OVERVIEW
What is a Cybersecurity Analyst?
A cybersecurity analyst is a trained cyberprofessional who specializes in network and IT infrastructure security. The cybersecurity analyst thoroughly understands cyberattacks, malware, and the behavior of cybercriminals, and actively seeks to anticipate and prevent these attacks. The analyst usually possesses at least a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do?
A cybersecurity analyst protects company hardware, software, and networks from cybercriminals. The analyst's primary role is to understand company IT infrastructure in detail, to monitor it at all times, and to evaluate threats that could potentially breach the network. The cybersecurity analyst continuously looks for ways to enhance company network security and protect its sensitive information.
The cybersecurity analyst is also responsible for:
- Configuring tools: This may come in the form of virus software, password protectors, and vulnerability management software. They will evaluate what the company needs and use these tools to protect its information.
- Reporting: The analyst will detail what is currently going on in the network and evaluate its strengths. One of the skills needed is learning to read these reports. They will show what is well-protected and indicate if there is any unusual activity in the network.
- Evaluate weaknesses: No network is fully secure, but the goal is to make it as secure as possible. Part of the job is to continuously test all company networks and find weaknesses before bad actors or external threats can compromise them.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
What Education Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Need?
Cybersecurity analysts are more entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. In order to be qualified, you will need a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity and information assurance. This type of degree program will help you learn IT fundamentals as well as critical cybersecurity foundations that will prepare you for the requirements of this job. Scripting and programming, data management, penetration testing, hacking and countermeasures, and more will all be critical elements of your cybersecurity education.
Best Degrees for Cybersecurity Analysts:
Technology
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree....
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree.
- Time: 60% of graduates finish within 29 months.
- Tuition: $4,410 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 37 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no extra cost include:
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- ITIL® Foundation Certification
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional
- CompTIA Network Security Professional
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Security Analytics Professional
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Secure Systems Analysis & Design
- Data Management
- Web and Cloud Security
- Hacking Countermeasures and Techniques
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response
Technology
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – M.S.
Become the authority on keeping infrastructures and information safe....
Become the authority on keeping infrastructures and information safe.
- Time: 63% of graduates finish within 18 months.
- Tuition: $4,700 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program.
Certifications in this program at no additional cost include:
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) Optional Voucher
- ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) Optional Voucher
- (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Cybersecurity Strategy
- Information Assurance
- Incident Response
- Penetration Testing
The curriculum is closely aligned with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework. The program was designed in collaboration with national intelligence organizations and IT industry leaders, ensuring you'll learn emerging technologies and best practices in security governance.
Technology
Cloud and Network Engineering – B.S.
Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks....
Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks.
Students choose between four unique specializations within this program. These spcializations prepare students to work with different software systems and processes in their careers.
Specializations in this program include: General, Cisco, AWS, and Azure.
- Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 36 months.
- Tuition: $3,915 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 34 or 37 courses in this program depending on focus area
This program also includes third-party certifications that will help you boost your résumé and be prepared for career success. Certifications available in all specializations include:
- CompTIA A+
- Linux Essentials - LPI
- ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library)
How Much Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Make?
$95,174
According to Salary.com (as of September 1, 2025), the average annual salary for a Cybersecurity Analyst in the U.S. is $95,174 — about $95,174 per year. Salaries typically range from $75,456 (10th percentile) to $110,089 (90th percentile), with the middle 50% earning between $84,853 (25th percentile) and $102,981 (75th percentile).
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
31%
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Information Security Analysts—a broader category encompassing Cybersecurity Analysts—is projected to grow by approximately 31% from 2019 to 2029, ahead of most occupations. This surge reflects escalating demand as cyber threats increase.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Need?
The job of a cybersecurity analyst is a specialized position that requires a unique skill set. Some of the required skills of a cybersecurity analyst are:
- Communication: You may understand the threats to your company's network, but you need to be able to explain them in laymen's terms to others. You will have to communicate with others a lot in this job and work with a team that is responsible for security.
- IT knowledge: This job requires you to stay up-to-date on trends in the technology world. You need to be aware of the best practices, techniques, and any laws that change.
- Creativity: You may not think a cybersecurity expert needs to be creative, but this is a must! You need to think of creative ways that bad guys can breach your organization's system, then think of creative solutions to prevent them.
- Strong attention to detail: This is not something that should be overlooked. You need to be detail-oriented for this job, paying strong attention to the smallest adjustments and changes in your organization's network.
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
Next Start Date
{{startdate}}
Interested in Becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst?
