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Cybersecurity career guide


A cybersecurity career can prepare you to stop hackers and digital thieves in their tracks. Read on to learn about career options in the cybersecurity field.

What jobs can you get in cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is a broad term. The concept focuses on protecting information networks and systems from dangerous events. Careers range from risk identification and prevention to monitoring, detection, and response.

Here are a few careers available in the cybersecurity field.

Information security analyst

Reduce incidents by pinpointing threats, analyzing weaknesses, and taking steps to protect systems and networks.

  • Education level: To become a cybersecurity analyst you must earn a bachelor's degree in information systems, computer science, or a related field. Some employers might want you to have a master's degree. Also, consider earning the following certifications:
    • CompTIA Security+
    • CompTIA CySA+
    • CompTIA Network
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $120,360
  • BLS projected job growth (2023–33): 33%

Computer systems analyst

Evaluate networks to determine potential risks and weaknesses, then report results. Tasks include assessing controls, processes, documentation, and ongoing compliance reviews.

  • Education level: Earn a bachelor's in computer science, accounting, finance, or related field. Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) certification can improve your career prospects.
  • BLS median annual salary (2023): $103,800
  • BLS projected job growth (2023–33): 11%

Computer network architect

Design secure networks and systems and generate policies and documentation that support cyber safety.

  • Education level: This career requires enterprise architecture and systems integration knowledge. You'll need a bachelor's in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field and at least five years of experience. CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional certifications may also be helpful.
  • BLS median annual salary (2023): $129,840
  • BLS projected job growth (2023–33): 13%

Computer hardware engineer

Install and test security software and hardware and pinpoint system vulnerabilities.

  • Education level: This job requires coding, systems engineering, and security protocol knowledge. Earn a bachelor's in information technology systems engineering, information security, computer science, or a related field. Also, consider the following certifications to improve your career prospects:
    • CompTIA Security+
    • CompTIA Network+
    • CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
  • BLS median annual salary (2023): $138,080
  • BLS projected job growth (2023–33): 7%

Learn more about cybersecurity programs

Explore bachelor's and master's programs or online courses to get your career in cybersecurity started.

FAQs about cybersecurity careers

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