Intensive Cybersecurity Training Program | Texas State University

Cybersecurity professionals can find themselves in many roles in a company, but one of the most common job titles is an information security analyst. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for information security analysts is $120,360 or $57.87 per hour. As of March 2025, ZipRecruiter reports that the average annual pay for the cybersecurity jobs category in Austin was $131,793 a year, higher than the average for all of Texas at $92,606 annually.

Cybersecurity, also known as information technology security and electronic information security, is the practice of protecting sensitive information by defending computers, mobile devices, servers, networks, electronic systems, and data from digital attacks. Cybersecurity is often divided into categories. Some of the more common categories include network security, application security, information security, operational security, disaster recovery and business continuity, and end-user education.

It has become increasingly difficult to implement effective cybersecurity measures because there are more devices than people globally, and cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly more innovative. IBM estimated that the average cost of a data breach in 2020 was 3.86 million USD globally and 8.64 million USD within the U.S., including expenses related to detecting and responding to a breach, the lost revenue and downtime, and the long-term reputational damage suffered by a business. Businesses are looking for professionals with the knowledge necessary to protect their valuable assets.

According to recent Lightcast data, the demand for information security analysts in the Austin–Round Rock–San Marcos metropolitan area is projected to increase 50.5% by 2034, higher than the national average (45.2%).

This program has been designed for beginners, whether you are at the beginning of your career or switching into the cybersecurity industry. It is recommended that you have a general understanding of Windows client operating system as well as experience with Microsoft products and technologies.

Because bookkeeping relies heavily on technology and can be done almost entirely using digital tools, it is considered an excellent prospect for remote, contract, and work-at-home career opportunities.

If you are new to cybersecurity, you may not have heard of Infosec. But IT and cybersecurity professionals have trusted Infosec to support their career development for over 20 years. In fact, more than 70% of the Fortune 500 have relied on Infosec to develop their security talent and teams.

Infosec Skills provides unlimited access to an extensive library of on-demand cybersecurity training, covering every security role from beginner to advanced. Benefits include:

• 190+ pre-built learning paths mapped to industry standards and the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity
• Hundreds of hands-on labs, including MITRE ATT&CK tactics and techniques
• Training for CompTIA, (ISC)2, ISACA, EC-Council, Cisco, AWS, and more..

The Infosec Skills Verification Credentials offer a unique advantage over standard digital badging by specifically evaluating an individual's application of knowledge through a recorded assessment. This assessment measures numerous factors such as speed, content knowledge, and effective resource utilization, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of real-world skills.

Employers appreciate this model because it clearly distinguishes between those who can theoretically understand concepts and those who can practically apply their knowledge in a work environment. Traditional virtual badging has become oversaturated and often fails to meet employer expectations, reflecting content knowledge that can be easily inflated or manipulated. In contrast, the Skills Verification Credential demonstrates a candidate's ability to execute relevant skills. This will not only enhance employability, but also provide proof of practical abilities, setting students apart from other candidates in the job market.

After you pay your non-refundable $100 registration fee and confirm your cohort start date, you will gain access to Infosec’s Skills Library and your two foundational courses to begin your self-paced pre-work.

The CompTIA Security+ credential is an entry-level, vendor-neutral, global information security certification. Earning this certification demonstrates competency to perform core information security functions. Employers who see this certification on a resume can rest assured that the certification holder is serious about progressing in their information security career.

CompTIA Security+ is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and approved by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to meet directive 8140/8570.01-M requirements.