Technology & Computing
Cybersecurity Specialist
You protect people, banks and companies from hackers and online crime.
- Starting salary
- R20 000 – R38 000
- Job demand
- Growing fast
- Key subjects
- Mathematics, Information Technology
What do they do?
You protect people, banks and companies from hackers and online crime.
A day in the life
You monitor systems for attacks, test for weak spots, respond to incidents and teach staff how to stay safe online.
Skills you need
- Attention to detail
- Curiosity
- Calm under pressure
- Ethics
- Networking knowledge
School subjects that help
- Mathematics
- Information Technology
- Physical Sciences
How long does it take?
4 main steps after school, usually 1–3 years of study, or longer at university.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2IT diploma or degree
- 3Security certifications
- 4Security analyst
- 5Specialist
Ways in: University degree · University of Technology · TVET College · Professional certification. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of South Africa
- Nelson Mandela University
- TVET Colleges nationwide
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R20 000 – R38 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R40 000 – R70 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R70 000 – R130 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Learn how passwords and scams work
- • Try free cyber challenges online
- • Keep your own accounts secure with 2FA
Try this career
Write a one-page 'stay safe online' guide for your family.
Related careers
Like this field but not sure about this exact job? Try these.
This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.