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In-demand cybersecurity certifications

Written by Aireal Liddle and Cybersecurity Guide Contributors – Last updated: September 19, 2023

CompTIA Security+ is the most popular cybersecurity certification for a wide variety of career pathways.

Cybersecurity Guide also found that the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is the most in-demand credential when looking at recent job postings.

Here’s a breakdown:

CertificationNumber certified
CompTIA Security+265,992
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)91,765
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)46,318
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)35,812
Certified Information Security Officer20,300
Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)13,652
This chart shows the number of professionals that hold each type of cybersecurity certification according to 2023 Cyberseek data.

In addition to overall popularity of common cybersecurity certifications, it is also helpful to look at the demand for these certifications in the job market.

CertificationJob openings by cert
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)97,555
CompTIA Security+86,066
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)75,040
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)52,807
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)49,519
Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)8,797
This chart shows the number of job postings that mention specific cybersecurity certifications according to 2023 Cyberseek data.

In this guide

  • Professional certifications
  • Certification prerequisites
  • Cybersecurity organizations
  • Academic certifications
  • Academic prerequisites
  • List of schools

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cybersecurityguide.org is an advertising-supported site. Clicking in this box will show you programs related to your search from schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other information published on this site.
FEATURED CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS & BOOTCAMPS

School NameProgram More Info
University of PennsylvaniaPenn Cybersecurity Boot Camp website
SpringboardCybersecurity Bootcamp – Job Guaranteed website
MITxProProfessional Certificate in Cybersecurity website
UC BerkeleyBerkeley Cybersecurity Boot Camp website
Boston UniversityOnline Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate website
Michigan State UniversityCybersecurity Graduate Certificate website

What’s the difference between cybersecurity certification programs?

Today’s cybersecurity certification programs can be broken down into two main categories: Professional cybersecurity certification programs and academic cybersecurity certification programs. 

Here’s how the two programs differ:

  • Professional cybersecurity certifications are designed for people already working in the cybersecurity field (or closely-related IT and networking fields) to get trained on some of the latest tools and software to detect, prevent, and combat against cybersecurity issues. These certifications are used to show proficiency with specific technologies. CompTIA Security Plus is one example of a professional certificate that is a common entry-level professional cybersecurity certificate.(it is required for hiring by Department of Defense) JUMP TO THE PROFESSIONAL CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS
  • Academic cybersecurity certifications are designed to provide students with a deep background into some of the current issues in the cybersecurity field. Examples of academic certification programs include Harvard’s online cybersecurity certification or the University of Maryland online undergraduate certification in cybersecurity. These courses generally pair with other coursework and certification programs to provide students with the necessary skills and experience to get started in the growing cybersecurity industry. JUMP TO THE ACADEMIC CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

Cybersecurity certification programs for professionals

One defining characteristic of the cybersecurity field is that there are a number of certifications that qualify working professionals in specific skills. Many job postings and career positions in cybersecurity require some level of certification, so it’s a good idea to pay attention to what kinds of certifications are in demand depending on a career track or job type. 

59 percent of cybersecurity positions require at least one certification

A professional certification can also be a great way to land that first job within the cybersecurity field.

“So they are hiring my students even before they finish their degree. As long as they have some of the classes and some background in it, they really don’t need any hands-on experience. They do have to get a CompTIA Security Plus certification. Now that’s a DOD [Department of Defense] requirement. But they are taking my students even before they finish,”

said Ken Dewey, the director of the cybersecurity program at Rose State College in a recent expert interview with Cybersecurity Guide. 

Some companies use certain data structures or network products and so they might require that their professional cybersecurity staff be certified. Examples of popular professional certifications include:

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)*
  • GIAC Security Essentials*
  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
  • Comp TIA Security +
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

* These courses are considered foundational and might provide a good starting point for people just getting started in the cybersecurity field. 

It is important to note that many cybersecurity certifications, even the ones considered foundational, sometimes require a combination of verifiable university coursework or a number of years of work experience. Sometimes certifying bodies might require both. Additionally, some certifications will charge fees to determine eligibility.

Increasingly, associate’s and bachelor’s cybersecurity programs are offering professional certification preparation as part of the course load. 

For example, Hossein Sarrafzadeh, a professor of cybersecurity and department chair of the cybersecurity department at Saint Bonaventure University said during a recent expert interview with Cybersecurity Guide,

“We’ve embedded a lot of industry certification materials into our curriculum…Students are encouraged to pursue industry certification, and get industry certified while doing their academic work.”

Prerequisites for cybersecurity certifications

Regarding certifications, a prerequisite is something that is required of an individual before they are permitted to take a specific certification exam. Prerequisites will vary depending on the certification. 

Examples of prerequisites include requiring professionals to have a certain number of years’ experience or perhaps another certification that must be completed prior to the one they are trying to take. Another common prerequisite found in certifications is that the professional must take a specific course before being allowed to complete the certification exam. One example of a certification that has a prerequisite is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Individuals wanting to become CISSP certified will be required to have at least five years of paid, full-time experience in at least two of the eight (ISC)2 domains or four years paid, full-time experience in at least two of the eight (ISC)2 domains and a college degree. 

The average salary premium for the CISSP certification is $26,000

Another exam that has prerequisites is the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).  In order to take the CEH, individuals should first complete a formal CEH training course offered by EC-Council. Without formal training, those hoping to take the CEH exam must have at least two years’ experience in an information security-related field and an educational background in information security. They must also pay a nonrefundable eligibility fee and submit an exam eligibility form.

