Cyber security is a versatile tech field that will always be in demand, as long as the internet exists. You can also acquire cyber security jobs without a formal education. Cyber security roles are attainable with just a bootcamp education, apprenticeship, or self-learning. This article will show you some of the top high-paying cyber security jobs you can get with no IT background or degree.
Before getting to the list, it’s important to get a clear understanding of what cyber security is. You’ll get a glimpse of essential cyber security skills, a step-by-step guide that explains how to get a cyber security job without a degree, and the top companies that employ cyber security experts without a college degree.
Key Takeaways
- Cyber security jobs can be obtained without a degree through alternative education options such as bootcamps, self-learning, apprenticeships, and certifications.
- The demand for cyber security professionals is high, allowing candidates without a bachelor’s degree to enter the field.
- The average salary for cyber security jobs is $132,962, with experienced professionals earning up to $172,500.
- Essential hard skills for cyber security jobs include computer science, ethical hacking, computer forensics, firewall administration, and risk analysis.
- Important soft skills for cyber security professionals are adaptability, logical reasoning, and research abilities.
- While a bachelor’s degree is often required, some entry-level roles can be obtained with a GED and hands-on training.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber security is the process of protecting internet-connected devices from possible digital attacks from bad actors. It’s a broad field of study with many sub-disciplines, but the primary focus is always to provide security to software and hardware devices. It includes studying how to prevent possible network threats from within or outside an organization.
Cyber security is also called information technology security, and within it are fields such as software development security, security operations, security and risk management, identity and access management, asset security, communications and network security, security assessment and testing, and security engineering.
Due to the increasing role of technology in different businesses, it’s now easier than ever to acquire cyber security jobs without a college degree. One major reason is that a degree in cyber security is not a regulated requirement.
What Do Cyber Security Jobs Pay?
In 2025, the average salary for a U.S.-based cyber security professional is $132,962, according to ZipRecruiter.1 This average is high compared to other tech roles, but keep in mind that this can vary greatly based on experience, location, company, and more.
On the other hand, experienced professionals in the top ten percent of cyber security jobs make up to $172,500. Although it is unlikely that an entry-level professional will earn a cyber security job salary as high as those on the higher end, it could be possible in the future for those who continue to gain experience and additional education.
What Are the Necessary Skills for Landing a Cyber Security Job?
It’s important to include all your cyber security skills on your resume, which can vary depending on specialty and experience. For example, you could have a solid foundation of hard skills in ethical hacking, risk analysis, or various programming languages. At the same time, you could also take the time to highlight your adaptability, communication, and problem-solving skills.
When listing your relevant skills for cyber security jobs, ensure that you don’t sell yourself short. Make a list on a piece of paper and brainstorm all of your assets. To get you started, we have technical skills and soft skills you can review below.
Technical Skills
Computer Science
To pursue a career in cyber security, you need to be well-versed in computer science. Employers will need you to understand how software works. So, cyber security students should spend time studying coding, programming, and any other subject that will improve their foundational knowledge of how computer systems function.
Ethical Hacking
Companies employ ethical hackers to hack into their fully protected systems. If they’re able to hack the system, the cyber security analyst or ethical hacker will give the company a report on their network security vulnerabilities. This information will then be used to improve security and risk management.
Computer Forensics
Computer forensics has to do with digging through computer systems to find digital data that can be used as evidence in criminal cases. Cyber security analysts should have at least some computer forensic skills. This is one of the best technical fields to enter if you’re interested in intrusion detection and solving problems.
Firewall Administration
Firewalls are important for protecting network systems from external attacks. Firewall administration is one of the first things you will learn while starting out in cyber security. You’ll need to master how to build firewalls or use existing firewalls to protect systems from security breaches.
Risk Analysis
Risk analysis, or risk assessment, is an important skill in cyber security because it helps minimize security breaches by identifying potential threats. You don’t need a computer science degree or other undergraduate degree to learn risk analysis. Potential employers just want to see that you can prevent malicious activities.
Soft Skills
Adaptability
Cyber security risks and trends are rapidly changing and evolving. This creates challenges for tech professionals everywhere. As a cyber security expert, you need to be able to adapt your skill to new scenarios continuously. You also need to be able to change priorities as new rules and regulations develop.
