In recent years, cyber security has evolved into a crucial component of every company’s plan for longevity, security and advancement. With the expansion of businesses, the need for cybersecurity expertise is poised to rise continuously in the upcoming years.
India is experiencing high demand for cybersecurity professionals, with a market value expected to reach USD 20.59 Bn by 2032. This demand is driven by accelerated digital transformation and a growing number of cyber threats, leading to increased investment and a talent shortage, especially in specialised roles like cloud security and AI-driven security.
In this article
ToggleBefore exploring the options to pursue these most in-demand cyber security options, it is vital for you to know the actual reasons behind the escalating demand for cybersecurity positions and why the demand for skilled cyber security graduates is always high as compared to the supply of those graduates.
Shockingly, hackers launch an attack approximately every 39 seconds, totalling around 2,244 attacks per day, as reported by the University of Maryland. Contemplate the vulnerability of digital networks to unauthorised third-party access, defined as a cyberattack.
Organisations facing such attacks endure losses in data, finances and customer trust. To thwart these perilous cyber threats, the practice of cybersecurity is essential. It involves safeguarding networks and computer systems against unauthorised digital intrusions.
As the volume of digital data continues to surge, an imminent quadrupling of cyberattacks is anticipated. Consequently, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is set to soar. Despite this, research indicates a shortage of skilled workers in the cybersecurity sector, unveiling boundless job opportunities.
After completing the 12th grade, students interested in cybersecurity can pursue various courses to build their expertise in the field. Here are some popular options for Cyber Security Courses after 12th:
A four-year engineering programme focusing on programming, networks, cyber laws, ethical hacking, cryptography and digital forensics. Students learn to identify vulnerabilities, protect systems and handle real-time cyberattacks. It prepares you for roles in corporate security, IT companies, banking sectors and government cyber cells.
– Eligibility: 10+2 with PCM; minimum 50%
– Duration: 4 years
– Fees: ₹1.5–3.5 lakh per year
– Scope: Cybersecurity analyst, security engineer, penetration tester, forensic analyst.
– Average Salary: ₹4–10 LPA for freshers
This programme teaches cybersecurity fundamentals, ethical hacking, app security, database security and cloud security alongside computer applications. It is ideal for students who want to enter cybersecurity without engineering.
– Eligibility: 10+2 in any stream with Maths/Computer preferred
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakh per year
– Scope: Cyber analyst, SOC analyst, malware analyst, IT security support
– Average Salary: ₹3–7 LPA
A short-term technical programme focusing on practical skills like network security, ethical hacking tools, firewall setup and security audits. Suitable for students who want quick entry into the cybersecurity industry.
– Eligibility: 10+2 (any stream); basic computer knowledge
– Duration: 6 months–1 year
– Fees: ₹20,000–₹80,000
– Scope: Junior security analyst, security technician, IT support security
– Average Salary: ₹2–4 LPA
A science-oriented programme focusing on mathematics, cryptography, malware analysis, network security and digital forensics. Students gain strong analytical skills for the cybersecurity industry.
– Eligibility: 10+2 Science with PCM/PCMB
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹60,000–₹1.2 lakh per year
– Scope: Penetration tester, SOC analyst, forensic expert, incident responder
– Average Salary: ₹3–8 LPA
This course teaches cyber forensics, digital crime investigation, email tracking, mobile forensics and data recovery. Useful for students interested in cybercrime investigation.
– Eligibility: 10+2 (any stream).
– Duration: 1 year.
– Fees: ₹30,000–₹1 lakh.
– Scope: Digital forensic assistant, cyber lab technician and investigation support roles.
– Average Salary: ₹2.5–5 LPA.
This commerce-based programme focuses on financial fraud, auditing, forensic accounting, cyber fraud and risk management. Ideal for students interested in finance + cybersecurity.
– Eligibility: 10+2 Commerce/Any Stream
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹40,000–₹1 lakh per year
– Scope: Fraud analyst, risk consultant, compliance officer
– Average Salary: ₹3–6 LPA
Focuses on cyber legal frameworks, digital privacy laws, IT Act, cybercrime handling and corporate compliance. Great for students inclined towards law + technology.