It’s important to note that there is a difference between a prerequisite and a recommendation.Some certifications have recommendations for the order in which the certifications should be obtained. For example, CompTIA recommends that professionals take the CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ before taking the CompTIA Security+, however, they do not require it. Therefore, if a professional felt confident in their abilities to pass the CompTIA Security+ without first taking the others, CompTIA would allow them to do so. 

Major cybersecurity certification organizations

While it might seem like there are countless cybersecurity certifications there are certain programs and credentials that are better recognized and respected than others. 

This doesn’t mean that there is no reason to get the less recognized certifications. Some organizations will require their employees to become certified in something that may not be as well known as other certifications. 

Nearly 6 in 10 IT jobs are cyber-enabled meaning cybersecurity is part of the job description

However, for professionals that are new to the field and just looking to obtain certifications that will be easily acknowledged by any company, it’s best to pursue the certifications offered by major organizations. Here are some organizations that offer certifications which are well known and highly respected in the cybersecurity space:

  • (ISC)2 – The International Information System Security Certification Consortium
  • EC-Council
  • CompTIA
  • GIAC – Global Information Assurance Certification
  • ISACA

(ISC)2 

The major organizations listed in the previous section all provide numerous certification options. It’s beneficial as a cybersecurity professional to understand each of these organizations and the certifications that they offer. The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, more commonly known as (ISC)2, is the organization behind the sought after CISSP certification. The (ISC)2 boasts itself on their website as “The World’s Leading Cybersecurity Professional Organization”. (ISC)2 is a non-profit with more than 140,000 certified members. Although (ISC)2 is most well known for the CISSP, they do offer other certifications as well. Here is a brief description of some of the certifications which can be obtained through (ISC)2:

  • CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional One of the most sought after and most esteemed certifications in the cybersecurity world, the CISSP should be on the list of anyone hoping to be successful in the industry. The CISSP is not a beginner certification, but rather for those who are already experienced, high achieving cybersecurity professionals. The CISSP can help individuals already working in the field progress their careers. As a prerequisite for the CISSP, candidates must have a minimum of five years of cumulative, paid, full-time experience. That experience must cover at least two of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Individuals with a degree may be granted a one-year experience exemption bringing the required experience down to four years. Read more about the CISSP certification. 

LOOKING FOR MORE INFO ABOUT THE CISSP CERTIFICATION INCLUDING EXAM PREP AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS? SEE OUR COMPLETE CISSP GUIDE.

  • SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner Professionals lacking five years’ experience shouldn’t count themselves out from obtaining an (ISC)2 certification just yet. The SSCP is a great certification for professionals looking to bring growth to their careers. Unlike the CISSP, the SSCP only requires a minimum of one-year working experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). For professionals with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, that one year experience may be waived. Working to obtain the SSCP certification from (ISC)2 is ideal for professionals in any of the following positions: network security administrator, systems administrator, security analyst, and security administrator. Read more about the SSCP certification on the (ISC)2 website. 
  • CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional Another (ISC)2 certification worth mentioning is the CCSP. The CCSP is a globally recognized certification that allows professionals the ability to showcase their skills in designing, managing, and securing data, applications, and infrastructure hosted in the cloud. As more and more organizations move their entire infrastructure to the cloud, the need for qualified cloud security professionals continues to grow. Much like the CISSP, the CCSP is not a certification for those just beginning their career, but rather for those who have already established a firm foundation within the field. Prerequisites for the CCSP include five or more years in a paid full-time information technology role. It also requires at least three of those years be in information security and one year must be in one or more of the six domains of the CCSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Earning the CISSP certification can be substituted for all of the other experience requirements. More information regarding the CCSP can be found on the (ISC)2 website. 

Other (ISC)2 certifications include CAP, CSSLP, HCISPP, CISSP-ISSAP, CISSP-ISSMP, Associate of (ISC)2.

EC-Council 

EC-Council is most well known for the Certified Ethical Hacker certification, which is more commonly known as the CEH. EC-Council, does, however, offer many other certifications besides the CEH. Rather than focusing on specific areas of knowledge, EC-Council markets more towards specific roles and titles. For example, when a professional looks at the certification programs on EC-Council’s website, they would see that the certifications look more like job titles: Licensed Penetration Tester, Certified Ethical Hacker, Security Analyst, Certified Chief Information Security Officer, and the list goes on. This can make it easy for those interested in a specific job to focus in on which certification they’d like to pursue. On the other hand, these certifications may be too specialized for individuals looking to cover a wide range of security skills. Here is a brief description of a few of the certifications which can be obtained with EC-Council:

  • CEH – Certified Ethical Hacker This is by far the most well known of the EC-Council certifications. The CEH is widely recognized among security professionals. While the certification may include the word hacker in its title, it’s not just for those who work in offensive security. Anyone working within cybersecurity, whether offensive or defensive, can benefit from the CEH certification. EC-Council offers two main options for eligibility. First, individuals wishing to take the CEH exam can attend an official EC-Council CEH training. Attending an official training at an Accredited Training Center, via EC-Council’s iClass platform, or at an approved academic institution will make students eligible to take the CEH exam without any further eligibility application process. For those that wish to take the exam without going through official training, option two allows for professionals with at least two years of information security related experience to pay a nonrefundable eligibility application fee. After their application is approved, they may then take the exam. Read more about the Certified Ethical Hacker certification.

