What Is a Cyber Security Bootcamp?

A cyber security bootcamp is a short yet intensive program that helps students develop practical and job-ready skills to begin their tech careers. Coding bootcamps provide the training needed to start a career in tech, often in less than a year, focusing on the technical skills that will get the student hired.

By attending cyber security bootcamp online, you will get hands-on training by being involved in real-life projects. This allows you to learn the trade by solving the actual problems you will face as a tech professional. In addition, coding bootcamps have strong career support to maximize students’ chances of landing a job once they complete the program.

Is a Cyber Security Bootcamp Worth It?

Yes, a cyber security bootcamp is worth it if you want to become a cyber security analyst but do not want to invest four years to get a university degree. Cyber security bootcamp programs offer short yet intensive training that provides students with the hands-on skills they need to begin their careers.

In addition, coding bootcamps often provide career services to give you an edge over the competition in the job market. Another factor to consider is the high job placement rates of these programs. Between 74 and 90 percent of bootcamp graduates land a job in their area of specialization within six months of graduation.

How Do I Apply for a Cyber Security Bootcamp?

You can apply for a cyber security bootcamp by submitting a cyber security application online. Each cyber security bootcamp application process is slightly different, but we’ve outlined some of the most common steps below:

1. Go to the website of your bootcamp of choice and fill out a cyber security application online.
2. Schedule and complete a behavioral and/or technical interview where you will answer questions on your career and education goals.
3. Complete a technical assessment so the admissions office can gauge what level of cyber security skills you have.

It can be hard to get into cyber security bootcamps that have strict technical requirements or very small cohorts. You can qualify for cyber security bootcamp by completing the technical assessment or prework that is required of you. Qualifications will differ depending on the cyber security bootcamp you choose and many are designed for prospective students who are absolute beginners.

How Long Are the Best Cyber Security Bootcamps?

Most bootcamp cyber security programs last three to nine months. However, some programs may be shorter than three months while others may exceed a year. There are also self-paced options that allow you to take as long as you need.

Part-time cyber security bootcamp programs usually require part-time students to commit a few hours a day in the evenings or on weekends. For full-time students, some cyber security bootcamps require you to attend for eight hours a day, five to seven days per week. You will also have to account for any time spent doing homework that is assigned to you.

Will a Cyber Security Bootcamp Help Me Get a Job?

Yes, a cyber security bootcamp will help you get a job. The best cyber security bootcamps offer career services to help students launch their careers. These services include webinars, alumni and employer panels, workshops, and resume reviews. Through these, students learn about current hiring trends and industry demands which allows them to position themselves to land high-paying jobs.

Many bootcamps boast extensive hiring networks to connect graduates with top employers. Some of these partners are among the biggest names in tech, including Google and Microsoft. Another factor worth considering is bootcamps’ high job placement rates. Between 74 to 90 percent of students land a cyber security job within six months of graduation.

How Much Does a Cyber Security Bootcamp Cost?

A cyber security bootcamp costs between $12,000 and $20,000. Although this may look like a lot, bootcamp providers are known for offering a range of financing options to help the student cover tuition. Common options are loans, installment plans, and income share agreements. In addition, you may be eligible for a scholarship, grant, or discount to help you cover the cyber security bootcamp price.

Can I Work and Go to a Cyber Security Bootcamp?

Yes, you can work and go to a cyber security bootcamp. Most cyber security bootcamp offer self-paced programs that allow students to choose their own schedule. There are also part-time cyber security bootcamps online for working professionals that allow students to learn in the evening and on the weekends, outside of normal working hours.

How Can I Pay for a Cyber Security Bootcamp?

Common ways to pay for cyber security bootcamps are income share agreements and bootcamp deferred tuition plans. However, there are different ways to pay for the bootcamp program of your choice. Many bootcamps give students the option to pay via monthly installments or by taking out a loan with one of their lending partners.

Another popular option is the income share agreement (ISA). With an ISA, a student can attend the cyber security program for free and only start paying once they graduate and land a cyber security job. There are also often bootcamp scholarship options for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Some bootcamp programs can be financed through GI Bill benefits.

Can Anyone Learn Cyber Security?

Yes, anyone can learn cyber security. Although it may be easier for those who are making a career transition from another field within the tech industry, even those with no coding experience can learn cyber security. Although it can be a difficult subject to master, cyber security bootcamps are designed for those who are committed to a career in cyber security, regardless of previous experience.

How Do Cyber Security Bootcamps Compare to Cyber Security MOOCs?

Cyber security bootcamps are more intensive and in-depth than cyber security courses from massive open online course (MOOC) platforms. Cyber security MOOCs can be a great, affordable way to learn foundational skills in cyber security or upskill in one specific area. But if you want to learn cyber security and receive career services and mentorship, a cyber security bootcamp is the best option.

Both cyber security online bootcamps and MOOCs are accessible education options for those who want to learn cyber security. The top cyber security bootcamps provide support and a more well-rounded approach to cyber knowledge. They also teach soft skills, not just focusing on the hands-on application of risk assessment, but providing training in networking and job interviewing.

Learn Cyber Security: Is a Cyber Security Bootcamp Right for You?

If you want to begin a career in cyber security and are willing to undergo an intense training program to make it happen, attending one of the best bootcamps for cyber security is the right choice for you. Because most bootcamp programs last between three to nine months, cyber security bootcamps are ideal for people that want to join the workforce quickly.

A cyber security bootcamp also makes sense financially. Although not cheap, these programs will cost you drastically less than pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a university. In addition, bootcamps are known for having flexible financing options, including loans, installment plans, income share agreements, and scholarships. Check out cyber security bootcamp reviews from current and past students.