Are you wondering what makes cybersecurity a good career? The name itself has a cool spy movie feel, and this career path may make you feel like a secret agent. However, there's more to cybersecurity professionals than just a cool title.
Jobs in cybersecurity can pay a ton of money and are some of the most high-demand job opportunities on the market, thanks to the constant developments in cyber technology.
If being a hacker is something you've always dreamed about, but you don't want to be on the wrong side of the law, then cybersecurity may be the perfect career path for you. Thinking like a bad guy is a requirement for cybersecurity experts. You're not only there to keep critical information safe but also to think of ways hackers would try to compromise that data. If it sounds like fun, that's because it is.
Let's take a closer look at cybersecurity job opportunities and the education and experience required to take advantage of them.
Job outlook for the cybersecurity sector
The cybersecurity industry is, by and large, one of the fastest-growing industries out there. Over the next 10 years, cybersecurity is expected to grow over 30%, which guarantees your skillset will be in-demand for years to come - yay for job security!
Approximately 3.5 million jobs in the field of cybersecurity are expected to be available by 2025. That means there are plenty of job opportunities for up-and-comers looking to make a name for themselves.
So if you're ready to make your friends salty with some serious guap, here are some of the best cybersecurity jobs to check out.
10 Top cybersecurity jobs
Cybersecurity roles boil down to one thing: data security. How this is done depends on your job, but if you think you've got what it takes to finesse your way through security protocols and firewalls, these jobs are for you.
Security Architect
Think you've got what it takes to stop cyberattacks before they even happen? A security architect uses their skills to study an organization's information systems to stop data breaches and find vulnerabilities that cyber threats could use to gain access.
On average, these jobs can make an average salary upwards of $130,000 a year with the right set of certifications and education to back them up, which is usually at least a bachelor's degree in computer science.
Cybersecurity Engineer
If coding and creating software is something you enjoy, a cybersecurity engineer takes a more hands-on approach to stop hackers. As a software developer, a cybersecurity engineer designs and creates systems and implements the application security a company uses to store and protect its data.
These jobs bring in an average of $146,500 a year for those with the drip to land one. You'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science and a good understanding of Firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, and data loss prevention.
Cybersecurity Analyst
If thinking outside the box is more of your specialty, a cybersecurity analyst uses their problem-solving skills to understand a company's computer systems. They then take that knowledge to make sure the right network security measures are in place, assessing risk management needs for better protection.
You can land an average salary of $113,000 a year or more with the right set of cybersecurity skills in these roles. A bachelor's degree in computer science is required, and you'll want to be someone who can think creatively to prevent hacks before they happen.
Cybersecurity Sales Engineer
If you're a salesperson with superior communication skills, you may want to consider a career as a cybersecurity sales engineer. These roles can pay an average annual salary of $181,000 to those who can convince people to buy their companies' cybersecurity services.
You'll want to grab a bachelor's degree in information technology, networks admin, or cybersecurity to land one of these roles.
Malware Analyst
As a malware analyst, it's your job to study malware from all sides to understand how it works and how to stop it from negatively affecting business. These jobs can pull in around $150,00 a year with the right set of tools under your belt.
A bachelor's degree in computer science will get your foot in the door, but it helps to get additional certificates and degrees.
Penetration Tester
A penetration tester, or ethical hacker, basically works to exploit IT security systems to find ways in without getting caught.
Penetration testing and ethical hacking can pull in up to $97,000 a year, and you can nab one of these roles with just a few certifications.
Computer Forensics Analyst
A computer forensic analyst does the same type of work as forensics for the police - only digitally. Think of it as gathering evidence to solve cyber crimes.
These jobs pull in up to $93,00 a year and usually require a bachelor's degree in computer science to get started.
Cloud Security Specialist
Now that you can store almost everything in the cloud, it's up to cloud security specialists to manage cybersecurity on this new frontier. This role is like a security architect or engineer but focuses primarily on cloud-based systems.
For those specializing in cloud security, you can rake in an average of upwards $178,000 a year with the right education and skill set.
Incident Response Manager
Want to be the one in charge when cybercrimes go down? You'll want to become an incident manager, the main point of contact within the company regarding cybercrimes. You'll handle all types of situations, so being able to think quickly on your feet is a must.
If you've got what it takes to be in charge of the situation, you can pull in an average of $127,000 a year in this role.
Database Administrator
If you can handle the finer details of data, then working in database system administration may be your jam. You'll design the databases that actually store data, as well as the security systems that work to protect them.
This is a highly technical role, but you can earn up to $110,000 a year with the right know-how.
What is the highest-paying job in cybersecurity?
The chief information security officer (CISO), or information security analysts, are the top dogs of the cybersecurity industry. The cybersecurity manager of an organization, the CISO handles the entire team of cybersecurity specialists and then some. An average annual salary of $235,600 is up for grabs to those who want it badly enough, with the potential for more if you've got the skills to pay the bills.
A master's degree in computer science is a must if you're after this spot, as well as supporting graduate degrees in related fields. High-functioning knowledge of information security systems and a background in security information and event management (SEIM) software are also highly recommended.
What education do you typically need for cybersecurity jobs?
Entry-level positions usually only need specific certifications to get started, and you can obtain most through cybersecurity courses or boot camps without having to attend a college or university.
Some of the most common certifications include:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- CompTIA Security+
If you're after a senior-level position, you'll want a bachelor's degree in computer science. In some cybersecurity roles, you need a master's degree in computer science and supporting graduate degrees in related fields.
What are the top schools for a career in cybersecurity?
There are plenty of colleges and universities that provide courses and new skills for the industry, but these are the top three colleges when it comes to cybersecurity career options:
- Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA
- DePaul University, Chicago, IL
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL
Compare the best cybersecurity colleges and universities with College Rover
Finding the best college for cybersecurity training can be challenging, but College Rover makes the process easy. We offer advanced search tools for schools and courses and detailed school information to help you find the best options for your college experience.
Let us help you embark on your cybersecurity career path. Get started today and take control of your educational journey with College Rover.
