Want to learn to become a cyber-crime specialist?
According to PwC’s 2026 Global Digital Trust Insights survey, 60% of business and tech leaders rank cyber risk investment among their top three strategic priorities. Despite this, only 6% of organisations feel confident in their ability to address all vulnerabilities. Additionally, a government analysis of cyber security skills in the UK labour market reported that half (49%) of UK businesses had a basic cyber security skills gap and 30% experienced advanced skills gaps. With demand for skilled and qualified cyber security professionals increasing, now is the perfect time to start a career in cyber.
But what are employers looking for and how can you bring your skills in line with companies’ expectations?
To point you in the right direction and shed some light on the skills and experience required to develop yourself as a cyber security professional, we’ve spoken with Southampton Solent University Centres:
Specialist skills for cyber security professionals
1. Information governance
Information governance (IG) is the framework for handling, storing, and processing confidential information, which complies with the law and acts as a standard of best practice. As cyber security professionals are primarily tasked with protecting information, it’s vital for you to be aware of and abide by the key principles of information governance.
2. Network security control
Alongside an in-depth understanding of the technical aspects of networking, you’ll also need to be familiar with the security measures that are used to protect these networks. This involves learning how things like routers, firewalls, and other security devices work. Keeping a network secure also requires an understanding of Intrusion Detection Systems, Intrusion Prevention Systems, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and remote access.
3. Ethical hacking
To best prevent major cyber-attacks and become an industry maestro you need to understand how the best hackers operate (in an ethical way, of course). Gaining ethical hacking skills will enable you to spot any potential vulnerabilities within a network, figure out how a system could be exploited, and develop solutions to stop experienced hackers from breaking in.
4. Computer programming and scripting
Computer programming and scripting both use written coding language (such as Python, PHP, C++, or JavaScript) that allows you to manipulate moving text and images and automate repetitive tasks. Whilst they’re extremely helpful tools, they can also be used by hackers. That’s why as a cyber security expert, you should be proficient in not only using scripting and programming languages, but also in developing protection methods that’ll thwart any potential attacks.
Establishing yourself as a cyber security expert
With major security breaches at an all-time high, employers are putting more investment into their data protection methods, sparking the need for qualified professionals who can keep their networks safe.
To ensure you’re ticking the right boxes, here are a few ways you can best develop yourself as a cyber security professional:
- Work on your transferable soft skills. Whilst many cyber security skills are technical, there are also a lot of soft skills that you can gain outside of the industry. Things such as effective communication, critical thinking and adaptability are essential for establishing yourself as a cyber specialist, and can be worked on in your current job, at university, or even through your hobbies and interests.
- Keep up to date with the latest trends. The cyber security landscape is always changing, and it’s up to you to keep up. Luckily, there are a number of resources to help. From webinars and articles written by reputable sources like the National Cyber Security Centre, to government reports and university blogs, which are available to give you insights into industry developments.
- Take a cyber security course. One of the best ways to establish yourself as an expert in your field is to study for a recognised qualification. The BSc (Hons) Cyber Security from Southampton Solent University Centres offers a choice of intakes and study timetables with blended learning to offer flexibility around your studies. Covering essential topics such as ethical hacking, threat intelligence analysis, cyber crime, and digital forensics, the course also includes the opportunity to earn the industry-recognised CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) ‘Introduction to Networks’ certification. With expert-led modules and a focus on employability, this programme equips you with the skills needed to thrive in the fast-evolving digital landscape.
- Gain some relevant work experience. If you’re looking for your dream role in cyber security, we’ve got a few bits of advice to help you stand out. Working in any kind of tech role (such as IT support, engineering, or anything that requires you to be computer literate) is a great way to build the key foundations for a successful cyber career. Additionally, Southampton Solent University Centres’ BSc (Hons) Cyber Security programme is designed with employability in mind, offering hands-on experience with real-world cyber threats and personalised careers support, including two years of free guidance after graduation. This ensures you can put your learning into practice and boost your employability.
Why study with Southampton Solent University Centres?
At Southampton Solent University Centres, their academic experts and support staff are dedicated to providing you with an educational experience that prepares you for a successful career in the fast-evolving world of cyber security.
Not only do they offer a cutting-edge BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree designed to meet the demands of the industry, but they also provide flexible study options and a focus on employability to help you achieve your goals.
Some great reasons to study with this university include:
- Their BSc (Hons) Cyber Security programme includes the opportunity to earn the industry-recognised CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) ‘Introduction to Networks’ certification, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
- Get hands-on experience with real-world cyber threats and expert-led modules covering topics such as ethical hacking, threat intelligence analysis, and digital forensics.
- Flexible study options, including blended learning, allow you to balance your studies with other commitments.
- Includes an optional Foundation Year; providing an additional year of study for anyone that is new to cyber security, has been out of education for a while, or who would like additional support prior to progressing onto Year 1 of the undergraduate degree programme.
- Personalised careers support, including two years of free guidance after graduation, to help you secure your dream role in cyber security.
- With multiple intakes throughout the year, you can start your studies when it suits you best.
Get a head start on your career in cyber security with Southampton Solent University Centre’s next intake in February. The application deadline for this intake is the 12th January 2026.
Southampton Solent University, in partnership with QA Higher Education, offers a variety of full-time and part-time programmes in Cyber Security, Business, Computing, Psychology, and more.
