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Maybe you work as an information technology (IT) administrator and want to transition to cybersecurity. Perhaps you're an analyst who wants practical training in penetration testing and ethical hacking. You may even be a self-taught techie looking for a way to break into the cybersecurity field. Whatever your current or aspirational job, a cybersecurity bootcamp can expand your current skill set or jumpstart a new career.
This guide reviews types of providers, program admission requirements, typical courses, recommended certifications, and much more. Discover what a cybersecurity bootcamp is, what to expect from most bootcamp programs, and whether this education path is right for you.
What Are Cybersecurity Bootcamps?
Cybersecurity bootcamps are concentrated training programs that prepare learners for entry-level cybersecurity jobs.
Intermediate and advanced bootcamps may help applicants qualify for mid- to high-level positions, such as penetration tester.
Bootcamps take less time to complete than undergraduate and graduate certificates. They may run through any number of providers, including private companies and skills academies.
Bootcamps take less time to complete than undergraduate and graduate certificates.
Cybersecurity bootcamps cater to self-taught tech enthusiasts, experienced IT professionals, aspiring managers, and the students in between.
Why Attend a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
Cybersecurity bootcamps get learners in and out of training quickly. Bootcamps do not confer academic qualification such as graduate certificates or master of science degrees, but students may receive other benefits:
Flexible evening and weekend schedule for part-time students; concentrated schedule for full-time students Curriculum created by security experts working in the field Challenging security coursework that echoes current trends and issues Exposure to the latest security tools and technologies Real-world training, certification prep, and career assistance A lower tuition price than a degree
Find out if a bootcamp is right for you. Check out the table below to discover the ways cybersecurity bootcamps and bachelor's degree programs differ.
Cybersecurity Bootcamps vs. Bachelor's Degree Programs
| Cybersecurity Bootcamp | Bachelor's Degree | |
|---|---|---|
|
Program Length |
Much less time. May be as short as a couple of weeks or months. |
Much longer. Often four years of full-time study. |
|
Curriculum |
Intensive coursework focused on the fundamental theories and practices of cybersecurity. |
Much broader curriculum that often covers general information technology and computer science concepts with a focus on cybersecurity. |
|
Admission Requirements |
Varies, but admission criteria can be less strict. Most require a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some may require relevant professional experience. |
Common requirements include a high school diploma or its equivalent, a minimum GPA, and minimum SAT/ACT scores. May also require letters of recommendation and essay questions. |
|
Cost |
Potentially much more affordable options. |
Tuition can be significantly more expensive. |
|
Program Focus |
Career preparation for entry-level cybersecurity jobs, tangible skills development. |
A broad education with a focus on preparing students for cybersecurity-related jobs. |
Top Online Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Types of Cybersecurity Bootcamp Providers
The section below reviews the different types of cybersecurity bootcamp providers. These include academic providers, independent providers, and eligible training providers (ETPs).
Academic Providers
Nonprofit colleges and universities, both public and private, offer cybersecurity bootcamps. However, most universities partner with organizations such as Trilogy Education Services.
Trilogy creates and structures the programs, while the university serves as a host. As a result, bootcamp descriptions on university websites often have the same coursework, structure, and career outcomes.
Independent Providers
Many providers in our directory, including skills academies and training companies, are independent providers. Some of these bootcamps began as IT academies, or are part of a tech company. Founders striking out on their own created other bootcamps on this list.
Because providers play to their strengths, the independent bootcamp space offers variety. Some cybersecurity bootcamps focus on subjects such as cloud computing or security information and event management (SIEM). Others may develop individual or specialized skill sets.
Eligible Training Providers
Several independent companies and academies are designated ETPs. This designation, provided by individual states, deems the bootcamp eligible to provide training services under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA). Some ETPs include:
• TechLaunch.io of the Florida Vocational Institute (FVI) in Florida
• Cloud Academy and Divergence Academy in Texas
• DevLeague in Hawaii
Attending an ETP often opens doors to state grants and scholarships. Your local job center can help you determine if you qualify for WIOA training services and how you can take advantage of funding options. You can also search for WIOA-eligible training providers by state.
