Cyber security analysts employ various processes and technologies to detect, prevent, and manage cyber threats to help protect their organisations. Here in Northern Ireland, there are many Cyber Security Analyst jobs advertised. From our research, this is the most in demand role, especially for entry level Cyber Security roles, and projected growth is enormous. This article will look closer at this job and what skills, training, and certifications potential employers are looking for.
Applicants interested in cyber security apprenticeships in Belfast should review the entry requirements and application process to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
What Are Cyber Security Analysts?
A security analyst supervises databases, information networks, and computer infrastructure to protect the companies information and data. They are also often referred to as information security professionals or analysts.
Cyber security analysts protect a companies IT infrastructure (including computer software, hardware and networks) from a wide range of malicious activities. They monitor operating systems and networks, assess and analyse alarms, detect security threats, and report on false alarms, network intrusion attempts and threats, either escalating or resolving them depending on their severity. Some may even be involved in producing reports and contingency plans for their company.
Cyber security analysts generally work in one of the following areas:
• Protecting the security of the organisation they work for.
• Offering advisory and consulting services to clients.
Job titles for the same role differ and include
- cyber intelligence analyst
- security analyst
- information security (infoSec) analyst
- security operations centre (SOC) analyst
- information security consultant
- cyber defence analyst
What Do Cyber Security Analysts Do?
Cyber Security Analysts work in different areas to ensure that the company’s and clients data and systems are safe from any potential security breaches. Analysts scan the security systems of an organisation’s networks for vulnerabilities, resolve any issues that a junior cyber security analyst may find, and take steps to prevent such occurrences from happening in the future again. They utilise different emerging technologies and cyber security tools, which help them safeguard data.
A Cyber Security Analyst also collaborates with other security professionals to create security systems and protocols that will help safeguard the organisation from numerous potential cyber-attacks, threats, and security risks. This enables the company to keep its reputation and integrity by ensuring its clients and information is always kept safe.
They also protect the company’s hardware, software, and networks from attacks by cybercriminals. The primary function of a security analyst is to know how the company’s infrastructure operates in detail and then track it continuously to assess any threats or vulnerabilities that may potentially cause a breach of their network.
Cyber security analysts also constantly look for new ways to safeguard a company network’s sensitive details and improve its security.
How Can I Become a Cyber Security Analyst?
There are essentially four ways most people will get a cyber security role and become a cyber security analyst in the UK and Ireland. Some programmes may also recognize prior learning or relevant experience through processes like Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), allowing applicants to demonstrate their competencies and potentially meet admissions requirements based on their existing knowledge and skills.
Each of these pathways offers unique opportunities for career progression, and can lead to success in the form of professional growth, career advancement, and industry recognition.
Transfer From Another IT Role
Starting in other IT jobs, such as a service desk or a related field, creates the opportunity to enter the cyber security profession without having a bachelor’s degree. You could then gain industry certifications and experience while working your way up to the cyber security role.
Graduate Roles
Employers wanting to fill a graduate position will require you to have a degree in technology, science, mathematics, or engineering subject. Exact requirements will be different for various employers. Relevant degree subjects may include:
• computer science
• cyber/information/network security
• software/electrical/network engineering
• computing and information systems
• ethical hacking
• physics
• mathematics
• other Information Technology/security/computer networks-related degrees.
Some cyber security or IT degree programmes also offer specializations or modules in cloud development, preparing students for roles that combine software development and cloud computing skills.
However, it is also possible to get into the profession with an unrelated or non-technical degree. Some graduate roles or schemes, such as the Assured Skills Academies run by the Department of communities, are happy to accept graduates from any degree discipline.
Although studying at a Master’s degree level isn’t necessarily a requirement, you may decide to do further studies in a relevant subject, especially if your bachelor’s degree is not in a related subject. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC’s) certified degrees provide a list of certified Master’s Degrees in cyber security and closely related fields. Some employers also sponsor candidates to undertake a relevant Master’s degree.
Some cyber security and IT programmes in Northern Ireland are validated or recognized by the Open University, which adds credibility and official status to the qualifications.
The degree subject will become less important as you gain experience, and employers will instead want to know what you’ve done in your professional capacity.
After gaining experience in general IT, there are often opportunities to move into cyber security.
Below are the Cyber Security Courses available from the Further & Higher Educations course in Northern Ireland
Belfast Metropolitan College
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Networking Infrastructure (Ful or Part-Time)
Queens University
An Apprenticeship or Academy
An alternative is to start a cyber security apprenticeship, where, as an apprentice, you combine classroom learning with on-the-job training to gain recognised qualifications. There are apprenticeships available at different levels, including degree levels.
Belfast Met runs the Higher Level Apprenticeship (More info here), which is a great way to get into Cyber Security.
We are very fortunate here in Northern Ireland, as the Department for the Economic has invested in its Assured Skills Academies (More info here). To qualify for certain apprenticeship programmes, applicants typically need to be employed or have an offer of employment in an IT role. This collaborates with locally-based businesses, a further education college and the Department, and the training is delivered by Northern Ireland’s designated digital authority.
These academies offer pre-employment education and training that give you the skills, knowledge and certifications for currently in demand jobs. You can expect the course to run between 8 and 12 weeks and are very intensive (this is how I started my career in the cyber security world). You usually have to have a 2:2 degree in any course as a minimum.
