To work as an information security analyst, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma;
• have a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field; and
• have one to five years of related work experience.

Education after high school

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or a related field is excellent preparation for this occupation. As the field of information security continues to grow, many schools are beginning to offer information security programs. Some employer's prefer a analysts to have a Master's of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems.

Work experience

An important part of preparing for this field is learning the latest technology. Some people learn through classes and others teach themselves. An ideal way to prepare for this field is to get a part-time job or internship. In these hands-on learning environments, you learn new tools as they are used in the field.

On-the-job training

Continuing education is very important in this field. Technology changes rapidly and specialists must stay up to date. Employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, and training institutes offer classes.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems specialists. Training lasts from seven to 13 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.