🟢 Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst
(LinkedIn / Coursera)

Full name: Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate
Issuing organization: Microsoft, delivered via Coursera
Reputation and global recognition: This certification is recognized as a valuable entry-level credential in cybersecurity. It is accredited by the American Council on Education (ACE), allowing for the potential to earn college credits upon completion. (Best Cyber Security Analyst Courses in 2025 – Learn Prompting, Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate – Coursera)

Covered domains:
1. Cybersecurity fundamentals
2. Threat intelligence
3. Security operations
4. Security management
5. Compliance and identity solutions
6. Cloud security with Azure
7. Incident response
8. Penetration testing
9. Capstone project simulating real-world scenarios (Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate – CertZip, Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate Review SC …, Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate ~ Computer …, Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate)
Depth of content: The program offers a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, including hands-on labs and real-world case studies.
Technologies and tools included: Microsoft Defender, Azure Active Directory, Microsoft Sentinel, Microsoft Purview, and other Microsoft security tools.
Relevance in the current job market: Highly relevant; the certification addresses foundational cybersecurity skills that are essential for many IT security roles.
Mapping to frameworks: The program aligns with several frameworks, including:
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
- NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework (Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate)

Prior certifications or experience required: None.
Expected skill level: Beginner; suitable for individuals new to cybersecurity or those looking to transition into the field.
Required knowledge: A basic understanding of IT concepts is beneficial but not mandatory.

Total cost:
- Coursera subscription: $49 USD per month
- Estimated completion time: 4–6 months
- Total estimated cost: $196–$294 USD
Study materials or lab access included: Yes; all necessary study materials and lab access are included within the Coursera platform.
Discounts, scholarships, or regional pricing: Coursera offers a 7-day free trial and financial aid options for eligible learners. (Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate Review SC …)

Recommended study hours: Approximately 187 hours total; around 10 hours per week over 4–6 months.
Self-paced or instructor-led: Self-paced.
Learning modes: Self-study with interactive labs and assessments. (Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert – Certifications)

Job roles prepared for:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- SOC Analyst
- Security Operations Analyst
- Information Security Analyst
- Identity and Access Management Specialist (What are your thoughts on new Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst …, Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert – Certifications, Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate – CertZip)
Alignment with career goals: Ideal for individuals aiming to start a career in cybersecurity.
Technical, managerial, or both: Primarily technical, focusing on foundational cybersecurity concepts and operations.

Exam delivery: Online, integrated within the Coursera platform.
Exam content: Each course concludes with quizzes and assessments; the final course includes a comprehensive capstone project.
Proctored exam or testing center: No; assessments are completed online without proctoring.
Real-world labs or simulations: Yes; the program includes hands-on labs and a capstone project simulating real-world scenarios.
Length and number of questions: Varies by course; assessments are designed to test comprehension and practical application.
Difficulty level or average pass rate: Moderate difficulty; designed for beginners with no prior experience.

Expiration: The certificate does not expire.
Renewal process: No renewal required; however, staying updated with industry developments is recommended.

Official documentation: All necessary materials are provided within the Coursera platform.
Recommended books: Not specified; the program relies on its own curated content.
Online labs or platforms: Integrated virtual labs within Coursera.
YouTube channels, community guides, paid or free courses:
- Supplementary resources may be found on platforms like YouTube and Reddit for additional practice and insights.
Online communities:
- Reddit communities such as r/ITCareerQuestions and r/cybersecurity.

Mention in job postings: Increasingly recognized in job listings for entry-level cybersecurity roles.
Profile boost with recruiters: Demonstrates a commitment to learning and foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.
Recognition by top companies or certain countries: Endorsed by Microsoft; recognized by organizations valuing practical, hands-on experience.
Average salary for certified professionals: Varies by region and experience; entry-level cybersecurity professionals can expect salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 annually.

Part of a larger learning path or career track: Yes; serves as a foundational certification in Microsoft’s cybersecurity pathway.
Subsequent certifications:
- Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)
- Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate (SC-200)
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert (SC-100)
Comparison or complement to other certs: Comparable to CompTIA Security+ and (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) in terms of foundational knowledge, but with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience through labs and projects. (Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate – Credly, Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate, Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert – Certifications)