Students, Launch Your Cybersecurity Careers
Do you want to work with the latest technology? Do you like solving problems with creative solutions? Would you like to turn those interests into a lucrative career with opportunities for growth?
Almost everything we do connects to the internet in some way, but our line of defense against possible cyber threats is limited due to a lack of cybersecurity professionals. Do you have what it takes to combat cybercrime?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting networks, systems, programs, and data from criminal or unauthorized use.
| Career Path | Years in School | Average Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | 6 months – 2 years | $55,000 |
| Liberal Arts | 4 years | $40,000 |
| Business | 4 years | $61,000 |
| Cybersecurity | 4 years | $116,000 |
| Lawyer | 7+ years | $120,000 |
| Doctor | 10+ years | $208,000 |
Explore Cybersecurity Career Options
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Classes to take in high school
- Advanced math and science
- Computer science
- Art / music
- Creative writing
- Ethics
- Tech-ed
- Government / history

Majors to pursue in college
- Cybersecurity
- Computer science
- Information technology
- Information security
- Software engineering
- Computer engineering
- Communications

Additional ways to get ahead
- Join an IT/cybersecurity club at your school, or start one!
- Ask your teachers to integrate cybersecurity concepts into existing lesson plans.
- Talk to your guidance counselors about future cybersecurity career opportunities.
So You’re Going to College…But Where and How Will You Pay?
Top Colleges
- Over 300 colleges and universities across 48 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico are nationally recognized by NSA and DHS in cyber defense.
- Check out colleges and universities offering cybersecurity degree programs
Scholarship Opportunities
- Receive up to $25,000 for undergraduate studies and up to $34,000 for graduate studies.
- Participate in virtual and in-person job fairs in Washington, D.C. Learn more about Scholarships for Service!
