10 Must-Have Skills for Cyber and Information Security Careers
Cyber and information security job requirements can vary based on the position, field, or focus of work. Yet, there are 10 key essential skills that will help you be successful in any job you choose as a cyber and information security professional.
What Skills Do You Need for Cyber and Information Security Jobs?
While most think of cybersecurity as a technical and “left brain”-focused career, every cyber and information security position actually requires a combination of key soft and hard skills.
Hard skills can include a grasp of computing principles or specific software. Cybersecurity soft skills include critical thinking, collaboration, and ethical decision making. Both are essential for success in the field.
Top 10 Skills for Cybersecurity Professionals:
- Understanding of programming languages
- Basics of protecting digital infrastructure and network security
- Knowledge of the principles of secure scripting and cryptography
- Grasp of the ethics of cyber and information security
- Analytical thinking to address complex computing problems
- Ability to design and implement context-specific, computing-based solutions
- Strong communication skills
- Risk-assessment and decision-making capability
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Project management and organizational skills
Will a Cybersecurity Graduate Program Give You the Skills You Need to Get a Good Job?
Programs like the Master of Science degree in Cyber and Information Security at St. John’s University are designed to align with industry standards. This means students in the program are following a curriculum that is directly related to current trends and best practices in the field.
Graduates of this program are able to
- Build sound cybersecurity processes.
- Tackle complex research projects using appropriate digital tools.
- Practice cybersecurity professionally, building interdisciplinary communication skills.
- Navigate ethical questions related to cyber and information security.
- Attain technical roles or advanced graduate research in securing complex systems.
A master’s degree not only gives you the foundation to enter the field of cyber and information security, but also provides you with the opportunity to specialize or expand your knowledge—making you a more competitive candidate.
Specialization and elective courses allow you to dive deeper into areas of interest, such as
- Computer and Data Science
- Cybersecurity
- Data and Analytics
- Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology
- Homeland Security
- Information Technology Enterprise
How Can You Develop Practical Hands-on Experience in Cybersecurity?
If you seek to enter the field of cyber or information security, make a career change into cybersecurity, or advance into a higher-level position, added hands-on experience will increase your chances of success.
Through research opportunities, fellowships, access to state-of-the-art technology, and real-world application in the classroom, students in graduate programs for cyber and information security can enhance their learning—and their résumé.
Real-World Learning: St. John’s Sanford Family Cyber Security Lab
The cybersecurity lab at St. John’s offers students access to software to employ techniques for intrusion detection, vulnerability mitigation, network perimeter defense, incident response, network forensics investigation, and malware analysis.
What are Some Emerging Trends and Technologies in Cybersecurity?
Cyber and information security is a fast-moving field that is evolving rapidly. As technology advances and cyber threats become more complex, professionals and students of cybersecurity need to remain knowledgeable of the latest trends.
Five of the top emerging trends in cybersecurity include
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning—specifically the use of these technologies to enhance security systems (or conversely, to commit cyber crimes)
- Cloud security—for increased use of and reliance on cloud storage solutions
- Changes to regulatory compliance and privacy laws
- Zero trust architecture—an approach with stricter identity verification for added security
- Internet of Things (IoT) Security—providing security to connected devices and networks
How Does a Graduate Program Prepare You for Emerging Trends in Cybersecurity?
Staying informed of emerging trends is crucial for any cybersecurity professional. Formal education through a graduate program is the most effective way to get the right skills and knowledge.
Graduate programs like the Master of Science degree in Cyber and Information Security at St. John’s University are taught by faculty with real-world experience who are experts in the field.
To remain innovative and in line with emerging trends, faculty in the program incorporate these trends into the curriculum and offer opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research and contribute to leading publications.
Graduate programs, like the one at St. John’s, may also offer events and seminars featuring leading industry professionals and networking opportunities for students. Access to professional networks in person or online can keep you in the know far after graduation.
Ready to build the skills you need to succeed in cybersecurity?
Connect with an admission counselor today! Email [email protected].
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