LOOKING TO BECOME A CERTIFIED ETHICAL HACKER? CHECK OUT OUR CEH PREP GUIDE INCLUDING EXAM INFO AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.

  • ECSA – EC-Council Certified Security Analyst For those looking to pursue a career in penetration testing, the ECSA is often a good fit. While the CEH focuses on many different aspects of cybersecurity and offensive security, the ECSA focuses more on penetration testing. Penetration testing is a profession in which engineers attempt to offensively breach (legally and with permission) a target network or system. The prerequisites for the ECSA are similar to those of the CEH. Individuals can choose to take an official EC-Council ECSA training course making them immediately eligible for the exam or they can possess a minimum of two years’ experience in the cybersecurity field and go through the eligibility application process.  To read more about the ECSA certification, visit the EC-Council. 
  • LPT – Licensed Penetration Tester Professionals looking to become a penetration tester (or progress their career as a penetration tester) may choose to continue onto the Licensed Penetration Tester certification after obtaining either the CEH, ECSA, or both. EC-Council’s website describes the Licensed Penetration Tester certification as their most challenging practical exam available. In order to pass the LPT exam, professionals must complete and document the entire process of a penetration test from start to finish. The penetration test completed must be in the format which is taught during the ECSA program. While there are no pre-defined prerequisites for the LPT, EC-Council suggests that this exam should be taken after completing the CEH and ECSA certifications as it builds off the knowledge learned and used during those exams. Learn more about the LPT certification here: https://cert.eccouncil.org/licensed-penetration-tester.html

Other certifications offered by EC-Council include (but are not limited to) CSCU, ECSS, EDRP, CHFI, CND.

CompTIA 

CompTIA certifications are some of the most highly recognized IT certifications available. CompTIA provides certifications in many different IT fields such as software development, computer networking, cloud computing, and of course, information security. CompTIA has four major “core” certifications which include CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Security+. While it may seem that three of the four certifications listed are not security-related, these certifications are used to lay the groundwork that the information security certifications will build from. 

  • CompTIA Security+ The CompTIA Security+ is a great starting point for anyone looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity. The topics displayed within this certification provide broad coverage of general cybersecurity. The Security+ exam will cover items such as threats and attacks, architecture and design, risk management, and even cryptography. While there are no specific prerequisites for taking the Security+ exam, CompTIA recommends that professionals have their CompTIA Network+ certification and two years’ experience in IT administration with a focus on security. Check out the complete CompTIA Security Guide.
  • CompTIA CySA+ The CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst, more commonly known as the CySA+, is a more advanced cybersecurity certification than the Security+. The CySA+ takes a deeper dive into topics such as threat management, vulnerability management, cyber incident response, and security architecture and toolsets. The recommended experience for the CySA+ is holding a Network+ certification, a Security+ certification or having equivalent knowledge and having a minimum of four years of hands-on information security or related experience. Read more about the CySA+ certification.

Other CompTIA certifications include (but are not limited to) CASP+, PenTest+,Linux+, Cloud+

GIAC

The Global Information Assurance Certification is an organization founded in 1999 to validate the skills of information security professionals. GIAC certifications are trusted by thousands of companies and government agencies, including the United States National Security Agency (NSA). GIAC certifications are based on SANS training. GIAC offers many different certifications in categories such as cyber defense, penetration testing, incident response, and forensics as well as a few others. Here are brief descriptions of a few GIAC certifications:

  • GSEC – GIAC Security Essentials GSEC is one of the more entry-level certifications offered by GIAC. It certifies a practitioner’s knowledge of information security goes beyond simply knowing terminology and concepts. The goal of the GSEC is to validate an individual’s hands-on knowledge. There are no listed prerequisites for the GSEC, but those wishing to take the exam should have a working knowledge of IT security and networking. To find out more about the GSEC certification. 
  • GMOB – GIAC Mobile Device Security Analyst GMOB is one of the more interesting certifications offered by GIAC because it allows professionals to show their abilities as they relate to mobile device security. Mobile devices are a major part of both our personal and professional lives. It is important to have well-qualified individuals to protect these devices that connect us together. The GMOB certification validates that the holders of the certification have demonstrated knowledge with regards to assessing and managing mobile device and application security. Read more about the GMOB certification.
  • GCFA – GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst Professionals interested in pursuing a forensic analyst career would certainly benefit from obtaining the GCFA certification. The GCFA is a widely recognized forensic analyst certification that covers a wide range of forensic topics such as advanced incident response and digital forensics, memory forensics, timeline analysis, anti-forensics detection, threat hunting, and APT intrusion incident response. More information can be found regarding the GCFA certification. 

Other GIAC certifications include (but are not limited to): GCIH, GPEN, GCIA, GCFE, GNFA

ISACA

Previously known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, ISACA now goes by its acronym only. According to their website, ISACA was incorporated in 1969 by a small group of individuals who recognized a need for a centralized source of information and guidance in the growing field of auditing controls for computer systems. Since then, thousands of IT professionals have gone on to obtain ISACA certifications. Here are brief descriptions of a couple of ISACA certifications: 

  • CISA – Certified Information Systems Auditor The CISA certification is a widely recognized certification that covers information security audit control, assurance and security. Holding a CISA certification proves that a professional is capable and knowledgeable enough to assess vulnerabilities, report on compliance issues, and institute security controls within an organization. Read more about the CISA certification.

