Information Security Analyst: Salary and Job Description

Cyberattacks in any industry can disrupt operations and put private data at risk. In 2024, 93% of organizations reported two or more security breaches within the past year, according to CyberArk. 

Information security analysts implement security strategies that protect systems and sensitive data. These cybersecurity professionals prevent and respond to unauthorized access, helping organizations across industries. 

Careers in this field report strong wages and high demand, and holding an advanced degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Cybersecurity can help information security analysts increase their earning potential. 

Information Security Analyst Job Description

Information security analysts identify vulnerabilities in computer networks to prevent data breaches. They implement security measures to prevent unauthorized access to data, including training employees on the best practices in cybersecurity. Information security analysts also create disaster recovery plans to limit the damage of an information security breach. 

The information security analyst job description includes responding to cyberattacks. Following a cyberattack, information security analysts conduct investigations to recommend new technologies or policies to prevent future attacks. 

Related job titles include the following:

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Information Security Penetration Tester
• Cybersecurity Specialist
• Computer Forensics Analyst
• Information Security Consultant
• Information Security Manager

Cybersecurity technologies continue to evolve. As a result, information security analysts must keep their technical skills current. Professionals must be up to date on security technology to improve network security and implement preventive measures while also evaluating emerging security threats. 

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

Careers as an Information Security Analyst require both education and work experience. Many professionals also pursue information security certifications to showcase their specialized skills. An advanced degree can help information security professionals increase their salaries and move into management roles. 

This section provides a step-by-step guide to how to become an information security analyst.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Becoming an Information Security Analyst typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology (IT), or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is the most common educational level for information security analysts, followed by a master’s degree.

Earning a bachelor’s degree takes four years for full-time students. Courses in network security, intrusion detection, and digital forensics prepare graduates for careers in information security. During an undergraduate program, prospective information security analysts can also gain real-world experience through an internship. 

Step 2: Gain Work Experience

Information Security Analysts develop their technical skills through on-the-job experience. Gaining experience in network security management, penetration testing, and security risk management prepares early-career professionals for more advanced roles in information security. 

College students can begin gaining professional experience through an internship. Information security internships offer hands-on learning and networking opportunities that can help graduates transition into the workforce. Early-career professionals can also prepare for professional certifications by gaining work experience. 

Step 3: Pursue Professional Certification

Professional certifications demonstrate expertise in information security. These credentials typically require passing scores on a certification examination. Organizations that award certifications may also set minimum education and experience requirements.

Popular information security certifications include the following:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Cloud Security Professional

Certified Information Security Professionals often need to renew their credential by completing continuing educational requirements. 

Step 4: Consider a Master’s Degree

In information security, earning a master’s degree can mean more job opportunities and higher earning potential. The number of information security analysts with a master’s degree more than doubled from 2018 to 2022, according to analysis from DataUSA. 

Graduate-level programs provide focused training in information security and information management. Prospective graduate students can also consider an MBA with a concentration in Cybersecurity to develop their information security and management skills. Master’s programs typically require two years. 

Information Security Analyst Salary and Job Growth

Information Security Analysts Benefit from six-figure median salaries and strong job growth. The median annual information security analyst salary was $120,360 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Those in the top 10% earned over $182,370.

Information security analyst salaries vary by industry, location, and experience. Those working in information and finance report salaries above the median, for example. The states with the highest salaries for information security analysts include Washington, Iowa, New York, and California. Analysts with a graduate degree also report higher salaries.

The job outlook for information security analysts remains strong, with 33% job growth from 2023 to 2033, based on BLS projections. Several trends are driving demand for information security analysts, including the growing number of cyberattacks, the rise of remote work, and an emphasis on prevention. 

Earn an MBA With a Concentration in Cybersecurity at Notre Dame de Namur University

Build the knowledge and skills to work as an information security analyst by earning an MBA with a concentration in Cybersecurity from Notre Dame de Namur University. By developing analytical decision-making and problem-solving skills, the MBA program prepares innovative leaders with the business and technical skills to succeed in the growing information security field.

Students who are pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Cybersecurity hone their strategic thinking and leadership skills throughout the program, which combines core business classes with specialized cybersecurity courses. Learn how to address emerging problems in cybersecurity while making data-informed decisions about security strategies and policies. 

Learn more about earning an MBA with a concentration in Cybersecurity by contacting NDNU today.