Growing Need and High Demand
Cybersecurity is one of the hottest sectors today, with new threats and challenges emerging each day. And with that, there is a huge push being undertaken by both business and education sectors to attract individuals toward a degree and career in cybersecurity.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, jobs for information security analysts are expected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032.
Dynamic Field
Cybersecurity evolves quickly so you will always be learning and developing new skills. There is ultimate growth potential — both in your career path and for learning opportunities.
"Cybersecurity has many career paths that call for a wide range of skills that extend beyond technical aptitude," said Keith Lehigh, the information security officer at CU System Administration. "From defending networks or simulating attacker activities, to helping organizations understand information security risks and finding workable solutions, the opportunities to learn new skills or apply existing skills abound."
What to Expect
- Cybersecurity has something for everyone. Skills are needed from a diverse range of backgrounds.
- You will never be bored. New technology brings new risks. Creative problem solving takes you into uncharted areas.
- Job flexibility and highly transferable skills. These skills allow you to move anywhere in the world and apply to any industry sector.
- Multiple career options that are not just technical. Business, medical, law, defense, and intelligence all need workers skilled in cybersecurity.
- Multiple career pathways. Two and four-year degree programs, certifications, work-based experience, and apprenticeships are just some different career pathways that practitioners have taken to arrive in their current position.
How to Prepare for a Career in Cybersecurity
Tim Ashour, a senior incident response analyst in CU’s Office of Information Security, said he got into cybersecurity “by accident.” Tim happened to be working at the Texas A&M Help Desk when the security team was running an investigation that needed the Help Desk to be involved. “I spent a lot of time with that team. They offered me a job later,” he said.
- Learn how technologies work. Explore the basics of administrating a computer system, and configuring, running, and maintaining common applications. Learning how a network works and some basic coding are also helpful.
- Obtain an industry-recognized credential. Consider a certification, academic degree, or certificate of completion. Take some classes offered in high schools, colleges, and universities, and through training providers. Explore a wide range of free online resources. Look for summer camps or training opportunities to expand your skills.
- Network. Attend a conference or hackathon. Join a Meetup, after-school club, or professional organization.
- Get hands-on experience. Explore internship and apprenticeship options. Participate in a cyber defense, digital forensics, or cryptography competition.