CONSIDERING THE CISA EXAM? CHECK OUT OUR COMPLETE CISA CERTIFICATION PREP GUIDE.

  • CISM – Certified Information Security Manager A step above the CISA is the certified information security manager (CISM). This certification is designed for those who would like to demonstrate their knowledge of information security management. According to the ISACA website, independent studies rank the CISM as one of the highest paying and sought-after IT certifications. As this is a management-focused certification, those looking to obtain it should have hands-on experience managing, designing, and overseeing an enterprise’s information security program. CHECK OUT OUR COMPLETE CISM CERTIFICATION GUIDE.

Other ISACA certifications include CGEIT, CRISC.

Deciding which certification to pursue

With such a long list of certifications that exist, it can often be difficult to determine which one is the best to choose. This becomes especially difficult when two certifications seem very similar to each other. For example, EC-Council offers multiple certifications for those looking to start a career as a penetration tester (ECSA and LPT), but CompTIA and GIAC both also offer penetration testing certifications as well (PenTest+ and GPEN). 

Unfortunately, in these scenarios, there is no definitive answer to which certification is better to pursue. If a professional has a company in mind that they would like to work for, it could be beneficial to see if that organization’s job descriptions list one certification over another. Aside from that, the best option is to simply research all of the organizations which offer the certifications and decide which one is the best fit. It also doesn’t hurt to pursue multiple certifications. If an individual held the ECSA, LPT, PenTest+ and GPEN certifications all at the same time, this would only help to show that they have the knowledge needed to a penetration tester. 

133 percent growth in jobs related to cybersecurity and risk management

Cybersecurity certification programs for students

Academic cybersecurity certification programs

There are a few main differences between academic cybersecurity certification programs and other kinds of academic training like cybersecurity bachelor’s or cybersecurity master’s degrees. 

Certifications take less time to complete — sometimes they might be courses that last several weeks to a year or more. They also don’t require as many prerequisites like traditional undergraduate courses (like SAT or ACT scores, for example). 

Academic cybersecurity certification programs are great options for students that might have already completed a degree in a related field and are looking to make a career switch, or for students that want to explore what preparing for a cybersecurity career might be like before committing to a lengthier academic program. 

Below are two examples of different kinds of cybersecurity  programs:

Havard’s Cybersecurity: Managing Risk in the Information Age is a great example of an academic short course designed to help launch careers in the cybersecurity field. 

The course is divided into eight modules over eight weeks (the course description says that students are expected to dedicate roughly 10 hours weekly to the course). The goal of Harvard’s online cybersecurity certification is to guide students through the process of understanding different kinds of cybersecurity threats, how those threats present risks to businesses, and what steps companies and organizations can take to prevent cybersecurity threats and attacks. Additionally, the certification teaches students to learn about cybersecurity compliance and walks through when and how cybercrimes need to be reported to law enforcement authorities. 

The course outline, according to the eight modules looks like this:

  1. Cybersecurity as a business risk
  2. Identifying threats
  3. Identifying important systems and assets
  4. Leadership in managing cyber risk
  5. Understanding your technology
  6. Cyber risk and the law
  7. Incident response
  8. Designing and implementing a mitigation strategy

The course culminates in a certification from Harvard University’s Office of the Provost for Advances in Learning.

Another example is the University of Maryland’s Cybersecurity Certificate which offers comprehensive programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. 

Both levels require between 15 and 18 credit hours and are designed to be completed in a year. The undergraduate program is designed to help prepare students that have an undergraduate degree in another discipline to gain experience in computer networking prepare to take the necessary cybersecurity professional certification exams and be prepared to launch a career. 

The program does not require additional test scores such as the SAT or GRE, and transferring previous academic credit applicable to the program’s requirements is allowed.

The University of Maryland’s online cybersecurity certification has two tracks at the graduate level. Depending on background and career interest, students can choose between cybersecurity management and policy or cybersecurity technology and information assurance.

Both the undergraduate and graduate online cybersecurity certificate courses are eligible for scholarship and financial aid opportunities.

Academic cybersecurity certification program requirements

The coursework required to complete an academic cybersecurity undergraduate degree varies widely from school to school — and depending on the level of certification (post-baccalaureate vs postgraduate) for example. As a general rule, most academic certification programs require around 15 credit hours, which is equivalent to one semester of full-time study.

The key thing to keep in mind is that academic cybersecurity certification programs are intentionally designed to help students with a relevant background (computer science, mathematics, engineering, or relevant work experience) get specific training and expertise in cybersecurity topics. Essentially, the goal of these certification programs is to bridge the gap between previous experience and the requirements of the cybersecurity workforce.

Here’s one example of a cybersecurity certification program offered by Penn State and designed for prospective students with an undergraduate degree in a related field. Penn State’s program, which is called Information Systems Cybersecurity Certificate for Professionals is designed to help participants:

  • Get up to speed on foundational cybersecurity technologies, processes, and systems.
  • How to build and maintain information and data systems.
  • How to take an interdisciplinary approach to analyze the security of modern information systems.
  • Conduct penetration testing to understand vulnerabilities in cybersecurity infrastructure.

