The information technology (IT) and cybersecurity fields are expanding at a remarkable pace. As organizations rely more heavily on digital systems, cloud platforms, and interconnected networks, protecting sensitive data and maintaining business continuity have become critical priorities.
This growing reliance on technology has created a strong demand for cybersecurity professionals across industries, with jobs that offer competitive salaries, long-term stability, and opportunities for advancement.
However, entering the field requires more than interest alone. It requires developing the cybersecurity skills and competencies organizations look for when filling these roles. Most aspiring cybersecurity professionals start building these skills by enrolling in a technology degree program.
What Do Cybersecurity Professionals Do?
Cybersecurity professionals help organizations build and maintain a strong digital defense against cyberthreats. Their work focuses on protecting organizations’ data, securing their networks, monitoring their systems for suspicious activity, and ensuring they comply with industry regulations. They also support organizations in preparing for and responding to cybersecurity incidents, helping them minimize the damage and restore their operations quickly.
Cybersecurity professionals hold a wide range of roles and have numerous types of specialties. For example:
- Computer forensic analysts recover and analyze digital evidence, often in support of investigations.
- IT security specialists assess systems’ vulnerabilities and strengthen their defenses.
- Security managers oversee organizations’ cybersecurity strategies and policies.
- Network security engineers design and maintain secure network architectures.
While these roles differ in focus, all rely on a shared set of cybersecurity skills needed to protect organizations from evolving threats.
In-Demand Cybersecurity Skills Candidates Should Consider
The cybersecurity skills an individual chooses to develop depends on the career path they plan to pursue. However, many skills apply across roles and help build a strong foundation in the field. The following sections highlight the cybersecurity skills employers value, why they matter, and which professionals use them most often.
Technical and Infrastructure Security Skills
These skills focus on securing systems, networks, and platforms that support organizations’ operations.
- Network security fundamentals: Understanding how networks operate, how data moves, and where vulnerabilities exist is essential in securing routers, firewalls, and communication pathways. Network security engineers, IT security specialists, and security analysts rely on this knowledge daily.
- Cloud security: As more organizations move to cloud platforms, professionals must understand how cloud configurations, identity controls, and shared responsibility models work. Cloud security specialists, engineers, and architects use these skills to secure cloud-based environments.
- Operating system security (Windows, Linux, macOS): Securing operating systems involves managing permissions, detecting intrusions, and hardening systems. System administrators, forensic analysts, and penetration testers use these skills to protect endpoints and servers.
- Identity and access management (IAM): Managing authentication, authorization, and user permissions helps prevent unauthorized access to systems and data. IAM specialists, security administrators, and compliance professionals rely on these skills to maintain secure environments.
Analytical and Offensive Security Skills
These skills involve identifying threats, evaluating risks, and testing defenses to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Threat detection and analysis: Being able to identify unusual activity, analyze alerts, and recognize indicators of compromise is central in preventing attacks. Security analysts, incident responders, and security operations center (SOC) professionals use these skills to monitor systems and respond quickly to threats.
- Risk assessment and management: Evaluating risks, prioritizing vulnerabilities, and recommending mitigation strategies helps organizations make informed security decisions. Security managers, auditors, and consultants use these skills to assess and improve their organization’s security posture.
- Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing: Skills in this area involve being able to identify weaknesses in systems and simulate attacks to test defenses. Penetration testers, ethical hackers, and security engineers rely on this expertise to strengthen organizations’ security.
Operational Response and Investigation Skills
These skills are critical during and after cybersecurity incidents.
- Incident response and digital forensics: When a security breach occurs, professionals must be able to contain the threat, investigate what happened, and recover data. Incident responders and forensic analysts use these skills to guide organizations through cybersecurity events and minimize their impact.
Governance, Automation, and Compliance Skills
These skills support scalability, consistency, and regulatory alignment across security programs.
- Scripting and automation (Python, PowerShell, Bash): Automation helps streamline repetitive tasks, analyze data, and improve response times. Penetration testers, SOC analysts, and engineers use their scripting skills to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
- Knowledge of compliance standards (NIST, ISO, HIPAA, PCI-DSS): Understanding regulatory frameworks helps organizations meet legal and security requirements. Compliance officers, auditors, and security managers use this knowledge to maintain accountability and demonstrate adherence to standards.
How to Learn Cybersecurity Skills
There are several ways to develop the cybersecurity skills needed to enter and succeed in the field. Formal undergraduate degree programs in cybersecurity, network management, or information technology provide individuals with structured learning, hands-on practice, and exposure to foundational concepts in cybersecurity. These programs typically cover networking, system administration, security principles, and emerging technologies.
Training labs, virtual environments, and cybersecurity exercises allow individuals to practice detecting threats, analyzing vulnerabilities, and responding to incidents without any real-world risk. These experiences, which are often included in degree programs, help individuals build confidence and prepare them for the practical demands of professional cybersecurity work.
Preparing for certification exams is another common pathway to gaining certain cybersecurity skills. Credentials such as the CompTIA CySA+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) help validate an individual’s technical knowledge and demonstrate their professional commitment to cybersecurity. Some degree programs and microcredential programs may include certification preparation coursework.For individuals comfortable with self-directed learning, online resources, tutorials, and open-source tools can also support their skill development. However, learning cybersecurity skills is not just about understanding concepts in theory. Hands-on experience is essential.
Choosing the Right Path to Build Your Cybersecurity Skills
Selecting the appropriate educational pathway will play an important role in how efficiently and effectively you develop cybersecurity skills. Whether you choose a degree program, certification course, or a combination of learning options, the goal is to build a strong foundation and gain practical experience.
Mid-America Christian University’s technology programs offer an effective way to learn in-demand cybersecurity skills and develop essential IT competencies.
The Associate of Science in Network Management and Security program can help you gain essential skills in operating systems, network administration, programming fundamentals, and core information security practices. The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program helps prepare you to combat digital threats in increasingly complex and connected environments. The bachelor’s program also prepares students to take the CySA+ and CCNA certification exams to enhance their credentials.
With the right preparation and commitment, you can position yourself for a rewarding career in one of today’s most important and fast-growing fields.
Recommended Readings
Cybersecurity vs. Computer Science: Comparing Educational Paths and Career Outcomes
Best Careers for Supporting Your Family
Cybersecurity vs. Data Analytics: Comparing Degrees and Careers
Sources:
Dice, “The Most In-Demand Cybersecurity Skills: How to Build a Successful Career in Cybersecurity”
Indeed, “12 Must-Have Cybersecurity Skills (and How to Improve Them)
Indeed, “12 Types of Cybersecurity Roles (With Duties and Salaries)
Medium, “Are Cyber Security Bootcamps Worth the Investment?”
United States Cybersecurity Institute, “Most In-Demand Cybersecurity Skills You Must Have in 2025”