Career Spotlight: Cybersecurity Analyst
What Is a Cybersecurity Analyst?
A cybersecurity analyst protects organizations’ computers, digital networks, and data from a variety of threats. They watch out for anything unusual that could signal a security breach, investigate suspicious activity, and put protections in place. Cybersecurity analysts look for vulnerabilities, make sure threat detection security protocols are up to date, and educate others on safe practices. They are indispensable in protecting confidential information, maintaining data integrity, and reducing cyberthreat risks.
What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do?
The skills you need to thrive in cybersecurity combine technical expertise with trained vigilance and a commitment to staying ahead of threat actors and their methods. You will be working with basic programming, networks, operating systems, firewalls, encryption technologies, and emerging AI cybersecurity tools. Cloud security is a growing area for cybersecurity analyst positions, and analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to handle pressure are highly valued traits.
In this role, you’ll typically be responsible for:
- Watching for unusual activity
- Responding and documenting suspicious activity
- Investigating security incidents
- Putting protections in place to stop attacks
- Contributing to the maintenance of cybersecurity frameworks
- Pen testing systems to find weaknesses before attackers can take advantage of them
- Updating security threat detection and prevention software and protocols
- Creating reports and recommending improvements
- Teaching employees how to follow safe security practices
- Staying up to date on the latest threats, technologies, and frameworks
What Is the Job Outlook for Cybersecurity Analysts?
Employment in this field is growing faster than in many other career paths. Job growth is expected to be around 29% between 2024 and 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There aren’t enough skilled cybersecurity professionals to meet the demand, making high-paying jobs more common. The BLS puts the median annual salary in this job category at just under $125,000 a year.
Earn Your Cybersecurity Degree at Excelsior
Getting a start as a cybersecurity analyst and advancing your career in the field requires the right education. A good program will give you the foundation you need in technology, networks, systems, and threat detection.
Yet, it isn’t just about getting a degree. It’s about earning one that signals to employers that you have the right training to perform at the highest level.
Excelsior University is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. Excelsior’s BS in Cybersecurity program meets the rigorous academic requirements set by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security in preparing you to protect systems, data, and communications.
The degree is offered fully online so that you can manage your education along with your job and other responsibilities.
Florida residents have the option of taking advantage of our hybrid program at our location in St. Petersburg, Florida. St. Petersburg is a rapidly growing center for cybersecurity innovation and employment, near some of our nation’s most sensitive military intelligence sites, leading technology firms, and health care organizations. In this format, you’ll receive hands-on training, in-person experiences, and realistic labs, in addition to the online component that has long been the heart of this degree program.
Whether you choose the 100% online option or the hybrid format, we support you with extensive career services. From career planning, job search tools, and recruiting events to professional development opportunities, Excelsior delivers exceptional value beyond your degree. The bachelor’s program is also an ideal start if you eventually want to pursue your master’s degree in cybersecurity.
Exciting employment pathways and well-paying work make a career as a cybersecurity analyst an attractive one. And with its flexible learning options and CAE-recognized curriculum, Excelsior’s BS in Cybersecurity program prepares you to start work in this role with confidence and opportunities for advancement.
