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Cyber Security Career Guide: Start Your Career - Develop New Skills
Cyber Security Career Guide: Start Your Career - Develop New Skills
IN THIS GUIDE
} WHAT IS CYBER SECURITY?
Learn how cyber security
affects your everyday life and
why more professionals are needed.
} TYPES OF CAREERS
Learn about the different roles you can play.
} WHO IS HIRING?
Find out where your career can take you.
} CAREER PATHWAYS
See how the path you choose leads to different career
options.
} WHERE TO GO TO SCHOOL
Find out where you can get the education you need to
start your career or develop new skills.
But the COVID-19 pandemic did not bring out the best in
everyone. There were unscrupulous people trying to take
advantage of Canadian citizens. Our healthcare systems were
targeted. Criminals were looking for Canadians’ names, SINs,
addresses, birth dates, and banking and credit card information.
Stop for a minute to think about all the things you do on your
Hi, my name is Christine Beauchamp, and I phone, tablet, or laptop. Do you do your banking online? Do
am the Director of Client Engagement and you have a mobile wallet? Do you chat on social media or send
Incident Detection at the Canadian Centre pictures to friends? Do you have your assignments stored
for Cyber Security (within CSE). there?
When I graduated from the University Wouldn’t it be nice if you could go online and not worry about
of Ottawa with a degree in Sociology criminals trying to steal your money or identity?
to combine with my degree in Russian
translation, I did not see myself working That is what cyber security is. It is the constant pursuit
in cyber security. But, just as quickly as to secure our information systems, the data on them,
technology advances, career options and and the services they provide. It is about protecting the
educational pathways grow. systems that all Canadians rely on like healthcare, banking,
telecommunications, energy, and transportation. It is about
In the following pages, you will find protecting businesses big or small.
information on the cyber security field and
the many educational paths that can lead Cyber security is about securing our future.
you to your dream job. I hope this guide
helps you find the path that best suits your
interests—one that makes you want to get
out of bed in the morning.
2
CYBER SECURITY PROFESSIONALS
ARE…
MARK
IN DEMAND WOOFF
The number of jobs for cyber
security professionals in Canada
is growing by7% every year!1
“When you work at CSE, every day is an
opportunity to make a difference in the
world of cyber security.”
AYESHA
SIDDIQUI
WELL PAID
The annual average salary of a
cyber security professional in “At CSE, you will find yourself surrounded
2020 is $97,000 .
3
by a group of brilliant, dedicated, and
considerate experts who work towards a
common goal. Explore the phenomenal
opportunities and build a career you’ll be
DIVERSITY REQUIRED proud to call yours!”
3
CYBER SECURITY PROFESSIONALS PROTECT THE SYSTEMS WE RELY ON
In the last 20 years, advancements in technology have changed the way people communicate, bank, shop, and pass
the time. And, despite its small market size, Canada was the third most targeted country to possible cyber attacks in
2018. The growing threat of cyber attacks has made governments and industries more aware of the need to protect
and defend the information and systems Canadians rely on. As a result, cyber security is growing as a recognizable
discipline that encompasses multiple specialities in science, mathematics, business, social sciences, and computing
and engineering faculties.
Although only a subset of businesses participates directly by producing or selling cyber security solutions or by
building or operating networks, every business uses technology to deliver its products and/or services securely and
efficiently to consumers. Cyber security, as a result, has become more important to protect the computer systems of
all businesses in all industries.
HEALTH COMMUNICATIONS
Systems hold sensitive patient The industry transmits a large amount
information and encompass medical of sensitive information such as online
implant devices such as pacemakers retail transactions, email messages,
that may be exploitable. web-browsing activity, social media
platforms, and user’s private information.
TRANSPORTATION
An industry vulnerable to cyber attacks ENERGY AND UTILITIES
to air and ground transportation An ideal target for cyber attacks on
systems. As well, the industry holds industrial control systems to access
sensitive and valuable information such data or to cause physical damage to
as birth dates, and passport numbers. infrastructures.
SAFETY
Emergency response teams,
law enforcement, call-center
communications-management software,
CCTV systems, interactive voice
response systems, and emergency alert
systems are all vulnerable to attack.
4
WHO IS HIRING?
Everyone!
That may be an exaggeration, but it is not far from the truth. Businesses of all kinds have proprietary information they
need to protect. They also have the personal information of their employees, clients, suppliers, and business partners
to protect.
Every online retailer, bank, school, law firm, medical facility, utility, government has information and systems that
need protection. Companies that engineer systems or new technologies, or companies that perform design work have
intellectual property that needs to be protected.