Logical Reasoning
Cyber security does not come with a guidebook. While you likely understand the fundamentals, there is always a virus, hacker, or malware being created to test the skills of any cyber security professional. In order to achieve success, it’s important to be able to apply your skills and experience logically to different scenarios.
Research
When new cyber security risks develop, it’s important to be able to research them to find recommendations and solutions in a timely manner. There will be a time in every cyber security professional’s life when they will encounter something they haven’t studied or dealt with before. Be flexible and willing to research a problem to get the best information to solve it quickly.
What Education Do You Need to Get a Cyber Security Job?
In many cases, the education requirements for cyber security professionals could be a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security, Cyber Security, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. However, there are some entry-level positions you can get with just a GED and some hands-on skill training.
While the education requirements for cyber security professionals are important, they’re not always necessary. Some companies will hire individuals who are self-taught or seek alternative education options. Many companies will even train new employees.
Many aspiring professionals also look to cyber security bootcamps as an alternative to college. Attending a reputable bootcamp will allow you to build skills in subjects like penetration testing, operating system administration, common security tools, and more. The goal of these programs is to help their learners gain practical experience in real-world scenarios in order to prepare for an entry-level job post-bootcamp—all in a shorter timeframe and with less cost than a bachelor’s degree.
Why College Is Not for Everyone
Many people go to college straight out of high school because it’s a good way to get started on a successful career. However, not everyone is mentally or financially prepared to attend a four-year institution right after high school. In those cases, they may end up dropping out or failing.
Colleges are incredibly expensive in the U.S., especially if you’re interested in attending a private school or an Ivy League institution. If you can’t pay upfront for your college degree, you’ll likely end up with major student loans that you’ll be paying back for years after you’ve graduated.
Colleges don’t offer the same hand-holding and supervision of your education as high schools do. Some students may not be ready to pursue such intensive and independent learning. In any case, choosing not to attend college immediately after getting your diploma doesn’t mean you won’t have a long and successful career.
Alternatives to a Degree
If you don’t want a four-year degree, you may be looking for alternatives to college for cyber security jobs. Luckily, there are different pathways available. Self-study and coding bootcamps can be great alternatives to college for cyber security jobs for many people. They teach fundamental practical skills and focus on hands-on training, which many employers see as an asset. You can also earn industry certifications such as the SSCP to demonstrate your skills.
Can a Coding Bootcamp Help Me Get a Cyber Security Job?
Yes, many people are able to get a job after a cyber security bootcamp or after a coding bootcamp. These bootcamps are designed to provide fast-paced, high-intensity, and job-specific training. There are online, in-person, and even hybrid options, with curricula designed to mimic real-world scenarios. Several bootcamps even provide career support services such as resume reviews, mock interviews, job postings, networking opportunities, and more.
Because most aren’t accredited like college programs, though, the effectiveness can vary widely. So, it’s important to do careful research to see what past students have said about their experience, if curricula and outcomes have been verified by third parties, what formats/schedules are available and if they match your learning style, and if coursework covers up-to-date subjects that are relevant to your desired career.
Studying on Your Own
If you’re not interested in a coding or cyber security bootcamp, or cannot afford one, there are still more alternate ways to learn cyber security. The next best thing is to study the subject on your own. Through self-study, you can gain the valuable knowledge needed to be a successful cyber security expert. If you aren’t sure where to start, we have a list of options to help below.
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Enroll in an Online Course
There are many different online learning platforms that provide free or affordable courses in cyber security, networking, and programming. These courses are absolutely essential to get you started on your self-learning journey. Look into platforms such as edX, Codecademy, Coursera, Udemy, and Udacity. They have a wide range of courses for any learning level.
Read a Book
There are tons of books available that individuals can read in order to teach themselves more about cyber security. When choosing a book, it’s important to keep the publishing date in mind. Because cyber security risks, threats, and solutions are rapidly changing, newly published books are better resources. Older books will miss key information.
