Cybersecurity impacts everything we do. From banking to searching the Internet, the need for quality cybersecurity employees is ever growing.

 

Security Policy & Governance

Employees in the Security Policy and Governance sector of Cybersecurity work on strategic programs focused on coercion theory, defense strategies, war fighting, joint or combined operations, and overall governmental security. They are also crucial for corporate security. In this field you will help create best practices in regards to Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).

This is more of a strategic, rather than tactical, role.

Cybersecurity Engineering & Prevention

Security Engineers, also known as Information Security Analysts, work to protect a company’s network. If you are a Security Engineer you will usually (though not always) be part of a larger IT team to implement protective systems such as firewalls, assessing potential threats before they happen. You also should be able to assess and communicate with others in the organization with regards to security threats. Finally, if a breach does happen, you must be willing to address the issue and fix it quickly.

 

Incident Detection & Response

Incident Response employees are responsible for monitoring, identifying, and mitigating any potential threats. Services like threat intelligence, hunting, security monitoring and incident analysis and response are part of the work they do.  Jobs in their area may be called Cyber Security Manager, Information Systems Security Managers, Cyber Incident Manager or Incident Responders. Whatever the title, the job requires superb analytical skills and the ability to rapidly troubleshoot.

Career Wise

Are you Career Ready: As a Minnesota State student you have access to a number of incredible resources. One of those resources is Career Wise Education, a Minnesota State program that allows you to explore careers, plan your education and find a job!

From this site, you have the ability to assess your current skills, investigate career pathways, explore educational options and job markets, and so much more. It is a one-stop shop that will help you determine your career path and goals!

Currently, there are over 1,500 open positions in the security field and less than 200 graduates to fill the need! That gives you a huge opportunity to not only get a job but start a career! (indeed.org)

Want to know more about the different Cybersecurity Career Pathways? Cyber Seek shows you how five common cybersecurity feeder roles lead to current industry roles

Job Outlook

Did you know that by the end of 2019 there will be a global cybersecurity professional shortage of nearly 2 million employees? With over 50% of all organizations in need of qualified security personnel, the timing could not be better for those looking to get into the field of cybersecurity.

Industry Certification

Having a strong education in cybersecurity is a huge factor in landing your first job as well as moving up within your organization. Along with education, industry leaders are also looking for employees with specific industry certifications that speak directly to personal cyber competencies.

Certifications such as CompTIA (Security +), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Authorization Professional (CAP), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) can move you forward in your career and solidify your place as a security expert.

Other Certifications to consider:

EC Council

CompTIA

(ISC) 2

ISACA

GIAC

OWASP

CISCO

Palo Alto  Academy

Professional Organization

Do you need to connect with people within the industry and don’t know where to start? One great way to get to know the people and organizations within the security arena is to join a security professional organization.

There are many to select from and some that have amazing student rates to join. Joining a professional organization can give you the access you need to like-minded faculty, students and industry leaders who are looking to improve the world of security. You will be able to network and meet new industry connections, find out about the latest research in the area, and develop relationships that can bring about amazing opportunities for advancement.