The Academy is incredibly intensive, with a new exam each week from Network Fundamentals, data tools, penetration testing and other security courses. You will also use a range of tools specific to the employers. They also work on presentation skills and creative ways to enhance your careers.
While at the Academy, you will be paid £150 a week plus expenses, which I have heard has put off some people. However, most are offered jobs after (or at least interviews), and the salaries are good for entry level, with an excellent earning potential in the years to follow. Successful applicants benefit from structured training and employment opportunities upon acceptance into the programme. From my Academy off the 19 who finished 18 are currently have careers in Cyber Security or Support roles in some form.
Self Skill Up
So if you really can’t do any of the above and have a keen interest in a job in cybersecurity, then the last option is for you—self Education.
We are fortunate to live in an age where you can access vast amounts of free and low-cost education, knowledge and skills without giving up your day job. This involves going out and using creative ways to gain experience, build a network and make getting a job more manageable.
We go into much greater detail in our guide on how to get a job in cyber security here. However, you will need to research what job you want then go out and gain those certifications, experience and knowledge required to get it. This could be doing certifications, taking part in bug bounties, or building your labs.
Check out our article on the best certifications to help get a job in cyber security here
what qualifications are needed?
Training often takes place on the job, and you may receive advice and mentoring support from colleagues that have more experience.
Some employers, especially those that offer graduate training schemes, may sponsor you to complete an MSc or BSc in cyber/information security while you’re on the job, such as the apprenticeships mentioned above.
There are also several industry-related qualifications that you look at. However, if you google “best certificates for a cyber security analyst jobs”, you tend to get the below.
CISSP – (Certified Information System Security Professional)
CCSP – (Certified Cloud Security Practitioner),
CEH – Certified Ethical Hacker
SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner) is an entry-level IT certification for those with at least a year’s experience, so maybe worth looking at.
However, the certifications mentioned earlier are generally for those with experience in the industry and are expensive. I’m also guessing that you are not here looking for advice on qualifications if you already work as a Cyber Security Analyst.
Entry Level Cyber Security Certifications
Having been a cyber security analyst, SOC Analyst and Cyber Security Associate (all very similar), these are the certifications and courses that I recommend that you look at
Vendor Neutral Exams
- CompTIA Network +
- CompTIA Security +
- Blue Team Level 1
- Range Force
Vendor-Specific Exams
- SC-900 (Microsoft)
- AZ-900 (Microsoft)
- MS-900 (Microsoft)
- AZ-500 (Microsoft)
- SC-200 (Microsoft)
- AWS Certified Security Specialist (Amazon)
- Google Cloud Security Professional
Other relevant courses include General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) awareness, and Cyber Incident, Planning and Response (CIPR).
Looking at job adverts for cyber security analyst roles will give you a feel for the certifications employers tend to look for. It would help if you tried to speak to your recruiter first when selecting a certificate, as they will know what course companies are most sought after.
Digital Forensics
Digital forensics is a vital branch of cyber security, focusing on the recovery, investigation, and analysis of data from digital devices to help organisations respond to and learn from security incidents. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the ability to conduct thorough digital investigations is essential for protecting cloud and network infrastructure and ensuring the integrity of sensitive information.
For those interested in developing practical skills in this area, the Foundation Degree in Cyber Security with Cloud and Network Infrastructure at Belfast Metropolitan College offers a comprehensive introduction to digital forensics. This course includes dedicated modules on digital forensics and penetration testing, equipping students with the essential skills needed to investigate and respond to cyber incidents. Through hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and real-world scenarios, students gain the confidence and ability to analyse data, recover information, and support organisations in the aftermath of security breaches.
The demand for skilled IT professionals in Northern Ireland, particularly in digital forensics, is rapidly increasing. According to the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer, there is a projected shortage of up to 6,200 IT workers by 2030, making this an exciting time to pursue a career in cyber security and digital forensics. Successful completion of the foundation degree or higher level apprenticeship can open doors to a range of career opportunities, including roles within the Civil Service, government agencies, and private sector employers who are driving digital transformation across the region.
For those seeking a more hands-on route, the Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics at SERC allows apprentices to gain real-world experience while working with participating companies. The application process for the HLA includes a supervised Mindmill test and other assessments to ensure successful candidates have the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the programme. Apprentices benefit from on-the-job training, support from experienced professionals, and the chance to develop their expertise in digital forensics and cyber security within a workplace environment.
All training is delivered by Northern Ireland’s designated Digital IT Curriculum Hub, ensuring that students and apprentices receive high-quality education and guidance from industry experts. Whether you are looking to start your career, upskill, or transition into a new role, digital forensics offers a future-proof pathway with strong employment prospects, practical development opportunities, and the chance to make a real impact in the world of cyber security. If you are interested in learning more about these programmes or want guidance on the application process, contact Belfast Met or SERC for further information and support.
Cyber Security Analyst Salaries
According to Viaresource, the median salary for a Security Analyst is £45,000 (1-2 years experience), £65,000 (3-5 Years experience) and £90,000 (5+ years experience). This is from an analysis of UK wide job boards. However, from our experience entry level Cyber Analysts or SOC Analysts here in Northern Ireland generally, start around £23-£28,000 with (entry being 0-1 years experience) and junior Cybersecurity analysts (1-3 years experience) being in the £25,000 to £35,000 range.