A couple of other factors and these are particular to Penn State’s program but offer an idea of some of the things to be on the lookout for when investigating related offerings: The credits earned during the post-baccalaureate cybersecurity certification can later be applied toward one of several master’s degrees in cybersecurity offered by Penn State. In addition, Penn State has been recognized by the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

A listing of academic cybersecurity certification programs

This listing is compiled with the latest available information about academic programs that offer academic cybersecurity certification programs. This listing is not a ranking system by any means. Instead, it was created to help prospective cybersecurity certification students compare and contrast some basic information about the programs available. 

Many prospective students report that cost, program availability, and online versus campus options as the main points of interest when making comparisons between programs.

Best Cybersecurity Certifications

School Location Link to Program Website
Amarillo College Amarillo, Texas Computer Cyber-Security Certificate
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Certificate in Advanced Digital Forensics
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Certificate in Advanced Network Security
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Certificate in Cyber Technology
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Certificate in Digital Forensics
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Certificate in Network Security
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, Maryland Server Administration and Security Certificate
Augusta State University Augusta, Georgia Advanced Cyber Defender Certificate
Augusta State University Augusta, Georgia Cyber Defender Certificate
Augusta State University Augusta, Georgia Healthcare Information Security Certificate
Augusta University Augusta, Georgia Cyber Defender Certificate
Beaufort County Community College Washington, North Carolina Cybersecurity Certificate
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College Martinsburg, West Virginia Information Security Certificate
Bossier Parish Community College Bossier City, Louisiana Certificate of Technical Studies in Information Systems Security Professionals
Brookdale Community College Lincroft, New Jersey Certificate in Cybersecurity
Butler Community College El Dorado, Kansas Certificate in Cyber Security
California State University-Fullerton Fullerton, California Certificate in Crime and Intelligence Analysis
California State University-San Bernardino San Bernardino, California Certificate in Cyber Security
Capital Community College Hartford, Connecticut Certificate in Cybersecurity
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Computer and Network Security Certificate
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Digital Forensics and Incident Handling
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Network Protection
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Secure Cloud Computing
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Secure Mobile Technology
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Secure Software Development
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Security Management
Capitol Technology University Laurel, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Digital Forensics and Incident Handling
Casper College Casper, Wyoming Certificate in Computer Security
Central Carolina Community College Sanford, North Carolina Network Security Certificate
Central New Mexico Community College Albuquerque, New Mexico Computer Information Systems (Certificate of Completion), Cyber Security
Central Texas College Killeen, Texas Certificate of Completion in Cyber Defense-Information Assurance
Central Washington University Ellensburg, Washington Certificate in Cybersecurity
Charter Oak State College New Britain, Connecticut Cyber Security Fundamental Certificate
Charter Oak State College New Britain, Connecticut Cyber Security Investigation Certificate
Charter Oak State College New Britain, Connecticut Security Strategies Application Certificate
Charter Oak State College New Britain, Connecticut Technical Security Administration Certificate
Citadel Military College of South Carolina Charleston, South Carolina Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
City College of San Francisco San Francisco, California Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity
City College of San Francisco San Francisco, California Certificate in Cybersecurity
City College of San Francisco San Francisco, California Certificate in Security for Web App Development
City College of San Francisco San Francisco, California Network Security Certificate
Coastline Community College Fountain Valley, California Certificate of Achievement in Cybersecurity
College of Charleston Charleston, South Carolina Cybersecurity Certificate
College of DuPage Glen Ellyn, Illinois Certificate in Information Assurance and Cyber Defense
College of Southern Maryland La Plata, Maryland Certificate in Cybersecurity Technology
College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada Certificate of Achievement in Computing & Information Technology – Cyber Security – Digital Forensics
College of Western Idaho Nampa, Idaho Advanced Technical Certificate in Cisco Networking and Security Technologies
College of Western Idaho Nampa, Idaho Advanced Technical Certificate in Information Security and Digital Forensics
Community College of Rhode Island Warwick, Rhode Island Certificate of Completion in Cyber Defense
County College of Morris Randolph, New Jersey Certificate of Achievement in Information Security
Craven Community College New Bern, North Carolina Cybersecurity Administration Certificate
Cypress College Cypress, California Cyber Defense Certificate
Danville Community College Danville, Virginia Certificate in Cyber Security
Danville Community College Danville, Virginia Certificate in Cybercrime Investigation
Daytona State College Daytona Beach, Florida Advanced Technical Certificate – Cybersecurity and Cyber Forensics
Des Moines Area Community College Ankeny, Iowa Digital Forensic Investigation Certificate
Eastern Illinois University Charleston, Illinois Technology Security graduate certificate program
Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso Campus Ruidoso, New Mexico Certificate in Computer & Network Security
Edmonds Community College Lynnwood, Washington Certificate in Computer Information Systems – Cyber Security Specialist
Edmonds Community College Lynnwood, Washington Certificate in Computer Information Systems – Digital Forensics
Estrella Mountain Community College Avondale, Arizona IT Security Associate Certificate
Fayetteville Technical Community College Fayetteville, North Carolina Systems Security and Analysis / Cyber Security Operations Certificate
Ferris State University Big Rapids, Michigan Certificate in Cybersecurity
Ferris State University Big Rapids, Michigan Certificate in Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Tallahassee, Florida Cyber Defense Certificate
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Tallahassee, Florida Information Assurance Certificate
Florida State College at Jacksonville Jacksonville, Florida Certificate in Cybersecurity
Front Range Community College Westminster, Colorado Cyber Security Specialist Certificate
Gaston College Dallas, North Carolina Information Technology – Networking and Cyber Defense, A.A.S.
George Mason University Fairfax, Virginia Certificate Program in Telecommunications Forensics and Security
George Washington University Washington, District Of Columbia Computer Security and Information Assurance (CSIA) Graduate Certificate (GC)
Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, Georgia Cyber Security Certificate
Georgia Southern University Statesboro, Georgia Cyber Security Undergraduate Certificate
Hagerstown Community College Hagerstown, Maryland Advanced Network Security, Cybersecurity, Certificate
Hagerstown Community College Hagerstown, Maryland Cisco CCNA Prep, Cybersecurity, Certificate
Hagerstown Community College Hagerstown, Maryland Network Security, Cybersecurity, Certificate
