Cybersecurity in the Maritime Industry: 6 Top Roles in the Field - Coursera

Cybersecurity in the Maritime Industry: 6 Top Roles in the Field Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Apr 10, 2026 Share The need for cybersecurity professionals across almost all industries is on the rise. Learn more about some of the top roles you can pursue in cybersecurity in the maritime industry and what they do. Key takeaways The increasing digitization and automation of the maritime industry in recent years has amplified the risk of cybersecurity attacks.  Cyberattacks on the maritime industry can cause worldwide economic and environmental damage, loss of life among crew members, and disrupt humanitarian efforts to deliver supplies to people in need. Cybersecurity risks in the maritime industry include ransomware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, phishing, data modification, data theft, and social engineering. You can find cybersecurity jobs in the maritime industry that are similar to those in other sectors, like penetration testers, cybersecurity analysts, incident response engineers, and ethical hackers. Explore the importance of cybersecurity in the maritime industry and potential jobs you can consider in this area. If you’re ready to start preparing for a cybersecurity role, enroll in the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. You’ll have the opportunity to learn fundamental cybersecurity concepts like cyber threat intelligence, intrusion detection, incident response, and more in as little as six months. Upon completion, you’ll have earned a career certificate for your resume. Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Cyber Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, Network Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Web Presence, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, SQL, Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity, Linux, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Network Protocols, Security Awareness, Python Programming, Hardening, Bash (Scripting Language), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, Network Analysis, TCP/IP, Event Monitoring, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Continuous Monitoring, Document Management, Security Controls, Network Monitoring, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, AI Workflows, Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Security Strategy, Information Assurance, Prompt Engineering, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Systems, File Management, Linux Administration, Database Management, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Unix Commands, Relational Databases, Authentications, Unix Shell, Vulnerability Assessments, Risk Management Framework, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Identity and Access Management, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Firewall, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Model, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Maintainability, Data Structures, Data Import/Export, IT Automation, Automation, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Auditing, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation 4.8 (67,407 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,407 ratings) 1,508,587 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Cyber Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, Network Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Web Presence, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, SQL, Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity, Linux, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Network Protocols, Security Awareness, Python Programming, Hardening, Bash (Scripting Language), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, Network Analysis, TCP/IP, Event Monitoring, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Continuous Monitoring, Document Management, Security Controls, Network Monitoring, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, AI Workflows, Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Security Strategy, Information Assurance, Prompt Engineering, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Systems, File Management, Linux Administration, Database Management, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Unix Commands, Relational Databases, Authentications, Unix Shell, Vulnerability Assessments, Risk Management Framework, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Identity and Access Management, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Firewall, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Model, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Maintainability, Data Structures, Data Import/Export, IT Automation, Automation, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Auditing, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation Importance of cybersecurity in the maritime industry  According to the Waterfront Alliance, “The maritime industry is a critical part of global trade and economic development, playing an important role in transporting goods and resources across the world’s oceans [1],” and it affects the lives of billions of people around the world. Computers and technology play a massive role in running the maritime industry, which puts the entire industry at risk for cyberattacks. If a system is attacked, the global supply chain is at risk for disruption, which could cause significant economic damage. Software supply chain attacks are estimated to reach $60 billion in 2025, with projected costs to reach $138 billion by 2031 [2].  