ÃÛÌÒTV

Breaking into cybersecurity might seem intimidating, especially ifÌýyou’reÌýconcerned about lack of experience.ÌýFortunately, cybersecurity is one of the few technology fields with clear entry-level pathways, strong demand, and employers who value education and certifications alongside applied knowledge.ÌýFor motivated learners, this makes cybersecurity one of the most accessible technology careers to enter.

If you enjoy solving puzzles, working in fast-paced environments, and protecting people and organizations from digital harm,Ìýcybersecurity may be a strong fit for you.ÌýAnd cybersecurity roles areÌýgenerally wellÌýcompensated, even at early career stages. Depending on role and experience, average salaries usually range fromÌý.

This guide discusses common entry-level cybersecurity jobs, including role responsibilities, average salaries, job outlook information, and practical steps to begin your career—even ifÌýyou’reÌýjust starting out.

Why Cybersecurity Is a Smart Career Choice

Cybersecurity, also known asÌýinformation security,Ìýhas quickly become a crucial priority for businesses and organizations of all sizes. As cyber threats such as data breaches and ransomware attacks continue to evolve, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals far exceeds the available talent.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of information security analystsÌýis projected to grow byÌýÌýfrom 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. ThisÌýstrong growthÌýreflects a wider global cybersecurity skills gap, where millions of rolesÌýremainÌýunfilledÌýdue to aÌýshortageÌýof qualified professionals.Ìý

As organizations continue to adopt cloud services, remote work, and digital infrastructure, the need for cybersecurity talent is expected to remain strong.ÌýFor recent graduates and career changers, this demand often translates into strong job security, competitive starting salaries, and career opportunities acrossÌýindustries such as technology, education, finance, healthcare, and government.

But to land a cybersecurity role,Ìýyou’llÌýneed the right education. Cybersecurity degree programs typically cover subjects like network and system security, risk management, digital forensics, scripting and programming, and secure web development. Degree programs thatÌýremainÌýaligned with shifting industry needs—such asÌýÃÛÌÒTV’s online cybersecurity and information assurance bachelor’s program—are especially useful. ÃÛÌÒTV’s curriculum is regularly updated by its Information Technology Program Council and includes 14 industry-recognized certifications, enabling students to build job-ready skills in data, systems, security, IT operations, and more.

Essential Skills for Entry-Level Cybersecurity Roles

Entry-level cybersecurity professionalsÌýdon’tÌýneed advancedÌýexpertise, but they do need a strong technical and analytical foundation.ÌýImportant technical and softÌýskillsÌýthat employers look for include:

• Networking fundamentals and operating systems
• Basic scripting and programming
• Familiarity with security tools and monitoring systems
• Problem-solving
• Analytical thinking
• Communication
• Attention to detail
• Commitment to continuous learning

Many of these skills can be developed through coursework, labs, certifications, and guided practice rather than on-the-job experience alone.ÌýCybersecurity beginners mayÌýbenefitÌýfromÌýearningÌýcertificationsÌýsuch asÌýCompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), whichÌývalidateÌýhard skills andÌýdemonstrateÌýup-to-date knowledge ofÌýbest practices.

Common Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs

Most entry-level cybersecurity roles fall under the broader category of information security, which shares similar job outlook data.ÌýThe roles below outline common responsibilities, salary ranges, and potential careerÌýpaths, though job titles and expectations may vary by organization.

1. Cybersecurity TechnicianÌý

Cybersecurity technicians support day-to-day security operations byÌýmonitoringÌýsystems,Ìýaiding withÌýincident response, andÌýmaintainingÌýsecurity tools and resources. Cybersecurity techs usually work alongside IT and information security teams to ensure that security infrastructuresÌýremainÌýprotected.

Average Salary:Ìý

Best for:ÌýDetail-oriented team players with foundational tech and troubleshooting skills

Next Steps:ÌýCybersecurity analyst, security operations center (SOC) analystÌý

2. Cybercrime Analyst

Entry-levelÌýcybercrimeÌýanalysts track digital threats, investigate suspicious activity, perform vulnerability scans, and apply security patches and updates. Many of these professionals start in this role beforeÌýcontinuing onÌýto specialized analyst roles.

Average Salary:Ìý

Key Tools:ÌýSecurity information and event management (SIEM) platforms, vulnerability scanners

Next Steps:ÌýSenior security analyst, threat intelligence managerÌý

3. Incident AnalystÌý

Incident analystsÌýrespondÌýto security breaches, investigate what occurred, and helpÌýcontainÌýdamage. This role emphasizes quick thinking, communication, and documentation.

Average Salary:ÌýÌý

Best for:ÌýProblem solvers and multi-taskers who work well under pressure

Next Steps:ÌýIncident response lead, digital forensics specialist

4. IT AuditorÌý

IT auditorsÌýassess systems for security, risk, and compliance. TheyÌýidentifyÌýgaps, record findings, and recommend improvements to ensure that organizations meet internal and external compliance standards.