Harford Community College Bel Air, Maryland Certificate in Information Systems Security
Highline Community College Des Moines, Washington Digital Forensics & Investigations Certificate
Hill College Hillsboro, Texas Networking Cybersecurity Certificate
Honolulu Community College Honolulu, Hawaii Certificate of Achievement Information Assurance
Hood College Frederick, Maryland Cybersecurity Certificate
Horry-Georgetown Technical College Conway, South Carolina Certificate in Cybersecurity
Houston Community College Houston, Texas Network Systems and Cyber Security – Certificate level I
Howard Community College Columbia, Maryland Cyber Forensics Technology Certificate
Howard Community College Columbia, Maryland Network Security Administration Certificate
Howard University Washington, District Of Columbia Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Illinois State University Normal, Illinois Information Assurance and Security Graduate Certificate
Indiana University Bloomington Bloomington, Indiana Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus Indiana, Pennsylvania CNSS 4011 Certification
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus Indiana, Pennsylvania CNSS 4012 Certification
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis Indianapolis, Indiana Health Information Security Certificate
Inver Hills Community College Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota Advanced Network Security Certificate
James Madison University Harrisonburg, Virginia Certificate in Network/Information Security
James Madison University Harrisonburg, Virginia Certificate in Secure Computer and Database Systems
Joliet Junior College Joliet, Illinois Computer Information Systems Computer and Network Security Specialist, Certificate of Achievement
Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, Georgia Certificate in Information Technology Security
Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, Georgia Undergraduate Certificate in Information Security and Assurance
Kentucky State University Frankfort, Kentucky Cyber Security Certificate
Lake Superior College Duluth, Minnesota Cyber Defense Certificate
Lake Superior College Duluth, Minnesota Cyber Security Certificate
Leeward Community College Pearl City, Hawaii Certificate of Achievement in Information Security
Leeward Community College Pearl City, Hawaii Certificate of Competence in Information Security
Lincoln Land Community College Springfield, Illinois Certificate of Achievement in Computer Administration – Networking Track
Long Beach City College Long Beach, California Certificate in Cyber Security
Lord Fairfax Community College Middletown, Virginia Cybersecurity Career Studies Certificate
Los Medanos College Pittsburg, California Networking and Security (Advanced) Certificate
Los Medanos College Pittsburg, California Networking and Security (Basic) Certificate
Louisiana Tech University Ruston, Louisiana Information Assurance Certificate Program
Marshall University Huntington, West Virginia Certificate in Information Assurance
Marshall University Huntington, West Virginia Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics
Marymount University Arlington, Virginia Computer Security and Information Assurance Graduate Certificate
Massachusetts Bay Community College Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts Cyber Security Certificate
McHenry County College Crystal Lake, Illinois Cyber Security Certificate
Metropolitan State University Saint Paul, Minnesota Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Forensics
Metropolitan State University Saint Paul, Minnesota Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Middlesex Community College Bedford, Massachusetts Advanced Certificate in IT Cybersecurity
Middlesex Community College Bedford, Massachusetts Entry-Level Certificate in IT Cybersecurity
Mississippi State University Mississippi State, Mississippi Information Assurance Professional Certificate
Mohave Community College Kingman, Arizona Cybersecurity and Network Support Certificate (CSNSC)
Mohawk Valley Community College Utica, New York Cybersecurity Certificate
Monterey Peninsula College Monterey, California Cisco Networking and Security Professional certificate program
Montgomery County Community College Blue Bell, Pennsylvania Certificate in Cyber Security
Montgomery County Community College Blue Bell, Pennsylvania Computer Networking Security certification
Moraine Valley Community College Palos Hills, Illinois IT Security Specialist Certificate
Morgan State University Baltimore, Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Cyber Security
Mount Wachusett Community College Gardner, Massachusetts Cyber Security Certificate
Nashville State Community College Nashville, Tennessee Information Security Technical Certificate
Naval Postgraduate School Monterey, California Information Systems Security Engineering (ISSE) Certificate
New Jersey City University Jersey City, New Jersey Information Security Standard (INFOSEC) 4011
New Jersey City University Jersey City, New Jersey The National Security Agency Certificate for Information Systems Security Officers (ISSO) – Standard 4014 (Entry)
NHTI-Concord’s Community College Concord, New Hampshire Certificate in Information Technology Security
North Dakota State University Fargo, North Dakota Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security
North Idaho College Coeur D’Alene, Idaho Network Security Administration
Northeast Alabama Community College Rainsville, Alabama Certificate in Computer Information Systems – Security+
Northeast Community College Norfolk, Nebraska Information Security Certificate
Northeastern University Boston, Massachusetts Graduate Certificate in Information Security Management
Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, Kentucky Certificate in Corporate Information Security
Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, Kentucky Cybersecurity Certificate
Oakland Community College Bloomfield Hills, Michigan Certificate in Computer Information Systems – Cyber Security
Oakland Community College Bloomfield, Hills, Michigan Computer Information Systems – Cybersecurity Certificate (CIS.CYS.CT)
Oklahoma City Community College Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Cyber/Information Security Certificate of Mastery
Old Dominion University Norfolk, Virginia Graduate Certificate in Cyber Systems Security
Pace University-New York NYC and Westchester, New York Advanced Certificate in Secure Software and Information Engineering
Pace University-New York NYC and Westchester, Advanced Certificate in Security and Information Assurance
Palm Beach State College Lake Worth, Florida Certificate in Network Security
Piedmont Technical College Greenwood, South Carolina Certificate in Cybersecurity
Pikes Peak Community College Colorado Springs, Colorado Certificate in Cyber Security
Portland Community College Portland, Oregon Certificate in Cybersecurity Fundamentals
Portland State University Portland, Oregon Graduate Certificate in Computer Security
Prince George’s Community College Largo, Maryland Cybersecurity Certificate
Pueblo Community College Pueblo, Colorado Cyber Defense Certificate
Queens University of Charlotte Charlotte, North Carolina Forensic Computing Certificate
Radford University Radford, Virginia Undergraduate Certificate in Information Security
Red Rocks Community College Lakewood, Colorado Cyber Security Specialist Certificate
Richland College Dallas, Texas Digital Forensic Analyst Advanced Technical Certificate
River Valley Community College Claremont, New Hampshire Certificate in Cybersecurity & Healthcare IT
Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, New York Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity
Rock Valley College Rockford, Illinois Cisco CCNA Security/3776 Certificate
Rock Valley College Rockford, Illinois Cisco CCNP Security/3777 Certificate
Rose State College Midwest City, Oklahoma Information Security Certificate Program
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Salisbury, North Carolina Cyber Investigations Certificate
Sacramento City College Sacramento, California Info Sys Security Certificate of Achievement Program
Sacred Heart University Fairfield, Connecticut Certificate Program in Cybersecurity