In addition to worldwide economic damage, cyberattacks on the maritime industry can lead to other important problems, like environmental damage or exposure of humans to dangerous pollutants. Within the industry, cyberattacks can also lead to the loss of life of crew members aboard ships. It can also disrupt humanitarian efforts to bring supplies to people in need. What are the cybersecurity risks in the maritime industry? The risk of cyberattacks has long persisted in the maritime industry. In 2021, hackers launched an attack on the Port of Houston, which prompted a swift response from the US government. Several European oil ports became targets in 2022 [3]. Ransomware is one common cyber risk in the maritime industry, and many shipping companies opt to pay so that they don't lose access to their data. According to the US Department of Transportation, hostile organizations from foreign countries also pose a threat. In 2023, it issued a warning that “proprietary foreign adversarial companies manufacture, install, and maintain port equipment that poses potential vulnerabilities to global maritime infrastructure information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems [4].” Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are common within the maritime industry. This occurs when criminals use multiple IP addresses to flood a company's information system with traffic so it's no longer accessible. Other common types of cyberattacks in the maritime industry include phishing, data modification, data theft, and social engineering.  What is the maritime cybersecurity regulation? New cybersecurity regulations issued by the US Coast Guard took effect on July 16, 2025 [5]. The regulations include minimum cybersecurity requirements such as developing and maintaining a cybersecurity plan, designating a cybersecurity officer (CySO), and implementing measures to sustain cybersecurity within the Marine Transportation System (MTS). How much does maritime security get paid? 6 maritime cybersecurity jobs + salaries Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field, and the need for jobs over the next few years is expected to grow at a rate of 29 percent, a much faster-than-average rate compared to other careers, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [6]. The types of cybersecurity jobs available in the maritime industry are similar to those in other sectors, including penetration testers and systems analysts. These jobs typically come with a competitive salary and a positive job outlook.  Read more: 5 Cybersecurity Career Paths (and How to Get Started) 1. Penetration tester A penetration tester essentially works on offense, testing websites, apps, and systems for vulnerabilities. For example, you might simulate a cyberattack to expose areas of weakness, generate a report about your findings, and make recommendations to prevent any future attacks. You might work directly for an organization, or you might work for a firm that services multiple organizations.  US salary total pay range: $117,000 to $206,000 [7]  Requirements: The requirements for becoming a penetration tester will vary from job to job, but you usually can start by gaining as many technical skills related to the job as possible. These might include learning JavaScript, Python, and C++. You can earn a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field and relevant certifications like the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or the OffSec Certified Professional (OSCP).  IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist professional certificate Beginner level · 3 month(s) Skills you'll build: Incident Management, Data Storage, Business Continuity Planning, Business Continuity, Cybersecurity, System Configuration, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Controls, Cloud Computing Architecture, Incident Response, Cryptography, Network Security, Information Technology, Email Security, Generative AI, Cloud Services, Peripheral Devices, Penetration Testing, Application Security, Digital Forensics, Data Security, Information Systems Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authorization (Computing), Authentications, Multi-Factor Authentication, User Provisioning, Cyber Security Policies, Identity and Access Management, Data Access, Disaster Recovery, Security Management, Crisis Management, Relational Databases, Cross Platform Development, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Package and Software Management, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Deployment, Other Programming Languages, Database Management Systems, Information Management, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Strategy, Generative AI Agents, Data Storage Technologies, Cloud Security, Cloud Storage, Hybrid Cloud Computing, DevOps, Cloud-Native Computing, Serverless Computing, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Microservices, Cloud Computing, Virtual Machines, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Platforms, IBM Cloud, Cloud Technologies, Emerging Technologies, Cyber Governance, Risk Management Framework, Cyber Risk, Security Awareness, Information Assurance, Data Ethics, Governance, Firewall, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Threat Management, Computer Networking, IT Security Architecture, Network Model, Infrastructure Security, General Networking, Network Protocols, Network Planning And Design, Cyber Attacks, OSI Models, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Data Centers, Threat Detection, Computer Hardware, Operating Systems, User Accounts, Hardware Troubleshooting, File Systems, Software Installation, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Operating System Administration, Technical Support, Computer Systems, Mac OS, Network Infrastructure, Computer Architecture, Virtualization, Linux, Encryption, Hardening, Malware Protection, Patch Management, Endpoint Security, Configuration Management, Continuous Monitoring, System Monitoring, Cyber Operations, IT General Controls (ITGC), Network Administration, Event Monitoring, Computer Security Awareness Training, Information Technology Operations, Wireless Networks, TCP/IP, Network Troubleshooting, Networking Hardware, Command-Line Interface, Network Architecture, Wide Area Networks, Telecommunications, Microsoft Windows, Local Area Networks, AI Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Exploitation techniques, Vulnerability Assessments, Cyber Security Strategy, Technical Support and Services 4.7 (15,517 ratings) professional certificate IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist Get job-ready to launch your cybersecurity career . 