How Cybersecurity Bootcamps Are Structured
Cybersecurity bootcamps are structured by skill level, delivery format, time commitment, and course schedule. Different setups work for different students. A bootcamp's structure can impact the learning process and overall satisfaction with the experience. Therefore, it may be helpful to consider how your priorities and learning style align with a bootcamp's structure.
Skill Level
Cybersecurity bootcamps offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced options, with some crossover among programs. Not all bootcamps provide a skill-level designation, so check available courses to make sure they meet your needs.
Some providers require that students take a skills test as part of the application process to determine program placement.
Beginner
Beginner bootcamps generally benefit students who have little to no IT work experience or formal education. In some instances, a high school diploma is the only education requirement. Fundamental courses usually include networking and operating systems.
Program Example: TechLaunch's cybersecurity and network technician program claims to help build networking skills from the ground up, preparing students for Network+ and Security+ certifications.
Intermediate
Intermediate bootcamps often expect learners to start the program with some grasp of IT fundamentals. Prerequisites might include Network+ certification; familiarity with networking, systems, and programming; and two or more years of general IT job experience.
Program Example: Evolve Security likes to see candidates with a baseline knowledge of computer science, networking concepts, and the Linux command line. DevLeague, however, prefers bootcamp applicants with a computer science background or other technical experience.
Advanced
Advanced bootcamps tend to tackle specific skill sets in penetration testing, application security testing, and ethical hacking. Courses in reverse engineering and payment card industry data security standards (PCI-DSS) can be challenging. But the skills gained from these classes are often critical to many cybersecurity positions.
Program Example: NexGenT's certified ethical hacker cybersecurity bootcamp trains students to use advanced hacking techniques and tools. Recommended prerequisites include two years of IT security experience, CompTIA Sec+ certification, and a basic understanding of operating systems.
Delivery Format
Cybersecurity bootcamps offer online, on-campus, and hybrid classes. Several bootcamp providers offer both online and on-campus versions of the same program. Some programs maintain a strict schedule and attendance policy. Others are self-paced.
Time Commitment
Cybersecurity bootcamp programs are often 12-36 weeks long and run either full or part time.
Classroom attendance and programmatic coursework are not the only time commitments. Bootcamp students may also work on independent projects, network with fellow professionals at career events, and travel to and from campus, depending on program demands and student needs.
Course Schedule
Most cybersecurity bootcamp websites include some details on course structure and a weekly schedule breakdown. Full-time programs may expect learners to be on campus (or online) during regular business hours. Part-time programs often schedule courses during the evenings and weekends.
Both full-time and part-time programs may schedule labs on Saturdays, giving students more time and space to work on individual projects and real-world exercises.
Prerequisite Work
If you're missing any networking or programming expertise or if you lack fundamental technical skills, you may be able to fill these knowledge gaps before officially beginning a bootcamp program.
Some prep courses carry no extra charge. Others require an additional fee. Double-check your chosen program's fine print for cost-related details. Bootcamps that provide prep courses include DevLeague and Evolve Academy.
Top Online Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
What to Expect From a Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Bootcamp offerings vary by school and skill level designation. Most cybersecurity programs, however, focus on topics like risk management, network security, and computer forensics. Bootcamps may also offer career development resources, live practice scenarios, and real-world experiences.
Below we review what you can expect from most cybersecurity bootcamps, starting with the admissions process.
Admissions Process
Bootcamps lack standardized education requirements, so each cybersecurity program assesses learners differently. Check the application/admissions and frequently asked questions (FAQ) sections on a bootcamp's website for exact details.
Bootcamps lack standardized education requirements, so each cybersecurity program assesses learners differently.
As part of the application process, bootcamps may ask applicants to take a skills test, undergo a quick technical and security challenge, and/or complete a brief interview.
- Beginner bootcamps often welcome students with little to no experience. However, if an applicant's skills need improvement, they may need to go through a prep course or program prior to attending the main bootcamp.
- Intermediate bootcamps often want to see a foundational knowledge of programming and security concepts from applicants. Network+ certification is a common requirement.