Audiobooks and Podcasts
Just as there are many books, there are also many audiobooks and podcasts that individuals can use to learn about cyber security. TED talks are very popular amongst self-taught cyber security professionals. It is just as important to pick a newer podcast or audiobook due to the fluid nature of cyber security.
Webinars
Webinars are also available to help teach awareness and solutions to cyber security threats. Webinars can be free or cost a one-time fee to attend. These webinars are often packed with influential guest speakers, new information, and tips from other cyber security professionals.
This is a valuable place to network and learn about the most recent cyber security threats and hone your skills. It also provides new opportunities for continuous learning and classes. It is one of the best ways to start working on obtaining cyber security jobs without a degree.
How to Get a Cyber Security Job With a GED
Step 1: Take Online Cyber Security Courses
If you want to get a job in cyber security with a GED, then enroll in online courses to learn the basics of cyber security. Some great options can be found on Udemy, Coursera, and other similar learning platforms. Cyber Security Course for Beginners – Level 01 on Udemy and Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization offered by Coursera are a couple of popular starting points.
Online learning providers have made it easy for individuals looking to break into the cyber security field to get cyber security jobs without a degree. These online courses are affordable and can help students acquire cyber security jobs without experience in a prior cyber security role.
Step 2: Widen Your Scope
Taking online cyber security courses alone is not enough. You also need to pay attention to the emerging Internet of Things technologies that may come in handy. These include cloud computing, encryption technology, and subsectors of artificial intelligence like deep learning and machine learning.
Step 3: Attend a Bootcamp
You don’t need a GED for cyber security bootcamps or coding bootcamps. You may even earn a certificate after a few weeks or months of extensive training. If you can’t afford a bootcamp, there are STEM bootcamp scholarships available that you can tap into. Many job titles accept bootcamp graduates and people with advanced certification.
In a bootcamp, you’ll develop soft skills and get the hands-on experience you need to enter the cyber security job market. There are also some free cyber security bootcamps you can look into.
Step 4: Get a Certification
Individuals can get a job with a cyber security certification. In fact, Google will hire professionals who apply to jobs with a cyber security certificate and no degree. If you’re not sure whether a certificate is the right choice for you, consider what you can do with a cyber security certificate before coming to a final decision.
Individuals can get jobs with a cyber security certificate in many fields and for many major companies. These jobs come from top-tier businesses like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. Additionally, these roles are entry-level with room to grow. If you’re looking to climb up the ladder, then a certification is a great way to take that first step.
Step 5: Build Connections
Getting into cyber security with a GED can be tough. A great way to counter the steep climb toward your goal is to build connections. Networking is a great way to create lasting professional relationships that can turn into job opportunities later. After all, one good recommendation from the right person can land you your dream job in cyber security.
Step 6: Apply for Entry-level Jobs
Once you’ve learned about cyber security, you’ll be ready to apply for entry-level jobs. Companies are more likely to hire you for an entry-level position than a mid-career one, so apply for jobs you’re likely to get and gain the experience you need to move on to something more advanced.
High-Paying Cyber Security Jobs Without a College Degree
When deciding whether or not to attend college, it is important to look into the highest-paying cyber security jobs without a degree. These jobs vary and may include your dream role, or you may find none of them are ideal for you. It’s all dependent on the specialty you’re looking to enter. Below is a table of some of the highest paying jobs in cyber security without a college degree. All salary data has been gathered from ZipRecruiter as of July 2025.
| Job | Average Salary |
| Security Software Developer | $111,8452 |
| Penetration Tester | $119,8953 |
| Network Security Engineer | $124,9484 |
| Security Risk Analyst | $104,8485 |
| Cyber Security Specialist | $93,1706 |
| Identity and Access Management Analyst | $114,3727 |
| Incident Response Analyst | $96,6188 |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $99,4009 |
| Information Security Analyst | $107,33410 |
| Security Operator Analyst | $91,82111 |
| Digital Forensic Investigator | $77,44812 |
| Systems Administrator | $88,92713 |
Cyber Security Jobs that Don’t Require a Degree: A Closer Look
Security Software Developer
These experts develop security protocols and programs to safeguard computer-based applications. This could be a program that needs to be upgraded, or you may need to completely replace a company’s existing security program. Security software developers are the same as traditional software developers except that they only focus on security.