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No prior experience required. 4.7 (15,517 ratings) 25,582 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 3 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Incident Management, Data Storage, Business Continuity Planning, Business Continuity, Cybersecurity, System Configuration, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Controls, Cloud Computing Architecture, Incident Response, Cryptography, Network Security, Information Technology, Email Security, Generative AI, Cloud Services, Peripheral Devices, Penetration Testing, Application Security, Digital Forensics, Data Security, Information Systems Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authorization (Computing), Authentications, Multi-Factor Authentication, User Provisioning, Cyber Security Policies, Identity and Access Management, Data Access, Disaster Recovery, Security Management, Crisis Management, Relational Databases, Cross Platform Development, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Package and Software Management, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Deployment, Other Programming Languages, Database Management Systems, Information Management, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Strategy, Generative AI Agents, Data Storage Technologies, Cloud Security, Cloud Storage, Hybrid Cloud Computing, DevOps, Cloud-Native Computing, Serverless Computing, Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS), Microservices, Cloud Computing, Virtual Machines, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Engineering, Cloud Platforms, IBM Cloud, Cloud Technologies, Emerging Technologies, Cyber Governance, Risk Management Framework, Cyber Risk, Security Awareness, Information Assurance, Data Ethics, Governance, Firewall, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Threat Management, Computer Networking, IT Security Architecture, Network Model, Infrastructure Security, General Networking, Network Protocols, Network Planning And Design, Cyber Attacks, OSI Models, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Data Centers, Threat Detection, Computer Hardware, Operating Systems, User Accounts, Hardware Troubleshooting, File Systems, Software Installation, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Operating System Administration, Technical Support, Computer Systems, Mac OS, Network Infrastructure, Computer Architecture, Virtualization, Linux, Encryption, Hardening, Malware Protection, Patch Management, Endpoint Security, Configuration Management, Continuous Monitoring, System Monitoring, Cyber Operations, IT General Controls (ITGC), Network Administration, Event Monitoring, Computer Security Awareness Training, Information Technology Operations, Wireless Networks, TCP/IP, Network Troubleshooting, Networking Hardware, Command-Line Interface, Network Architecture, Wide Area Networks, Telecommunications, Microsoft Windows, Local Area Networks, AI Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Exploitation techniques, Vulnerability Assessments, Cyber Security Strategy, Technical Support and Services 2. Cloud security specialist As a cloud security specialist, you'll work to ensure that an organization's data storage system is safe and secure from cyberattacks. This might mean executing regular security audits and risk assessments, finding ways to improve security, and implementing plans. Any organization that relies on the cloud for data storage may hire someone to fill this role, and it's considered one of the highest-demand jobs in cybersecurity.  US salary total pay range: $122,000 to $224,000 [8]  Requirements: As with most cybersecurity jobs, your technical skills and knowledge are key to getting a job in cloud security. A background in programming and a strong knowledge of cloud technology are helpful. You'll need an understanding of languages like Python, Go, Bash, and Java. You can also earn one or more certifications that can help you improve your cloud security skills, and you may find a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field beneficial.  Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) specialization Advanced level · 1 month(s) Skills you'll build: IT Security Architecture, Cloud Computing Architecture, Identity and Access Management, Data Centers, Data Integrity, Cloud Security, Service Level, Security Engineering, Secure Coding, Cloud Computing, Application Security, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Cloud Applications, Cloud Management, Cloud Infrastructure, Data Management, Cyber Risk, DevSecOps, Security Awareness, Risk Management Framework, Security Management, Cloud Standards, Cloud Storage, Data Loss Prevention, Security Controls, Data Storage, Threat Management, Functional Testing, Software Quality Assurance, Verification And Validation, Software Development, Cloud Deployment, Security Testing, Single Sign-On (SSO), User Provisioning, Authentications, Data Security, Threat Modeling, IT General Controls (ITGC), Software-Defined Networking, Configuration Management, Network Security, Incident Management 4.6 (12 ratings) specialization Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) . Skills for cloud security implementation, architecture, management, controls, and compliance. 