You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate course in:

• computing
• information systems
• project management
• business management

Courses with industry placements or summer internships might help you develop your skills.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You could do a T Level in Digital Support Services and then apply for a trainee IT cyber security position.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:

• Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Protective Security Adviser Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Advanced Digital Forensic Professional Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

These involve a mix of learning in the workplace and off-site study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

• a degree in a relevant subject

You could start work as an IT support technician after your GCSEs or A levels.

You could then train on the job or get more qualifications to become an IT security co-ordinator.

You could apply to work as an IT security co-ordinator if you have experience in IT management, network engineering or cyber intelligence.

You'll need:

• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• excellent written communication skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

As an IT security co-ordinator, you could:

• assess risks to computer systems and test security products
• design or upgrade security systems
• prepare for security breaches and plan how to minimise potential threats
• investigate breaches and use ethical hacking to find security flaws
• make sure security procedures meet network security standards
• advise organisations on how to improve their security

You could work at a client's business or in an office.