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Designs and analyzes cryptographic protocols and ciphers. Common at NSA, security firms, blockchain companies.
$53,910
Lower reported wage
$91,290
Median
$159,280
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Wages reconciled to BLS OEWS May 2024 for SOC 15-2031 (Operations Research Analysts): A_PCT10-A_PCT90 = $53,910-$159,280, median $91,290. The OES 90th percentile ($159,280) understates this premium sub-market, where senior and specialized compensation routinely exceeds it.
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Ask whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary. [1]
Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Direct mathematical foundation; add computer science and cryptography research. [1]
Develop and analyze cryptographic methods for protecting information. [1]
Security research teams, technology companies, government, and universities. [1]
Research and product deadlines vary; ask about publication and review expectations. [1]
Subtle assumptions and adversarial analysis require rigorous reasoning. [1]
Research contributions may lead to specialist or technical-lead responsibilities. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.