- Advanced programs may give preferential treatment to candidates with a bachelor of science (BS) in a relevant field, prior work experience, and/or baseline certifications such as Security+.
Anticipate competition for a spot in any good bootcamp, no matter the skill level. Research program requirements and work on eliminating any technical weaknesses before applying.
Curriculum
Most cybersecurity bootcamps incorporate hands-on learning opportunities, class discussions, and independent study into curricula. Key factors worth considering when comparing bootcamp curricula:
- Coursework: Does the coursework match your skill level and career goals? Do the topics (malware, secure design principles, firewalls) and tools (Splunk, Kali, Advanced Linux, OpenSSL, CarbonBlack, Hashcat) covered in class provide the top skills requested by most cybersecurity jobs?
- Certification Prep: Does the coursework prepare you to pursue relevant certifications?
- Practice Labs: How many hours per week do you get to spend in lab exercises and training? What kind of technical tools and resources will you have access to?
- Live Scenarios: Will you be allowed to participate in real-world simulations, hacking attacks, and red team drills?
- Real-World Experience: Are you able to work with nonprofits on security challenges? Can you complete a series of rotations through a cybersecurity operations center? Will you have access to, and time for, an internship?
- Career Opportunities: Does the bootcamp provide a course dedicated to career preparation? Can you receive help with resume building, interview coaching, and salary negotiation? Will you have the opportunity to attend networking events and meet with employers and guest instructors?
- Final Project: Is there a way to prove your worth to future employers through a final project? Some bootcamps include a final course that tests learners' skills. This might take the form of an exam or capstone project. Other bootcamps encourage students to create a portfolio of work to show employers.
Coursework
Courses within different cybersecurity bootcamps and programs often overlap. Popular courses found at most bootcamps include:
Security Foundations/Fundamentals Network Security and Defense Risk Management Threats and Vulnerabilities Cryptography Computer Forensics Career Building Certification Preparation
Depending on the bootcamp, beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses may also include:
Beginner: Maintaining Computers and Operating Systems; System Administration; Network Foundations; Introduction to Linux; Windows Server Intermediate: Advanced Systems; SIEM Admin; Advanced SIEM; Ethical Hacking; Incident Handling/Response; Advanced Linux; Security Audits and Cybersecurity Management Advanced: Advanced Infrastructure Attacks; Wireless Pentesting and Exploitation; Python Programming for Security
Online Study
Online cybersecurity bootcamps often mirror in-person bootcamp programs. That said, it can be helpful to consider the below factors when comparing your options, whether they are online or in person.
• Course Delivery: Are classes synchronous or asynchronous? Can you take a course demo or observe a class before signing up?
• Practice Labs: Are labs hands-on or browser-based? Are online and on-campus labs identical in quality? Do remote students have access to commercial tools and resources, including guidance on how to use what's available?
• Real-World Projects: Does the bootcamp provide you with job-relevant experience? Can it help you network with a company local to your area?
• Mentorship: Will you have a dedicated mentor or access to 1:1 instruction? Are teaching assistants, career coaches, and student advisors available to help you?
• Networking: Does the curriculum include team-based projects? Can you work in study groups with fellow students? How will you stay in touch with alumni after graduation?
Certification Preparation
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced cybersecurity bootcamps often prepare students for industry-related certification exams. They may present students with a certificate of completion or provide continuing professional education (CPE) credits for these and other courses. Some bootcamp programs also walk students through practice exams and provide vouchers toward the purchase of certification exams at graduation.
Popular cybersecurity certifications include:
- CompTIA's Security+, CompTIA's Network+, and CompTIA's Cloud+ certifications
- (ISC)²’sSystems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and the (ISC)² Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certifications
- Cisco’s CCNA certification
- EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification
- OffSec's Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification
- ISACA's Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification
Independent providers, such as Evolve Security, have in-house certifications that may be worth pursuing as well.
