Cyber security analyst
Protect businesses and organisations from cyber threats using cutting-edge technology.
Also known as: security analyst, soc analyst, threat intelligence analyst
About the job
What it's like
Picture yourself as a digital defender of Scotland's businesses and organisations. You'll be on the front line, analysing suspicious activity and stopping cyber-attacks.
Every day is different. You could be coming up with creative solutions to fix vulnerabilities. Or you might work with colleagues to develop robust security protocols. Ethical hacking is another important task, you'll try to breach security systems and identify weaknesses.
This role is perfect for someone who thrives on a challenge and enjoys puzzles. You'll need a keen eye for detail, a logical mind and to be handy with technology. Ready to make a real difference in the world? Cyber security could be your calling.
Your tasks might include:
investigating suspicious activity and security breaches
using analytics tools to spot emerging threats and vulnerabilities
implementing security solutions and monitoring security systems
working with IT teams to improve cyber resilience
simulating security breaches to improve protocols and advising colleagues on ways they can reduce risk
exploring ways technologies such as artificial intelligence can reduce cyber threats
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Skills Development Scotland – a quick guide to cyber security qualifications in Scotland
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – discover the CyberFirst Girls Competition
UK Cyber Security Council – learn about all the routes you can take into a cyber career
Cyber Games UK – play online games that test your cyber skills
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Cyber security analyst'
Select qualification level(s)
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Ethical hacker -
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Cyber security manager
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Financial and professional services -
Digital technologies -
Engineering and manufacturing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- resilience
- researching
- problem solving
- ethical
- attention to detail
- analysing
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Computing Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Applications of Mathematics
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Physics
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English
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Biology
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Hardware and Systems Support
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
The vast majority of cyber security analysts have a degree – this is mandatory for some senior roles within the industry.
However, there are other entry routes that don't require a degree.
Let's explore the ways you can start your cyber security career.
University
You'll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject, such as:
Cyber Security
Ethical Hacking
Computer Science
Digital Security and Forensics
Networks and Security
Information Technology
Software Engineering
Data Science
Mathematics
Digital Forensics or Forensic Computing
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Cyber Security
Computing: Networking
Computing: Software Development
Digital Design and Development
Computer Science
Technical Support
Data Science
Digital Forensics
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but will also go to uni. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You may want to consider a GA in Cyber Security.
Volunteering in a computing-based role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a cyber security analyst. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
You might need different certifications for some roles. This shows your knowledge is up-to-date in certain areas.
Browse a list of recognised industry certifications on the ICS2 site. They're the world's leading member association for cyber security professionals.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Cyber security analyst'
