Why Every Industry Needs Cybersecurity Professionals

Technology has undeniably changed how we live, work, and connect; it has changed how organizations manage risk and remain profitable. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and evolving digital threats are no longer rare headlines; they are daily realities across all industries, including healthcare, education, finance, government, and small businesses. Organizations are actively seeking professionals who understand business concepts and technology and possess the expertise to protect corporate systems, guide decision-making, and ensure operations maintain CIA (confidentiality, integrity, and availability).

Cybersecurity is a career path that blends stability, purpose, and growth. Southern Nazarene University (SNU)’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is designed to prepare adult students with practical skills, real-world knowledge, and a strong foundation for career advancement. Whether you are entering the field for the first time or strengthening an existing background in technology, a degree in cybersecurity will open doors to new opportunities and leadership roles that make a difference across industries.

The Growing Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

United States organizations continue to face a significant shortage of educated and trained cybersecurity professionals. Businesses need individuals with the skills to identify risks, respond to threats, and maintain a safe digital environment. This demand is not limited to large technology companies but extends across industries that most people use regularly, such as schools, hospitals, municipalities, and nonprofits. All organizations and institutions rely on cybersecurity professionals to operate in a safe, secure environment.

Cybersecurity careers are evolving. Once considered purely technical roles, employers are increasingly seeking professionals with business acumen, communication skills, risk management, and decision-making. Adult students with prior experience in business, education, healthcare, or public service have a strong opportunity to transition their skills into a new and growing field.

In addition to career stability, a role in cybersecurity offers meaningful work and endless opportunities. Professionals in this field help protect sensitive information, safeguard communities, and support organizations’ ability to serve others. Many adult learners find this sense of purpose motivating when considering a career change or advancement.

Cybersecurity is Not Just for “Tech People”

A common misconception about cybersecurity is that it is only for programmers or IT specialists. While technical roles do exist, the field also needs analysts, managers, trainers, and professionals who understand policy, compliance, and organizational leadership.

Adult learners often bring strengths that translate well into cybersecurity, including:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Communication and teamwork
• Leadership and project coordination
• Risk awareness and strategic planning
• Experience in regulated industries like healthcare or education

Cybersecurity teams value diverse backgrounds due to the complex challenges they face daily. Professionals with diverse backgrounds help organizations approach problems from multiple perspectives.

Why Adult Learners Are Strong Candidates for Cybersecurity Careers

Working professionals already understand deadlines, collaboration, and real-world decision-making. These skills are valuable in cybersecurity environments where quick thinking and clear communication are essential.

Adult learners may be motivated by:

• A desire to shift into a more stable or growing industry
• Interest in technology and innovation
• The opportunity to earn credentials without starting over
• A goal of advancing into leadership positions or specialized roles

Many students find that cybersecurity education allows them to build on experience rather than replace it. Someone who has worked in healthcare, for example, may focus on protecting patient data, while a business professional may move into risk analysis or security management.

How SNU’s Cybersecurity Program Supports Working Professionals

Southern Nazarene University’s Cybersecurity program is designed with adult learners’ schedules and goals in mind. Courses focus on practical application, real-world scenarios, and current industry practices, helping students build cyber-skills; we emphasize graduates being able to add value from day one.

Key benefits of SNU’s Cybersecurity program include:

• Flexible online learning formats that support full-time professionals
• Faculty with industry and professional experience
• The coursework connects technology with business and leadership concepts
• A supportive learning environment focused on collaboration and advancing skills

Students gain an understanding of both technical security concepts and the broader organizational impact of cybersecurity decisions. This balanced approach prepares graduates to collaborate across departments and advance into roles requiring both knowledge and communication skills.

Career Paths in Cybersecurity

An education in cybersecurity will lead to a wide range of roles depending on experience and interests. Some cybersecurity professionals focus on technical work, while others move toward strategy or leadership roles.

Potential career options include:

• Security Analyst (Average Annual Salary: $124,910)
• Information Security Specialist (Average Annual Salary: $85,804)
• Risk or Compliance Analyst (Average Annual Salary: $84,210)
• Cybersecurity Consultant (Average Annual Salary: $131,892)
• Information Technology (IT) Security Coordinator (Average Annual Salary: $62,320)
• Security Awareness Trainer (Average Annual Salary: $93,170)
• Cybersecurity Manager or Team Lead (Average Annual Salary: $132,962)

The majority of organizations prefer hiring candidates who combine professional experience with formal education and practical training. Adult learners who earn cybersecurity degrees or certifications often find that their prior work experience strengthens their qualifications.

Taking the First Step Toward a Cybersecurity Career

Starting a new degree brings feelings of uncertainty. The good news? SNU’s cybersecurity program does not require you to have extensive IT or technical knowledge. SNU’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is designed to meet students where they are, whether they have technical experience or are exploring a career in technology for the first time.

Before enrolling, consider:

• Your current skills and professional background
• Areas of cybersecurity that interest you the most
• How additional education could support your career goals
• The amount of flexibility you need to balance work, family, and school

Programs like those offered by Southern Nazarene University’s College of Professional and Graduate Studies are designed to provide structure, support, and practical learning experiences that help adult students move forward in their personal and professional lives with confidence.

Cybersecurity is more than a buzzword. It is a growing field that plays a critical role in protecting organizations and communities. As digital threats continue to evolve, so does the need for professionals across every industry who understand how to manage risk, protect information, and lead with assurance.

Working adults seeking a career change, advancement, or new technical skills, cybersecurity offers a path that combines stability, purpose, and opportunity. Through its flexible, career-focused program, Southern Nazarene University equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute in today’s technology-driven world. Taking the first step toward a degree in cybersecurity may be the beginning of a meaningful career and forward-facing path in your professional journey.