4.6 (12 ratings) 1,662 already enrolled Advanced level Learn More Average time: 1 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: IT Security Architecture, Cloud Computing Architecture, Identity and Access Management, Data Centers, Data Integrity, Cloud Security, Service Level, Security Engineering, Secure Coding, Cloud Computing, Application Security, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Cloud Applications, Cloud Management, Cloud Infrastructure, Data Management, Cyber Risk, DevSecOps, Security Awareness, Risk Management Framework, Security Management, Cloud Standards, Cloud Storage, Data Loss Prevention, Security Controls, Data Storage, Threat Management, Functional Testing, Software Quality Assurance, Verification And Validation, Software Development, Cloud Deployment, Security Testing, Single Sign-On (SSO), User Provisioning, Authentications, Data Security, Threat Modeling, IT General Controls (ITGC), Software-Defined Networking, Configuration Management, Network Security, Incident Management 3. Incident response engineer An incident response engineer is a member of the incident response team, which means that when an organization deals with a cyberattack, they're responsible for responding to the threat, reducing any damage caused, and investigating what happened so the team can prevent a future attack. This job requires plenty of technical know-how in areas like forensic software, cloud computing, major operating systems, and system monitoring tools.  US salary total pay range: $103,000 to $173,000 [9] Requirements: Jobs in this area typically require a bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity. Potential employers may also require certifications like the GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH). 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Learn the basic skills required to become an entry-level cybersecurity operations analyst in a Security Operations Center (SOC). 4.8 (1,211 ratings) 31,641 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 3 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Microsoft Windows, Vulnerability Assessments, Linux Commands, Network Security, Threat Detection, Threat Modeling, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Key Management, Data Security, Linux, Endpoint Security, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Incident Response, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Windows PowerShell, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Operations, File Systems, Malware Protection, OS Process Management, Windows Servers, Linux Administration, Operating System Administration, Computer Systems, Command-Line Interface, General Networking, System Monitoring, Operating Systems, Network Administration, Systems Administration, Security Controls, Security Software, Encryption, Network Monitoring, Information Assurance, Network Analysis, Data Integrity, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cryptographic Protocols, Event Monitoring, Continuous Monitoring, Security Management, Threat Management, Security Awareness, Incident Management, Records Management, Computer Networking, Cyber Security Policies, Record Keeping, SQL, Anomaly Detection, Exploitation techniques, Network Protocols, Automation, IT Automation, Cyber Attacks, Data Analysis Software, Information Technology Operations, TCP/IP, Firewall, IT Security Architecture, Authorization (Computing), Identity and Access Management, Infrastructure Security, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Network Infrastructure, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Network Model 4. Cybersecurity analyst  As a cybersecurity analyst, you may take on various tasks, depending on where you work and that organization's unique needs. This can range from setting up firewalls, investigating security breaches, conducting risk assessments, and writing incident reports. Ultimately, your job is to protect that organization's computer networks from cyber threats and attacks.  US salary base pay range: $99,000 to $166,000 [10] Requirements: To become a cybersecurity analyst, you'll typically need a degree in cybersecurity, math, engineering, computer and information technology, or a related field. Earning industry certifications, such as CompTIA's Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) credential, is also usually required for this type of job. More advanced roles as a cybersecurity analyst may require work experience in a related field.  IBM Cybersecurity Analyst professional certificate Beginner level · 4 month(s) Skills you'll build: Digital Forensics, Email Security, Operating System Administration, Cyber Threat Hunting, Information Technology Infrastructure Library, Interviewing Skills, Network Security, Cloud Computing, Networking Hardware, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Security Assessment, IT Service Management, Governance Risk Management and Compliance, Malware Protection, Cybersecurity, Penetration Testing, Identity and Access Management, Service Management, Incident Response, Database Management, Applicant Tracking Systems, Negotiation, Business Writing, Professional Networking, Communication, Market Research, Technical Communication, Recruitment, Writing, Web Presence, Portfolio Management, Keyword Research, Job Analysis, Vulnerability Management, Simulations, Cyber Attacks, Security Testing, Security Controls, Application Security, Network Architecture, Endpoint Detection and Response, Data Security, Cyber Security Policies, Information Technology Architecture, IT Security Architecture, DevSecOps, Multi-Factor Authentication, Authentications, Human Factors (Security), Threat Management, Security