While cybersecurity bootcamps may prepare students for certification exams, certification prep programs help professionals obtain specific certifications. We outline the additional differences below.
|
Cybersecurity Bootcamp |
Certification Exam Prep Program |
|
|
Providers |
Training companies, skills academies, and universities |
Training companies and skills academies |
|
Delivery Format |
Online, on-campus, and hybrid |
Frequently online |
|
Time Commitment |
Three to nine months on average |
Five days on average |
|
Curriculum |
Instruction, mentoring, class discussions, practice labs, hands-on projects, real-world simulations, networking events, career preparation, and internships |
Instruction, mentoring, relevant activities, and practice exams |
|
Coursework |
Should cover key fundamentals (e.g., network security, threats and vulnerabilities, risk management, and cryptography) as well as courses in specialist subjects (e.g., social engineering and security audits) |
Will focus on preparing you for topics covered in certification exams, including performance-based tasks |
|
Prerequisites |
Beginner bootcamps are fairly open; intermediate-level bootcamps may ask for Network+ certification and/or foundational knowledge of programming and security concepts |
If you’re preparing for Security+, you often need to have an IT background and CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications (or the equivalent) |
|
Outcomes |
Graduates qualify for entry- and mid-level jobs in cybersecurity fields and take relevant certification exams |
Graduates acquire a useful set of skills and certification exam readiness |
|
Cost |
~$12,000-$20,000 |
~$3,000 |
Top Online Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
How Much Will a Cybersecurity Bootcamp Cost?
Average tuition for cybersecurity bootcamps can range from $9,000-$20,000 or more. Costs vary by bootcamp provider, course length, and program format.
Tuition isn't the only factor to consider when calculating bootcamp costs. Registration fees, housing and transportation for on-campus programs, and equipment and course materials such as laptops and textbooks also come into play, as do potential lost wages.
Paying for a Bootcamp Education
Scholarships, training grants, and some state and federal aid programs can help minimize bootcamp expenses. Many bootcamps offer payment plans, deferred payment programs, and loan options to learners who don't qualify for other forms of assistance.
Employer sponsorship and military benefits, such as the GI Bill®, can also help students reduce the cost of attending a cybersecurity bootcamp. At this time, students cannot use traditional financial aid to pay for bootcamp education.
Scholarships and Grants
- Scholarships: Private training companies and academies may offer scholarships. Both Woz U and Evolve Security have funded military members, veterans, women, and other underrepresented groups with scholarships of $250-$5,000.
- Training Grants: Low-income learners and those looking to retrain in IT may benefit from local organizations that support bootcamp training programs. For example, Project Quest, a nonprofit workforce development organization, funds students attending the San Antonio, Texas-based Open Code Academy.
- State and Federal Aid: State grants and federal aid may be available to students attending ETP-designated bootcamps.
Payment Plans and Loans
- Payment Plans: Most bootcamp providers offer staggered payment plans to part- and full-time students.
- Deferred Payments: Several cybersecurity bootcamps have deferred payment programs. Often, students pay a deposit upon enrolling in the bootcamp. Then, depending on the program, the balance is due at graduation or after the student has secured a job.
- Student Loans: A number of independent bootcamp providers have partnered with private funding organizations like Ascent to provide low-interest student loans for tuition and cost of living expenses.
- Discover cybersecurity scholarships for military and veterans
- Use the GI Bill® to study cybersecurity
- Find additional resources for underrepresented populations
- Explore scholarship opportunities for LGBTQIA+ students
Will a Cybersecurity Bootcamp Advance Your Career?
Demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, even as training programs scramble to produce graduates. CyberSeek is a free online resource developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Burning Glass, and CompTIA.
The site provides regularly updated cybersecurity job market data, including which states demonstrate strong market demand. CyberSeek also explores job titles and functions, education requirements, certifications, and average salaries.
Though some positions may require a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, entry-level and mid-level roles are available to bootcamp graduates. And the bump in pay upon getting hired after graduation may be substantial enough to pay for the cost of attending a cybersecurity bootcamp within a couple of years of working in the field.
