How to Become a Cyber Auditor: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Cyber threats are no longer isolated IT concerns but boardroom-level business risks. With ransomware attacks impacting 66% of organizations in 2023 and IoT malware incidents surging by 400% globally, managing cyber risk has never been more urgent or complex. As a result, organizations are strengthening every layer of their cyber defense, including the critical third line held by cyber auditors responsible for internal audits that rigorously assess security controls and performance. In this article, we’ll explore what it takes to become a cyber auditor—a specialized role in cybersecurity, compliance, and risk management.

Key Things You Should Know About a Cyber Auditor

• Cyber auditors must know how to communicate technical risks to non-technical stakeholders.
• Certifications like CISA and CISSP are often essential to stand out in the job market.
• The field is rapidly growing and constantly evolving, requiring ongoing learning and adaptability.

Table of Contents

1. What is a cyber auditor?
2. What degree is best for becoming a cyber auditor for 2025?
3. What certifications do you need to become a cyber auditor?
4. How long does it take to become a cyber auditor?
5. What are the top skills needed to become a cyber auditor?
6. How do I get entry-level experience in cyber auditing?
7. What is the typical career path for a cyber auditor?
8. Can an online degree boost your cyber auditing career?
9. How do cyber auditors stay current with emerging threats?
10. Can interdisciplinary skills boost a cyber auditor's effectiveness?
11. What are the most common challenges faced by cyber auditors?
12. How much does a cyber auditor earn?
13. What is the job outlook for cyber auditors for 2025?
14. What are the latest trends in cyber auditing?
15. Can unconventional degree programs fortify your cyber auditing career?
16. How can integrating biotechnology knowledge advance cyber auditing strategies?
17. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Cyber Auditor

What is a cyber auditor?

A cyber auditor is a cybersecurity professional who evaluates an organization's information systems, networks, and practices to ensure they meet regulatory, legal, and internal security standards. They play a critical role in identifying vulnerabilities, recommending improvements, and ensuring compliance with frameworks like ISO/IEC 27001, NIST, or HIPAA.

Cyber auditors conduct risk assessments, review IT controls, analyze security policies, and prepare detailed reports for leadership and regulators. Their goal is to find gaps before attackers do. They work across industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and tech, often as part of internal audit teams or consulting firms.

What degree is best for becoming a cyber auditor for 2025?

While there's no one-size-fits-all degree, the following academic backgrounds are the most common:

• Bachelor's in Information Technology or Computer Science: A solid foundation in networks, databases, and system architecture.
• Bachelor's in Cybersecurity: Tailored specifically for security principles and tools.
• Bachelor's in Accounting or Finance (with IT electives): Ideal for those looking to enter IT auditing from a financial background.

Many cyber auditors also pursue a master's degree to specialize further, often in:

• Cybersecurity: A master’s in cybersecurity focuses on advanced topics like network defense, ethical hacking, cryptography, and cyber law, preparing graduates to manage and protect digital infrastructure.
• Information Systems: This degree blends business and tech, covering topics like data management, systems analysis, and IT strategy, equipping students to bridge the gap between IT teams and business goals.
• Risk Management: A master’s in risk management teaches students how to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across industries, with courses in financial, operational, and cyber risk, plus regulatory compliance.
• Business Administration (MBA) with a security or IT focus: This program combines core business leadership training with electives in cybersecurity or information technology, ideal for professionals aiming to lead in tech-driven organizations or manage IT risk.
• EMBA with a Cybersecurity Specialization: A traditional or executive MBA online is designed for experienced professionals who want to enhance their business leadership skills while gaining specialized knowledge in cybersecurity. This program combines advanced business management education with in-depth cybersecurity training, preparing graduates to lead and make strategic decisions in organizations facing complex digital security challenges.

Aspiring cyber auditors should prioritize these key courses during their studies:

• Network Security: Covers how to protect and secure computer networks from unauthorized access, attacks, and breaches.
• Ethical Hacking: Teaches how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities legally to improve system defenses.
• Risk Management: Focuses on identifying, analyzing, and mitigating security and operational risks.
• Audit and Compliance: Provides knowledge on auditing practices and ensuring systems meet legal and regulatory standards.
• IT Governance: Examines how IT aligns with business goals while ensuring accountability, performance, and compliance.

What certifications do you need to become a cyber auditor?