Average Salary:ÌýÌý

Best for:ÌýDetail-oriented professionals interested in research, governance, and compliance

Next Steps:ÌýRisk manager, compliance lead

5. Junior PenetrationÌýTesterÌý

JuniorÌýpenetration testersÌýassistÌýin testing systems for vulnerabilities beforeÌýhackersÌýcan exploit them. They work under senior testers to conduct controlled attacks and report test results.Ìý

Average Salary:Ìý

Key Skills:ÌýNetworking, scripting, security fundamentals

Next Steps:ÌýSenior penetration tester, red team manager

6. Systems Administrator

Systems administratorsÌýmanageÌýandÌýmaintainÌýIT environments, including computing operations and networks. While this role is experiencing a slight decline due to automation and cloud adoption, itÌýremainsÌýa common entry point into cybersecurity.

Average Salary:Ìý

Job Outlook Context:ÌýEmployment may decline overall, but thousands of openings occur each year due to retirements and role transitions.

Next Steps:ÌýSecurity engineer, cloud security administrator

7. Security Administrator

Security administrators manage access controls, permissions, and security configurations. They help develop and enforce policies, conduct awarenessÌýtrainings, and support broader security initiatives.Ìý

Average Salary:ÌýÌý

Best for:ÌýOrganized professionals withÌýstrong systemÌýknowledge and communication skills

Next Steps:ÌýCybersecurity analyst,ÌýidentityÌýand access management (IAM) specialist

8. Threat Intelligence Analyst

Threat intelligence analystsÌýresearchÌýemergingÌýcyber threats, analyze attack trends, and support proactive defense strategies. They oftenÌýassistÌýsenior analysts by contributing to threat reports.

Average Salary:Ìý

Best for:ÌýAnalytical thinkers who enjoy researching and reporting

Next Steps:ÌýSenior threat intelligence analystÌý

9. Digital Forensics Analyst

Digital forensics analystsÌýcollect and assess evidence after cyber incidents. They help organizations understand how breaches occurred, support investigations, and use their findings to help prevent future attacks.

Average Salary:Ìý

Best for:ÌýMethodical professionals interested in investigating critical details

Next Steps:ÌýDigital forensics specialist, incident response lead

How to Get an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Job Without Experience

Even without prior work experience, there are clear, practical steps you can take to enter the cybersecurity field.ÌýHere are some practical steps to help you get started:Ìý

• Build a foundation with education.ÌýEarn aÌýcybersecurityÌýorÌýIT degree, or exploreÌýalternative paths like bootcamps. ÃÛÌÒTV’s competency-based education model allows you to progress faster using prior knowledge.
• Earn industry certifications.ÌýStart with CompTIA Security+ or ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC). ÃÛÌÒTV’sÌýonline cybersecurity bachelor’s programÌýoffers 14 certifications included in the cost of tuition.
• Gain hands-on experience.ÌýConsider using home labs, Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions, or platforms likeÌýTryHackMeÌýor HackÌýTheÌýBox.
• Build a portfolio and online presence.ÌýDocument projects on GitHub, write about whatÌýyou’reÌýlearning, and keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.
• Network strategically.ÌýJoin cybersecurity communities, attend meetups or conferences, and connect with professionalsÌýandÌýrecruitersÌýonline.
• Apply to jobs strategically.ÌýTarget true entry-levelÌýpositions,ÌýoptimizeÌýyour résumé, and look for internships or apprenticeships.

Ready to Start Your Cybersecurity Journey?Ìý

If one of the above-listed entry-level cybersecurity roles sounds appealing, now isÌýa great timeÌýto take the next step. Demand is high, salaries are strong, and organizations across every industry need skilled professionals.Ìý

Explore howÌýanÌýIT or cybersecurity-focused degree from ÃÛÌÒTVÌýcan help you develop the skills, earn the certifications, and build the confidence you need to launch your cybersecurity career.Ìý

Frequently Asked QuestionsÌý

Below are severalÌýfrequently asked questionsÌýabout entry-level cybersecurity careers.Ìý

Can I get a cybersecurity job with just certifications?Ìý

Yes,Ìýit’sÌýpossible, butÌýit’sÌýmore common when certifications are combined with hands-on experience and a strong foundational skill set. While many employers may still prefer candidates with a degree, certifications can be an effective way to get started or transition into cybersecurity.

How long does it take to break into cybersecurity?

For most people, it takes anywhere from six months to two years, depending on your background, education, and learning pace.Ìý

Do I need to know programming for entry-level roles?

NotÌýusually. Most entry-level cybersecurity jobsÌýdon’tÌýrequire advanced programming or coding skills. But basic scripting knowledge can be helpful for tasks like automation.

What’sÌýthe easiest entry-level cybersecurity job to get?Ìý

Roles such as SOC analyst, cybersecurity technician, or security administrator are often among the most accessible entryÌýpoints, sinceÌýthey involve supporting security teams.

Can I work remotely in entry-level cybersecurity?

Yes, remote work is possible, but it tends to be more common after you gain adequate experience. On-site work is typically more conducive to supporting training and collaboration for beginners.Ìý

What industries hire entry-level cybersecurity professionals?

Virtually everyÌýindustry hires entry-level cybersecurity professionals.ÌýThese industries range from finance and healthcare to education and retail and beyond.