Awareness, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, SQL, Encryption, NoSQL, Relational Databases, Database Application, User Provisioning, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Database Administration, Database Architecture and Administration, Databases, Information Systems Security, Database Management Systems, Database Design, User Accounts, Cryptography, Vulnerability Scanning, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Exploitation techniques, Vulnerability Assessments, AI Integrations, Threat Detection, Brute-force attacks, Test Planning, Hardening, Authorization (Computing), Patch Management, Endpoint Security, Network Protocols, Firewall, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Routing, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Routing Protocols, TCP/IP, Local Area Networks, Network Administration, Network Infrastructure, Network Routers, Data Loss Prevention, General Networking, Generative AI, Anomaly Detection, Threat Modeling, AI Security, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Incident Management, Large Language Modeling, Generative Model Architectures, Prompt Engineering, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Linux Administration, Virtualization, Mac OS, Command-Line Interface, Linux Commands, File Systems, Systems Administration, Cloud Security, File Management, Cloud Computing Architecture, Windows Servers, Knowledge of Apple Software, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, Computer Security Incident Management, Information Assurance, Information Technology, Computer Security Awareness Training, Cyber Security Strategy, Technical Support and Services, Risk Management, Regulatory Compliance, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Responsible AI, Compliance Auditing, IT Management, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Cyber Risk, Auditing, Data Ethics, Compliance Management, Cyber Governance, ISO/IEC 27001, Security Management, Data Integrity 4.6 (28,235 ratings) professional certificate IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Launch your career as a cybersecurity professional. 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Ethical hacker Ethical hackers, sometimes called white hat hackers, are professionals who purposely hack into an organization's website or network to expose vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. Like penetration testers, you'll use these simulated attacks to develop solutions to strengthen that organization’s cybersecurity system. You may have to write up a report or present your findings to stakeholders.  US salary base pay range: $130,000 to $230,000 [11] Requirements: Job requirements will vary from organization to organization, but many ethical hackers have an associate degree or bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Related coursework, certifications, and an understanding of certain technical skills, like Python programming, Microsoft and Linux security, and network security, may also help you get a job.  IBM Ethical Hacking with Open Source Tools professional certificate Intermediate level · 2 month(s) Skills you'll build: Network Analysis, Penetration Testing, Network Security, Vulnerability Management, AI Security, Cyber Security Policies, Cyber Security Assessment, Anomaly Detection, Vulnerability Scanning, Vulnerability Assessments, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Information Systems Security, Cybersecurity, Incident Response, Incident Management, Exploit development, Threat Detection, Network Monitoring, Linux Administration, Bash (Scripting Language), Data Persistence, Human Factors (Security), Vulnerability, Digital Forensics, System Configuration, Technical Writing, Risk Mitigation, Security Strategy, Emergency Response, Network Protocols, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Technical Communication, Computer Security, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Data Ethics, Cyber Governance, Risk Analysis 4.6 (201 ratings) professional certificate IBM Ethical Hacking with Open Source Tools Master key ethical hacking tools in just 2 months. 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Digital forensics examiner Digital forensics examiners are sort of like detectives, but instead of solving crimes out on the streets, they help solve cybercrimes. In this role, you'll gather information left behind by hackers who commit a cyberattack and analyze your findings. You may also do some ethical hacking to help better understand the actions of those who perform criminal activity.  US salary base pay range: $143,000 to $239,000 [12] Requirements: To work in digital forensics, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in an area like cybersecurity, computer science, criminal justice, or computer forensics. Certifications and demonstration of human and technical skills may also be necessary for this role. A background in law enforcement can also be beneficial.  Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Cyber Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, Network Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Web Presence, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, SQL, Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity, Linux, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Network Protocols, Security Awareness, Python Programming, Hardening, Bash (Scripting Language), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, Network Analysis, TCP/IP, Event Monitoring, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Continuous Monitoring, Document Management, Security Controls, Network Monitoring, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, AI Workflows, Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Security Strategy, Information Assurance, Prompt Engineering, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Systems, File Management, Linux Administration, Database Management, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Unix Commands, Relational Databases, Authentications, Unix Shell, Vulnerability Assessments, Risk Management Framework, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Identity and Access Management, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Firewall, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Model, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Maintainability, Data Structures, Data Import/Export, IT Automation, Automation, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Auditing, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation 4.8 (67,407 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,407 ratings) 1,508,587 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Cyber Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, Network Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Web Presence, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, SQL, Vulnerability Management, Cybersecurity, Linux, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Network Protocols, Security Awareness, Python Programming, Hardening, Bash (Scripting Language), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, Network Analysis, TCP/IP, Event Monitoring, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Continuous Monitoring, Document Management, Security Controls, Network Monitoring, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Ethics, AI Workflows, Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Security Strategy, Information Assurance, Prompt Engineering, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Systems, File Management, Linux Administration, Database Management, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Unix Commands, Relational Databases, Authentications, Unix Shell, Vulnerability Assessments, Risk Management Framework, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Identity and Access Management, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Firewall, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Model, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Maintainability, Data Structures, Data Import/Export, IT Automation, Automation, Scripting, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Auditing, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation What qualifications do you need for maritime security? Gaining the right skills You can gain the skills you need for a career in cybersecurity in the maritime industry through many options, including previous work experience, formal education, and boot camps. Some people have a background in cybersecurity and transition to the maritime industry, but you can also transfer skills you've learned in other areas, ranging from customer service to education.  Education You don't necessarily need a degree to work in cybersecurity. Still, in some cases, it may be helpful to earn an associate, bachelor's degree, or master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, like computer science, math, information systems, or engineering. Otherwise, you may need a high school diploma with relevant experience and training.  Work experience Some employers prefer candidates with relevant work experience, which may come from fields other than technology. Many people come from industries like business administration, customer service, and hospitality. However, many others do have an IT background. Either way, be ready to showcase how your own unique experience has helped you develop important human skills needed for the field when you apply for a job.  Boot camps Many colleges and universities offer boot camps to gain important cybersecurity skills, practice with hands-on experience, and grow your professional network. Compared to earning a degree, boot camps are intensive, accelerated programs that allow you to gain skills in a much shorter amount of time.  Certifications  Earning a certification can help you gain skills and start your cybersecurity career. Some employers even prefer job candidates with certain industry-recognized certifications. Some common options include the CompTIA PenTest+, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), the CompTIA Security+, and the ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certifications.  Explore guides and resources to keep you on track Join Career Chat on LinkedIn to get timely updates on popular skills, tools, and certifications in software development. Learn more about careers and trends in cybersecurity with our other free resources: Find your career track: Cybersecurity Career Paths: Explore Roles & Specializations  Watch on YouTube: How to Pivot Industries as a Cybersecurity Analyst  Explore important trends: How AI is changing cybercrime and cybersecurity Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses.  Get midyear savings and gain career momentum Save now Article sources 1.  Waterfront Alliance. “A Reintroduction to the Maritime Industry, https://waterfrontalliance.org/2025/01/29/a-reintroduction-to-the-maritime-industry/.” Accessed April 4, 2026.  View all sources Keep reading 7 Cybersecurity Trends to Know in 2026 6 min read · December 4, 2025 5 Cybersecurity Threats to Know in 2026 7 min read · December 4, 2025 Pros and Cons of a Cybersecurity Career January 31, 2026 AI in Cybersecurity: How It's Being Used and Risks to Navigate 6 min read · January 29, 2026 Cybersecurity Degrees and Alternatives: Your 2026 Guide 7 min read · December 4, 2025 Will AI Replace Cybersecurity? May 27, 2026 Updated on Apr 10, 2026 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... This content has been made available for informational purposes only. 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