Basically, if a business uses the internet or a network to perform its tasks, it needs cyber security professionals!
Cyber security is fundamental to good business.
Private sector companies and government agencies both offer exciting career opportunities. Plus, the skills and
experience acquired in either sector are attractive to both types of employers. So, mobility from one to another is
always an option. The facts below highlight why cyber security professionals are in high demand.
5
1. GOVERN AND SUPPORT NO EXPERIENCE? NO PROBLEM.
Manage and provide direction and
support to ensure an organization So, you’ve decided to make the jump and enroll in a
conducts effective cyber security cyber security program. Now what, you ask? “Will I be
work. Roles include cyber legal able to find a job in the field after school if I have no
advisor, policy analyst, privacy work experience in cyber security?”
officer, and risk analyst.
The odds are in your favour. Consider this: graduates
of cyber security programs tend to be quickly
recruited by public and private sector organizations.
2. PROTECT AND DEFEND
In fact, the shortage of cyber security professionals
Detect, prevent, respond to, and is so pronounced that organizations are retraining
recover from cyber incidents and employees in basic cyber security skills on the job! As
threats. Roles include cyber threat a skilled graduate of a cyber security program, you are
assessor, data scientist/modeler, big sure to be an attractive candidate for many employers.
data analyst, cyber security analyst,
information security analyst, To increase your odds, do the following:
vulnerability assessment analyst,
and penetration tester.
NETWORK
Get a LinkedIn account and start connecting with
3. DESIGN AND DEVELOP
people in the industry. Businesses post jobs there and
Develop, secure, test, and integrate recruiters use it as a tool to find candidates.
hardware, software, and systems
throughout a product’s life cycle.
Roles include security architect, UNDERSTAND THE BASICS OF IT
security engineer, application Understanding the fundamentals of IT, such as
developer, and secure software administering & configuring systems, networks,
developer. database management and coding will go a long way
towards getting your first job.
4. OPERATE AND MAINTAIN
Administer, maintain, and support FOCUS YOUR INTERESTS
to ensure effective and efficient It is impossible to be an expert in all categories. Focus
performance and cyber security. on an area (e.g. networking security) and understand
Roles include network security it well. Think ahead 5-10 years to your dream job, then
operator, cryptanalyst, and technical look for an entry-level position that will give you the
support specialist. right skills.
6
CYBER SECURITY PROFESSIONALS COME FROM ALL PROGRAMS
Organizations of all kinds face a formidable task when it comes to protecting their networks and the important
information those networks store, process, or transmit. Surprisingly, the responsibility of protecting those networks
does not rest solely on the shoulders of the highly technical staff who design, operate, and maintain the networks.
Organizations must also ensure they are compliant with the growing list of laws and standards. This points to a need
for lawyers and policy makers who understand the implications of cyber security on day-to-day operations. To hire
the people with the appropriate skills, human resources professionals must know what certifications and experience
to look for.
Similarly, effectively enforcing cyber security policies requires coordination between groups within an organization.
This requires the ability to work with diverse groups to define technical measures that have the right balance between
security and usability.
To remain cyber secure, businesses need staff that have knowledge beyond that of just computers. There is a need
for cyber security professionals who specialize in business, law, criminal justice, risk management, statistics, human
resources, social and political science, and many other disciplines. Even knowing a foreign language can help get a
job in cyber intelligence.
BOTTOM LINE
You don’t need to be highly technical or understand the inner workings of a computer to work in cyber security.
However, you do need to understand the basics of the cyber security eco-system. Many universities and colleges
offer introductory cyber security courses; take one as an elective to see if working in this field interests you. If so, try
taking more advanced courses or getting an entry-level security certification. Your institute may even offer courses to
prepare you for certification exams.
7
PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS
A certification is a good
way to kick start your
career.
