How to become a cybersecurity analyst

Looking to pursue work as a cybersecurity analyst? This guide covers the skills, education, and certifications for the field, along with career outlook data.

Browse online cybersecurity programs and courses

Key takeaways

  • Establish cybersecurity knowledge and transferable skills like problem-solving and decision-making through formal cybersecurity education and training.
  • Help organizations protect networks, systems, and sensitive data from breaches and cyberattacks.
  • Pursue an in-demand career field, with the BLS projecting 21% growth for the field from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average.
Programmers working together on a computer in office discussing a project.

What does a cybersecurity analyst do?

Cybersecurity analysts safeguard computer networks, systems, and sensitive data for individuals and organizations across the public and private sectors. They protect information like customer and patient data from attacks by preparing for and responding to attacks. These professionals identify potential digital vulnerabilities and monitor usage to ensure only authorized users can access information and resources.

Common cybersecurity analyst responsibilities:

  • Preparing for potential breaches by identifying vulnerabilities and areas for improvement
  • Overseeing networks and monitoring for unusual activity and external threats
  • Investigating security incidents and suspicious activity to determine how they happened and safeguard companies from future breaches
  • Implementing security measures to protect information for public and private-sector organizations, such as hospitals, businesses, and government agencies

What do you need to become a cybersecurity analyst?

To become a cybersecurity analyst, you need technical skills, along with education, training, and experience, depending on the specific position. Many employers require or prefer candidates to possess a bachelor's degree, though some may prioritize real-world experience and skills over formal education.

Skills

Network security, ethical hacking, threat detection, IT fundamentals

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field typically needed; some workers enter with a high school diploma plus relevant training and certifications

Experience

Network administration, information technology, cybersecurity internships

Certifications

CompTIA Security+, CySA+, GIAC, among other certifications may be preferred by employers

How to become a cybersecurity analyst

The pathway to becoming a cybersecurity analyst varies by individual, their experience, and the prospective employer. A common path includes building a technical foundation, pursuing relevant education or training, developing specialized cybersecurity skills, gaining hands-on experience, and considering professional certifications. Here is one potential roadmap to the field.

Step 1: Build a foundation in IT and computer science

Begin by learning fundamental technical concepts that support cybersecurity, such as IT fundamentals, computer networks, and operating systems. Building this broader technical foundation can help you understand how systems and networks function before you move into more specialized cybersecurity topics. Harvard's CS50 courses on edX include Introduction to Cybersecurity and can help you explore these foundational concepts.



Programs that can help you prepare for a career as a cybersecurity analyst

Stand out in your field
Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.
Learn at your own pace
On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.
Earn a valuable credential
Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.
Cybersecurity Fundamentals
Rochester Institute of Technology
Course
Cybersecurity Risk Management
Rochester Institute of Technology
Course
CS50's Introduction to Cybersecurity
Harvard University
Course
Beginners Guide to Cybersecurity
IBM
Course
Cybersecurity Basics: Tools and Cyberattacks
IBM
Course
Mastering Generative AI for Cybersecurity
IBM
Course
Launch your Cybersecurity Career
IBM
Course
Cybersecurity Compliance and Framework
IBM
Course

Cybersecurity analyst salary and job outlook

+21%
Job growth (2025-35), Source: BLS
14,100
Projected openings per year, Source: BLS

Is becoming a cybersecurity analyst right for you?

If you enjoy solving technical problems, keeping up with evolving technology trends, and investigating threats, you may enjoy the work of a cybersecurity analyst. Consider your personal interests and professional goals: are you tech-savvy and do you have strong attention to detail? Even if you decide not to pursue cybersecurity roles specifically, an education in this field can help prepare you for other related positions in tech.

Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst

Explore cybersecurity programs on edX

Frequently asked questions about becoming a cybersecurity analyst

How long does it take to become a cybersecurity analyst?

Depending on your skills, experience, and education, it can take several years to become a cybersecurity analyst. Information security analysts typically need a bachelor's degree, although some workers enter the occupation with a high school diploma plus relevant industry training and certifications. In some cases, you can pursue some roles by building a portfolio of real-world work and completing training programs to shorten this timeline.

What's the difference between information security analysts and cybersecurity analysts?

The titles often overlap and may be used differently depending on the employer. The BLS reports occupational data under "information security analysts," while employers may use titles such as cybersecurity analyst, security analyst, or cyber analyst for similar roles focused on protecting systems, networks, and data.

Can I become a cybersecurity analyst without a degree?

Yes. Some employers may accept relevant industry training, certifications, and experience in place of a bachelor's degree. Employer requirements vary, so review job postings for the roles you're interested in to understand their education and experience requirements.

Is cybersecurity a good future career?

Projections indicate that cybersecurity will continue to be an in-demand field. For example, the BLS projects that employment for information security analysts, a closely related role, will grow by 21% from 2025 to 2035, far outpacing the average for all occupations.