How to take your first steps into cyber security

The road to a career in cyber security can begin at any age, and there are many routes to get started. Whether you’re a later stage career changer, or about to make decisions about GCSEs, apprenticeships or vocational qualifications, here are a few tips to get you started.

Qualifications

For younger cyber security enthusiasts looking to choose their GCSEs, it’s important to note that at this stage there are no ‘incorrect’ options. Many routes into cyber security careers begin much later, and there are no absolutely essential qualifications you need to choose. However, if you are looking to choose useful options now, there are a few to bear in mind. GCSE Psychology or Sociology can help with understanding of social engineering and human factors within cyber security, while GCSE Computer Science would be a good background for a technical career in cyber security.

This is similar for A Levels. There is no mandatory requirement to study a particular subject, but it may be a good idea to think about Maths, Computer Science, Psychology, Sociology, Politics and Business Studies.

Training

Alternatively, an apprenticeship is a great option for school leavers wanting to train in cyber security. Unlike traditional academic routes, apprenticeships allow candidates to get paid work experience within the sector while also undertaking training and qualifications. Different nations of the UK provide slightly different apprenticeship qualifications, so it’s worth checking here which qualifications are offered in your region.

A third option for those looking to gain hands-on experience but still retain a classroom environment are T Levels. T Levels combine 80% classroom-based learning with 20% practical work experience. Once completed, this option will allow learners to progress to an entry-level role in cyber security, further training within an apprenticeship, or a place on a higher education course.

Picking the right route

If a higher education course feels like the right choice, there are many options to choose from. To help prospective students make informed choices about the right cyber security course, NCSC has a list of certified degrees and possible careers available to graduates. Related degrees in areas such as Computer Science, Software Engineering or Systems Engineering can also be used for entry into cyber security, as not all careers in cyber require specific technical knowledge.

While the many routes into cyber careers can mean lots of possibilities for prospective candidates, it can also make it quite confusing to know which qualifications will support successful entry into a career in a particular aspect of the cyber security industry. To help navigate different career routes, the UK Cyber Security Council has created a career mapping tool which maps your area of knowledge/interest to our 16 specialisms.

Learn more about qualifications and training routes into cyber security.