How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist

As cyber threats and data breaches continue to rise¹, organizations increasingly need qualified cybersecurity specialists to protect their valuable information assets. If you are interested in the field of cybersecurity, you may find that pursuing a bachelor's degree in this area can help prepare you for a future job that aligns with your career aspirations. Whether you're interested in ethical hacking, network security, or developing security protocols, this career path can open opportunities in many different fields. A degree in cybersecurity may allow you pursue your interests while helping organizations mitigate risks and defend against sophisticated cyberattacks.

In this guide, we'll explore how to become a cybersecurity specialist, covering essential education requirements, technical skills, industry certifications, and specialized focus areas within the cybersecurity industry.

Cybersecurity Specialist Education Requirements

Pursuing a job in cybersecurity typically requires a strong educational foundation that includes technical knowledge, theoretical understanding, and detailed cybersecurity training. Some cybersecurity professionals may enter the field through alternative routes, such as on-the-job training, or a lateral move from a different department, but most employers typically look for candidates with relevant cybersecurity or technology degrees.

Understanding the different degree options can help you select the right program as you prepare for a possible career in cybersecurity.

Associate's Degree

A Network Systems Administration Associate's Degree helps to provide fundamental knowledge of computer systems and standard information security strategies. This degree may help you qualify you for entry-level positions like a junior analyst, giving you a foothold in the cybersecurity industry while requiring less time investment than higher degrees. While specific requirements vary based on the program, coursework typically covers topics like:

• Scripting languages
• Computer systems
• Networking concepts
• Operating systems
• Data and privacy law
• Cryptography concepts

Bachelor's Degree

A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity typically offers training in theoretical technology concepts, technical expertise, and practical experience. If you choose to pursue this degree, you may develop knowledge and skills that could be valuable for cybersecurity analyst roles, network security positions, and other mid-level cybersecurity jobs. Many employers may consider this the minimum educational requirement for a cybersecurity specialist.

Program requirements vary, but coursework in this degree typically covers topics like:

• Wireless and mobile security measures
• Critical infrastructure
• Digital forensics
• Privacy and Surveillance
• Common uses of cryptography
• Computer and network security
• IT security policy

Industry Certifications

Many cybersecurity professionals may benefit from the knowledge gained through cybersecurity certifications. These credentials can help you validate your cybersecurity knowledge, and some employers may look for specific certifications when seeking to fill a role. If you have aspirations to pursue a cybersecurity career, consider the following common certifications:

• ISCS Cybersecurity Certifications²
• CompTIA Security+³
• GIAC Security Essentials Certification⁴
• Certified Ethical Hacker^®5

Most cybersecurity certifications typically require periodic renewal. This continuing education requirement helps ensure that security professionals stay current with evolving threats and technologies, aligning with the dynamic nature of the cybersecurity industry.

Cybersecurity Specialist: Key Skills

To work toward a successful career as a cybersecurity specialist, you will likely need to demonstrate a strong grasp of key skills, both technical and interpersonal.As you progress in your cybersecurity education, essential skill development may include:

• Strong understanding of network security architecture and protocols
• Proficiency with computer operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
• Knowledge of common cyber threats and attack vectors
• Ability to implement and manage access control systems
• Critical thinking for analyzing security incidents
• Problem-solving capabilities for addressing security breaches
• Communication skills for explaining technical concepts to non-specialists
• Teamwork for collaborating on incident response
• Adaptability to keep pace with emerging threats

Specializations: Expanding Your Opportunities in Cybersecurity

The cybersecurity field offers numerous specialization paths that may align with your interests as you work to develop your expertise. Focusing on a specific domain may help you build deeper knowledge of particular security challenges, which could help you become a valuable asset to potential employers. Here are some common specialization areas for a cybersecurity career.

Network Security

Network security specialists typically focus on protecting an organization's computer systems and network infrastructure from unauthorized access. These professionals may design and implement security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and VPNs while monitoring networks for suspicious activities and potential breaches.

Cloud Security

As businesses migrate to cloud environments, cloud security specialists may be essential in securing cloud-based assets and applications. They may also implement appropriate access control mechanisms and ensure compliance with security policies across distributed infrastructures.

Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing

Ethical hackers (or penetration testers) seek to identify vulnerabilities in systems before malicious actors can exploit them. These cybersecurity professionals often simulate cyberattacks against an organization's digital systems, document weaknesses, and recommend security improvements to mitigate risks.

Incident Response

Specialists in incident response help develop protocols for managing security incidents when they occur. They may be responsible for investigating breaches, containing damage, restoring systems, and analyzing incidents to prevent future occurrences. This role often requires quick thinking and the ability to work effectively under pressure.

Security Architecture

Security architects typically design comprehensive security systems that protect an organization's entire digital footprint. Their responsibilities may include developing security frameworks, establishing security policies, and ensuring that all components work together cohesively to address potential threats across the enterprise.

Digital Forensics

Digital forensics specialists work to recover and investigate material found in digital devices related to cybercrime. These experts typically collect and analyze evidence from computers and networks which may be used to support legal proceedings or internal investigations following security breaches.

