Where to start a career in cybersecurity: professions, universities, and useful resources

We have compiled a selection of professions, courses, and useful resources for those interested in information and cybersecurity. Read more in our review.

Digital information security means protection from hacking, espionage, viruses, internal system errors, and breaches of confidentiality. IT cybersecurity specialists possess many skills and responsibilities.

In-demand professions at the moment

Information Security Analyst — monitors potential cyber threats and conducts security vulnerability assessments.

Security Engineer — creates systems and firewalls to protect against cyber threats and provides recommendations.

Security Architect — identifies weaknesses in the cybersecurity system and develops procedures to combat threats.

Information Security Specialist — implements and manages protection systems created by the CISO, ensures confidentiality, and is responsible for compliance with internal security requirements.

Pentester or Penetration Tester — an ethical hacker responsible for testing installed security systems and fixing weaknesses.

Software Developer — creates specialized software or security-related solutions within other software.

Computer Forensics Expert — determines how an incident occurred, who is responsible, what data and systems were compromised, and collaborates with law enforcement agencies if necessary.

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) — plans, organizes, and monitors all company requirements regarding computers, networks, and data security. To determine the organization's unique cybersecurity requirements, they work in close cooperation with managers at various levels.

Universities in Central Asia and around the world with faculties specializing in information and cybersecurity

Azerbaijan

Western Caspian University, "Cybersecurity"

Azerbaijan Technical University, Cybersecurity

Kazakhstan

International University of Information Technologies, "Cybersecurity"

Astana IT University, Cybersecurity

Satbayev University, "Information Security"

Eurasian National University, Information Security Systems

Narxoz, Cybersecurity

Almaty University of Energy and Communications, "Information Security Systems"

Kyrgyzstan

Ala-Too International University, "Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking"

Kyrgyz State Technical University, "Information Security"

International University of Information Technologies, "Information Security"

Tajikistan

University of Central Asia, "Cybersecurity"

Tajikistan Technological University, "Information Security Assurance Systems"

Uzbekistan

Tashkent University of Information Technologies, "Cybersecurity"

National University of Uzbekistan, "Information Security"

Worldwide

Western Governors University, USA

University of the Potomac, USA

Maryville University of St. Louis, USA

University of Charleston, USA

Davenport University, USA

Tsinghua University, China

University of Tokyo, Japan

University of Toronto, Canada

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, Switzerland

Delft University of Technology, Netherlands

Online courses for learning cybersecurity for beginners and experienced professionals

Heimdal Cyber Security for Beginners
A course for ordinary users who want to expand their understanding of cybersecurity.
Duration: 1-2 months
Cost: Free

"Cybersecurity Specialist" by Skillbox
The course offers basics of administration, programming, and cybersecurity, as well as final projects. Bonus courses are also available.
Duration: 12 months
Cost: 58,527 tenge per month

Introduction to Cybersecurity
In this program, you will learn how to assess, maintain, and monitor the security of computer systems. You will also learn how to evaluate threats, respond to incidents, and implement security measures to reduce risks.
Duration: 3 months
Cost: Free

"Information Security Engineer" by Geekbrains
You will learn to collect and process data, design storage systems, and work with infrastructure. Improve your qualifications and income level.
Duration: 12 months
Cost: 79,643 tenge per month

"Cybersecurity for Everyone"
The course is suitable for students with zero or little experience in IT and cybersecurity. It covers a broad context and business aspects, helping to understand modern debates and the rapidly changing security landscape.
Duration: 1 month
Cost: Free

Useful YouTube channels

Infosec
The channel provides career advice in cybersecurity, training for enthusiasts, and information on protecting against cyber threats.

John Hammond
The channel is dedicated to cybersecurity competitions, Capture The Flag challenges, and practical hacking lessons. You will also learn new hacking methods and cybersecurity issues. There is an opportunity to solve complex tasks in real-time.

The Cyber Mentor
Here, long and short videos cover topics such as learning Open-Source Intelligence, web application pentesting, various forms of ethical hacking, and much more.

HAK5
Here you will find fresh information about significant events in cybersecurity, reasons why users become targets for hackers, and Q&A about hacking.

Loi Liang Yang
CISSP, ethical hacker, and CompTIA security specialist, who consults and shares lessons — password cracking, file recovery, advanced SQL injections, and Kali Linux for beginners.

Nicole Enesse
The channel covers a wide range of topics related to cybersecurity, personal finance, and careers in technology, providing valuable information and advice on how to learn and advance in this field.

Books for understanding the basics of cybersecurity

The Basics of Cyber Safety by John Sammons
The book is an accessible introduction to cybersecurity for beginners, covering topics such as internet privacy, password management, malware, and social engineering.

Cybersecurity for Beginners by Raef Meeuwisse
The book discusses cybersecurity concepts, risk management, network security, and incident response.

Social Engineering: The Science of Human Hacking by Christopher Hadnagy
By exploring the psychological strategies used by cybercriminals, the book examines social engineering methods and helps understand how to protect yourself and your organization.

Cybersecurity — Attack and Defense Strategies by Yuri Diogenes and Erdal Ozkaya
This book, dedicated to both offensive and defensive approaches to cybersecurity, covers typical attack vectors, security fundamentals, and best practices for strengthening systems and networks.

Network Security Bible by Eric Cole and Ronald Krutz
A guide to network security — covers topics such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, VPNs, and wireless network security.

Security Engineering: A Guide to Building Dependable Distributed Systems by Ross Anderson
This book provides a detailed look at the principles and practices of building security systems, covering topics such as access control, cryptography, and system vulnerabilities.