Saint Joseph’s University Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Cyber Security Certificate
Salt Lake Community College Salt Lake City, Utah Network and Cyber Security Certificate of Proficiency
Salve Regina University Newport, Rhode Island Certificate of Graduate Studies in Cyber Security and Intelligence
Salve Regina University Newport, Rhode Island Certificate of Graduate Studies in Digital Forensics
San Antonio College San Antonio, Texas Certificate, Information Security & Assurance
San Antonio College San Antonio, Texas Cyber First Responders Certificate
San Antonio College San Antonio, Texas Information Technology and Security Academy (ITSA) Certificate
San Jose State University San Jose, California Certificate in Cybersecurity Engineering
San Jose State University San Jose, California Certificate in Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
Shawnee Community College Ullin, Illinois Cyber Security and Computer Forensics Certificate
Sheridan College Sheridan, Wyoming Cyber Security Certificate
Sinclair Community College Dayton, Ohio Information Systems Security – Short Term Certificate
Sinclair Community College Dayton, Ohio Linux Security and Networking – Short Term Certificate
South Texas College McAllen, Texas Cybersecurity Specialist Certificate
Spartanburg Community College Spartanburg, South Carolina Networking/Cybersecurity Certificate
St. Mary’s University San Antonio, Texas Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
St Philip’s College San Antonio, Texas Information Security and Assurance Certificate
Sullivan University Louisville, Kentucky Certificate in Network Support Administration and Security
SUNY at Albany Albany, New York Certificate of Graduate Study in Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity
SUNY Westchester Community College Valhalla, New York Cybersecurity Certificate
Temple University Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Professional Certificate in Information Technology Auditing and Cyber Security
Texas State Technical College-System Waco, Texas Advanced Technical Certificate – Digital Forensics Specialist
Texas State Technical College-System Waco, Texas Certificate in Cyber Security
The University of Montana Missoula, Montana Professional Certificate in Cybersecurity
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Chattanooga, Tennessee Certificate in Information Systems Security
The University of Texas at Dallas Richardson, Texas Certificate in Cybersecurity Systems (CCSS)
The University of Texas at Dallas Richardson, Texas Graduate Certificate in Information Assurance
The University of Texas at Dallas Richardson, Texas Undergraduate Certificate in Information Assurance
The University of Texas at El Paso El Paso, Texas Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security
The University of West Florida Pensacola, Florida Certificate in Cybersecurity
The University of West Florida Pensacola, Florida Certificate in Information Security Management
Thomas Nelson Community College Hampton, Virginia Career Studies Certificate in Cybersecurity for Enterprise
Tidewater Community College Norfolk, Virginia Career Studies Certificate in Cyber Security
Towson University Towson, Maryland Graduate Certificate in Information Security and Assurance
Trident Technical College Charleston, South Carolina Certificate in Applied Science in Cybersecurity
Trident Technical College Charleston, South Carolina Network Security Certificate
UMass Amherst Amherst, Massachusetts Graduate Certificate in Information Security
University at Buffalo Buffalo, New York Advanced (Graduate) Certificate Program in Information Assurance
University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, Alabama Certificate in Computer Forensics
University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, Alabama Computer Forensics Certificate Program
University of Baltimore Baltimore, Maryland Certificate in Cybersecurity
University of Central Florida Orlando, Florida Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics
University of Central Missouri Warrensburg, Missouri Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
University of Cincinnati Cincinnati, Ohio Cyber Operations Certificate
University of Colorad-Colorado Springs Colorado Springs, Colorado Engineering Secure Software Certificate
University of Florida Gainesville, Florida Certificate in Hardware Security
University of Florida Gainesville, Florida Certificate in Information Security
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Champaign, Illinois Undergraduate Certificate in Global Security
University of Maryland-Baltimore County Baltimore, Maryland Graduate Certificate in Professional Studies: Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy
University of Maryland-College Park College Park, Maryland Graduate Certificate in Engineering – Cybersecurity
University of Memphis Memphis, Tennessee Graduate Certificate in Information Assurance
University of Memphis Memphis, Tennessee Graduate Certificate Program in Business Information Assurance
University of Missouri-St Louis Saint Louis, Missouri Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
University of Nevada, Las Vegas Las Vegas, Nevada Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
University of Nevada-Reno Reno, Nevada Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Charlotte, North Carolina Graduate Certificate in Information Security and Privacy
University of North Texas Denton, Texas Undergraduate Cybersecurity Certificate
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Certificate of Advanced Study in Telecommunications Security
University of Richmond University Of Richmond, Virginia Certificate in Information Security
University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, South Carolina Information Assurance and Security Certificate
University of Wisconsin-Parkside Kenosha, Wisconsin Cyber Security Certificate
Utah Valley University Orem, Utah Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Valencia College Orlando, Florida Cybersecurity Certificate
Valencia College Orlando, Florida Digital Forensics Technical Certificate
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, Indiana Certificate in Information Assurance
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, Indiana Certificate in Information Security
Villanova University Villanova, Pennsylvania Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity
Virginia Tech Blacksburg, Virginia Graduate Certificate in Information Assurance
Washington University in St Louis Saint Louis, Missouri Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security Management
Washtenaw Community College Ann Arbor, Michigan Principles of Cybersecurity (CTCYS)
Waukesha County Technical College Pewaukee, Wisconsin Cyber Security Specialist Certificate
Waukesha County Technical College Pewaukee, Wisconsin Security Administrator Certificate
Waukesha County Technical College Pewaukee, Wisconsin Technical Certificate in Cybersecurity
Wayne County Community College District Detroit, Michigan Certificate in Computer Information Systems: Cybersecurity
Weber State University Ogden, Utah Graduate Certificate in Management Information Systems – Information Assurance
West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Chester, Pennsylvania Graduate Computer Security Certificate
West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Chester, Pennsylvania Undergraduate Computer Security Certificate
West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia Graduate Certificate in Computer Forensics
West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia Information Assurance and Biometrics Certificate Program
Western New Mexico University Silver City, New Mexico Certificate in Digital Forensics
Whatcom Community College Bellingham, Washington Certificate of Proficiency – Information Security Professional
Wilmington University New Castle, Delaware Digital Evidence Discovery Certificate
Wilmington University New Castle, Delaware Digital Evidence Investigation Certificate
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester, Massachusetts Information Security Management Graduate Certificate
Yavapai College Prescott, Arizona Cybersecurity Specialist Certificate
What is a cybersecurity certification?