To do this, they conceptualize threats during product development and typically work alongside a development team and a security architect. You will need to combine your knowledge of cyber security and software development in order to thrive as a security software developer.
Penetration Tester
Penetration testing, or pentesting, is a form of ethical hacking that involves deliberately piercing through an organization’s cyber defense network. This could include testing enterprise apps, web apps, database management systems, and other networks and products used by the company.
The primary responsibility of a pentester is to find all the possible security vulnerabilities on a given system, then find ways to fix them. The three common types of pentesting are black-box testing, white-box testing, and gray-box testing.
Network Security Engineer
A network security engineer is an IT professional who designs and configures systems to protect an organization’s network from possible security threats. This includes looking out for malware, bugs, and direct cyber attacks. This is widely considered one of the best careers in coding when it comes to compensation.
Apart from identifying security risks, a network security engineer also comes up with recommendations that will keep each part of an organization’s network safe. Knowledge of computer forensics, threat detection, and threat response is required for this role.
Security Risk Analyst
These professionals analyze the existing integrated security processes of an organization and provide their superiors with the information required to minimize security vulnerabilities. There are three primary steps involved in security risk analysis: risk identification, risk analysis, and risk evaluation.
They access systems, determine risk levels, and explain to others how these risks could be detrimental to the organization. The details provided by security risk analysts help organizations make informed decisions.
Cyber Security Specialist
Cyber security specialists are tasked with ensuring their business or organization’s data and other sensitive information is safe from threats at all times. Cyber security specialists assess internal and external threats, create cyber security risk mitigation plans, and assist in training businesses on best practices for data safety and storage.
Identity and Access Management Analyst
Often called IAM, identity and access management deals with the technologies, policies, and processes put in place to monitor and manage digital identities within an organization. Simply put, identity and access managers ensure that a company’s data is only being accessed by authorized parties.
This field falls within network security and database administration. As an IAM analyst, you’ll be charged with ensuring that only people with certain clearance levels can view important data and tech resources at a given organization.
Incident Response Analyst
As the name implies, incident response analysts are charged with monitoring a company’s network along with other members of the incident team. Their role is the equivalent of a first responder in the healthcare industry. This is one of the best career opportunities for cyber professionals out there.
They look out for security threats and are usually the first in a company’s network security workforce to report these threats. Incident response analysts typically go through seven steps. They prepare, identify, contain, eradicate, restore, learn from, and test their incident response plan.
Cyber Security Analyst
A cyber security analyst, or IT analyst, monitors and evaluates a company’s tech infrastructure. Their goal is to analyze systems and keep them safe from possible cyber attacks by improving security measures. They also prevent unauthorized access to a company’s network from both external and internal bodies.
A cyber security analyst configures tools to increase network security for an organization and reports their findings to decision-makers. They may work full-time for one company or work as a consultant for several companies.
Information Security Analyst
An information security analyst specializes in protecting a company’s private data. They take note of irregularities and alert their employer of possible breaches. The strategies security analysts may use include implementing firewalls and other protective software to keep digital data safe.
Apart from cyber security, a security analyst should also have skills such as networking, incident response, documentation, and excellent communication. This is one of the most common jobs in the cyber security industry and doesn’t require extensive experience.
Security Operator
Security operations are a set of strategies and resources designed to maintain network security within an organization. The department is usually made up of different types of cyber security experts with unique technical skills, including security operators.
A security operator detects, evaluates, and monitors network security threats. They’re also part of the team that responds to security threats. There’s a strong demand for security operators with a high experience level and deeper understanding of cyber security concepts.
Digital Forensic Investigator
If you have a background in cyber security and forensics, you can work as a digital forensic investigator. A digital forensic investigator digs through computer systems for data that can be used in criminal investigations. This data is sometimes heavily encrypted and the forensic investigator’s job is to decrypt it and preserve the data’s integrity.
A forensic expert may work as a cyber security consultant, checking through digital data to confirm that it hasn’t been manipulated so that it can be used as evidence during legal battles. They should know how to use company software to gain a basic understanding of digital forensics.
