How to Be a Cryptologist

It truly takes a beautiful mind to understand the level of complexity involved in cryptology. With various vehicles for communication throughout the world, a person who deals with deciphering various signals and codes is very valuable. Most of these people find careers in government, but they may also work in the private sector. Here's how to become a cryptologist.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Determine an area of expertise. Cryptology covers three distinct areas. Some apply more specifically to the work of the National Security Agency (NSA). Cryptanalysis covers an understanding of information systems, while Signals Analysis applies the deciphering of foreign signals. Cryptography is an area of study about secret codes. The first two are incorporated into the NSA program. There are subtle differences between the three.
2. Seek a program covering the area of study desired. Traditionally, this area of expertise requires a math, science or computer major in college. Signals Analysis and cryptography require math and science majors. Cryptanalysis, however, are hired by the NSA from majors that range from Music to Chemistry. Perform online and offline searches for programs that are ranked in areas of interest.
3. Decide on which sector of the workforce is desired. Government has been the traditional avenue for this type of work. The Army and the NSA are very public in their desire to find individuals with this skill set. As the world becomes smaller with bigger technologies, private companies are also seeking this type of employee.
4. Use knowledge ethically. The very nature of this type of work lends itself to unethical behavior. Decide limits from the onset and make sure that all actions are in line with any legal guidelines set forth.

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