Cybersecurity certifications are professional credentials used to validate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and expertise in the field of cybersecurity. They are usually obtained by passing an exam and are recognized globally.

Why are cybersecurity certifications important?

Cybersecurity certifications demonstrate a professional’s proficiency in different aspects of cybersecurity, such as penetration testing, digital forensics, security auditing, etc. They are often required for certain roles in the cybersecurity industry and can boost a professional’s credibility and employability.

What are some popular cybersecurity certifications?

Some of the most recognized cybersecurity certifications include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).

How can I prepare for cybersecurity certification exams?

Preparing for these exams typically involves studying from relevant books, enrolling in online or in-person courses, participating in study groups, and taking practice exams. Check out the certification bootcamp pages for additional resources and preparation ideas.

How long does it take to get a cybersecurity certification?

The duration can vary widely depending on the specific certification and the individual’s prior knowledge and experience in cybersecurity. Some certifications may require only a few weeks of study, while others could take several months or more.

Do cybersecurity certifications expire?

Yes, many cybersecurity certifications have an expiration date and require professionals to renew their credentials every few years. This often involves continuing education or re-taking the certification exam.

What is the cost of obtaining a cybersecurity certification?

Costs can vary significantly depending on the certification. Fees often include costs for training, study materials, and the exam itself.

Can I get a job in cybersecurity without a certification?

While it’s possible to secure a job in cybersecurity without a certification, having one can make you more competitive in the job market. Many employers prefer or even require candidates to have specific certifications.

Are there any prerequisites for getting a cybersecurity certification?

The prerequisites vary depending on the certification. Some certifications may require a certain amount of work experience in cybersecurity or a related field, while others might require you to pass a preliminary exam.

Which cybersecurity certification should I start with?

If you’re new to cybersecurity, the CompTIA Security+ is often recommended as a good starting point because it provides a broad introduction to the field. For those with more experience, the CISSP or CISM may be more appropriate. Ultimately, the best certification for you depends on your career goals and current level of expertise.

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