How to Become an Information Security Analyst

Every organization has information worth protecting. Customer records, financial data, intellectual property and internal systems can all become targets for cybercriminals. Information security analysts help keep those assets secure by identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring threats and responding when security incidents occur.

Their expertise is also in growing demand. In fact, information security analysts are among the fastest-growing occupations in the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

This offers a promising career path for those interested in combining technology expertise with investigation and problem-solving. Getting there requires a foundation in technology, practical cybersecurity skills, and a commitment to staying current in a field that never stands still.

What Does an Information Security Analyst Do?

Information security analysts protect an organization's computer networks and systems. On any given day, they may monitor networks for suspicious activity, investigate security incidents, assess vulnerabilities, or recommend ways to strengthen an organization's defenses.

Analysts also help organizations prepare for future threats. This can include developing security standards, documenting incidents and contributing to disaster recovery plans. As cybercriminals adopt new tactics and technologies, analysts must continually evaluate how those changes could create new risks.

This work requires more than technical proficiency. Security analysts need to understand the consequences of a cyberattack for the people and organizations involved. They also need to communicate risks clearly so that colleagues and organizational leaders can make informed decisions.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

There is no single route into information security, but most professionals build their careers through a combination of education, relevant experience and specialized training.

Information security analysts typically need a bachelor's degree in a computer and information technology field or a related area. Cybersecurity, computer science, information technology and information systems can all provide useful preparation.

Some professionals make their way into information security after working elsewhere in IT. Experience in network administration or other technology roles can provide valuable knowledge of the systems analysts are responsible for protecting.

Education and experience establish a foundation, but cybersecurity professionals must continue building on it. As threats become more sophisticated, graduate education and professional certifications can help analysts deepen their expertise or prepare to take on more advanced responsibilities.

Information security analysts need to understand how systems operate, where vulnerabilities occur, and how attackers may exploit them. Depending on the role, they may need expertise in network security, threat detection, vulnerability assessment, incident response, and digital forensics.

Technical knowledge is only part of the profession. Analysts must evaluate evidence, assess risk, solve complex problems, and notice activity that might otherwise go undetected. They also need to communicate threats clearly to technical and nontechnical audiences and exercise sound ethical judgment when handling sensitive information and security tools.

A graduate degree can help professionals develop these technical, analytical, communication and ethical skills.

Adding Professional Cybersecurity Certifications

Industry certifications can complement your education and experience by demonstrating knowledge in particular areas of cybersecurity. Some graduate programs, including The University of Scranton's online Master of Science in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity, also help prepare students for professional certifications as part of their advanced education.

Some common options include CompTIA Security+, which covers foundational security concepts, and CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), which focuses on security analytics, threat detection, and incident response. Certifications in ethical hacking or digital forensics may also be useful for professionals pursuing more specialized cybersecurity roles.

Gaining Hands-On Cybersecurity Experience

Knowing cybersecurity concepts is important, but analysts also need to know how to apply them when a threat emerges.

Some information security analysts enter the profession with related IT experience, while others begin by developing foundational skills through cybersecurity labs, simulations, academic projects, and other opportunities to work through realistic security scenarios.

These experiences can help you practice investigating suspicious activity, analyzing vulnerabilities, handling digital evidence, and responding to incidents in controlled settings. They can also strengthen the problem-solving skills needed when real-world situations do not follow a predictable script.

For anyone comparing cybersecurity education options, hands-on learning is worth considering alongside the curriculum itself. The opportunity to apply technical knowledge can make the transition from learning about cybersecurity to practicing it more manageable.

Build Advanced Cybersecurity Expertise at The University of Scranton

The University of Scranton's online M.S. in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity helps professionals strengthen their investigative skills while developing a deeper understanding of cybercrime.

The 30-credit curriculum combines cybersecurity and behavioral perspectives, covering topics such as cyber threat intelligence, mobile forensics, cyber criminology, legal issues and cybersecurity policy. Aligned with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, the program helps students build skills relevant to current cybersecurity roles.

Students gain hands-on experience through ethical hacking, penetration testing, experiential labs, and simulations. The program also supports preparation for credentials such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), and CompTIA CySA+.

Scranton's Jesuit tradition emphasizes ethical service and leadership, encouraging students to use their expertise responsibly to protect organizations, individuals and communities.

Because the program is 100% online and open to students from all disciplines, it supports both experienced professionals and career changers entering cybersecurity.

Take the Next Step Toward a Career in Information Security

Becoming an information security analyst is a process of building knowledge, applying it, and continuing to learn as technology and cyber threats evolve. With the right preparation and a commitment to professional growth, you can help organizations navigate an increasingly complex security landscape.

If you're ready to pursue your career goals and build skills for an in-demand cybersecurity career, explore The University of Scranton's M.S. in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity and learn how a flexible, values-based graduate education can support your next step in information security.