Cyber Security Internships

Can I get an internship in cyber security?

Yes! You don’t need to be a coding genius or even have years of experience under your belt. What really matters is your willingness to learn and a genuine interest in protecting digital systems. The cyber security industry needs fresh talent, with an estimated 11,200 additional professionals needed right now.

Internships are short work experience opportunities where you’ll work full-time for a business. How long your internship lasts completely depends on the employer, but you can expect to be there anywhere between one and six months, usually over the summer months.

Whether you want to explore everything cyber security has to offer or focus on a particular area, there are internships designed for both. Some types of internships you can do include:

• Security consultant

• Networking architecture

• Computer security research

• Software developer

• Security consultant

• Cyber security analyst.

Once you’ve finished your internship, you could move on to doing a placement or graduate scheme once university is over.

What do cyber security interns actually do?

You might think that interns spend their time with their eyes glued to a computer screen. But in reality, there’s so much more to what a cyber security intern does on the day-to-day. As a cyber security intern, you'll work alongside experienced professionals to protect organisations from digital threats.

Your tasks can include:

• Protect systems against unauthorised access or modifications

• Monitor networks for security breaches

• Investigate security breaches and unauthorised access

• Implement enhancements and updates to current systems

• Update a company incident report

• Reviewing and updating privacy policies 

• Conduct security assessments.

These aren't just training exercises either. You'll be working on real projects that make a real difference to a business’ security.

You’ll use a wide range of programmes to help you get on with your daily tasks. Some of these include Wireshark, Nessus Professional and Kali Linux. 

Is AI replacing cyber security?

Here’s the truth, no it’s not. AI isn’t replacing cyber security or the people who work within the industry. If anything, there’s loads of growth happening within the AI and cyber security fields.

Cyber security companies are hiring a lot, with over 17,000 open positions waiting to be filled. A career in cyber will be a career for life.

AI is basically your sidekick. It’ll handle processes, automation and huge data, while you get on with working out strategies and new ways of working. 

Which companies offer cyber security internships?

One of the best parts of cyber security is that you’re in demand. As technology advances and cyber attacks become more sophisticated, demand for talented students like you keeps growing. 

You’re not tied down by industry either! You’ll find a cyber security internship in any organisation whether that’s entertainment, healthcare or education. Here are some of the top employers looking for cyber security interns to join their ranks:

How much are cyber security interns paid?

The cyber security industry pays really well and as an intern you could earn between £25,000 and £35,000 pro rata. 

How much you earn can depend on the company size, location, and length of your internship. London-based roles often pay more, but it costs more to live in the capital.

Your internship is just the beginning. Once you graduate and move into full-time cyber security roles, salaries typically range between £40,000 to over £100,000 depending on your experience and specialism.

What are the entry requirements for a cyber security internship?

The entry requirements for cyber security internships are more flexible than you might think. While some employers prefer candidates on track to getting a 2:2 or above in software or cyber-related subjects, many accept applications from students in other degrees.

Some basic understanding of IT, networking, or programming helps, but it's not a deal-breaker if you're still learning. Showing genuine enthusiasm for cyber security is what will really make you stand out.

Think about any relevant projects (even personal ones) you’ve done or if you’ve taken part in any Capture The Flag competitions. If not, it’s still okay. You’re there to learn.

Soft skills are also super important and employers will look at candidates who can demonstrate them. Think skills like:

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Attention-to-detail

• Problem solving.

How to apply

Employers usually start recruiting interns in the autumn (from September to December) ready for summer starts, though some hire all year round. If you've spotted the perfect internship, you'll typically fill in an online application form and attach your CV.

Your application will include a few online assessments and if you impress, you’ll be invited to an assessment centre where you’ll take part in group tasks and your final interview.

Ready to get started? Check out all our application advice, where you’ll find everything from crafting a CV to acing your assessment centre and interviews.