In an increasingly interconnected world, where every transaction, conversation, and operation is digitised, the importance of cybersecurity has grown exponentially. Once synonymous with coding, ethical hacking, and system audits, the domain naturally attracted Computer Science and IT graduates. Their familiarity with systems architecture, programming languages, and network protocols gave them a solid foundation for roles like security analysts, penetration testers, and incident responders. However, as cyber threats have become more dynamic, including elements of behavioural manipulation, legal complexity, and infrastructure vulnerability, the field has evolved into a multidisciplinary one requiring experts from Engineering, Law, Psychology, and even Statistics.
Other disciplines
Engineering graduates, particularly those from Electronics, Electrical, and Mechanical backgrounds, are well-positioned to enter cybersecurity through the industrial and operational security track. With the emergence of smart factories, connected infrastructure, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, securing physical systems that interface with digital platforms has become a major priority. So many pursue additional certifications in areas like industrial control systems security and vulnerability assessment to bridge the technical gap.
Another group with immense untapped potential is Maths and Statistics graduates. Their ability to work with data, recognise patterns, and create predictive models aligns perfectly with the growing emphasis on analytics-driven security. They are especially crucial in areas like cryptography, threat intelligence, and AI-powered risk assessments, as they can build, interpret, and optimise the algorithms that power next-generation defence mechanisms.
Then there are those with a background in Psychology and Behavioural Sciences. Today, cyberattacks often begin not with a technical exploit but with a well-crafted phishing email or a social engineering tactic. Understanding human behaviour, motivation, and cognitive biases is essential to building defences against these psychologically driven attacks. Behavioural scientists contribute to designing security awareness programmes, detecting insider threats, and analysing user behaviour to identify anomalies. Their work is crucial in shaping the “human firewall” that organisations so desperately need.
Cybersecurity is also deeply intertwined with law and public policy. As regulatory frameworks evolve around data privacy, digital transactions, and national cyber defence, legal professionals help translate complex cyber laws into practical policies, handle digital forensics, and advise organisations on risk governance. With governments and international agencies pushing stricter regulations, the demand for professionals who understand both cybersecurity and legal frameworks is rising rapidly.
Continuous learning
Regardless of academic background, a common denominator is continuous learning. Whether you are an engineer moving into vulnerability analysis, a psychologist entering threat modelling, or a lawyer handling compliance frameworks, courses like CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) help develop a structured understanding of cybersecurity principles, frameworks, and tools.
Cybersecurity also intersects with broader strategic concerns, particularly when it comes to cloud adoption and protecting national infrastructure. As organisations increasingly rely on public and hybrid cloud platforms, robust cloud security policies must be established and regularly reviewed. Compliance with standards like the Cloud Security Alliance STAR framework helps build stronger governance structures. Meanwhile, national critical infrastructure must be continuously monitored for risks using advanced solutions like attack surface management, business continuity tools, and supply chain risk evaluations.
One of the greatest challenges today is not just in securing infrastructure or data but in educating people. Most cyber incidents originate from human error such as clicking on a malicious link, using weak passwords, or falling for a scam. That is why continuous cybersecurity awareness is essential. Ultimately, cybersecurity is no longer a one-size-fits-all profession. It is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field that thrives on diverse perspectives. The key is to stay curious, certified, and ahead of the curve.
The writer is Head-Business Ops at SecurEyes.
Published – September 14, 2025 12:00 pm IST
