We are living in an increasingly digitally connected world where computers and smart devices have become the centre of our lives. Even though there are many advantages of being online, there is however, higher security risks.
Cyber security professionals are needed to help keep people’s sensitive information and digital assets safe and secure and to fight against the rise of online attacks that are becoming more complex and unpredictable. Cyber security specialists can identify and prevent potential threats (such as malware and phishing) using a range of tools and techniques such as encryption and firewalls to guard our digital information.
The World Economic Forum has reported that a global shortage of cyber security experts will reach 85 million by 2030. Today, 4 million workers are needed in the cyber security industry worldwide.
Cyber security is a career that combines analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork with cutting-edge technology. It is a fast and ever-changing industry so you will continually be able to grow and develop your skills. You get to work with people from different experiences and perspectives for the common goal of protecting people online.
In this blog, we will explain the Top 7 reasons to study cyber security in Australia and the skills required of a cyber security professional.
Top 7 reasons to study cyber security in Australia
1. High-quality education and student support
Australia is known for its high-quality education system, breakthrough research and new approaches to cyber security. Universities use the latest systems and technology and embed practical experience as part of the curriculum to help prepare you for work in professional environments in Australia and overseas.
The student support teams on campus will help you settle into university and resolve any academic or personal challenges that may arise during your studies. They can assist you with orientation and enrolment and connect you with academic support, career advice, on-campus events and health and wellbeing services to ensure you have a great study experience.
2. Wide variety of specialisations
You can study a Bachelor of Cyber security which will teach you a broad spectrum of cyber security topics or you can select from a wide range of cyber security specialisations (also known as majors). Australian universities can provide you the flexibility to select subjects based on your personal interests and aspirations.
Cyber security specialisations can include:
- Network security
- Cryptography
- Ethical hacking
- Digital forensics
- Cloud security and
- Governance
3. Gain practical experience and industry connections
Australian universities ensure that you not only learn theory but gain practical experience through industry projects and internships to gain real- world knowledge and skills before you graduate. You will not only learn technical skills such as coding but also develop valuable soft skills such as project management, communication skills and teamwork.
Australian universities have strong partnerships with industry leaders and run networking events where you can meet with industry professionals to gain insights and advice about working in cyber security as well as connect you with graduate job opportunities.
4. Many career options
In Australia, the cyber security industry has endless career options. As businesses continue to invest in security solutions, you have the opportunity to work in different industries from finance and healthcare to telecommunications and law enforcement in a variety of different roles.
5. Become a graduate in demand
With businesses going through a digital transformation, people working from home, stricter data regulations and a talent shortage in Australia, demand for cyber security talent remains high. The Australian Computer Society reports that the industry will need around 4,800 more cyber security professionals each year to meet demand by 2030. You will find plenty of cyber security job opportunities upon graduation.
6. High salary potential
Due to the high demand for cyber security professionals in Australia, you can command relatively high salaries with the average salary being over A$125,000 per year. Starting salaries for roles such as security analyst and cyber security engineer are well above the national average. These figures start rising for specialists particularly in areas such as ethical hacking and penetration testing.
7. Study in one of the most liveable cities in the world
Australia is ranked in the Top 10 most liveable countries* in the world for its high quality of education, economic and political freedoms and excellent healthcare systems. The country has great weather, natural beauty, a multicultural community, a great variety of food and exciting arts and cultural events throughout the year.
*UN Human Development Report 2023-24
The skills required of a cyber security professional
The skills you need to develop to effectively work in the cyber security industry include:
- Problem-solving skills – ability to identify problems and come up with solutions and an action plan quickly.
- Analytical thinking – ability to analyse data, assess security issues and identify patterns that could point to a threat.
- Critical thinking – ability to evaluate and apply logical reasoning and evidence to address security risks.
- Collaboration / Teamwork – ability to collaborate with team members of different skills to safeguard digital assets, networks and data from cyber threats.
- Effective communication skills – ability to convey critical and technical information about security to various stakeholders.
- Calm under pressure – ability to remain calm in the face of a cyber-attack and implement the right solutions.
- Willingness to learn – as the field of cyber security continuously changes, you need to stay informed with the latest industry trends, technology and solutions and be willing to seek input from other experts.
- Ethical – as you will have access to confidential, personal and sensitive information, your clients or organisation needs to be able to trust that you will keep their data safe.
Interested in studying cyber security? Our Foundation Studies Programs and Degree Transfer Programs are pathway programs into Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Cyber security. Our College Services team are here to help you settle into the College and offer you any academic or career guidance you may need.