Switching careers can feel risky. Especially when you’re eyeing something like cybersecurity or security operations, and you’ve never worked in tech before. Maybe you’ve worked in logistics, retail, or facilities, and now you’re wondering if it’s too late, or too complicated, to make the leap. The honest answer: It’s not.
Security and cybersecurity are two industries that don’t just welcome people from non-tech backgrounds—they need them. At KnowledgeTree, we’ve spent over 15 years helping individuals with no prior experience step confidently into roles that protect lives, systems, and businesses across Singapore.
Let’s break down how to get started, what to expect, and how you can build a real future in this field, one course at a time.
You don’t need to write code or have a computer science degree to work in security or cybersecurity. What you do need are qualities like:
Sound like you? Then you’re off to a great start.
If you’re looking to break in with little to no prior experience, the most accessible path is through security officer training. It’s practical, foundational, and gives you real-world skills from day one.
The Guard and Patrol, Access Control Management course (also known as PGPS & OBSE) is where many start. It teaches you how to:
The entire course is taught in plain English, with no technical experience needed. It’s one of the three basic licensing courses required to become a certified Security Officer in Singapore.
Another important course is Recognise Terrorist Threats (RTT). In today’s climate, officers must know how to spot suspicious behaviour and act quickly. RTT covers bomb threats, unidentified substances, and spotting risks before they escalate.
These two courses give you solid ground to stand on—ideal for people who want to step into a stable, essential job with immediate opportunities.
To explore all Basic Security Officer (SO) courses, click here.
Security isn’t just about physical threats anymore. Digital threats, from data theft to phishing scams, are everywhere. If you’ve ever thought, “Cybersecurity sounds great, but I don’t know anything about it,” that’s exactly why the Basic Cybersecurity Response (BCSR) course exists.
This beginner-friendly course breaks down things like:
You’ll learn how to manage passwords properly, identify phishing emails, and understand basic concepts like malware or ransomware. These are job skills that translate to essential life skills in the digital age.
The basic cybersecurity (BCSR) course takes just one day to complete and gives you a practical understanding of how cybersecurity fits into business and everyday life. It’s an ideal next step if you’re already in the security industry, or even if you’re coming from customer service, logistics, or administration and want to expand your skillset.
If you finish basic cybersecurity (BCSR) and think, “I want to learn more,” there’s room to grow.
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) course is one of the more advanced programmes offered by KnowledgeTree. It’s designed for those who want to:
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) course includes five full days of in-person training, followed by a written and practical assessment. It’s a more technical course, yes, but many learners come from non-IT backgrounds. What matters is curiosity, consistency, and willingness to build your knowledge over time.
By starting with basic cybersecurity (BCSR), you gain the confidence and vocabulary to take that next leap. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) then gives you the hands-on skills to explore cybersecurity as a full-time career, or add substantial credibility to your current role.
You might be surprised at how many entry-level roles are open to those just starting out. Here are just a few examples:
We’re not a faceless e-learning portal. Every KnowledgeTree course is in-person, led by trainers who know what it’s like to start from scratch. We’ve helped everyone from warehouse workers to ex-armed forces personnel build new careers—many of whom now work in supervisory roles.
Here’s what learners appreciate:
If you’re based in Singapore and wondering where to begin, we’ve designed our programmes to be both accessible and effective, whether you want a stable job fast, or you’re setting sights on cybersecurity.
The security and cybersecurity industries are growing, and they don’t just need tech geniuses. They need people who are observant. People who care about protecting others. People like you.
If you’re ready to take that first step, start with something simple. The Basic Security Officer (SO) courses open the door. Alternatively, if you have keen interest in cybersecurity, BCSR introduces you to cybersecurity without overwhelming you. And if your curiosity grows? CEH is waiting when you’re ready.
Visit KnowledgeTree’s course page to find the right schedule and course for you. Whether you’re planning a switch or just testing the waters, we’re here to help you make that move—one course at a time.
Or, see all upcoming course dates here.