As the world becomes increasingly digital, businesses, governments and individuals are heavily reliant on technology. The tech used is also evolving fast, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum computing advancing quickly. This means that cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent, with research showing 1 in 5 businesses are reported to have been a victim of cyber-crime. Therefore, cyber security professionals play a vital part in protecting an organisation from the devastating effects of this type of criminal activity.
But, is cyber security a good career option? This blog will explore the many benefits of becoming a cyber security professional, from career opportunities and high earning potential to flexibility and job satisfaction. We’ll also discuss how a degree in cyber security can help you break into this exciting field.
Career opportunities in cyber security
It is no surprise that employment in the cyber security sector has grown 5% from previous years, as 44% of UK businesses report having a basic cyber security skills gap. This has created endless opportunities in the cyber security sector, with careers such as:
Cyber security analyst - Monitors and protects an organisation's systems and data from security threats
Forensic computer analyst - Analyses and investigates computer systems to uncover evidence related to cyber crimes
Penetration tester - Also referred to as an ethical hacker, simulates cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities
Security architect - Designs and implements secure systems and infrastructures to protect an organisation from cyber threats
Information security manager - Responsible for protecting an organisation's network from cyber threats
So, for anyone wondering ‘is cyber security a dying field?’ the answer to that is no! There are plenty of opportunities to be had in this essential protection field.
How much does cyber security pay?
One of the big perks of a cyber security career is the potential for high salaries. As cyber-attacks become more common, cyber security professionals are in high demand. This demand naturally leads to competitive salaries and job stability, making it a great career option for many lifestyles.
If you're just starting out, the average cyber security salary in the UK is around £25K-£30K for entry-level positions. As you gain experience, that can rise to around £50K. However, more specialised roles and senior positions can see salaries climb to £70K or even higher!
Having a degree or qualifications can boost your earning potential, as well as help with employability. However, salaries can also vary based on location, with professionals in London and other major cities often earning more than those in smaller towns.
Overall, cybersecurity offers great pay that grows with experience and specialisation, making it a financially rewarding career choice.
Is cyber security stressful?
Due to the devastating effects cyber-crime has on businesses, such as reputational damage and huge financial losses, a career in cyber security can be extremely rewarding. Admittedly, dealing with these situations can be stressful and intense when emergencies arise, but the satisfaction you get when you solve problems and keep threats at bay is a thrill that’s unmatched for some.
It can also be rewarding to help individuals who are victims of cyber-crime, as according to Action Fraud, victims lost a total of £1.3 million from cyber-crime on social media alone in 2023.
Does cyber security have a good work-life balance?
Cyber security can be a fantastic career choice for working parents or anyone juggling extra responsibilities. One of the biggest perks is its flexibility, as many cyber security jobs offer remote work and flexible hours, so you can fit your career around family life. Also, with the nature of cyber security work often being project-based or incident response, some roles will allow you to adopt flexible working hours. Whether it’s picking up the kids from school or managing other day-to-day duties, it’s a field where you don’t have to choose between a rewarding career and personal commitments—you can have both.
Cyber security professionals are also needed across a range of industries, meaning you can tailor your cyber security career path to fit whatever your personal and professional goals are. From finance to healthcare, cyber security professionals are critical members of the workforce.
How to get into cyber security
If the thought of a career in cyber security excites you, there are many ways you can get into the industry, no matter what stage of life you are in. The best way to get into cyber security in the UK is through relevant qualifications, such as a degree or cyber security courses, or experience from an IT role.
Cyber Security Course
If you are looking for a fast way to secure a cyber security role, a cyber security course like ours could be a great option. Completing this online cyber security course is the perfect way to gain the skills needed for an entry-level cyber security and technology role, as it gets you career-ready in as little as 9-12 months. It can also help you get into an IT position, where you can often progress into cyber security.
If you are interested in an online course that gives you the skills you need to get into cyber security fast, take a look at our online cyber security course, which can be taken at your pace, around your schedule.
Cyber Security Degree
Getting a degree is one of the most popular ways to get into cyber security, as 80% of the leading cyber security firms require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in their roles. Besides evidencing your degree-level expertise, getting a degree can provide you with hands-on experience and networking opportunities, making you highly employable.
Having a degree can also help to maximise your earning potential, with statistics showing those with a degree can earn more than those without any higher education (HE) qualifications.
However, we understand that for some, getting to university can feel out of reach due to finances and family and work commitments. That’s why a Cyber Security Online Degree Pathway could be the perfect way to get into a cyber security career. Our Cyber Security Online Degree Pathway provides a flexible and more affordable alternative to the first 2 years of university. It can be taken completely online, around your schedule, meaning you can study toward your dream career around your commitments. It is also possible to complete the first 2 years in 12 months, making it a much faster alternative way of getting your degree! On completion, you are also guaranteed entry to complete your third and final year at one of our partner universities.
Online Degree Pathways
Whether it’s a career change you’re after, or you want to develop your current career, it’s never too late to get your degree. We want to make learning accessible, which is why our Online Degree Pathways provide a flexible, online alternative to the first 2 years of university for a range of subjects. To find out more, click below to download our free brochure.