Certifications are essential for becoming a competitive cyber auditor. They validate your expertise, demonstrate your commitment to the field, and often serve as a key requirement for hiring. Whether you're just starting or aiming for a leadership role, earning the right credentials can unlock opportunities across industries. Many professionals choose to pursue cyber security certifications online for flexibility, making it easier to gain recognized qualifications while balancing work and studies. Below are some of the most respected certifications for cyber auditors today:

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Still the gold standard for cyber auditing.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Great for senior roles.
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): Adds value in audit-heavy roles.
• CompTIA Security+: Best for entry-level candidates.
• Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC): Strong for risk-focused paths.
• ISO 27001 Lead Auditor: Ideal for those working with ISO standards.

According to the 2024 cybersecurity workforce report by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the number of degrees and certificates awarded in cybersecurity-related fields nearly tripled over the past decade, as shown below:

How long does it take to become a cyber auditor?

The time it takes to become a cyber auditor varies based on your educational background, work experience, and how aggressively you pursue certifications. For most people, the journey takes between four to six years, though some accelerated paths can lead to entry-level roles sooner.

Standard Path (4–6 Years)

• Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information systems, computer science, or a related field. This foundation helps build the critical thinking, technical, and risk assessment skills needed for cyber auditing.
• Entry-Level Experience (1–2 years): After graduation, many aspiring auditors begin in roles like IT analyst, risk associate, or compliance assistant to build hands-on experience with systems, networks, and basic audit procedures.
• Certifications: Professional certifications such as CISA, CompTIA Security+, or CISSP are often pursued alongside work and can be completed in a few months to a year. These credentials are key for advancing into specialized auditing roles.

Fast-Track Options (2–3 Years)

• Associate Degree + Certifications: A two-year associate degree combined with respected certifications can qualify you for junior audit or IT compliance roles. While this path is faster, you may still need additional experience and education for career advancement. For those seeking an even quicker route, pursuing a fast track computer science degree can provide a more accelerated pathway to higher-level positions in the tech and cybersecurity fields.
• Bootcamps and Accelerated Programs: Cybersecurity bootcamps and intensive training programs can help you gain technical and audit-specific skills in 6–12 months. These are most effective when paired with internships or real-world experience.

What are the top skills needed to become a cyber auditor?

Cyber auditing blends technical chops with investigative thinking. The most valuable skills include:

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of networks, firewalls, and protocols
• Familiarity with common security tools (Wireshark, Nessus, Splunk)
• Understanding of regulatory frameworks (SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS)

Soft Skills

• Critical thinking and attention to detail
• Report writing and documentation
• Communication with both tech teams and execs
• Ethical mindset and confidentiality

In a recent ISC2 cybersecurity workforce report, employers identified soft skills as the top qualities they seek when hiring cybersecurity professionals, often placing them above technical expertise:

How do I get entry-level experience in cyber auditing?

Breaking into the field of cyber auditing can be challenging, but there are several paths to gain valuable hands-on experience. Whether through internships, entry-level positions, or smart side projects, taking initiative and showcasing your skills will help you build a strong foundation in this specialized field.

• Internships and Co-ops: Internships and co-op programs offer valuable real-world experience and are one of the best ways to get started in cyber auditing. Look for roles in IT security or general auditing, as many government agencies and finance companies offer entry-level opportunities that can pave the way for a cyber auditing career.
• Entry-Level Jobs: Starting in entry-level positions such as IT auditor assistant, SOC Analyst, or IT compliance analyst offers valuable hands-on experience with auditing practices, IT security frameworks, and risk assessments. These roles help you become familiar with cybersecurity tools and concepts that are directly applicable to cyber auditing.
• Other Smart Moves: Getting involved in side projects such as volunteering to audit systems for nonprofits, joining cybersecurity clubs or competitions like Capture The Flag (CTFs), or participating in bug bounty programs can give you practical experience. Documenting your findings in a blog or on GitHub helps build your portfolio and showcases your problem-solving abilities.

However, it’s important to note that entry-level cybersecurity positions, including cyber auditor roles, are limited, particularly for those with an associate's degree online or traditionally earned. According to the data gathered from Cyberseek, just 13% of job postings are available to individuals with an associate’s degree, while the majority require a bachelor’s degree or higher, as shown below:

What is the typical career path for a cyber auditor?

