Path to Cybersecurity Specialist

How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist

You may have heard that people can get hired in cybersecurity without much training. Take a moment to consider how much security those people can really ensure. Few of us, if any, would want our city’s or country’s infrastructure to rest in the care of those with cursory education. Fewer still would want to be the person who’s ill-equipped to come through when real skill is urgently needed.

Cybersecurity specialists protect systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. With a comprehensive background in cybersecurity, you can enjoy an enviable career as a leader in the field.

Most cybersecurity specialists build their careers through a combination of education, hands-on experience and industry certifications. The following guidelines will help you as you consider how to become a cybersecurity specialist.

1. Consider pursuing a cybersecurity degree at an accredited institution, like Katz

If you were looking to protect your home, family or business, would you entrust it to someone who hadn’t become as trained and prepared as possible, or would you hire the candidate with in-depth knowledge gained from authorities in the field?

Your education goes a long way toward determining your skills and hiring appeal. Cybersecurity specialist education requirements typically include a strong academic foundation in cybersecurity or a related field.

Choose your training program carefully, prioritizing study with highly experienced professionals — certified, well-connected industry veterans — to ensure that you bring the utmost expertise to your work.

2. Learn core cybersecurity skills to gain an advantage in the field

On a foundational level, your education in cybersecurity will equip you to ensure that computer hardware and software systems perform as intended while remaining safe from attack. Knowing how to safeguard a network is a solid start, but it won’t set you apart as a leader.

To become a true specialist and better understand what a cybersecurity specialist does, study cybersecurity in a program that focuses on business skills, as well as technical ones. In choosing your program, consider the big-picture expertise that will make you stand out to an employer:

• The ability to apply your technical skills in a wide range of settings
• Fluency in identifying, prioritizing and resolving challenges
• Successful strategic planning
• Effective change management
• Leadership skills
• The communication skills to advise and train colleagues in best practices
• The interpersonal skills to help others develop their potential

These are key cybersecurity specialist requirements employers look for.

3. Gain hands-on experience to compliment cybersecurity education requirements

Just as you’d want a seasoned professional to protect your home and business, potential employers will value the experience on your resume, in addition to your education and certification.

Every past instance of relevant work, whether in IT or computer science, will make you a more attractive choice. Internships, entry-level roles and paid positions in either field demonstrate that you’re not a novice, and that you bring real-world knowledge and insight to your new position.

Prior experience also helps you better understand cybersecurity jobs requirements. Each position is a chance to build relationships with colleagues. They become your professional network and together, you help each other solve problems on the job, pursue opportunities for new employment and develop ideas that elevate the quality of cybersecurity overall.

4. Earn relevant cybersecurity certifications 

Becoming credentialed in certain products or groups of products can increase your hiring appeal, and different employers require different certifications. A strong cybersecurity certifications list includes:

Security+

This is a basic certification that covers the topics of risk management and threat assessment.

Network+

This foundational certification focuses on networking infrastructure and operations.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

This certification is designed for cybersecurity professionals with at least five years of work experience. It covers topics such as architecture, engineering and management.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

This advanced certification also requires years of work experience. It certifies threat assessment and mitigation skills resulting from the understanding of how cyber-attacks unfold.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

A globally recognized certification that focuses on governance, risk management and program development.

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Designed for the experienced cybersecurity specialist, this certification covers cloud security architecture, design, and compliance.

Although you may be able to sit for some of these exams after on-the-job training or a short course, a robust master's program will prepare you to add multiple specialized credentials to your resume.

5. Keep up with current developments and cybersecurity requirements

Perhaps more than in any other field, unpreparedness in cybersecurity can have disastrous results. The industry is constantly changing, so it’s essential that you stay up-to-date on current events and technology.

On your own time, utilize industry press and trusted cybersecurity sources to keep educating yourself on the latest threats and innovations.

Cybersecurity specialist salary and job outlook

Cybersecurity specialists are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts earn a median salary of approximately $125,000 per year, and employment is projected to grow 29% from 2024 to 2034.

Prepare for a cybersecurity career

The people and systems you’ll be hired to protect rely on your knowledge and experience to keep them safe. Becoming a cybersecurity specialist requires the right combination of education, experience and training.

The Katz School of Science and Health offers an M.S. in Cybersecurity on campus in our Midtown NYC location or online. Our well-rounded curriculum in up-to-the-minute protocols and procedures equips you for leadership as an operator and a decision-maker.

Learn more about how the M.S. in Cybersecurity program can support your cybersecurity career path.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a cybersecurity specialist do?

A cybersecurity specialist protects systems, networks, and data by identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring threats, and responding to cyber-attacks. They may also conduct security audits, implement protective measures, and train employees on best practices.

What degree do you need for cybersecurity?

Most roles require a degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field. Some employers also look for advanced degrees or specialized training, especially for leadership or highly technical positions.

What are the cybersecurity specialist career path requirements?

The career path typically includes education, hands-on experience, and certifications. Many professionals begin in entry-level IT roles before moving into more specialized cybersecurity positions.

What certifications are best for cybersecurity?

Common certifications include Security+, Network+, CISSP, CEH, CISM, and CCSP. The best certification depends on your experience level and the type of role you want to pursue.

What is the average cybersecurity specialist salary?

Cybersecurity professionals earn a median salary of about $125,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and specialization.