How to become an information security analyst: The degrees and skills you’ll need

What does an information security analyst do?

Information security analysts plan, implement and upgrade systems to ensure appropriate security controls are in place for an organization's computer networks. From encrypting data transmissions to erecting firewalls, they work to conceal confidential information, especially as it’s being transferred. These professionals not only safeguard digital files but also protect companies’ electronic infrastructures.

Information security analysts must thoroughly grasp the risks and responses necessary to keep an organization safe from cyber threats. In this position, you’re responsible for providing cybersecurity solutions for your company, which may involve extensive research to develop secure strategies that help maximize productivity. Once you’re familiar with your company’s security needs, you may be involved in tasks such as:

• Collecting feedback from users to assess needs and properly addressing them from a security perspective.
• Developing security standards and best practices to share with colleagues.
• Establishing safeguards for computer files against unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure.
• Implementing security principles that follow privacy policies.
• Investigating violations and reporting the details of any breaches and the extent of the damages to key stakeholders.
• Locating security threats, breaches or vulnerabilities through frequent monitoring of digital logs and computer traffic along with regular risk assessment.
• Upgrading software to minimize risk.

In addition to reacting to threats, it’s important for an information security analyst to be prepared for incidents before they occur. This involves testing systems and running attack simulations to identify potential vulnerabilities in an organization’s operations before an outside source does. You’ll need to be informed of the latest research in IT security to recommend enhancements to keep existing systems well protected.

The skills you need to succeed in information security

The skillset for an information security analyst includes a combination of critical thinking skills and tactical operational skills to improve how organizations safely use technology.

• Some of the common technical skills include learning the most commonly used IT languages such as Python, Java, Unix and SQL. It’s also helpful to master tools such as PowerShell and BASH that help facilitate various types of information security tasks.
• Since you’ll be working on identifying and preventing security threats, having proficient problem solving skills will help you respond efficiently to these issues.
• You must also have strong communication skills and a team player attitude in order to work effectively with key stakeholders and teach team members at every level how to practice safe protocols.

Specific requirements may vary between each company but first earning an undergraduate degree can teach you how to use these skills interchangeably and prepare you for a career as an information security analyst.

The online degrees that prepare you to be an information security analyst

An online degree focused on advancing technology skills in cybersecurity, networking and information systems can improve your technical expertise and knowledge of today’s cyber system infrastructure. Some of Arizona State University’s online degrees for a career in information security include:

Bachelor of Science in information technology

This online IT degree is an interdisciplinary program that gives you the flexibility to choose between three areas of focus including cybersecurity, information systems and networking. Depending on your specialization, your courses may focus on cloud computing, computer architecture, data management, software development and more. You’ll also practice essential programming languages in your courses, including Python, Java, Unix and SQL.

The IT program is also offered with a concentration in cybersecurity. The cybersecurity concentration provides a comprehensive understanding of system orchestration, network forensics, configuration management, security analysis, security risk assessment, cloud security and mobile security.

There's also a networking concentration, wherein you'll develop a skill set related to network design, implementation, network performance analysis and management, and forensics and cloud architecture.  

Bachelor of Science in computer information systems

You’ll learn how to design, build and maintain information systems that support business operations and managerial decision-making. This program’s curriculum focuses on using information technology to enable positive business outcomes. This includes developing more effective operational strategies and identifying opportunities to improve the customer's experience.

Bachelor of Arts in business with a concentration in information security

This program focuses specifically on securing, organizing and managing a business’s private information. You’ll be prepared to lead businesses in managing their digital assets, preventing cyber threats and understanding privacy regulations. The curriculum includes courses in finance, statistics, calculus and analytics. Upon completing this program you’ll develop a deeper understanding of business data analysis, the principles of privacy and data forensics.

Master of Science in information technology

You’ll gain the technical skills to design and develop information systems that connect people, processes and technology. This program includes core courses such as Advanced Information Systems Security and specialized electives such as Developing Security Policy.

Additionally, this program can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program in one year after completing the bachelor's in information technology.