The career path of a cyber auditor generally follows a progression from hands-on technical roles to strategic leadership positions. As you gain experience, certifications, and technical expertise, you’ll move through increasingly senior roles that offer greater responsibility and the opportunity to influence cybersecurity policy and strategy within organizations. Here’s a look at the common trajectory for cyber auditors:

• IT or Audit Intern: Many aspiring cyber auditors begin their careers as interns, gaining valuable experience in IT security, risk management, or general auditing. Internships provide an introduction to cybersecurity principles, auditing frameworks, and industry standards. They also help you build a network and learn from experienced professionals, setting the stage for future full-time roles.
• Junior IT Auditor or Security Analyst: After completing an internship or an entry-level position, the next step is often a junior role in IT auditing or security analysis, which is also considered an entry-level role in cybersecurity according to Cyberseek. In these positions, you'll begin performing basic audits, assessing IT environments, and monitoring security measures. You'll typically work under the supervision of senior auditors or security teams, learning how to identify vulnerabilities, review security controls, and assess compliance with industry regulations.
• Cyber Auditor or Compliance Analyst: At this stage, you’ll take on more responsibility, often acting as the lead auditor or a key member of a team performing in-depth cyber audits. As a Cyber Auditor or Compliance Analyst, you’ll assess the effectiveness of an organization’s cybersecurity protocols, identify risks, and recommend improvements. You’ll also be responsible for ensuring that businesses comply with relevant cybersecurity standards, frameworks, and regulations, such as NIST, ISO 27001, or GDPR.
• Senior Cyber Auditor / Risk Consultant: With several years of experience, many cyber auditors move into senior roles, such as Senior Cyber Auditor or Risk Consultant. In these positions, you’ll lead audit engagements, manage risk assessments, and provide strategic guidance to organizations on mitigating cyber risks. You may also work closely with top management to ensure that cybersecurity risks are being properly addressed across the entire organization, including business continuity planning and incident response.
• IT Audit Manager or Security Architect: As you advance in your career, you may step into roles like IT Audit Manager or Security Architect, where you'll oversee the auditing process or design and implement complex security systems. IT Audit Managers lead teams of auditors to ensure that audits are thorough and effective, while Security Architects focus on designing systems that proactively prevent breaches and secure sensitive data. These positions are among business jobs that pay well, offering substantial salaries and opportunities for growth in the cybersecurity field.
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Director of Compliance: At the pinnacle of the cyber auditing career path, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Director of Compliance role involves overseeing an organization’s entire cybersecurity strategy. CISOs manage teams responsible for protecting organizational assets, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and developing security policies. Directors of Compliance, on the other hand, ensure that all internal practices are aligned with external regulations and industry standards, playing a critical role in the organization’s risk management strategies.

Can an online degree boost your cyber auditing career?

Accredited online programs deliver a rigorous curriculum that equips professionals with up-to-date cyber auditing methodologies and technical insights. These courses offer flexibility and access to industry-standard tools, making it easier for working professionals to transition into or advance within the field. Strategic evaluation of program accreditation, course content, and support services is essential for aligning your educational goals with industry expectations. For instance, a cyber security degree online can provide a cost-effective and competitive pathway to enhance your expertise in navigating complex cyber threats.

How do cyber auditors stay current with emerging threats?

Cyber auditors must continually update their expertise by engaging in advanced training, specialized certifications, and participation in industry forums. They pursue targeted courses in emerging technologies such as machine learning and threat intelligence, ensuring their strategies remain effective against fast-evolving cyber risks. This ongoing professional development not only enhances risk mitigation practices but also opens pathways to roles among the highest paying jobs in computer science field.

Can interdisciplinary skills boost a cyber auditor's effectiveness?

Expanding expertise beyond traditional cybersecurity can offer a strategic advantage. Integrating disciplines such as data analytics and machine learning enhances threat detection and risk analysis without overlapping certification or entry-level experience details. For example, cross-training in areas like bioinformatics provides innovative approaches to understanding complex data patterns and anomaly detection. Pursuing targeted education, including a bioinformatics online master, equips cyber auditors with a diverse skill set that drives improved decision-making in dynamic security environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by cyber auditors?

Cyber auditors must navigate an ever-changing threat landscape marked by rapid technological advances and evolving regulatory requirements. They face complexity when aligning security assessments with diverse international frameworks and handling sophisticated breach methodologies without compromising audit integrity. Furthermore, resource constraints and an increasing demand for continuous professional development add to the challenge. Pursuing targeted educational opportunities, such as an online masters bioinformatics, can equip professionals with advanced analytical skills to better manage these obstacles.

How much does a cyber auditor earn?

Cyber auditing is a highly specialized and in-demand field, and as such, cyber auditors are well-compensated for their skills and expertise. According to Salary.com, the median salary for a cyber auditor in the United States is approximately $139,834 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on several key factors, such as experience, education, industry, and location. Understanding how these variables impact salary can help you better gauge potential earnings as you pursue a career in this field.