According to CyberSeek, salary ranges as of January 2023 include:
- Entry-level Positions: $89,034 for incident analysts and $111,400 for IT auditors
- Mid-level Positions: $93,000 for cybersecurity consultants to $101,446 for pen testers
- Advanced Positions: $138,070 for cybersecurity managers to $163,000 for cybersecurity architects
Hiring Rates of Cybersecurity Bootcamp Graduates
Some cybersecurity bootcamps track completion and hiring rates. If made available, these numbers are often found on a provider's FAQ page or on program pages measuring student outcomes. Though you should approach self-reported data from any organization with a healthy dose of skepticism, this information may still prove helpful when deciding if a cybersecurity bootcamp is right for you.
For example, Evolve Academy notes that as of July 2022, 95% of students who actively searched for cybersecurity positions got hired within six months of graduating — and often within 47 days. Additionally, hired graduates saw a median salary increase of 48% and received a median compensation package of $74,000.
In addition to examining hiring rates, find out if the bootcamp collaborates with any corporate partners. Corporate partners often provide curriculum input and facilitate real-world projects. They may also give priority to graduates from partner bootcamps when hiring. If this information is not readily available on a bootcamp's website, ask the admissions coordinator which employers often participate in the bootcamp’s job fairs, networking evenings, and hiring events.
Cybersecurity Careers for Bootcamp Graduates
Top cybersecurity job titles include cybersecurity analyst, cybersecurity consultant, cybersecurity manager/administrator, software developer/engineer, and systems engineer.
Below, we explain the required education, job outlook, salary potential, and typical job duties for these careers. Note that some positions require additional education, cybersecurity certifications, or work experience beyond the bootcamp.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts, also called information security analysts, help organizations keep their computer systems and networks safe. Typical tasks include monitoring for security breaches, installing software, and making recommendations for security upgrades. Cybersecurity analysts work for business and financial companies, consulting agencies, and computer businesses.
- Cybersecurity Consultant: Cybersecurity consultants provide advice to outside companies about their information security. They may conduct audits, find vulnerabilities, create data storage rules, and decide who gets access to data within a company. Sometimes they try to hack into an organization's computer system or network in order to find ways to strengthen its security.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary (December 2022): $85,949
- Cybersecurity Manager/Administrator: Cybersecurity managers/administrators oversee all the cybersecurity-related activities of their organizations. They set goals, implement programs and strategies, and coordinate personnel needs related to cybersecurity for the organization. They also learn about new cybersecurity technologies and tools, plan the installation of new software and hardware, and oversee the work of other security professionals.
- Software Developer/Engineer: Software developers design computer programs and applications. They research user needs, make software recommendations, document systems and applications, and create models for programmers. Software developers often work in computer systems design, software publishing, and manufacturing.
- Systems Engineer: Systems engineers work with hardware engineers, software engineers, programmers, and system administrators to develop the architecture of computer systems. Job tasks include making design changes, creating operating procedures, and approving changes to computer systems. Systems engineers need cybersecurity, Python, project management, and engineering design skills.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Average Annual Salary (January 2023): $83,807
Top Online Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Choosing the right cybersecurity bootcamp can take time. Research the program curriculum, faculty, career resources, and employer partnerships. Think about your short- and long-term career goals, too. The checklist below can help to further narrow your options. Look for:
Relevant curriculum with job-focused subjects and certification preparation coursework Professional and credentialed faculty with years of experience, as well as current experts in the field Skills-based learning and live experiences Great student feedback on independent review sites Real-world projects that you can highlight on job applications Career support via internships, practice interviews, resume building, and job placement High completion and hiring rates Low student debt rates Strong employer partnerships
Where possible, ask your personal and professional contacts to weigh in on bootcamp providers, too. Connect with bootcamp alumni via LinkedIn to ask about their experiences, both good and bad. And seek feedback from your mentors, colleagues, and current employer, if applicable, about the bootcamp offerings they deem valuable.
Return On Investment (ROI)
In the end, you want a bootcamp program that helps you land a better-paying cybersecurity job. Because some bootcamps track salary increases and compensation packages for graduates, ask the admissions coordinator for this data.
It's also important to weigh the merits of a bootcamp versus an undergraduate or graduate degree. Academic qualifications tend to cost more, but the ROI can be worth it. Additionally, companies hiring mid- and high-level cybersecurity positions, such as cybersecurity architects, often seek candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree.
