How to become a cyber intelligence officer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
University
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in one of the following subjects:
- computer science
- computer or cyber security
- mathematics
- network engineering and security
You could take a postgraduate course in computing or cyber security if your first degree is not in a related subject, or if you have a lot of industry experience.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could do a higher apprenticeship like:
- cyber security technologist
- cyber intrusion analyst
These apprenticeships typically take 2 years to complete.
You could do a cyber security technical professional degree apprenticeship.
GCHQ also runs a cyber security degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start work with an IT security firm, for example as a support technician after doing GCSEs or A levels, then work your way up while studying for further qualifications on the job.
Other Routes
If you have a degree or relevant work experience, you could apply for the MI5 Intelligence and Data Analyst Development Programme.
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Further information
You can find out more about working in digital security from the National Cyber Security Centre and Security Service MI5.
If you are under 17 Cyberfirst has a programme of activities including:
- apprenticeships
- bursaries
- competitions
- courses