9 Jobs You Could Get With a Cyber Security MS Degree

Protecting against these crimes requires educated individuals who understand the ins and outs of cybersecurity. For those interested in making a career change or getting into the cybersecurity field, a cyber security MS degree from City University of Seattle (CityU) is an excellent choice. A Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares future professionals for a number of important jobs that work toward safeguarding the internet. 

1. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

CISOs are professionals who look after an organization’s cybersecurity strategy by managing teams and allocating resources to guarantee data security and regulatory compliance. They are responsible for setting up systems to prevent, detect, and address cyberattacks.  

CISOs are leaders with strong decision-making and team management capabilities. They also have a deep understanding of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cyberattacks. In the U.S., a CISO’s annual salary ranges from about $70,000 to $232,500, amounting to an average of $148,746. 

2. Information Security Manager

Information security managers monitor and respond to organizational threats by setting up defenses and security infrastructure. These cybersecurity professionals monitor and analyze network activity to find and correct vulnerabilities.  

Information security managers must have various technical skills that allow them to effectively protect a company’s systems and data. They also can benefit from having project management and team leadership abilities. Information security managers in the U.S. earn a yearly salary of $136,104 on average, with the highest-paying jobs reaching $200,000 and the lowest at $62,500. 

3. Security Architect

Security architects are professionals who use hardware and software to build security systems and networks that keep organizations safe. Effective security architects have strong analytical and problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of cloud security, encryption, and other security protocols. U.S. security architects make $144,461 annually on average, with a salary range extending from $62,500 to $192,500. 

4. Penetration Tester

Penetration testing is where a cybersecurity professional acts as a hacker in order to find vulnerabilities or weaknesses in an organization’s systems and networks. To successfully find such issues, penetration testers must be well-versed in the newest hacking tools and cyberattacks. 

These professionals also need an understanding of scripting languages like Python, network protocols, and system architectures. Penetration tester salaries range from $22,500 to $168,000, with an average annual salary of $119,895 in the U.S. 

5. Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts carry out security measures that protect companies from cybercriminals. Unlike information security managers who take leadership positions, analysts are responsible for the hands-on, technical work needed for identifying, preventing, and responding to cyberattacks.  

Information security analysts must have strong analytical skills and a knowledge of various security tools. In the U.S., information security analysts earn an average salary of $99,400, with a range from $43,000 to $150,000 yearly. 

6. Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity engineers help companies protect their data and systems by creating security systems and features. These engineers perform tests and conduct maintenance checks to guarantee top-level security.  

Cybersecurity engineers must be able to code and should be familiar with security frameworks and tools. They should also have advanced problem-solving and analytical skills. On average, cybersecurity engineers earn an annual salary of $122,890, with a low end of $40,500 and a high end of $180,000. 

7. Digital Forensics Expert

Digital forensics experts are security specialists who act as detectives. These professionals investigate all types of crime with a digital footprint, from cybercrime to violent crime. 

Digital forensics experts should have a firm grasp of cybercrime laws and how to handle evidence in addition to investigation and documentation skills. The average salary for a digital forensics expert in the U.S. is $78,520, with annual salary ranges from $31,000 to $117,000 per year. 

8. Network Security Engineer

Network security engineers oversee all aspects of an organization’s networks. They are in charge of running system backups, implementing network security frameworks, and managing the access and flow of data and information.  

These cybersecurity professionals must understand all network systems and security measures. They also need strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to deal with daily issues and threats to the networks. The U.S. annual salary for a network security engineer ranges from $21,000 to $167,000, with an average of $124,948. 

9. IT Auditor

Information Technology (IT) auditors are in charge of evaluating a company’s systems, hardware, and networks to determine if they meet security, compliance, and operational standards. They must recommend solutions and possible improvements when they find vulnerabilities and weaknesses. 

IT auditors must have an in-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure and security systems paired with analytical skills. In the U.S., IT auditors make $92,727 per year on average. The annual salary of an IT auditor ranges from $38,500 to $151,000. 

FAQs About Cybersecurity Master’s Degrees 

Is a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity Worth It? 

Getting a master’s degree in cybersecurity can be very beneficial and lead to a rewarding career. The number of master’s in cybersecurity jobs is increasing and the average salaries of cybersecurity professionals can reach over $100,000 to $200,000 annually, making an advanced degree in the field a worthwhile investment. 

Is an MS in Cybersecurity Difficult? 

Completing an MS in cybersecurity can be challenging. Learners must master various technical skills such as coding and improve their problem-solving abilities to succeed. However, cybersecurity positions are in high demand, which can make for fulfilling and profitable careers.   

How Long Is an MS in Cybersecurity? 

The amount of time it takes to receive an MS in cybersecurity degree varies depending on the institution. At City University of Seattle, students must complete between 39 and 59 required credits to receive the degree, taking a full-time student anywhere from a year and a half to two years to complete. 

Are There Remote Work Opportunities for Cybersecurity Master’s Degree Holders? 

Many positions open to cybersecurity master’s degree holders are remote. Because they are in digital fields, a number of cybersecurity jobs, such as information security analysts, digital forensics experts, and penetration testers, allow for remote work. 

Can I Enroll in CityU To Pursue a Cybersecurity Master’s Degree While Working Full-Time? 

CityU offers an excellent cybersecurity master’s degree that opens the door for several top-tier cybersecurity positions. Students can study full-time by taking 12 to 18 credits per semester. However, CityU also offers a more flexible part-time option of 11 credits or less per semester for students who have full-time jobs or other time-consuming obligations. 

Unlocking Opportunities in Cybersecurity 

Securing the internet is more important today than ever. Organizations increasingly face numerous threats and attacks from cybercriminals as technology advances. Because of this, taking on the responsibility of fighting against internet crime with a cybersecurity master’s degree can lead to a promising career.  

Finding a path with cybersecurity is easy when you enroll at CityU. CityU offers a first-rate education that can lead to promising cybersecurity careers. Visit CityU to get more information about getting a cyber security MS degree.