Cyber Security vs. Data Science

Due to the increased collection of data in different sectors and the rise in cybersecurity threats, data science and cybersecurity skills have become increasingly in demand. To meet this demand, many people are up-skilling and specializing in either of these two disciplines. But, how do you know which path to follow?

Data science deals with extracting and analyzing data to make sense of it. It’s crucial in finding data-based solutions in businesses. On the other hand, cybersecurity protects data online from unauthorized access. 

These two disciplines, although independent, intertwine at some point and can work together. However, if you want to pursue one of them, how do you determine which one is best for you? This article looks at the skills required for each of them and how to find a job. 

Difference between Cyber Security and Data Science

Cyber Security involves putting in place measures that protect electronic data systems from access by criminals and other unauthorized persons. Cybercriminals are way too savvy and easily find loopholes to infiltrate data systems. Therefore, tight data protection measures must be employed to keep the data safe from unwanted breaches. 

Cybersecurity professionals have a curious personality with a strong desire to learn and creatively create solutions. With the advancing technology, the field requires continuous skill upgrading to keep up with the new trends in the digital world. 

On the other hand, data science has a multi-disciplinary approach as it doesn’t focus on one role only. Data scientists combine data collecting, extracting, analyzing big data, and manipulating it to come up with helpful information. 

This area requires someone who loves playing around with numbers and desires to create solutions using data. Its specializations include machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other data analysis techniques. 

Skill Requirements for Cyber Security and Data Science

These two disciplines are highly competitive, and therefore, they require knee-deep hands-on practical experience. Even though theoretical knowledge is essential, it would not be enough to make professionals operate smoothly in the job market. 

Hands-on practice will help develop the right skills, mindset, and the humph required to excel in these career paths. Many industry-focused courses offer training with the right tools and the correct approach so that graduates fit into the market without struggle.

Data Scientists must have skills in statistics, machine learning, data mining, data analytics, computational mathematics, programming languages like Python, data wrangling, and data visualization. These skills enable them to solve complex business problems and find workable data-based solutions. Their job revolves around data, and so a data scientist has to know how to manipulate and work with it adequately. 

Cybersecurity professionals have skills that revolve around intrusion detection, risk assessment, governance, incidence response, and compliance. It requires one to have sharp critical thinking and a clear judgment. The profession is characterized by soft and hard skills, which are important in the problem-solving process. 

A cybersecurity professional must employ strategies that excellently plan, perform, produce, test, re-test, improve and solve real cybersecurity problems in the business sector. If you enjoy solving complex problems and desire to protect data through security analytics, cybersecurity is good for you. 

As mentioned earlier, the two professions intertwine as they require similar skills at some point. They both need someone with an intuition for data and are able to communicate effectively with the data. He/she must be able to learn the data, identify inconsistencies, and use that information to solve the problems. 

They also require skills in using common data manipulation tools like Python, SQL, Java, Qlik Sense, Tableau, Yellowfin, or MS Power BI. These ensure that you have the means to communicate with data and make sense of it. 

How Do You Find A Job in Data Science or Cyber Security?

Data scientists and cybersecurity professionals have to learn how to establish themselves and grow in their careers. It starts with finding a job and then growing it from there. Here are some things you can do to increase your chances of getting your first job as a cyber-security professional or a data scientist. 

1. Attend Job  Outcome Programs and Networking Events 

Different institutions organize such events to allow professionals to interact face-to-face. It allows job seekers to meet employers and vice-versa. These events do a great job in boosting your confidence and let you learn from the professional. 

2. Research on the New Opportunities in The Job Market

Whether you’re employed or not, it’s important to keep yourself updated with the market trends. Read the latest articles on data science and data security. In most cases, employers ask questions relating to the latest trends in the market during interviews, and if you’re not up-to-date, your chances of getting the job become minimal. 

3. Update Your Social Media Profiles

The most important social media platform when looking for a job is LinkedIn. As everything is becoming digitalized, hiring managers may request your LinkedIn Profile link where they can get your CV. If it’s not properly set up, then that will push away a prospective employer. 

Data Science and Cyber Security Jobs

A data scientist can get a job as a data scientist, data analyst, data architect, data engineer, data consultant, statistician, or machine learning engineer. These roles can advance to senior positions like a senior data scientist. 

Cybersecurity job opportunities include cybersecurity analyst, incident responder, security consultant, pen-tester, computer forensics analyst, cryptographer, systems engineer, IT security specialist, or a vulnerability analyst. Other senior positions include information technology director, cybersecurity manager, and cyber-security officer. 

Conclusion

If you’re looking to pursue either of these courses and you feel stuck, you can consider some factors like your interests, the technical skills you have, the effort and commitment you’re willing to put on, and your career goals – both long-term and short-term. Remember that each of these careers is in demand, and whichever path you follow, you’ll do well.