Employers may also view a degree as a sign of focus and discipline, core skills for security specialists. A 2019 Burning Glass Technologies report notes that most cybersecurity jobs (65%) require a bachelor’s degree. Undergraduate majors like cybersecurity, computer science, and computer forensics can provide candidates with the skills to pursue security specialist jobs. To become a cybersecurity specialist, you should complete a formal education—like a degree or a cybersecurity bootcamp—in information security or a related subject. The following section explores the requirements for becoming a cybersecurity analyst.

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Internships can help security specialist hopefuls gain the experience needed for certification and high-level positions. Since most employers expect certification, the first step involves experience. Professionals pursuing higher-level positions may opt for a master’s or doctoral degree. People seeking a career change into the cybersecurity field and computer scientists looking to specialize can also earn a graduate degree in IT security.

• In contrast, network security focuses on vulnerabilities in the connections between devices.
• Whatever path they choose, security specialists need strong technical skills and a commitment to continuing education.
• Without them, there would be an increased risk of cyberattacks, which can lead to the loss of consumer confidence, leaks of private information, network failures, stalled production, and compliance violations.

Many also offer preparation for a variety of certifications that are highly-regarded in this field. However, check beforehand whether an employer does want you to have a cyber security certificate, and which specific one they have in mind. After all, you don’t want to waste your time, effort, and money on a qualification you don’t need or that won’t come in handy for your chosen career path. Security specialists will also use a range of tools to assess the level of security in an organization’s computer and network systems.

How Do I Become a Cybersecurity Specialist?

Cybersecurity specialists can anticipate strong employment growth over the coming decade. For example, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 32% projected employment growth rate for information security analysts from 2022 to 2032. This title encompasses roles like cybersecurity analyst and information security specialist. Cybersecurity specialists perform crucial work in protecting https://remotemode.net/ sensitive digital information and communications. These professionals work with public and private employers of all sizes to ensure the safety of data for customers, government entities and healthcare organizations. The actual job description of a security specialist can be hard to pin down, because these specialists may have varying duties based on their actual position.

Most IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a related field; these programs typically take four years to complete as a full-time student. IT security specialists defend an organization’s data and information systems. Companies are listing more cybersecurity jobs and paying higher salaries than ever because it is difficult to find strong, qualified talent in this industry.

Considering a new exciting career as an Cybersecurity Specialist?

According to a 2021 CompTIA job report, information security analyst positions were in the top ten for the most remote job listings — with about 4,400 postings. Always inquire with a potential how to become a security specialist employer for their specific job requirements. Some companies may accept as little as 1-to-2 years of experience while some may require over five years of IT security experience.

Candidates can accrue experience in other cybersecurity roles or through internships while still pursuing their degrees to meet this requirement. In today’s era of rapidly escalating threats and sophisticated cyber warfare, organizations must be vigilant in combating attackers and protecting information assets. As you might expect, IT security specialists require extensive technical skills and knowledge to effectively do their jobs. A big challenge for aspiring security specialists is getting their first job without years of experience. Networking, internships, and certifications can help individuals land entry-level security positions. Many cybersecurity experts start out as network engineers, help desk technicians, or systems administrators.

Below is a five-stage process that will take you from a point of being inexperienced in cyber security to getting hired as a security specialist. Without them, there would be an increased risk of cyberattacks, which can lead to the loss of consumer confidence, leaks of private information, network failures, stalled production, and compliance violations. For this reason, security specialists are necessary to maintain the overall operations and credibility of a company.

The good news is, the job outlook for IT security specialists is exceptionally strong—and only getting better. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this sector is projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Plus, demand for this role continues to be exceptionally high with no signs of slowing. Regardless of your degree, it is important to constantly educate yourself on new technologies and threats.