• Experience: Experience plays a significant role in determining a cyber auditor’s salary. Entry-level positions or those with less than two years of experience typically offer salaries at the lower end of the spectrum, with figures ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 annually. As professionals gain more experience, salaries increase.
• Education: Education plays a significant role in earning potential, with individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field often starting at a higher salary than those without formal education. Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Cybersecurity or an MBA with a focus on information security, can further enhance earning potential. Additionally, pursuing an MBA online no GMAT provides flexibility for professionals looking to advance their careers without the need for GMAT scores. Obtaining professional certifications like CISA, CISSP, or CISM can also help professionals qualify for higher-paying roles.
• Industry: The industry in which a cyber auditor works is another determining factor in salary. For instance, auditors working in finance, banking, or technology sectors often command higher salaries due to the sensitive nature of the data they are tasked with protecting. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations, on the other hand, may offer lower compensation, although they can provide other benefits, such as job stability and work-life balance.
• Location: Location is a key factor in determining a cyber auditor's salary, as compensation can vary significantly depending on the region. Below are some of the highest-paying cities for cyber auditors in the U.S.

What is the job outlook for cyber auditors for 2025?

The job outlook for cyber auditors for 2025 is growing strong, driven by the escalating demand for cybersecurity professionals and the increasing complexity of cyber threats and regulatory requirements. The field is expected to continue growing rapidly as organizations seek to protect themselves from an ever-evolving landscape of risks. Here’s a closer look at the data:

• Rapid Growth in Cybersecurity Jobs: Cybersecurity jobs, including those for cyber auditors, are projected to grow by 32% from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth rate is more than 10 times the projected national average job growth of 3% over the next decade. This growth positions cybersecurity as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the job market.
• High Demand for Governance and Oversight Roles: The demand for positions related to cybersecurity oversight, governance, and auditing is also significant. According to Cyberseek, there were nearly 7,000 job openings for cybersecurity roles in oversight and governance in 2024 alone. These roles encompass a range of positions from entry-level auditors to senior compliance officers, all of which contribute to maintaining an organization’s security and ensuring adherence to compliance standards such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA.
• Increasing Cyber Threats and Compliance Pressures: As cyber threats continue to rise—such as ransomware, phishing, and increasingly sophisticated malware attacks—the role of cyber auditors becomes even more critical. Additionally, governments around the world are enacting stricter compliance regulations to protect sensitive data. This creates a growing need for auditors who can assess the effectiveness of security measures and ensure compliance with these complex regulations.

Given the rising prevalence of cybercrime and the complexities of modern data privacy laws, cyber auditors will remain indispensable. Organizations are recognizing the importance of proactive risk management, and cyber auditors are integral in identifying vulnerabilities, testing defenses, and ensuring that security practices align with legal and industry standards. The ongoing demand for expertise in these areas guarantees that job prospects for cyber auditors are poised to remain robust for the foreseeable future.

What are the latest trends in cyber auditing?

Cyber auditing is rapidly evolving to keep pace with the increasingly complex digital landscape. The following trends highlight the significant shifts in the industry and the new skills and approaches that cyber auditors must embrace to remain effective:

• Cloud and SaaS Audit Focus: As more companies transition to cloud infrastructures, understanding how to audit cloud environments has become essential for cyber auditors. Auditors now need a deep understanding of cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, including their security policies, access controls, and compliance frameworks.
• Regulatory Expansion: The regulatory landscape for cybersecurity has become increasingly complex and far-reaching. From the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to the SEC’s cybersecurity disclosure rules, organizations must stay on top of a growing number of compliance requirements. These evolving regulations are no longer just an IT issue but a C-suite priority. Cyber auditors play a key role in ensuring that businesses comply with these regulations, avoiding penalties, and safeguarding organizational integrity in the face of stringent compliance demands.
• Continuous Auditing: Traditional audit models, which relied on periodic assessments, are being replaced by continuous auditing practices. Real-time monitoring tools allow auditors to assess security systems and controls on an ongoing basis, enabling them to identify vulnerabilities and risks much more quickly. This always-on model of auditing aligns with the increasingly dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats, requiring auditors to adapt their approach to provide more immediate, actionable insights.
• Integration with Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Platforms: As organizations aim to streamline their governance, risk, and compliance efforts, GRC platforms such as Archer and MetricStream are becoming standard in the industry. Cyber auditors must be proficient in using these platforms to manage risk, track compliance, and ensure security measures are being enforced across the organization. Familiarity with these tools is essential for modern auditors who need to integrate various compliance activities into a unified framework.
• AI and Automation in Auditing: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the field of cyber auditing. AI tools are now being used to detect anomalies, flag potential risk patterns, and automate time-consuming tasks such as log reviews and data analysis. According to a 2024 compliance report by A-LIGN, nearly half of organizations are leveraging AI to optimize their cybersecurity compliance processes.

