Cybersecurity Degrees and Alternatives: Your 2025 Guide

As daily life increasingly moves online and into the digital space, cybersecurity has become critical for just about every business. With more cybersecurity jobs in India than qualified candidates to fill them, launching a career in cybersecurity can be a lucrative choice. Opportunities in cybersecurity can offer good pay and job security, as well as the chance to work in a fast-paced field that’s always evolving.

To start a career in cybersecurity, you’ll need to build the right skills and qualifications. For many cybersecurity professionals, this means earning a bachelor’s degree or advancing your knowledge with a master’s degree. Read on to learn more about what types of degree courses help set you up for success in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity bachelor’s degrees

An undergraduate degree is typically necessary to get a job in cybersecurity, and earning one can also help you develop core skills, open up new job opportunities, and make you a more competitive candidate when you start looking for jobs.

Bachelor’s degrees take between three and four years to complete when you’re able to attend full-time. You’ll take courses that introduce you to key concepts in cybersecurity and deepen your technical skills.

Cybersecurity degrees: Popular subjects

When you want to study cybersecurity or information technology (IT), you can choose from several university subjects that cover relevant skills since not every university offers a cybersecurity course. Instead, you may end up pursuing a degree in computer science and specialising in cybersecurity. Four popular degree courses to consider when you’re interested in studying cybersecurity include:

• Cybersecurity: Whilst not all universities offer cybersecurity degrees, they are becoming more popular as the need for skilled security professionals increases. A cybersecurity course will include a combination of coursework and projects to help you build essential knowledge and skills in the field.

• Computer science: Computer science ranks among the most popular computer-related bachelor’s degrees. These programmes generally cover a wide range of technical skills, including programming, systems engineering, networking, and security. Consider this widely available degree if you’re interested in technology but want to keep your options open beyond cybersecurity.

• Information technology: Whilst similar to computer science, IT focuses more on using technology to solve problems. If you choose IT as your course, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a wide range of fields.

• Computer engineering: A Bachelor of Science in computer engineering combines computer science with electrical engineering and includes coursework in hardware, software, and computer programming. With this degree, you can specialise in various careers that involve cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity coursework

Coursework in cybersecurity programmes will vary among universities. Generally, you can expect to take classes in topics like:

• Programming

• Cloud computing

• Cryptography

• Ethical hacking

• Digital forensics

• Security law and ethics

Should I get a master’s degree in cybersecurity?

A master’s degree, whilst not necessary, can help increase your earning potential and advance your career. Some universities offer master’s degrees in cybersecurity, such as the MSc Cyber Security from the University of London. Others, like the online Master of Science in Computer Science from Ball State University, offer the option to concentrate in cybersecurity.

Is pursuing cybersecurity worth it? Facts to consider

A cybersecurity degree may be worth it if you are ready to invest the time and money. Keep in mind that it is typically a necessity for gaining cybersecurity jobs in India. It’s something you should consider carefully before deciding whether this career is right for you. You can think about the following factors when deciding what degree path best fits your needs:

Cybersecurity professionals are in demand.

Naukri currently lists 21,320 cybersecurity job openings as of April 2025 [1]. The supply of applicants with cybersecurity skills is also low. If you have the right skills and qualifications, chances are good that you can find a job in the cybersecurity field.

Cybersecurity jobs pay well.

Whilst salaries vary by role, company, experience level, location, and a variety of other factors, cybersecurity professionals tend to have high earning potential. Glassdoor reports an average annual salary of ₹6,80,000 for information security analysts in India as of April 2025 [2].

Degrees cost time and money.

Paychecks and job openings aside, earning a degree still represents an investment of both time and money. Online degree options make it easier to earn a degree whilst working, raising a family, or managing other life obligations.

A bachelor’s degree is the most common entry-level requirement.

Most employers require a degree for jobs in cybersecurity. As you consider your options, do some research on the types of companies you’d like to work for. What are their degree requirements? Do they put a higher priority on skills or certifications?

Degrees can open up more advanced job opportunities.

Generally speaking, higher-level cybersecurity positions, particularly at the management and executive level, are more likely to require a bachelor’s or graduate degree. Roles like cybersecurity engineer, cybersecurity architect, and cybersecurity manager come with a requested education level or at least a bachelor’s degree.

A degree can help you earn a top certification.

Some of the most popular cybersecurity certifications, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and CompTIA Security+, require several years of work experience to qualify for the exam. A degree often counts towards part of that experience requirement.

Do I need a degree to work in cybersecurity?

You typically need a degree to work in cybersecurity. According to CompTIA, 80 per cent of cybersecurity job postings specifically request higher education [3]. 

Alternatives to a cybersecurity degree

If you decide you’d prefer to work in cybersecurity in other countries, like the US, a degree isn’t the only career path in cybersecurity. Some other options for developing the skills needed to get a cybersecurity job in the US and other countries include:

• Certification: Earning a cybersecurity certification can show recruiters and hiring managers that you have the skills needed for a job in cybersecurity. Preparing for a certification exam gives you a framework for what you need to learn to succeed on the job, and many top organisations offer certifications for entry-level, mid-career, and advanced practitioners.

• Job experience: Another option is to start off in an entry-level IT position, like an IT support specialist, where a degree isn’t always required. As you gain experience in the real world, you may be able to move into a more specialised cybersecurity role.

• Self-teaching: You’ll find no shortage of free or inexpensive online courses. If you’re self-motivated and enjoy learning independently, it’s possible to develop key cybersecurity skills on your own. If you choose this route, keep in mind that a certificate or other credential may help your resume stand out.

Get started in cybersecurity on Coursera

Cybersecurity degrees are the first step towards a career in this field. Gain foundational cybersecurity skills and practical experience with top industry tools when you complete the Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate. This programme covers topics like network security, cloud computing security, penetration testing, and more—no experience is required.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)