What can you do with a cybersecurity degree?

By Brian Fairbanks

With more connected devices in use than ever and more Americans online 24/7, cybersecurity professionals may be in high demand for the foreseeable future. If you're considering an entry-level job in network security, computer science, information technology or information security, completing a cybersecurity degree program may help!

If you do not have your Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, you may be wondering how or where to earn one, as well as what types of roles in network security, computer science or information security are available to cybersecurity professionals. As it turns out, there are many career possibilities for cybersecurity professionals. Whether they've earned a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree or graduated from a related degree program, there are options.

What jobs can a cybersecurity degree prepare you for?

Cybersecurity degree programs often serve as preparation for IT careers. For example, these can include information security, computer science, network security, information technology and, of course, cybersecurity.

The jobs themselves vary. It may mean working in IT (information technology) departments at large corporations or emerging startups. Or it may mean serving as a systems analyst or data security administrator. In all, organizations look to these professionals to protect information, account numbers and internal communications from outside entities. Cyber threats are varied. They can range from leaking information to a company’s competitors to compromising personal data of employees and customers. And those roles are only the beginning of what’s available.

Cybersecurity professionals, in other words, are often on the front line of the information and data wars. Here are some specific career opportunities that those who hold a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree may consider.

Careers as an IT specialist

IT specialists, sometimes called network and computer systems administrators, are often the go-to co-workers for computer problems. When an employee can’t access their work email or a salesperson can’t close a deal because their system is too slow, they call in their information technology expert.

IT specialists should also be prepared to use their cybersecurity knowledge to protect personal and proprietary information. This information can be stolen or seen by unauthorized persons after a hacking or phishing attempt.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes, "Most employers require network and computer systems administrators to have a bachelor’s degree in a field related to computer or information science," such as a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. The median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $84,810 in 2020. (Please note these outcomes are not specific to University of Phoenix graduates.)

Careers as a systems analyst

A computer systems analyst might use their cybersecurity degree to work as a computer systems analyst. In this role, employees generally keep tabs on a network’s computers. Similarly, they may look for ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the system.

According to BLS, "Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029," which is a substantial increase. Computer systems analysts earned a median salary of $93,730 in 2020.

Careers as a data security administrator

Data security administrators typically work in the data processing department. Their role is to fix issues with computer applications/programs, network connections and administrator problems. In addition, data security administrators look for inefficiency in data- or computer-based workflows. Sometimes, they test new software or software updates to look for options that can improve all of the above. An example of this is an operating system update that includes new keyboard shortcuts.

The median annual salary for a data security administrator in 2020 was $98,860.

What you’ll learn in our Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree program

A BSCYB (Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree) is a wonderful way to learn more about computer science and to potentially break into information technology. Budding cybersecurity professionals learn about data safety, information technology and information security. Additionally, they have access to training as part of one of University of Phoenix’s cybersecurity degree programs:

• Risk assessment
• Computer infrastructure
• Technical problem-solving
• Enterprise management
• Ethical hacking

Get started with your cybersecurity degree

According to BLS, job growth for IT security analysts is projected to be much faster than average between 2019 and 2029. (BLS projections are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.)

If you are thinking of working in an entry-level position in information technology or cybersecurity, consider getting a degree online. Then, look for computer science, network security and information technology roles in your city!

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I get my cybersecurity degree online?

A: Yes, it is offered 100% online with some on-campus offerings.

Q: Why get a degree from University of Phoenix?

A: Beyond the online-based programs, there are many reasons why taking college courses toward a bachelor’s degree through University of Phoenix is a good idea. Among other perks, adult learners enjoy:

• Career Services for Life™. University of Phoenix has a talented team available to all program graduates indefinitely. Contact us for consultations and career help. We can also provide access to tools and resources to help you get on the right track.
• Exceptional flexibility. For more than four decades, University of Phoenix has worked with adults to provide them with an educational schedule that fits alongside their outside responsibilities. With multiple start dates annually (click here to see when the next one is coming up), University of Phoenix invites you to get started whenever you’re ready!
• The ability to earn your degree without starting from scratch On average, students at University of Phoenix who are taking courses toward a bachelor’s degree and who have preexisting and eligible college course credits and/or life experience related to their chosen field can save thousands of dollars each year on their undergraduate degree costs. Visit our website for details.

Q: How much do cybersecurity majors make?

A: In the real world, cybersecurity professionals make a wide range of salaries. Salary ranges depend on experience and location, but BLS estimates that related occupations, from computer support specialists to computer and information systems managers, earn a median salary of between $54,760 and $146,360.

If you’re considering going to school for an online cybersecurity degree, consider the University of Phoenix’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree. We look forward to "seeing" you in class!