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.
The findings, based on insights from over five million enterprise learners and more than 7,000 institutional customers, shed light on the skills employers are actively seeking.
Among the top skills for 2025, Coursera highlights a sharp rise in the need for cybersecurity and risk management expertise. These areas are projected to be the fastest-growing tech skills, driven by the increasing urgency for organizations to fill roles related to IT security.
“Six of the top 10 skills—such as incident management & response, threat management, and security information & event management—are crucial for addressing these challenges,” the report states. These skills are tied to high-demand roles, including Cybersecurity Specialist, Chief Information Security Officer, and Cybersecurity Analyst, reflecting the growing concern over cyberattacks.
Rav Ahuja, Global Program Director at IBM, commented on the surge in cyberattacks, noting a 75% increase in incidents in Q3 2024 alone. He emphasized that skills in incident and threat management are essential for mitigating such risks, especially given the growing shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with a nearly five-million-person gap in the field.
“Developing cybersecurity skills like SIEM can make job seekers more attractive to employers, addressing the gap in talent while helping organizations manage evolving cyber threats,” Ahuja explained. As cybercriminals increasingly use advanced technologies, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is set to rise, offering ample career opportunities.
Coursera CEO Jeff Maggioncalda also shared insights from the report, noting the rapid adoption of Generative AI across the workforce. He pointed out that alongside cybersecurity and risk management, skills in data ethics are also crucial, as organizations strive to use AI responsibly.
“As cyberattacks become more frequent and sophisticated, these in-demand skills will be critical for professionals in technical roles across industries,” Maggioncalda said, underscoring the growing importance of cybersecurity in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
