In today’s digitised world, the amount of data that is stored online has increased substantially. With the increased accessibility of data online comes the cybersecurity threats issued by hackers. As data breaches are common occurrences these days, organisations worldwide need skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect their systems and data.

The U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics has predicted a 35% growth in cybersecurity careers from 2021 to 2031. Pursuing a cybersecurity course will help you acquire the knowledge and skills essential to starting a career in this industry. You can choose between a diploma or undergraduate degree course according to your time and convenience.

Let’s go through the details of a cybersecurity course and the prospects it holds.

What is a cybersecurity course?

A cybersecurity course teaches you about the various aspects of cybersecurity including the tools and techniques used in the field. The study programme will discuss everything beginning with the laws surrounding the internet and the threats surrounding it.

Some of the important topics covered in a cybersecurity course are introduction to cybersecurity and security threats, network and information security, identity and access management, security policies, compliance regulations, incident response, ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity tools and technologies.

Cybersecurity courses are available in different study methods such as diplomas, certification courses, and undergraduate degree programmes. The content and depth of a cybersecurity course can vary depending on the course structure and objectives.

What are the steps to become a cybersecurity analyst?

The first step to building a career in cybersecurity is to enrol in a study program and earn an educational certificate. Obtaining relevant education in IT subjects or cybersecurity can help you gain the skills essential for the job role.

Once you complete your education, it is crucial to gain some practical experience in cybersecurity. Try securing internships with any company to gain relevant hands-on experience in cybersecurity. With an internship certificate, you can apply for entry-level jobs in the cybersecurity field.

Building networks during your study period is also beneficial in fetching you good career opportunities. Attend industry events and seminars to meet cybersecurity professionals and learn more about the industry. Also, stay updated with the latest trends in the field to grow professionally.

What are the top careers in cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is a fast-growing field and presents several career opportunities for skilled candidates. Some of the top career roles in this field are as follows:

  • Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts are responsible for monitoring computer systems and networks for security threats or breaches. They analyse data to identify potential vulnerabilities and respond to incidents.
  • Security Engineer: Security engineers design, implement, and manage security solutions for organisations. They may work on network security, cloud security, or application security, depending on their specialisation.
  • Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester: Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, are professionals who assess the security of computer systems by attempting to exploit vulnerabilities. They help organisations identify weaknesses in their defences before hackers can exploit them.

Enrol in a cybersecurity study programme to upskill yourself and learn more about the nuances of cybersecurity.