Systems Administrator
Systems administrators are a vital component of any cyber security team. This is because they’re in charge of downloading, installing, and implementing a business’s security solutions and measures. They also assist in troubleshooting and risk assessment and management.
Companies That Offer Entry-Level Cyber Security Jobs
- Accenture: This is a Fortune 500 global services tech and consulting firm that was founded in 1989. Occasionally, the company has positions available for high school graduates with a bootcamp education.
- BAI Security: This is a cyber security auditing firm that was founded in 2007. It provides security risk assessment for companies and suggests solutions for possible security vulnerabilities.
- VMware Carbon Black: This cyber security firm was founded in 2002 with headquarters in Massachusetts. It provides organizations with endpoint cloud-based security software.
- OnShore Security: Recently acquired by CyberMaxx, this firm was founded in 1991 to provide managed cyber security services to companies in the US. It offers many different cyber security jobs with no experience.
- FireEye: This is a private cyber security company in California that was founded in 2004. It investigates security breaches and provides both hardware and software to help companies secure their networks.
Where to Find Cyber Security Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
Indeed
Indeed is a great job board to utilize when you are trying to figure out where to find cyber security jobs.The platform is updated regularly with new cyber security positions all over the world. There are options for entry-level security analysts with detailed requirements listed. You can find cyber security professional positions from some of the largest employers out there.
LinkedIn is another great place where you can find cyber security jobs without a degree. It is more than just a professional networking community. It can also be an amazing source for cyber security job openings. Most of the jobs on LinkedIn are posted directly by the company’s recruiting department, and you can apply for the jobs you want directly with your LinkedIn profile.
Glassdoor
Glassdoor is another global stage for individuals looking into where to find cyber security jobs without a degree. It contains a host of entry-level, mid-career, and advanced jobs. Apart from job listings, Glassdoor also has a review system that shows you what former and current employees have to say about each company. This gives you a glimpse of what you can expect from a job before you send in your application.
Consider a Cyber Security Degree Later in Your Career
Although it’s possible to start a career in cyber security without a degree, it’s still a good idea to get one later once you have the funds and some professional experience. After all, a degree will still play a key role when it comes to advancing your career. For example, managerial positions are usually reserved for those who have a degree in cyber security.
Wondering how to get a career in cyber security without a four-year degree? Thanks to online learning and accelerated degrees, you don’t need to spend four years attending college in person. You can even get a two-year bachelor’s degree while keeping your existing job. Then, you can take it a step further and get your master’s degree in a specialized area within cyber security.
Cyber Security Jobs Without a Degree FAQ
The first step to getting a cyber security job with no experience is to build a portfolio of personal projects. With a project portfolio, in addition to your resume, you can show prospective employers that you have the technical knowledge required to beef up their security system.
Jobs with cyber security degree requirements are rapidly increasing. You can apply for a wide array of different cyber security positions with a cyber security degree. Some examples of these positions are cyber security engineer, cyber security specialist, ethical hacker, network administrator, and security auditor.
Yes, cyber security requires coding knowledge because it is essential when mitigating risks and assessing threats. However, some junior or entry-level roles can be filled by people with no cyber security experience or coding experience. Regardless of the role you are pursuing, foundational programming knowledge will be of use.
How long it takes to find a job in cyber security varies from person to person. It usually takes between two to four years to get the knowledge and experience you need to launch a career in cyber security. However, it can take as little as six months if you have prior tech industry experience or if you choose to attend a fast-paced cyber security bootcamp.
Sources
1https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cyber-Security-Salary
2https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Security-Software-Developer-Salary
3https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Penetration-Tester-Salary
4https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Network-Security-Engineer-Salary
5https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Security-Risk-Analyst-Salary#Yearly
6https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cyber-Security-Specialist-Salary
7https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Identity-Access-Management-Salary#Yearly
8https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Incident-Response-Analyst-Salary#Yearly
9https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cyber-Security-Analyst-Salary
10https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Security-Analyst-Salary
11https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Security-Operations-Analyst-Salary
12https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Digital-Forensic-Investigator-Salary
13https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/System-Administrator-Salary
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