Types of Cybersecurity Specialist Roles

As more data and information migrates online, almost every industry needs cybersecurity specialists to protect sensitive information and keep threat actors out. One study reported 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings globally in 2023⁶. Here are a few of the industries that may be of interest to you as you consider a job as a cybersecurity specialist.

Healthcare Cybersecurity

Healthcare cybersecurity specialists must understand HIPAA compliance requirements as they work to keep electronic health records, medical devices, and hospital networks secure. As healthcare becomes increasingly digitized, these specialists will likely play a crucial role in preventing data breaches that could compromise patient privacy or disrupt critical care systems.

Financial Security

The financial sector often faces sophisticated cyberattacks targeting monetary assets and sensitive customer information. Cybersecurity professionals in banking and finance help organizations protect payment systems, prevent fraud, and secure online transactions. They must stay current with financial regulations like PCI DSS⁷ while defending against rapidly evolving threats.

Government and Defense

Cybersecurity specialists in government agencies and defense organizations safeguard national security information and critical infrastructure⁸. These roles often require security clearances and involve protecting against state-sponsored threats and advanced persistent attacks.

Critical Infrastructure

Specialists protecting power grids, water systems, and transportation networks focus on industrial control system security. These cybersecurity specialists defend operational technology (OT) environments and connect traditional IT security with industrial engineering knowledge.

How Do I Choose a Degree Program?

Selecting the right cybersecurity degree program can help you take the next step toward an education that aligns with your interests and career aspirations. With numerous options available, it's important to evaluate programs based on several critical factors:

• Accreditation and Recognition - Verify that the program is accredited by a recognized organization, such as accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)⁹ or a regional accrediting body.
• Course Requirements - Examine the program's course requirements to ensure it covers both foundational knowledge and emerging threats in the cybersecurity field.
• Hands-On Experience - Determine whether the program practical experience opportunities like hands-on laboratories, simulation environments, and security simulations.
• Internships and Networking - Programs with strong industry partnerships may be able to help connect students with valuable networking opportunities, guest lectures from cybersecurity experts, and potential internship placements.
• Career Support Services - Look for programs that offer resume assistance, interview preparation, job placement services, and connections to alumni working in the cybersecurity industry.

Take Your Next Step Toward Becoming a Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity professionals play a critical role in protecting digital infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated threats. By pursuing a cybersecurity degree, developing essential technical and soft skills, and gaining practical experience, you may be able to open doors to potential career options in this dynamic field.

Explore the Network Systems Administration Associate's Degree or the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity to plan your next steps.

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity

The University will reimburse students to sit for up to three recommended certification exams. Reimbursements will be made only once per certification exam. Students are responsible for paying for any additional attempts. A student enrolled in an associate degree program through Rasmussen University Online may dual enroll in this Bachelor's degree program when enrolled in the final 12 credits needed to complete their enrolled associate's degree program, and all program acceptance requirements are met. The student may be scheduled to complete Associate program course requirements before taking Bachelor-level courses. The student will graduate from their enrolled associate degree program only when all course requirements specific to that program have been completed. Students who choose this option to dual enroll cannot complete the final 12 credits in the associate degree as self-directed assessments (SDA). Students enrolled in a Rasmussen University Certificate or Diploma program are not eligible to dual enroll in this Bachelor's degree program. Students enrolled in a residential program through a campus are not eligible to dual enroll in this program.

Network Systems Administration Associate's Degree

Developmental Education courses do not count toward total program credits and are not calculated in GPA. Students must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Developmental Education courses through a Rasmussen University entrance placement exam, approved exemption based on previously completed coursework, or by passing Developmental Education courses. The University will reimburse students to sit for up to three recommended certification exams. Reimbursements will be made only once per certification exam. Students are responsible for paying for any additional attempts.

Certified Ethical Hacker^® and CEH^® are registered trademarks of EC-Council.

¹Cyber Threat Snapshot, Homeland Security Committee, November 12, 2024, https://homeland.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/11.12.24-Cyber-Threat-Snapshot.pdf.
²ISC2, "Certifications," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.isc2.org/certifications.
³CompTIA, "Security+ Certification," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.comptia.org/certifications/security.
⁴GIAC, "Security Essentials (GSEC) Certification," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.giac.org/certifications/security-essentials-gsec/.
⁵EC-Council, "Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) v13 – North America," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.eccouncil.org/train-certify/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh-v13-north-america/.
⁶Cybersecurity Ventures, "Cybersecurity Jobs Report," accessed March 7, 2025, https://cybersecurityventures.com/jobs/.
⁷PCI Security Standards Council, PCI DSS Quick Reference Guide, version 3.2.1, accessed March 7, 2025, https://listings.pcisecuritystandards.org/documents/PCI_DSS-QRG-v3_2_1.pdf.
⁸CISA, "Cybersecurity & IT Jobs," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.cisa.gov/careers/cybersecurityit-jobs.
⁹ABET, "Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology," accessed March 7, 2025, https://www.abet.org/.