Every 39 seconds, a global cyber attack occurs, with the healthcare and pharmaceuticals, public administration, finance and insurance, education and research, and retail sectors identified as the top five industries facing heightened risks of cyber-crime. The repercussions of cyber threats, attacks, terrorism, and warfare extend to damaging public confidence, stock markets, economic sectors, and other vital national infrastructures. Anticipating this escalating threat landscape, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 32 percent increase in cybersecurity jobs between 2022 and 2032. The imperative of cybersecurity has become a worldwide concern due to the rising frequency and complexity of cybercrime and digital threats. Despite this, a critical challenge lies in the shortage of a qualified workforce and an insufficient new professionals pipeline  of new professionals entering the industry. As of October 2023, the cybersecurity sector grappled with over 600,000 job openings, signifying only 68 percent of available positions filled.

Sources: Cobalt | Ekran System  

 

 

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As with any career, certain skills are required to be successful within your field of study. Below are some skills that may be applicable to a job within the cybersecurity field.

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

To identify what education or training is typical for careers within the counter terrorism field, use the O*Net hyperlinks below and click on “Job Zone.”

As with all majors, the education you receive serves as a foundation of knowledge that prepares you for what you may face in the professional world. The career field you chose may require additional education or experience.

Gaining real-life experience is an ideal way to start a new career. The job board within CareerLink has an extensive list of internships. Browse through the internships organized by interest, location, organization.

Students with open elective credit in many programs have the option to participate in an Internship Course for Elective Credit. To learn more about this option, log-in to CareerLink, and search Internship in the resources section.

The list below to find a few examples of organizations that offer internships for both graduate and undergraduate cybersecurity students:

In addition to the organizations mentioned above, there are government-organized internship programs, many of which require students to maintain either a half-time or full-time student status. The best ways to identify potential opportunities such as these is to contact branch offices directly, to search USAJobs.gov, or to look at the agencies’ career portals. Keep in mind that these positions are not always posted online, so direct contact with the agency is key.

Pathways

The Pathways Program is a federal initiative that offers internship programs for current students and training and career development opportunities for recent graduates. Recent graduates must apply within two years of degree or certificate completion (except for veterans, due to their military service obligation, will have up to six years to apply).The internship program for current students replaces the former Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) and Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP).

There are several government agencies and organizations that seek candidates with degrees in cybersecurity. The list below provides a few places on might find employment specific to this degree.

Involvement in professional organizations is a great way to stay up-to-date on new technology, tools, and best practices in your field. Professional organizations are also a great networking opportunity. Below are a few professional organizations you may be interested in as a cybersecurity major.