Can unconventional degree programs fortify your cyber auditing career?

Integrating nontraditional academic disciplines can broaden a cyber auditor’s technical and analytical capabilities. Pursuing alternative educational paths fosters creative approaches to understanding complex threat landscapes and enhances skills in dynamic risk modeling. For instance, exposure to simulation-based learning and interactive problem solving—concepts found in programs like the best game development bachelor's degree online—can enrich a cyber auditor’s toolkit. Such cross-disciplinary training equips professionals to anticipate sophisticated cyber threats and implement more agile, innovative auditing strategies.

How can integrating biotechnology knowledge advance cyber auditing strategies?

Leveraging interdisciplinary expertise can yield innovative audit methodologies that address emerging risks. Cyber auditors who acquire foundational insights in biotechnology can refine data analysis and anomaly detection techniques, particularly in sectors where scientific advancements create novel security challenges. For instance, enrolling in an affordable masters in biotechnology online program can broaden technical perspectives and improve cross-domain problem solving. This fusion of cybersecurity with biotech principles enables professionals to develop more agile, forward-thinking audit strategies that align with complex, evolving digital environments.

Here's What Graduates Say About Becoming a Cyber Auditor

• Becoming a cyber auditor gave me the chance to blend my love for problem-solving with real-world impact—protecting businesses from ever-evolving threats. The constant learning and sense of purpose make every day both exciting and rewarding. Carl
• I transitioned into cyber auditing after years in IT, and it’s been the most fulfilling move of my career. The demand for skilled auditors is high, and the flexibility of remote work lets me balance a thriving career with family life. Sinead
• As a cyber auditor, I’ve traveled internationally to assess systems and help companies strengthen their defenses. Knowing that my work directly contributes to cybersecurity resilience gives me immense pride. Marco

Key Findings

• About 66% of companies allocate roughly $100,000 annually for cybersecurity audits.
• Cybersecurity roles, including those for cyber auditors, are expected to increase by 32% from 2022 to 2032.
• The average annual salary for cyber auditors in the U.S. is approximately $139,834.
• In 2024, there were nearly 7,000 job openings in cybersecurity roles focused on oversight and governance.
• 44% of organizations use AI to enhance their compliance processes.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Cyber Auditor

How much does a cyber audit cost?

The cost of a cyber audit can vary significantly based on factors like the organization’s size, the complexity of its systems, and the scope of the audit. Small businesses may pay between $5,000 and $15,000 for a basic audit. However, according to A-LIGN’s Compliance Benchmark Report, two out of three companies spend around $100,000 annually on audits. Other factors that can impact the cost include the need for specialized expertise, the number of systems being audited, and the location of the service provider.

What does a cybersecurity audit check for?

A cybersecurity audit typically examines an organization’s entire IT infrastructure to assess its security posture. Auditors check for vulnerabilities in networks, servers, databases, and endpoints, ensuring that systems are properly secured against threats such as malware, ransomware, and data breaches. The audit also evaluates compliance with industry standards and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA), reviews access control protocols, and assesses incident response and disaster recovery plans to ensure a robust security strategy.

What is an example of a cybersecurity audit?

An example of a cybersecurity audit could involve a company hiring a third-party auditor to evaluate its network security. The audit may include scanning for vulnerabilities in the company's servers, testing its firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and reviewing employee access to sensitive data. The auditor would then provide a report identifying weaknesses in the organization’s security measures and offer recommendations for strengthening defenses, ensuring the company is better protected against potential cyber threats and compliant with relevant regulations.

References:

• A-LIGN. (2025, April 2). 2024 compliance benchmark report. A-LIGN.com. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• Cyberseek. (2024). Cybersecurity supply and demand heat map. Cybersecurity.org. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• Deloitte. (2022, August 16). Cybersecurity and the role of internal audit. Deloitte United States. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• Deloitte. (2024, April 5). Deloitte cybersecurity threat trends report 2024. Deloitte United States. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• NCSES - NSF. (2024, May). Cybersecurity workforce supply and demand report. National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• NICCS. (2025, January 17). Cyber career pathways tool. National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
• Salary.com. (2025, April 1). Cyber auditor salary. Salary.com. Retrieved April 10, 2025.