Entry-level jobs in cybersecurity: What they are and how to get them

The current demand for cyber security specialists is exceeding the supply as hacking and data breaches reach all-time highs.

While the industry continues to boom, recent job statistics indicate that the demand for cybersecurity specialists will only increase and so will entry-level jobs in cybersecurity.

The US Department of Labour Statistics’ Information Security Analysts Outlook expects cybersecurity jobs will grow 31% through 2029 — that’s more than seven times more than the national average of 4%.

Competent experts in this field have never been more sought after. And not just in the private sphere. From identity theft to human trafficking to credit card fraud, cybercrimes aren’t offences that threaten companies solely — individual lives are at stake too. 

A career in cybersecurity isn’t just a safe investment for online users, it’s a way for students to safeguard their future, too. Fighting for the victims of cybercrime, cybersecurity specialists can pursue a rewarding and prosperous career on any corner of the globe.

The offers for entry-level jobs in cybersecurity are increasing. Source: Alain Jocard / AFP

The fight against malicious cyber intent begins with professional expertise. It is imperative that companies make cybersecurity awareness, prevention, and practices a crucial part of their culture for the cyber battle to be won.

According to the National Security Agency (NSA), entry-level jobs in cybersecurity positions require:

• Bachelor’s degree plus three years of relevant experience
• Master’s degree plus one year of relevant experience
• Doctoral degree and no experience
• Associate degree plus five years of in-depth experience clearly related to the position

Your pathway into an entry-level cybersecurity job can include work experience in a variety of different domains.

However, the main roles include areas in Networking; Software development; Systems engineering; Financial and risk analysis; and Security intelligence.