How to Start a Career in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity experts are in high demand as private, public and government sectors scramble to secure their systems and data in the wake of widespread cyber attacks. Industry analyst Cybersecurity Ventures projects that cybercrime will cost the world $6 trillion annually by 2021.

There is such demand for cybersecurity professionals that U.S. News & World Report listed Information Security Analyst as the fifth best technology job in 2019 (and #38 of its 100 Best Jobs) — based on salary, employment rate, growth, stress, work-life balance and job prospects.

And it’s no wonder why, the information security analyst position pays a median salary of $98,350 and the industry as a whole boasts an unemployment rate of “zero percent.” Due to the high demand and the many perks that are being offered to professionals with the right combination of education and experience, there has never been a better time to start a career in cybersecurity.

The first step in launching a career in cybersecurity is deciding which career path is right for you. There are two primary career paths that you should decide between before investing in education and training. Once you decide on your path, however, there are multiple career options and a varying array of jobs to choose from, depending on your specific interests and skills.

Leadership and Operations Route

The first option is to take the leadership and operations route, in which a diverse skillset and a propensity for lifelong learning are required. In this role you must possess strong leadership capabilities and have a thorough understanding of information technology systems and processes, as well as advanced cybersecurity skills and knowledge.

For information security experts who have obtained a substantial level of schooling and have experience in the field, top job options include:

Chief Information Security Officer
Information Security Analyst
Global Information Security Director
Cybersecurity Consultant

Engineering Route

The second option is to go the cybersecurity engineering route. This career is best suited to those who have engineering experience and are interested in learning how to build secure systems in order to mitigate threats.

Lead Software Security Engineer
Cybersecurity Architect
Cybersecurity Engineer

Invest in Your Education

Most prospective cybersecurity leaders start with an undergraduate degree in information technology, information systems and/or computer science. After obtaining an undergraduate degree and gaining experience in the field, a master’s degree in cybersecurity operations and leadership or information technology is the next step toward expanding your career opportunities and increasing your appeal to employers hiring for higher-level positions.

Get Certified

In order to land a job in cybersecurity, you will also want to consider earning industry certification in a specific area or subject matter that you are interested in. Some of the most popular and sought-after cybersecurity industry certifications

Network

Join local cybersecurity orgs such as the San Diego Cyber Center of Excellence. Many cities have their own cybersecurity associations, which can be excellent venues not only for learning but also for networking with professionals in the industry. Volunteer with a cybersecurity organization. There are a number of organizations that seek to spread the word about cybersecurity and attract people to the field. Getting involved with one of these organizations can be great for networking and for boosting your resume. Mansi Thakar, a DMV Cyber Group  graduate student in the Master of Science Cyber Security Operations and Leadership program who had no experience in cybersecurity before beginning the master’s program, began working with the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu, in an effort to expand her knowledge and community.