Explore Degree Programs in Cybersecurity
Popular Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Use the directory below as a starting point for finding the right cybersecurity bootcamp for you. We discuss bootcamp level, location, program length, and cost for several well-known programs.
Note that this may not be an exhaustive list of all bootcamp programs offering cybersecurity training.
DevLeague
Cybersecurity Professional Bootcamp
DevLeague’s hybrid bootcamp (online and on-campus) has a part-time schedule to suit working professionals. On top of basic fundamentals (e.g., networking), students learn ethical hacking, network attack countermeasures, and structured analytical techniques.
The program welcomes anyone interested in learning about tech. Students without a technical background may need to complete prerequisites before enrolling. Funding options include a diversity scholarship, the TADS payment plan, and loans through Ascent. DevLeague incorporates career planning into the curriculum and sends out resumes to hiring managers in its partner program.
Divergence Academy
Cybersecurity Professional Penetration Tester Boot Camp
Divergence’s 400-hour bootcamp offers part-time and full-time Monday-Friday options. The curriculum covers topics such as wired and wireless networking, security and pentesting, and virtualization and the Cloud. Program certifications include CompTIA Pentest+, CompTIA Security+, and CompTIA Network+.
The course prepares graduates to apply for jobs like server administrator, security technician, and vulnerability assessment analyst. Career support services help students polish their resumes, create a professional network, and prepare for interviews.
Divergence has prep courses for applicants as they await funding approval. The academy offers scholarships, loans, payment plans, and accepts the GI Bill.
Evolve Security
Evolve Security's flagship cybersecurity bootcamp runs in a live online cohort format or in person in Chicago, though they have not listed the 2023 in-person programs yet.
Students work on labs and security apprentice projects in small groups. The lab-heavy program allows you to earn up to 290 hours of CPE credits.
Funding is available through partial merit-based scholarships and loan options through Ascent. The in-person bootcamp accepts the GI Bill. Evolve Security also partners with a number of security companies and Fortune 500 partners to place graduates.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp
The Cybersecurity bootcamp starts with introductions to networking and security and progresses to cryptography, social engineering, and forensics. Learners gain experience with major tools, participate in group competency assessments, and perform security assessment work for nonprofit companies.
After successfully completing the bootcamp, students receive a CompTIA Security+ certification voucher and are eligible for an Evolve Security Certified Professional designation after passing the 24-hour lab exam.
Candidates should know basic cybersecurity concepts, computer networking, and the Linux command line. Those with a relevant degree, IT certifications, and/or IT and development experience are strongly considered. Applicants without this background knowledge can start with the Cybersecurity Fundamentals Course.
NexGenT
Cybersecurity Accelerator
Two Air Force veterans with decades of experience in cybersecurity and network engineering founded NexGenT. The company offers access to practice labs, expert mentors, and focused projects (e.g., networking).
Learners in the cybersecurity accelerator program take 25 virtual labs in cybersecurity to develop skills in social engineering, hacking wireless networks, and encryption.
Graduates of the cybersecurity course complete a qualification check and can receive an NGT Academy Cyber award.
NPower
Cybersecurity Training Program
NPower, a national nonprofit, provides free online technology training and career development for young adults (18-26) and military veterans and spouses.
Its free part-time cybersecurity bootcamp is open to NPower alumni in good standing and young adults with 1-2 years of technology experience.
The program prefers applicants with certifications like CompTIA ITF+, A+, Network+, or Google IT Professional. Applicants must hold a high school diploma and live in or near one of the following cities: Baltimore, Los Angeles, Newark, Detroit, New York City, San Francisco, Dallas, or St. Louis.
Students get the opportunity for mentorship from senior-level industry professionals. Graduates go on to jobs as cybersecurity analysts, information security risk analysts, and systems administrators.
Springboard
Springboard’s 100% online bootcamp includes regular video calls with a personal mentor, 30 technical labs and 35 projects, and extensive practice with current tools.