– Eligibility: 10+2 (any stream)
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹40,000–₹1 lakh per year
– Scope: Legal researcher, cyber law consultant, compliance executive
– Average Salary: ₹3–6 LPA
A commerce degree with a deeper focus on cybercrime management, financial crime, data misuse, online fraud and legal responses.
– Eligibility: 10+2 in any stream
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹40,000–₹1 lakh per year
– Scope: Cybercrime analyst, digital fraud specialist, legal associate
– Average Salary: ₹3–6 LPA
A technical science course focusing on network architecture, network security tools, firewalls, intrusion detection, malware prevention and secure system design.
– Eligibility: 10+2 Science stream
– Duration: 3 years
– Fees: ₹60,000–₹1.2 lakh per year
– Scope: Network security engineer, SOC analyst, network penetration tester
– Average Salary: ₹3–8 LPA
CEH trains you to think like a hacker and find weaknesses in systems legally. It covers ethical hacking tools, penetration testing and vulnerability analysis. Ideal for beginners in cybersecurity.
Career roles: Ethical hacker, penetration tester, SOC analyst
Salary: ₹4–12 LPA
Security+ is a beginner-friendly global certification focusing on network security, threats, cryptography and risk management. It validates foundational cybersecurity skills required for entry-level jobs.
Career roles: Security technician, SOC analyst (L1), network security support
Salary: ₹3–7 LPA
CISSP is an advanced certification for experienced professionals covering security architecture, governance, cloud security and risk management. It’s globally respected and leads to senior security roles.
Career roles: Security manager, consultant, information security officer
Salary: ₹12–30 LPA
The availability of numerous cybersecurity courses for students implies a growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape.
Most cyber security courses after 12th require students to have a background in Science/Maths/Computer Applications, though many diploma and certification programmes are open to students from other streams too.
There are several crucial reasons to select cyber security course after completing your 12th standard.
Cybersecurity programmes are designed to build both theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on skills. Typical areas include:
The Apollo University is an esteemed university and renowned among candidates as it believes in experiential learning to be a common practice in its teaching-learning process. The hands-on learning experience at The Apollo University is carefully organised and overseen to encourage academic exploration while fostering the development of career, leadership and intellectual skills.
The University offers the best B.Tech. CSE- Cyber Security on account of multiple reasons.
The B.Tech CSE (Cyber Security) programme at the University is an evolving field within Computer Science and Engineering (CSE). To meet the growing demand for proficient security professionals in both public and private sectors, the Computer Science and Engineering department introduced the B. Tech programme in Computer Science and Engineering (Cyber Security) starting in 2023.
The Cyber Security curriculum equips students with practical, hands-on experience in securing systems and applications. It fosters an understanding of legal aspects related to cybersecurity and hones the skills necessary for leading, managing and contributing to the development of cybersecurity solutions. The department comprises highly qualified and experienced faculty members and maintains a robust connection with industries to enhance students’ practical knowledge.
Here are the main attributes of the university’s B. Tech programme in Computer Science and Engineering with a specialisation in Cyber Security.
The realm of cybersecurity is rapidly expanding and the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. Completing B.Tech in Cyber Security equips you for diverse roles, including Application Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer and Security Consultant. Embrace the future of cybersecurity, where continuous learning and certifications pave the way for a rewarding career. Take the first step towards securing the digital world – choose B.Tech Cyber Security.
There are multiple degrees that one can pursue in cyber security after the 12th grade, depending on one’s interests, skills and career goals. Some of the options are:
Usually, candidates must secure 50% in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics of Intermediate or in the diploma course or must have appeared for Class 12 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as major subjects from any recognised board. Please check the respective university’s website for more details.
Usually, the fee is around INR 9,00,000. Rest you may check the respective university’s website for the exact amount.
Yes. Cybersecurity is a highly paid field due to increasing cyber threats and the need for skilled professionals. Experienced experts, ethical hackers and security managers often earn excellent salaries across industries.
Mastering cybersecurity may pose challenges, yet the journey need not be arduous, particularly for tech enthusiasts. Cultivate a keen interest in the technologies you engage with and you may discover that mastering complex skills becomes more manageable.