How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst
If you want to be on the frontline of a high-stakes industry, you may be cut out for a career as a cyber security analyst.
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is also becoming more vulnerable to harmful cyber attacks – and as a result, businesses and the government are investing heavily in cyber security.
The Australian Cyber Security Growth Network projects a need for 85,000 cyber security roles by 2030 – even though the field is one of the fastest-growing globally, the ongoing demand for skilled cyber security professionals remains high.
From healthcare and government to media, financial services, transport and more, there are many prominent industries employing cyber security experts.
If you’re considering a career pivot or looking to upskill, becoming a cyber security analyst can offer you a rewarding career with many job opportunities.
But what does a cyber security analyst actually do and what’s the best way to succeed in this dynamic field?
In this article, we’ll discuss the key roles and responsibilities of cyber security analysts and walk you through how to become one, from obtaining an undergraduate degree to securing your ideal role. Let’s dive in.
What does a cyber security analyst do?
A cyber security analyst plays a critical role in safeguarding an organisation's information systems and data from cyber threats. They monitor networks, detect security breaches, investigate incidents and develop strategies to prevent future attacks.
On a day-to-day basis, this looks like:
- Monitoring network traffic: Using various tools to detect suspicious activity and potential threats.
- Investigating incidents: Analysing security breaches to understand their origin, impact and the methods used.
- Implementing security measures: Developing and applying firewalls, encryption and other security protocols to protect systems.
- Conducting vulnerability assessments: Regularly testing systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
- Training staff: Educating employees on best practices for cyber security to prevent human error-related breaches.
As the industry continues to transform, the day-to-day tasks of a cyber security analyst will also change – so agility is vital.
6 steps to become a cyber security analyst in Australia
There are many possible career paths for a cyber security analyst and the right foundation will help you stand out in all of them. Here are six steps to become a cyber security analyst in Australia.
Step 1: Start with a bachelor’s degree
The first step to becoming a cyber security analyst is obtaining a relevant bachelor’s degree. While some may enter the field with degrees in information technology, computer science or software engineering, a specialised degree in cyber security provides a distinct foundation.
The right bachelor’s degree will cover core topics such as network security, cryptography and digital forensics, which are crucial for a career in this field.
If you have an undergraduate degree in a related field but want to hone in on cyber security, you may be eligible for certain postgraduate degrees such as a Master of Cyber Security or a Graduate Certificate of Cyber Security. The best cyber security degree for you will depend on your professional and educational background.
Step 2: Pursue further education
For aspiring cyber security analysts, this is a golden era. The industry is burgeoning with opportunity and growth potential – and pursuing a postgraduate education is one of the best ways to take advantage of it.
ECU Online offers both a Master of Cyber Security and a Graduate Certificate of Cyber Security for ambitious professionals who want to cement their place at the forefront of progress.
The graduate certificate is ideal for those looking to upgrade their skills without committing to a full master’s course, while the master’s degree can open doors to leadership positions and specialisations.
Both courses provide in-depth knowledge of advanced cyber security techniques, network defence and cyber forensics.
In addition to pursuing further education, there are several industry certifications recognised in Australia that can enhance employability. These include:
- CompTIA Security+ – a globally recognised certification covering foundational cybersecurity skills.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – one of the most prestigious certifications for experienced cybersecurity professionals.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – a certification that focuses on identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems.
Step 3: Understand the Australian job market
Cybercrime is continuing to surge, which means cyber security is in demand too. In Australia alone, reports say the industry needs 5,000 new qualified cyber security professionals every year just to keep up, and the current supply is nowhere near meeting demand.
While the need for cyber security expertise is global, Australia has one of the largest talent gaps for cyber security specialists in the world. Certain sectors are facing unique and complex cyber security challenges, including healthcare, media, transport, retail, information technology (IT) services, government, financial services and cyber security itself.
With strong demand comes strong compensation. Earning potential will vary depending on which sector you work in and your level of seniority, but on the whole – salaries in this field are competitive.
According to Talent.com, entry-level positions can start at around $99,000 annually and more senior positions reach $142,000 and beyond. Earning potential can be increased even further by specialising in a specific industry or completing a postgraduate qualification.
Step 4: Gain practical experience
Practical experience is an integral step in becoming a cyber security analyst. Internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time roles in IT support or network administration can be excellent starting points.
For those already in the IT field, roles that offer exposure to security operations, such as system administrator, IT auditor or security operations centre (SOC) analyst can provide the valuable hands-on experience you need.
Volunteering on freelance projects is also a great way to build your professional portfolio of real-world experience. This experience will not only bolster your CV but – critically – develop the practical skills needed to handle real-world cyber threats.
Comprehensive courses like ECU Online’s Master of Cyber Security include hands-on learning opportunities through projects and case studies based on real-world scenarios as part of their curriculum.
Step 5: Develop a professional network
Networking is a game-changing component of many industries and the specialised field of cyber security is no exception.
Joining professional bodies like the Australian Information Security Association (AISA), the Australian Computer Society (ACS), or the International Cyber Security Centre of Excellence (INCS-CoE) is a great way to keep up with what's happening in your industry – and meet people who can help you advance within it.
Attending conferences, workshops, meet-ups and staying connected via communities are also great ways to stay inspired and engaged with your industry. Crucially, they provide excellent opportunities to meet potential employers, clients or even future business partners.
Step 6: Plan your career path
Once you have the right education and experience under your belt, you can map out your career trajectory to ensure it’s headed in the direction you’re aiming for.
If a leadership position is on your horizon, postgraduate courses like a Master of Cyber Security can help advance your career most effectively by providing you with the advanced knowledge and skill set required.
Graduates from this course are equipped to secure highly competitive positions such as:
- Senior cyber security analyst: Overseeing a team and managing larger security projects.
- Cyber security consultant: Advising organisations on best practices and security measures.
- Cyber security manager: Leading an organisation’s security operations and strategy.
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): A high-level executive role responsible for an organisation’s overall security strategy and implementation.
Choosing a specialisation can help you align your education and certifications with your career goals and make you a more attractive candidate for those senior positions.
Step into the world of cyber security with ECU
Few industries offer as much potential to future leaders and ambitious professionals as cyber security. It’s not just brimming with job opportunities; it’s a dynamic sector mirroring the pace of wider technological advancements.
As cyber threats grow in sophistication, so does the demand for skilled professionals capable of countering them. This continuous evolution offers a wealth of possibilities for those ready to step up, innovate and make a significant impact in safeguarding not only our digital world – but also our world in general.
If you want to be one of those skilled professionals and are ready to take the next step in your cyber security career, ECU Online’s Master of Cyber Security might be the perfect fit.
ECU is one of only two universities in Australia recognised by the Federal Government as an Academic Centre of Cyber Security Excellence. Our comprehensive course — which covers units like network security, ethical hacking, digital forensics and more – equips students with advanced technical and strategic skills to excel in the industry.
Delivered 100% online for maximum flexibility, ECU Online’s Master of Cyber Security allows students to complete their qualification while continuing to work full-time. This means you can apply what you learn directly to your current role and take advantage of the growing demand for cyber security professionals even sooner.
It’s a career path that doesn’t just keep up with the future but shapes it.
Ready to start your journey to becoming a cyber security analyst? Reach out to our Student Enrolment Advisors today on 1300 707 760 to learn more.