Springboard offers pay-per-month tuition. Low-interest loans are available through Climb Credit. Springboard also offers deferred payment to select students. Students pay a small deposit at the beginning and the remainder of the balance once they land a job.
Cybersecurity Career Track
The career track takes around six months to complete. Designed for aspiring software/application security analysts, it involves coursework in areas such as IT project management, security risk assessment, network security, and software development lifecycles.
The program includes a multi-part capstone project that incorporates real-world problems. Students graduate with a CompTIA Security+ Certification. Springboard's job guarantee promises that students who do not find a cybersecurity job within six months of graduating receive a full refund.
The beginner-friendly bootcamp does not require prior cybersecurity experience. Springboard screens for applicants with soft skills like communication and professionalism.
TechLaunch.Io @ FVI
Cybersecurity And Network Technician Program
TechLaunch.io, hosted by the Florida Vocational Institute, provides a mix of lectures, discussions, exercises, and labs.
Courses cover fundamentals like maintaining computers and operating systems and cybersecurity topics like ethical hacking, network defense, and forensics. Students learn about specific technologies like AWS and Azure, Windows, and Cisco routing and switching.
Students prepare for Network+, Security+ and Window Server Administration Fundamentals (MTA-365), as well as a portion of Cisco CCNA and CompTIA Cloud+.
Federal financial aid can be awarded to those who qualify. Graduates typically proceed to careers in IT security and cloud computing.
Tech901
IT Security Bootcamp
This bootcamp from a Memphis-based nonprofit helps students prepare for and complete CompTIA Security+ certification. It also addresses soft business skills and technical security topics, so this directory includes it.
Students get access to career services like job interview coaching, resume writing assistance, and in-class training. Applicants need CompTIA Network+ certification. Graduates can apply for technical and non-technical jobs in enterprise information security.
edX/Trilogy Education Services
Cybersecurity Boot Camps
edX, formally known as Trilogy Education Services, partners with universities to offer IT and cybersecurity bootcamps. Courses run through the university partner’s campus.
This part-time bootcamp lasts 24 weeks no matter which university runs it. The curriculum includes discussions, lab work, hands-on projects, portfolio reviews, project demo days, and virtual tech panels. Students tackle coursework in networking, systems, programming and scripting, security, and ethical hacking, where they hone skills on useful tools (e.g., Wireshark, Kali Linux, Metasploit, Python etc.).
Learners prepare for Network+ and Security+ certification. Career support includes technical interview training, one-on-one career coaching, and resume building.
Applicants need a high school diploma. No prior experience is required, but pre-course tutorials can help prepare for the curriculum. Prospective students complete a conversation with admissions and a problem-solving assessment.
Woz U
Cybersecurity Program
Founded by Steve Wozniak, Woz U offers a 100% cybersecurity online bootcamp through its network of partner schools.
The curriculum includes fundamentals like network defense, system administration, programming foundations, and project management. It also covers complex security topics like cryptography, web application security, and threats and vulnerabilities. You’ll graduate with a project portfolio and complete a group project that includes cybersecurity analysis.
Women and students who commit to particular payment plans may receive grants and financial aid. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses qualify for aid as well. The bootcamp also includes career preparation and job placement assistance.
More Cybersecurity Bootcamp Programs
Questions About Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Are cybersecurity bootcamps worth it?
Yes. Cybersecurity bootcamps help students develop knowledge and skills that apply to information security careers. The BLS reports that information security analysts make a median annual salary of $102,600.
Are there any free cybersecurity bootcamps?
Yes. Students can find some free cybersecurity bootcamps that offer short, introductory programs online. Longer, full-time, in-person, and more advanced cybersecurity bootcamps usually charge tuition and offer different payment options.
Does coding or cybersecurity pay more?
IT professionals often use coding and cybersecurity skills. Many computer jobs require basic coding knowledge. Specialized cybersecurity skills may help graduates earn higher salaries.
Is cybersecurity stressful?
Depending on the position, employer, and industry, cybersecurity careers can be stressful. Cybersecurity professionals face pressure to help individuals and organizations keep their information secure and respond to cyber threats, which is a big responsibility.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/
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