Cybersecurity Internship Guide: Roles, Skills and What Employers Look For
| 6 Min Read
When hiring for competitive cybersecurity positions, employers evaluate candidates based on their demonstrated knowledge and skills. Classroom education can help you master key competencies and begin developing skills; however, the opportunity to learn in a real-world setting is a valuable way to apply your education in a dynamic work setting.
Cybersecurity internships serve as this key gap between the classroom and the workplace. An internship is a short-term placement with an employer that provides students with the opportunity to learn through direct observation and completing hands-on duties. Today, many top employers offer internships for students and recent graduates of cybersecurity graduate programs.
This guide discusses the role of cybersecurity internships and the types of placements employers offer. It explores what employers look for in prospective interns and how the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Cybersecurity program from Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP Global) can help you land an internship and embark on an exciting career in cybersecurity.
What Does a Cybersecurity Intern Do?
While specific job duties will vary depending on the employer type and position details, cybersecurity interns generally support the successful completion of cybersecurity projects. Their daily tasks often include monitoring security dashboards to detect threats, reviewing logs and alerts, attending meetings, running scans and completing reports. Through these responsibilities, interns gain exposure to a variety of security tools, technologies, policies and procedures.
In some cases, cybersecurity interns work in different areas or departments during their placements. Other times, they may be a fixed member of a single team. In either setup, interns usually split their time between shadowing experienced permanent employees and completing independent work.
Employers in many industries and sectors offer cybersecurity internships. Prospective interns can even find opportunities with U.S. government agencies, such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the National Security Agency (NSA) and Sandia National Laboratories.
What Essential Skills Do Employers Seek in Cybersecurity Interns?
Oftentimes, the number of internship program applications employers receive far exceeds the number of intern openings companies have. Consequently, selection for programs you apply to is likely to be highly competitive.
To determine who to offer internships to, employers typically evaluate candidates’ skills. Extensive knowledge of general computer science is expected, as well as an understanding of network security best practices, procedures for conducting vulnerability assessments and general security protocols. Additionally, employers often look for candidates familiar with emerging cybersecurity trends, such as the risks posed by artificial intelligence. Relevant soft skills, such as problem-solving, communication and attention to detail, are also desirable.
Academic preparation is one way to demonstrate internship readiness. The coursework in graduate-level cybersecurity programs usually provides students with a solid foundation in the key competencies and critical skills that employers seek in internship candidates. Plus, some programs prepare students to take examinations for voluntary certifications that, once earned, set them apart from the competition. For example, CSP Global’s M.S. in Cybersecurity online degree prepares graduates to pursue the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential awarded by ISACA.
What Are the Types of Cybersecurity Internship Roles?
Cybersecurity internships vary greatly. Some are general positions, while others focus on a specific specialty. Common types of specialist internship roles include:
- Security analysis: Interns in this role receive and investigate real-time security alerts. They are usually responsible for completing documentation and escalating verified threats when discovered.
- Network security: In this role, interns serve as the frontline defense for organizations, maintaining firewalls and security protocols. They typically run vulnerability scans and assist with implementing network improvements.
- Incident response and threat intelligence: This internship position involves responding to active security threats in a supportive role. Generally, senior permanent members of the security team will assign interns investigative or documentation responsibilities that contribute to the success of threat response and mitigation efforts.
- Application security and penetration testing: Working in this role, interns uncover vulnerabilities in applications by running various tests. They may also be asked to validate that any implemented fixes function as intended.
Since the scope of intern positions varies, researching programs before applying is vital. Take the time to read internship descriptions, so you have a clear picture of the duties you can expect in the position. Look for opportunities that align with your career goals to make the most of your internship experience.
Landing a Cybersecurity Internship With No Experience
Experience is another factor employers consider when selecting candidates for intern positions. However, it is possible to land a cybersecurity internship even without experience, especially if you hold or are pursuing an online information technology degree. While completing coursework through an online program, you will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of relevant projects that you can share with potential employers when applying for internships. A well-rounded portfolio can demonstrate your hard and soft skills, potentially increasing your chances of making a positive impression.
Outside of formal education, there are other ways to gain experience and skills. You can complete self-study courses offered by software and hardware manufacturers and nonprofit organizations. Participating in student competitions and capture-the-flag events is often beneficial. In addition, consider attending cybersecurity seminars, conferences and networking events to expand your knowledge and foster relationships with established professionals in the industry who could serve as mentors.
How Does Graduate Education Strengthen Your Candidacy?
Whether you have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or another field, pursuing a graduate-level degree can strengthen your candidacy as you prepare to apply for cybersecurity internships. Programs with a specialized focus, such as CSP’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity, can help you acquire the advanced technical knowledge needed to impress evaluators.
Enrolling in an online master’s program can provide a competitive advantage in the internship market; while taking classes, you can benefit from the mentorship of faculty members who bring years of practical work history to the virtual classroom. You may even have the chance to participate in research projects that provide practical experience. Most universities also offer career services, making it easier to connect with employers to explore internship opportunities.
Launch Your Cybersecurity Career
Cybersecurity internships can launch rewarding tech careers by enabling students to apply classroom concepts to real-world challenges while honing their skills. Academic preparation supports success in both temporary internship programs and permanent cybersecurity jobs.
If you’re ready to advance your career, CSP Global’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity degree can help you build a strong foundation of technical knowledge and practical skills. Through scenario-based learning and classroom instruction, the program teaches you to analyze and manage security risk and to develop a portfolio to present to prospective employers when applying for internships.
With its convenient online format and student support, CSP’s program enables you to earn your graduate degree while you continue to work. Plus, instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom, enriching your learning. Learn more about the program, request information and apply today.
Learn more about CSP Global’s online M.S. in Cybersecurity program.