Cyber security consultant
Advise organisations on ways to strengthen their cyber defences.
Also known as: IT security consultant
About the job
What it's like
As the world grows more reliant on technology, organisations are vulnerable to harmful and criminal activity in cyberspace. There is a need for people who know how to prevent and respond to cyber threats. Could you be the person they turn to?
Cyber security consultants use their expertise to identify weaknesses in digital systems, software and networks. You'll recommend and help put in place solutions to reduce the risks posed by cyber threats. You'll be an expert in a variety of tactics used by cyber criminals such as phishing, malware or denial of service (DDoS) attacks.
This role is perfect for problem-solvers. You'll need a curious mind, a passion for technology and the ability to think creatively.
Your tasks might include:
testing existing cyber security measures to identify vulnerabilities
advising on ways to fix weaknesses and strengthen security
responding to cyber attacks to minimise financial and reputational damage
carrying out risk assessments and developing security strategies
collaborating with IT teams, developers and other cyber security professionals
giving advice to other people on best practice for security
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – learn about NCSC-certified degrees
Cyber Games UK – test your cyber skills by playing online games
UK Cyber Security Council – explore careers information and routes into the cyber industry
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Select qualification level(s)
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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 -
Healthcare -
Transport -
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Digital technologies
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.
- attention to detail
- making decisions
- analysing
- working with technology
- resilience
- problem solving
- cooperating
- ethical
- written communication
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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Foundation Apprenticeship: Software Development
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Computing Science
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Applications of Mathematics
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Business Management
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.
This is a role where you'll need a deep understanding of cyber security. You'll likely need a degree in a relevant subject and experience in cyber security roles.
Employers will value your skills and knowledge more than just qualifications. However, getting a qualification can be a great way to grow your understanding and equip yourself for roles in cyber security.
Here are some routes you can take to become a cyber security consultant.
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Cyber Security
Computer Science
Software Engineering
Systems Engineering
If you want to continue studying at postgraduate level, there are courses in Cyber Security.
Use the My World of Work course search to find relevant degrees.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Cyber Security
Computing
Computing: Networking
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 you'll also go to uni or college. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in Cyber Security.
Work
There are junior and graduate cyber security roles available. To get into these, you'll likely need a degree or some relevant experience in a cyber-related role. You'll get training on the job and could work towards more senior positions.
Use the My World of Work job search to find vacancies.
Your knowledge and experience are very important in this career. Some of the technical knowledge that a job advert might ask for includes:
threat modelling
security architecture
cloud technologies
Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)
knowledge of security frameworks and certifications such as ISO 27001, NIST-CSF, and GDPR
These are just a small sample taken from current job postings. There is a vast range of knowledge useful for a cyber security consultant.
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.
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