What qualifications do I need to study cyber security?

Organisations with networks plugged into the internet (and let’s face it, that’s practically all of them) expose themselves to business disruption, financial loss, reputational ruin, and litigation if they neglect their cyber security measures.

Security breaches have compromised millions of people’s bank accounts, infiltrated academic results, led to massive fraud, taken Nasa offline for three weeks, and shut down a major US oil pipeline, among other things. Can you imagine what might happen if your organisation’s self-driving car systems or medical devices like pacemakers were targeted? It’s no wonder cyber security specialists are now among the most in-demand tech professionals. 

What Is cyber security?

cyber security is the application of technology, processes, and practices to protect devices connected to the internet from cyberattacks. These devices include servers, laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, webcams, and vehicles – and soon, many more, as the Internet of Things gains traction. 

While some hackers penetrate systems for the thrill of thwarting their protection, serious cyberattackers can destroy, modify, or access sensitive information for financial gain, and disrupt business operations. 

What does a cyber security specialist do?

cyber security professionals set up systems to protect organisational data, systems and client information from attack, and promote safer web browsing habits among staff.

Their tasks range from risk assessment to incident response, and they safeguard information systems by monitoring, detecting, investigating, and responding to security threats. They must stay on top of technology development and keep finding find new ways to protect online assets.

cyber security specialists must also:

• Conduct cyber security audits;
• Conduct risk assessments; 
• Respond to cyber security incidents;
• Create and implement security policies and measures to mitigate risks;
• Install, implement and enforce security controls; and
• Preserve up-to-date knowledge of cyber security risks and developments.

What qualifications do I need for cyber security?

There are various routes into cyber security. The most common are through industry certification on top of a four-year IT or computer science degree from a recognised university. 

You can take your pick of the courses available online; entry criteria will vary depending on the type of course you select. Usually, to enrol for a cyber security certificate course, you need at least:

• Matric maths, physics, and chemistry;
• An associate’s (undergraduate) degree in information technology, or a degree in any computer science or software engineering or any related discipline, with an average of 50% or more;
• A basic understanding of programming concepts and languages;
• Work experience of a year or more.

As a cyber security specialist, you will also need to: 

• Be food at problem-solving;
• Have good verbal and written communication skills;
• Understand industry-standard tools; and
• Be familiar with network administration.

Planning your entry to cyber security 

Let’s look at the steps you need to take to become a cyber security professional.

• Start by earning a degree and proving your credentials;
• Familiarise yourself with the fundamentals of cyber security;
• Gain a wide range of cyber security skills;
• Work on cyber security projects;
• Find yourself a mentor who can help you kickstart your professional development;
• Pursue cyber security certification to gain specialised skills and learn how to use specific tools;
• Take part in competitions, as they will help you improve your cyber security skills;
• Create an impressive portfolio by recording the details of all the projects you work on, including the specific problem-solving approaches and tools you used in each project; and
• Network with hiring managers and other cyber security professionals. It’s a great way to fast-track your progress!

Where to hop onto the fast track

cyber security has grown to encompass so much more than simply slapping up a firewall and blocking unsavoury-sounding domains. It includes studying communication networks from a security perspective, analysing vulnerabilities in both software and hardware, developing policies for data handling and transfer.
If you want to bag one of the many high-paying cyber security jobs out there, start by enrolling for the Digital Regenesys Basic cyber security Programme, where you will learn from top instructors and attend live sessions hosted online by industry experts. You’ll find more information about this programme here.