Online skills training platform Coursera has released its Job Skills of 2025 report, identifying the top 10 tech skills expected to be in high demand by 2025. The report, informed by insights from over five million enterprise learners and 7,000+ institutional customers, emphasizes the critical need for cybersecurity expertise in an era of increasing cyber threats.
Top 10 Tech Skills of 2025
Incident Management & Response: Managing and resolving IT incidents effectively.
Threat Management & Modeling: Identifying and neutralizing software threats.
Security Information & Event Management (SIEM): Strengthening security posture using SIEM tools.
Computer Security: Safeguarding digital information and systems.
Vulnerability Management: Detecting and fixing security weaknesses in systems and software.
Network Planning & Design: Designing and building reliable computer networks.
Network Management & Monitoring: Ensuring smooth operation of computer networks.
Software Documentation: Writing clear, user-friendly instructions for software use.
Data Analysis Expressions (DAX): Analyzing data and uncovering insights with advanced formulas.
Demand for Cybersecurity Skills
Cybersecurity dominates the list, with six out of the ten skills directly addressing the growing complexity of cyberattacks. Coursera highlighted the increasing demand for roles such as Cybersecurity Specialist, Chief Information Security Officer, and Cybersecurity Analyst.
A global shortage of nearly five million cybersecurity professionals underscores the urgency of upskilling in this area. IBM’s Global Program Director, Rav Ahuja, reported a 75% increase in cyberattacks during Q3 2024, further stressing the importance of cybersecurity expertise.
Upskilling for Cyber Resilience
The report revealed that more than half of public organizations cite a lack of resources and skills as their biggest obstacle to achieving cyber resilience. By acquiring skills such as SIEM and threat modeling, learners can enhance their employability and contribute to mitigating cyber threats.
AI and Risk Management: Shaping the Future of Work
Coursera CEO, Jeff Maggioncalda, noted that advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the rise of Generative AI (GenAI) are reshaping skill demands. Skills in cybersecurity, risk management, and data ethics are emerging as indispensable for future job roles, as industries adapt to evolving technological landscapes.
Maggioncalda emphasized the importance of using AI responsibly, stating that the integration of AI technologies with robust security measures will be critical for addressing sophisticated cyber threats.
What This Means for Learners and Employers
The report highlights a pressing need for upskilling to bridge the global talent gap in cybersecurity and other critical tech areas. With cybercriminals employing increasingly advanced technologies, these skills are not only crucial for mitigating current threats but are also aligned with the growing demand for cybersecurity-related jobs across industries.
