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A Cyber Security Analyst works to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks and unauthorised access. This role involves monitoring networks for security breaches, investigating potential threats, and implementing strategies to defend against cyber risks. Analysts use a range of tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities, respond to incidents, and ensure compliance with security standards and regulations. The role often requires staying up to date with the latest security trends and threats, as well as working closely with other IT professionals to maintain a secure digital environment. Cyber Security Analysts can work in various sectors, including finance, government, healthcare, and technology companies.
The average salary for a Cyber Security Analyst in the UK is between £30,000 and £60,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Cyber security job postings in the UK increased by over 30 percent from 2022 to 2023, showing strong demand for skilled professionals.
The UK cyber security sector employs over 58,000 people as of 2023, with the sector expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
A specialist who simulates cyber attacks on computer systems and networks to find vulnerabilities and help organisations improve their security.
A professional who monitors and analyses security alerts in real time to detect and respond to cyber threats within an organisation.
An expert who manages and investigates cyber security breaches, helping organisations recover from attacks and prevent future incidents.
Choose GCSEs or A-levels in Computer Science, ICT, or Maths to gain a solid grounding in technology.
Having a good understanding of how computers work is essential for cyber security. Focus on subjects like Computer Science or ICT, and develop strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Maths can also help with logical thinking and data analysis, which are important for this career.
Start learning programming languages such as Python or Java, which are widely used in cyber security.
Programming skills help you understand how software works and how vulnerabilities can arise. Free resources, online tutorials, or school clubs can help you get started. Python is particularly popular in cyber security for tasks like scripting and automation.
Study for a relevant degree such as Cyber Security, Computer Science, or Information Technology, or consider a cyber security apprenticeship.
Many employers look for a degree in a related subject, but higher and degree apprenticeships are also a valuable route, offering hands-on experience while you earn. Courses often cover areas like network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking.
Earn recognised cyber security certifications such as CompTIA Security Plus, Certified Ethical Hacker, or CISSP.
Certifications demonstrate your skills and commitment to employers. Many can be studied alongside a job or degree. Entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security Plus are a good starting point, while more advanced ones can boost your career prospects as you gain experience.
Look for internships, work placements, or entry-level roles in IT or cyber security to build hands-on experience.
Many organisations offer internships or placements for students and recent graduates. Real-world experience helps you understand how security is managed in businesses, and provides valuable contacts in the industry.
Search for roles such as Junior Cyber Security Analyst, Information Security Officer, or Security Operations Centre Analyst.
Entry-level roles often involve monitoring networks, responding to security alerts, and assisting with risk assessments. As you gain experience, you can progress to more senior analyst or specialist positions. Keep learning and stay updated on the latest cyber threats and technologies.
Designs, implements, and manages computer networks, ensuring connectivity and performance while working to maintain security protocols.
Oversees an organisation's information security strategy, managing teams and policies to protect data and systems from threats.
Simulates cyber attacks on systems to identify and address security weaknesses, helping organisations strengthen their defences.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
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Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 100 positions available )
Being a Warfare Specialist (Submariner), means working with some of the most advanced computer systems available to identify, track and, if required, destroy potential threats. This will involve the covert monitoring of all other vessels (surface and sub-surface, friend or foe) within range of the advanced array of different sensors onboard.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 28 positions available )
We need to make the seas safe. For our warships, for civilian ships, for everyone. And that’s where you come in. You’ll be at the heart of these missions whether they’re in a Mediterranean port, or on operations in the Persian Gulf. As a Mine Warfare Specialist you’ll lead the way for our fleet, clearing any mines in its path.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
A Cyber Security Analyst and an IT security co-ordinator both focus on protecting an organisation's information systems through monitoring, threat detection, and implementing security measures. They share similar qualifications related to risk assessment, cybersecurity protocols, and technical expertise in maintaining secure digital environments.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate course in:
Courses with industry placements or summer internships might help you develop your skills.
You'll usually need:
You could do a T Level in Digital Support Services and then apply for a trainee IT cyber security position.
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
These involve a mix of learning in the workplace and off-site study.
You'll usually need:
a degree in a relevant subject
You could start work as an IT support technician after your GCSEs or A levels.
You could then train on the job or get more qualifications to become an IT security co-ordinator.
You could apply to work as an IT security co-ordinator if you have experience in IT management, network engineering or cyber intelligence.
You could join the Chartered Institute of Information Security for professional development opportunities.
You can find out more about working in IT and digital security from The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) and the UK Cyber Security Council.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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