Students interested in studying internet security often wonder what they can do with a master’s in cybersecurity. The good news is that there are many possibilities for graduates of cybersecurity master’s degree programs. Almost every part of our lives, both business and personal, is handled electronically in one way or another. As long as our dependence on the internet grows, so will the need for good cybersecurity specialists, particularly those with a master’s degree. Here are some job possibilities for graduates with a master’s degree in cybersecurity.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts are professionals who act as gatekeepers of information systems. They develop and run security programs to protect an organization’s networks and computer systems from cyber attacks and infiltration. Every year, more and more organizations are hit with cyberattacks and data breaches. Information security analysts are the professionals who prevent this from happening. U.S. News & World Report ranks information security analysts second among best technology jobs, sixth among best STEM jobs, and 32nd among 100 best jobs in its 2017 rankings. Information security analysts need to keep up with new training so they’re aware of new cyber threats, which seem to develop almost daily.
Lead Software Security Engineer
Lead software security engineers were ranked first on CIO’s 2015 list of the 10 highest-paid security jobs with a salary of about $233,000. Lead software security engineers are generally leaders of a team of security professionals who assess risks, analyze programs and systems, identify security vulnerabilities and develop secure software to eliminate cyber-attacks. This career is possible for students who earn a master’s in cybersecurity and obtain industry certifications in cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analyst is another job an individual with a master’s in cybersecurity can obtain. Cybersecurity analysts work on an organization’s computer system and network. They perform a risk analysis, vulnerability testing, breach, and data analysis to determine if there is a program, determine causes and make recommendations for changes. They detect weaknesses in hardware, software, and networks as well as any cyber threats to the organization. They determine the best way to protect the company’s information. Cybersecurity analysts earned an average annual wage of $75,110 as of 2018.
Cybersecurity Specialist
The cybersecurity specialist is an important part of the information technology department of an organization. They’re in charge of protecting the data and information in the company’s computer system. Cybersecurity specialists develop network firewalls, train employees in data security practices, control access and unauthorized access to important company files, and handle security breaches to reduce loss. They use appropriate hardware and software programs to implement security protocols and ensure that sensitive data is safe from viruses, malware, hackers, and other cyber threats. An individual can become a cybersecurity specialist with a master’s in cybersecurity or information assurance as well as various security certifications.
With cybersecurity so valuable to not just large organizations but also individuals utilizing the Internet, obtaining a career in this growing field can be very promising and lucrative. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a master’s degree can bring at least an 18 percent increase in wages over a bachelor’s degree. While many excellent careers can be found with an associate or bachelor’s degree, those with a master’s in cybersecurity typically have the best career opportunities open to them.
Related Resource:
Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Cybersecurity Online
