Steps to Build a Career in Cybersecurity with No Experience

You do not need to be a hoodie-wearing hacker to start a career in cybersecurity. Focus on curiosity, protecting systems, and building your skills.

Whether you are moving from IT support, networking, or another field—or starting fresh—the path into cybersecurity is now more accessible.

Every organisation—from hospitals and banks to government agencies—needs cybersecurity experts, yet demand far exceeds supply. Employers value initiative, practical skills, and a willingness to learn over years of experience.

Even without prior experience, you can enter this in-demand field by staying focused, preparing strategically, and gaining hands-on skills. Structured programmes can provide the guidance and practical exposure needed to succeed.

One such programme is offered by GRMI-NU: the Post Graduate Diploma in Technology Risk Management (PGDTRM), a one-year course. It equips students with practical skills in IT risk, cybersecurity frameworks, and technology governance.

Hands-on projects, practical case studies, and expert guidance prepare graduates to take on challenging roles in cybersecurity and technology risk management.

Step 1: Assess your strengths and interests

Begin by evaluating your skills and interests. Are you analytical, detail-oriented, and good at problem-solving?

Roles like SOC analyst or risk compliance suit analytical individuals. Hands-on problem solvers may prefer network or cloud security.

Tools like the NIST NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and CyberSeek Pathway map your skills to real jobs. Knowing your fit helps secure a suitable first role.

Step 2: Explore cybersecurity domains

Each cyber security certification course requires specific skills, tools, and certifications. Network security roles use SIEM tools, firewalls, and log analysis. Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) roles focus on IT policies, controls, and frameworks such as ISO 27001 and COBIT. Identifying your domain helps PGDTRM students target learning and select certifications relevant to practical, career-oriented skills.

Step 3: Build foundational knowledge and skills

Beginners need a strong foundation. Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) validate your knowledge.

These credentials align with the practical and theoretical foundation taught in GRMI-NU’s PGDTRM programme.

PGDTRM develops skills in IT risk, enterprise cybersecurity, and governance. Whereas case-studies, simulations, and internships provide real-world exposure.

Graduates can pursue roles like AI Security Analyst, Technology Risk Consultant, or IT Audit Analyst.

Step 4: Gain practical experience

Hands-on practice distinguishes you. PGDTRM emphasises projects and internships to develop real-world skills.

Students learn to implement controls, monitor systems, and analyse threats. These skills match entry-level cybersecurity roles.

You can also practise at home using labs, virtual environments, or platforms like TryHackMe and Cybrary.

Step 5: Pursue targeted certifications

Certifications must match your domain and career goals.

For governance and compliance, consider ISO 27001, CISA, or CISM. For technical paths, start with Security+ then progress to AWS Certified Security – Specialty or CCNA.

Step 6: Network and engage with the industry

Professional networks accelerate your career. Join cybersecurity communities, attend conferences, and participate in online forums.

Networking helps you discover trends, job opportunities, and mentorships.

GRMI-NU provides mentorships, workshops, and career guidance. These resources align learning with market needs and help secure your first cybersecurity role.

Step 7: Start with entry-level positions

Entry-level roles include SOC analyst, IT risk associate, or cybersecurity intern.

These positions involve monitoring, compliance, and incident response. They give exposure to real-world systems and build a foundation for advanced careers.

Combining knowledge, practical training, and certifications opens doors, even without prior experience.

Step 8: Plan for Long-Term Career Growth

Cybersecurity careers evolve rapidly. Early professionals should plan progression from technical or compliance roles to specialised or leadership positions.

SOC analysts can advance to threat hunters or incident response leads. Compliance staff may become GRC managers or chief risk officers.

A clear plan ensures certifications, projects, and experience contribute to long-term goals. PGDTRM focuses on technical, analytical, and managerial skill development.

Conclusion

You can start a cybersecurity career without experience by knowing your strengths, choosing a domain, and gaining foundational knowledge.

Combine practical experience with relevant certifications. Structured programmes like GRMI-NU’s PGDTRM offer immersive learning, career support, and practical exposure.

With aligned skills, certifications, and experience, you can confidently enter cybersecurity and pursue high-demand, rewarding roles.

FAQ's

Q1: Can non-IT graduates join PGDTRM?
Ans: Yes, Bridge Modules provide foundational IT and cybersecurity skills.

Q2: How long is the PGDTRM programme?
Ans: One year full-time, including classroom learning and a six-month internship.

Q3: Will PGDTRM help with placements?
Ans: Yes, it offers career support, mentorship, and industry exposure.

Q4: What TRM skills will I gain from PGDTRM?
Ans: Students learn IT risk assessment, technology governance, and enterprise cybersecurity controls.

Q5: What TRM-related roles can I pursue after PGDTRM?
Ans: Graduates can work as Technology Risk Consultants, IT Audit Analysts, or IT Compliance Specialists.

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Steps to Build a Career in Cybersecurity with No Experience