Your 2025 Guide to Cybersecurity Careers

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Explore career options in the growing field of cybersecurity with this library of resources.

[Featured image] A cybersecurity professional in a white shirt stands in front of a laptop and wall monitor.

As more and more business is conducted on the cloud, cybersecurity has become a primary concern for companies across multiple industries. If you're interested in a fast-paced, well-paid career working to protect a company's valuable data, consider a career in cybersecurity.

To make it easier to take the next step, browse a wealth of free cybersecurity resources covering career paths, popular credentials, and how-to guides for landing your next cybersecurity job. You can bookmark this page to refer to throughout your job search.

Cybersecurity job outlook

According to research from The Information Systems Audit and Control Association  (ISACA), 46 percent of surveyed enterprises have unfilled cybersecurity jobs in 2024 [1]. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts 33 percent job growth between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average across all occupations [2]. Between May 2023 and April 2024, 469,930 jobs opened for workers with cybersecurity-related skills [3].

Cybersecurity salary: How much can you make?

If generous financial compensation is a high priority in your career considerations, a career in cybersecurity could be a good fit. The median annual pay for information security analysts in the United States is $120,360, according to the BLS [2].

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professional certificate

Google Cybersecurity

Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.

4.8

(39,462 ratings)

845,455 already enrolled

Beginner level

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Python Programming, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, SQL, Linux, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Packet Analyzer, Security Hardening, Network Security, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Network Architecture, Cloud Networks, escalation, resume and portfolio preparation, stakeholder communication, Job preparedness, integrity and discretion, Cybersecurity, Information Security (INFOSEC), Ethics in cybersecurity, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), Historical Attacks, Computer Programming, Coding, PEP 8 style guide, NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), Security Audits, Incident Response Playbooks, Authentication, vulnerability assessment, Cryptography, asset classification, threat analysis, Command line interface (CLI), Bash

How to get a job in cybersecurity

Empower your job search with this collection of resources on getting started in cybersecurity:

Cybersecurity degrees and certifications

Fifty-six percent of cybersecurity specialists have a bachelor's degree, and 23 percent have an associate degree [4]. Relevant areas of study include computer science, computer information systems, and information technology. In cybersecurity, the right credential can help set you apart from other job seekers and make your resume more attractive to hiring managers. You can learn more about how to set yourself up for success with a degree or certification in cybersecurity.

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Master of Science in Cyber Security

University of London

How do I start my career in cybersecurity?

Based on the job outlook, it's a great time to enter the field of cybersecurity. Discover what it takes to start your career with this helpful guide:

Learn more How to Get into Cybersecurity

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Cybersecurity career paths

Cybersecurity is a broad field with many areas of specialization. Whether you're looking for an entry-level job or ready to advance into a new area of information security, you have options.

Entry-level cybersecurity jobs

These are some job titles you might consider if you're just getting started in cybersecurity. Remember that many cybersecurity professionals get started in information technology (IT) roles to gain experience before moving into security:

Mid-level cybersecurity jobs

Consider these mid-level roles after gaining some work experience in security or IT:

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professional certificate

Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst

Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst. Build job-ready skills – and must-have AI skills – for an in-demand career. Earn a credential from Microsoft. No prior experience required.

4.7

(1,838 ratings)

93,919 already enrolled

Beginner level

Average time: 6 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Cloud Computing Security, Computer Security Incident Management, Network Security, Penetration Test, Threat mitigation, AI in Cybersecurity Analysis, Cybersecurity, Information Security (INFOSEC), Encryption techniques, threat intelligence, Compliance techniques, Cybersecurity planning, Record management, Data Management, Cloud Architecture, Computer Architecture, Cloud Computing, Operating Systems, Threat Model, Access Control, Asset Management, Cybersecurity strategies, Regulatory Compliance, Security Analysis, Event Management, Security Response, System Testing, Security Testing, Authentication Methods, Access Management, Enterprise security, Identity governance, Network Monitoring, Computer Network

Senior cybersecurity jobs

You'll find a variety of areas in which you could specialize as a cybersecurity expert. Here are a few advanced roles to explore:

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professional certificate

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst

Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst . Build job-ready skills for an in-demand role in the field, no degree or prior experience required.

4.6

(12,745 ratings)

232,070 already enrolled

Beginner level

Average time: 4 month(s)

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll build:

Database Queries, Cybersecurity Compliance, Incident Response, Cybersecurity Case Study Analysis, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity Threats, Cybersecurity Controls, Physical Threats and Controls, Risk Management, Laws and Regulations, Cybersecurity Framework, Cybersecurity Standards, Operating Systems, Directory and File Management, User (Computing), Virtualization, Linux, Windows, MacOS, User Accounts, Certification exam practice, CompTIA CySA, Cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cryptography, Penetration Test, Cyber Threat Hunting, Incident management, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Vulnerability Management, Generative AI, Cyberattacks, Information Security (INFOSEC), Application Security, Digital Evidence Handling, Security Analysis and Reporting, Cybersecurity Incident Management, Cybersecurity Careers, Interviewing Skills, job interviews, Resume, Job Search Strategies, Data Security, Digital Network Architecture, Network Configuration, Endpoint Security, Intrusion Detection Systems, Firewall Configuration, Database Security, User profiles, Password policies, Database injection vulnerabilities, Database auditing models, CompTIA Certifications, ISC2 certifications

Other resources

Take the next step in your cybersecurity career with Coursera

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Article sources

1

ISACA. "Nearly Two-thirds of Cybersecurity Pros Say Job Stress is Growing, According to New ISACA Research, https://www.isaca.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/ 2024/nearly-two-thirds-of-cybersecurity-pros-say-job-stress-is-growing-according-to-new-isaca-research." Accessed October 5, 2024." 

Updated on
Written by:
Coursera Staff

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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