8
CERTIFICATIONS EMPLOYERS VALUE
Certifications are a great way to kick start your career as they are focused on ensuring you have the skills required
to do the job. Make sure to figure out which one will be best for your chosen career path. Below is a list of the
certifications valued by Canadian employers. Certifications can be earned through self-study or in class. Some
certification classes and exams are offered through multiple vendors and some college programs will prepare you to
write a certification exam.*
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst
Certified Chief Information Security Officer GIAC Certified UNIX Security Administrator
Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional GIAC Certified Web Application Penetration Tester
9
UNIVERSITIES WITH CYBER SECURITY PROGRAMS
Just as quickly as technology advances, career options and educational disciplines grow. Every year new programs
are created. If you don’t see your preferred institution on this list, be sure to check its website for new programs.*
ALBERTA
Athabasca University Graduate Certificate in Information Security (PBC-IS)
Concordia University of Edmonton Graduate Diploma in Information Assurance
Graduate Diploma in Information Security
Master of Information Systems Assurance Management
Master of Information Systems Security Management
Mount Royal University Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals
Advanced Cyber Security
The King’s University Computer Science – Cyber Security Stream
University of Alberta Certificate in Information Access and Protection of Privacy
University of Calgary Bachelor of Computer Science (Security Concentration Option)
Graduate Certificate in Network Security
Graduate Certificate in Software Security
BRITISH COLUMBIA
University of Victoria Master of Engineering in Telecommunications and Information Security
(MTIS)
MANITOBA
University of Winnipeg Certificate in Information Assurance and Security Certificate
Diploma in Network Security Diploma
NEW BRUNSWICK
Eastern College Diploma in Advanced Systems Management and Cyber Security
Oulton College Diploma in System Management and Cyber Security
University of New Brunswick Bachelor of Computer Science (Cybersecurity specialization)
Master of Cyber Security
Université de Moncton Certificat en gestion de la sécurité de l'information des entreprises
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ONTARIO
Carleton University Graduate Diploma in Infrastructure Protection and International Security
Master of Infrastructure Protection and International Security
Bachelor of Computer and Internet Security
Northeastern University Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Queen’s University NSERC CREATE Cyber Security
Ryerson University Certificate in Computer Security and Digital Forensics
MBA in Management of Technology and Innovation, Data Security and
Privacy Specialization
University of Guelph Certificate in Information Management, Privacy, and Access
Master of Cybersecurity Threat Intelligence
University of Ontario Institute of Bachelor of Information Technology Bridge
Technology
Bachelor of Information Technology Networking and Information
Technology Security
Master of Information Technology Security
University of Waterloo Graduate Diploma in Computer Networking and Security
University of Toronto Bachelor of Computer Science Specialist Program in Information Security
Certificate in Cyber Security Management
Master of Engineering in Communications with focus on Identity, Privacy
and Security
Master of Information, with a Specialization in Identity, Privacy and Security
York University Certificate in Advanced Cyber Security
Certificate in Cyber Security
Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals
Bachelor of Computer Security
LLM in Privacy and Cybersecurity Law
QUÉBEC
Concordia University Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Information Systems Security
Master of Engineering (MEng) in Information Systems Security
Université de Sherbrooke Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialisées de 2e cycle en gouvernance,
audit et sécurité des technologies de l’information
Microprogramme de 2e cycle en gouvernance, audit et sécurité des
technologies de l’information
Maîtrise en administration, concentration gouvernance, audit et sécurité
des technologies
11
COLLEGES WITH CYBER SECURITY PROGRAMS
Just as quickly as technology advances, career options and educational disciplines grow. Every year new programs
are created. If you don’t see your preferred institution on this list, be sure to check its website for new programs.*
ALBERTA
Allison College Diploma in Information Technology and Cyber Security
Bow Valley College Certificate in Cybersecurity
CDI College Certificate in Cyber Security Specialist
Northern Alberta Institute of Certificate in Core Security+
Technology
Certificate in Enterprise Security
Certificate in System Security
Robertson College Diploma in Network Security Technician
Southern Alberta Institute of Certificate in Cyber Security for Control Systems
Technology
Certificate in Information Security Analyst
Certificate in Information Systems Security
Certificate in IT Security Certificate of Achievement
QCT College Diploma in Cyber Security Specialist
BRITISH COLUMBIA
British Columbia Institute of Certificate in Forensic Investigation - Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity
Technology Option
Certificate in Network Administration and Security Professional (NASP)
Diploma in Industrial Network Cybersecurity
Bachelor of Computer Systems - Network Security Administration
Bachelor of Computer Systems - Network Security Applications
Development
Bachelor of Forensic Investigation - Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity
Bachelor of Computer Systems, Network Security Applications
Development
Okanagan College Certificate in Blockchain
MANITOBA
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Diploma in Network Security
