You’re considering pursuing an IT career in information security. If so, you probably have a lot of questions – like what types of information security careers may be out there, how much could you could potentially earn, and what’s the job outlook? The reality is that salary potential and job outlook will always vary depending on the position and on the company that you work for. But that doesn’t mean we can’t give you some answers. Check out the five outlines below to gain a better understanding of what’s happening in the information security job market, and to see if any of them appeal to you.
Information Security Analysts
Information Security Analysts plan and execute security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems from cyber-attacks. This may include tasks such as monitoring for security breaches, installing firewalls and conducting penetration testing.
Annual median salary: $86, 170[i]
Job outlook: 37% projected growth by 2020[i]
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists study and solve complex problems in computing and find creative uses for existing technology. This may involve inventing new languages, methods and tools to improve the way that people work with computer systems.
Annual median salary: $102, 190[ii]
Job outlook: 15% projected growth by 2020[ii]
Network Systems Administrators
Network systems administrators are responsible for helping to ensure that networks work effectively on a day-to-day basis. They must also maintain network and computer security, including assigning security permissions to the appropriate users.
Annual median salary: $72,560[iii]
Job outlook: 12% projected growth by 2020[iii]
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate and manage computer-related activities in an organization. This may also involve ensuring the security of a company’s network and electronic information.
2012 annual median salary: $120,950[iv]
Job outlook: 15% projected growth by 2020[iv]
Computer Network Architects /Network Engineers
Network engineers are responsible for creating plans for data communication networks and must consider information security when developing these plans. This may also involve creating models to help anticipate future needs for the network.
2012 annual median salary: $91,000[v]
Job outlook: 15% projected growth by 2020[v]
If you are interested in this field, browse available Cybersecurity and Network Security programs here.
[i] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm | [iv] bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm | [v] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm