20 Jobs You Can Pursue With a Cybersecurity Degree

2. Cybersecurity Analyst / SOC Analyst

These cybersecurity analysts are responsible for monitoring networks for suspicious activity, responding to security threats, and implementing protective measures to prevent unauthorized access.

3. Network Security Administrator / Engineer

Network security administrators maintain an organization’s security systems (such as antivirus software and firewalls) while keeping security policies and practices up to date.

4. IT Support Technician (Security Focus)

Information technology (IT) support technicians install and maintain both physical and digital security measures in place to protect organizations, including physical access control and firewalls.

5. Junior Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker

A junior pen tester, also known as an “ethical hacker,” tests networks and systems for potential security vulnerabilities so they can be addressed before a real attack occurs.

6. Cybersecurity Intern or Associate

These professionals may be responsible for monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity, conducting vulnerability assessments, and otherwise working under the supervision of other cybersecurity staff members.

7. Security Engineer

A mid-level security engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the security systems that organizations rely on to protect against cyber threats.

8. Vulnerability Analyst / Threat Intelligence Analyst

A vulnerability analyst or threat intelligence analyst assesses systems and networks for potential security vulnerabilities and then reports these issues to other security teams, making detailed recommendations for addressing them.

9. Digital Forensics Analyst / Cybercrime Investigator

These professionals are responsible for investigating incidents of cybercrime, collecting and analyzing digital evidence that may be used in a court of law.

10. Security Auditor / Compliance Officer

Security auditors and compliance officers play a crucial role in ensuring that an organization’s cybersecurity measures and practices align with strict industry compliance regulations.

11. Application / Software Security Engineer

These professionals are specifically charged with overseeing security in the development of an application or software program while working alongside other cybersecurity professionals to design and implement these systems.

12. Cloud Security Engineer / Architect

Cloud security engineers or architects design and maintain the infrastructure organizations need to protect their cloud-based systems and data through security controls, access management, risk management, and other essential tasks.

13. DevSecOps Engineer

Development, security, and operations (DevSecOps) engineers are responsible for security at all levels of the software development lifecycle, from early stages of development through final deployment and beyond.

16. Information Security Manager / Cybersecurity Manager

At the management level, information security and cybersecurity professionals may oversee entire security teams while ensuring that a company’s policies and procedures align with business goals.

17. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

At the executive level, a CISO is responsible for all aspects of an organization’s cybersecurity. These professionals oversee everything from security strategies and risk mitigation to regulatory compliance and incident response.

18. Cyber Threat Hunter / Incident Responder

Both cyber threat hunters and incident responders play a central role in proactively identifying and addressing hidden threats before they can cause major damage.

19. Security Researcher / Malware Analyst

Security researchers and malware analysts stay ahead of the evolving cyber threat landscape by investigating new threats as they emerge and studying them to better understand how they function.

20. Cybersecurity Trainer / Educator

Cybersecurity trainers and educators provide critical training and support to employees in an effort to mitigate risk and prevent them from falling victim to attacks.

While a cybersecurity degree program should offer formal education to help you enter the field, there are some additional measures you can take to get the most out of your degree.

Consider choosing a specialization or niche, as this could help you further differentiate your skill set while pursuing the area of the field that most interests you. Additionally, taking advantage of opportunities to gain hands-on experience and building soft skills that complement your technical proficiencies can make all the difference.

Remember that the field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, so you’ll need to stay up-to-date with emerging threats and trends to remain relevant.

Many cybersecurity graduates will also pursue certifications or other designations in the field, with some popular options including:

• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

For those seeking a cybersecurity degree program that offers numerous opportunities for practical, hands-on learning, the Computer Networking and Cybersecurity degree program at Champlain College may be the optimal route. Here, cybersecurity students have access to the Leahy Center for Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity, a hands-on security lab where students work on real-world projects for government agencies and businesses—helping them build their resumes while still in school.