Technology
Diploma in Cyber Defence and Cloud Administration
Red River College Diploma in Post-graduate diploma in Information Security
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NEW BRUNSWICK
New Brunswick Community College Post-graduate Diploma in Information Technology: Cybersecurity
Diplôme en Réseautique et sécurité Informatique
Diplôme en Cybersécurité
Master of Cyber Security
NOVA SCOTIA
Nova Scotia Community College Diploma in Cyber Security
Diploma in IT Systems Management and Security
ONTARIO
Algonquin College Diploma in Computer Systems Technology - Security
Centennial College Certificate in Cybersecurity
Collège La Cité Diplôme en Technologie de l'information - Sécurité informatique
Conestoga College Certificate in Network Security Investigations
Certificate in Cyber Security
Certificate in Computer Application Security
Certificate in Information Technology Network Security
Durham College Certificate in Information Systems Security – Computers and Networking
Fanshawe College Diploma in Cyber Security
Certificate in Information Security Management
Certificate in Network and Security Architecture
Fleming College Diploma in Computer Security and Investigations
George Brown College Certificate in Network Security Fundamentals Certificate
Certificate in Information Security Management Certificate
Certificate in Network and System Security Analysis
Georgian College Certificate in Information Systems Security
Humber College Certificate in Cyber Crime Specialist
Lambton College Certificate in Cyber Security and Computer Forensics
Certificate in Cyber Security
Certificate in Cyber Infrastructure Specialist
Loyalist College Certificate in Cyber Security
Mohawk College Diploma in Computer Systems Technology - Network Engineering and
Security Analyst
Certificate in Cyber Security Analytics
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Sault College Certificate in Network Architecture and Security Analytics
Certificate in Cyber Security – Canadian Context
Seneca College Bachelor of Informatics and Security
Certificate in Cyber Security
Certificate in Cyber Security and Threat Management
QUEBEC
Collège Ahuntsic Attestation d’études collégiales (AEC) - Réseautique et sécurité
informatique
Diplôme d’études collégiales (DEC) - Techniques de l’informatique - Profil
réseaux et sécurité
Cégep de l'Outaouais DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Programmation et sécurité
DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Réseaux et cybersécurité
Cégep de Saint-Hyacinthe DEC en Techniques de l’informatique - Réseaux et cybersécurité
Cégep de Sherbrooke AEC en Cybersécurité et sécurité intégrée
Cégep Garneau AEC en Cyberenquête
Cégep Limoilou DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Gestion des réseaux
Cégep Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu AEC d’Administration des réseaux et sécurité informatique
Collège de Bois-de-Boulogne AEC en Sécurité informatique et réseautique
DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Profil infrastructures et sécurité
Collège de Maisonneuve AEC en Gestion de réseaux et sécurité des systèmes
DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Infrastructure et sécurité des
réseaux
Collège LaSalle DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Gestion de réseaux et sécurité
Collège Lionel-Groulx AEC en Administration des réseaux et sécurité informatique
Collège Montmorency Techniques de l’informatique - Spécialisation: Réseaux et sécurité
informatiques
Collège Rosemont AEC en Microprogramme de perfectionnement en sécurité des réseaux
DEC en Techniques de l'informatique - Profil réseautique: sécurité et
virtualisation
HEC Montréal Certificat en analyse de la sécurité de l'information et des systèmes
Heritage College AEC in Microsoft Network and Security Administrator
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Institut supérieur d'informatique AEC in Computer Networks and Security
AEC en réseaux informatiques et sécurité
Polytechnique Montréal Certificat en Cyberenquête
Certificat en Cyberfraude
Certificat en Cybersécurité des réseaux informatiques
Undergraduate microprogram in Networking and Security
Microprogramme de 1er cycle en Cyberinvestigation
Microprogramme de 1er cycle en Réseautique et sécurité
SASKATCHEWAN
Saskatchewan Polytechnic Post-graduate Certificate in Cyber Security
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WORK AT CANADA’S NATIONAL CYBER CENTRE
The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) is Canada’s authority on cyber security. As part of the
Communications Security Establishment (CSE), we have been at the cyber security game for over 70 years. We are
trusted experts in cyber security with a clear and focused mandate to collaborate with government, the private sector
and academia. We are hackers, builders, creators, developers, researchers, and scientists. We live cyber security
every day. We offer a perspective and insight that isn’t available to the same degree anywhere else in Canada. We
make Canada a safer place to be online.
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NOTES
* If an institution or organization believes it has a program or certification that should be added to any the lists in this
guide, please email contact@cyber.gc.ca
REFERENCES
1 https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/ca/Documents/risk/ca-cyber-talent-campaign-report-pov-
aoda-en.PDF
2 https://www.herjavecgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/HG-and-CV-The-Cybersecurity-Jobs-
Report-2017.pdf
3 https://neuvoo.ca/salary/?job=Cyber%20Security
4 https://www.strategyanalytics.com/access-services/devices/connected-home/consumer-electronics/reports/
report-detail/global-connected-and-iot-device-forecast-update
5 https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/87787-hackers-attack-every-39-seconds
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