23% of IT professionals with a master’s degree or higher feel like their degree helped them obtain a higher salary, so anything above a bachelor’s degree is not a must. In the computer security world, the exact position of a cybersecurity specialist is an entry-level job. It is a starting point from which you can branch out, depending on what suits you and what skills you continue building. A security specialist typically monitors the existing security infrastructure, suggests improvements, runs system checks, and researches potential new risks. A cybersecurity specialist works on the front lines and behind the scenes to protect digital systems and assets from hackers, threats and vulnerabilities.

This keeps sensitive data secure and ensures that only authorized users can access information. It’s also important to learn cybersecurity fundamentals, including how information systems may be threatened, and how to anticipate and detect threats. You should also get familiar with key elements important to cybersecurity, such as network architecture and protocol, routing and switching, firewalls, and more.

What are the career opportunities for cybersecurity professionals?

Cyber security specialists help to ensure the safety of a company’s computer networks and systems. They maintain the security of a computer network through testing as well as virus protection and regular updates. Periodically, these specialists re-certify the security of applications and the server. They troubleshoot company-wide security threats and implement creative solutions. Breaking into the cybersecurity field typically requires a combination of up-to-date computer expertise and educational qualifications. Specific educational requirements for cybersecurity specialist jobs will vary according to the position and employer.

Many cybersecurity specialist job listings require significant technical experience. In addition, Introduction to Cybersecurity is a free course offered by Cisco’s Net Academy.

Professional CertificationLearn Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is an increasingly popular field for IT graduates, however, there is a high demand for cybersecurity professionals worldwide. Some interested cyber security professionals will take the Cybersecurity course or the protocol hacking course and courses and training on data security, incident handling or cyber investigation. Cyber Security jobs do not require university degrees and many cybersecurity professionals move from entry-level IT jobs to cybersecurity while completing cybersecurity qualifications. Security specialists, also known as cybersecurity specialists, develop and implement security measures that protect computer networks and systems.