Cryptographer
70AI USED FOR70%moving to95%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSE
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM COMPUTER SCIENCE →
Cryptographer
Cryptographers create secret codes and mathematical systems to keep sensitive information safe. Banks, governments, hospitals and tech companies all rely on cryptographers to protect their data from hackers.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This work is being absorbed by AI
AI already does much of this work and nothing structurally requires a human: no licence, no physical task, no relationship at the core. Expect fewer people in higher-judgment roles: enter as the person directing the tools, not competing with them.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior CryptographerAs a Junior Cryptographer, you will assist in developing encryption protocols and conducting basic security assessments. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain hands-on experience in the field.£30,000 - £40,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level CryptographerIn a Mid-level role, you will take on more complex projects, lead small teams, and contribute to the development of advanced cryptographic solutions. You will also mentor junior staff and collaborate with other departments.£50,000 - £70,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Cryptographer/Head of CryptographyAt the peak of your career, you will lead cryptographic initiatives, set strategic direction for security policies, and represent your organisation in industry forums. You will be responsible for overseeing all cryptographic activities and ensuring compliance with national standards.£80,000+
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Computer Engineering with Industrial StudiesUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£47,000 median
🎓Computer Science with Artificial IntelligenceUniversity of York · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£40,000 median
🎓Computing Science (Cybersecurity)University of Aberdeen · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£40,000 median
🎓Computer Games Design with AnimationAshton Sixth Form College · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£39,000 median
🎓Computer and Electronic SystemsUniversity of Strathclyde · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
🎓Software Engineering (with Placement)Queen's University of Belfast · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£33,000 median
All Computer Science courses as cards →
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Computer Engineering with Industrial StudiesUniversity of Southampton · DegreeComputer Science with Artificial IntelligenceUniversity of York · DegreeComputing Science (Cybersecurity)University of Aberdeen · DegreeComputer Games Design with AnimationAshton Sixth Form College · DegreeComputer and Electronic SystemsUniversity of Strathclyde · DegreeSoftware Engineering (with Placement)Queen's University of Belfast · Degree