Chicago, IL, encompassing the metro areas of Naperville and Elgin, offers robust opportunities for students and early career professionals in cybersecurity.
The city is home to large employers such as Allstate, Boeing, and Discover Financial Services, all of which have significant cybersecurity needs and offer numerous positions in the field.
Prominent universities in the region, including the DePaul University and Illinois Institute of Technology, are renowned for their advanced cybersecurity programs, providing rigorous education and research opportunities.
Together, these institutions and companies create a dynamic ecosystem for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
Cybersecurity overview
Chicago is home to a vibrant cybersecurity sector with abundant job opportunities and a dedicated workforce focused on cybersecurity. The area boasts nearly 15,000 cybersecurity job openings, reflecting the increasing demand for skilled professionals in this critical field.
The city’s cybersecurity workforce is diverse and substantial, with over 40,000 professionals employed across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. This vibrant job market is driven by significant employers who are continuously seeking to enhance their cybersecurity defenses.
Employers in Chicago often look for candidates with specific certifications and degrees that validate their expertise and readiness for the cybersecurity challenges. The most commonly sought-after certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security+, and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). These certifications are highly regarded and signify a solid foundational knowledge and specialized skills in cybersecurity.
Additionally, employers value cybersecurity, computer science, and information technology degrees from reputable institutions such as the Roosevelt University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and DePaul University. These degrees equip graduates with theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them to tackle real-world cybersecurity issues.
Overall, Chicago offers a dynamic and supportive environment for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, providing numerous career growth and development opportunities. The city’s emphasis on higher education and industry-recognized certifications ensures a steady pipeline of skilled individuals ready to contribute to the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity program listings in Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Program: Cybersecurity, Associate in Applied Science
Cost per credit: $153 in state | $505 out of state
Program : Associate's
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsDePaul University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Cost per credit: $942
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 192
Delivery Method: Campus & hybrid
Learn more: Program detailsIllinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Applied Cybersecurity and Information Technology (B.S.)
Cost per credit: $785
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 129
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsLoyola University Chicago
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity (BS)
Cost per credit: $1,712
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 122
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsNortheastern Iliinois University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity, B.S.
Cost per credit: $474 in state | $948 out of state
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 123
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsRoosevelt University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $700
Program : Bachelor's
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsDePaul University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Master of Science in Cybersecurity
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $955
Program : Master's
Credits: 52
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Learn more: Program detailsIllinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity (M.A.S.)
Cost per credit: $1,780
Program : Master's
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Learn more: Program detailsRoosevelt University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Master’s in Cyber Security and Information Assurance (MS)
CAE designation: CAE-CD
Cost per credit: $1,100
Program : Master's
Credits: 30
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsBusiness Computer Skills
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: ISC2 - Certified in Cybersecurity Boot Camp
Program : Bootcamp
Credits: 14 hours
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsChicago State University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Cost per credit: $349 in state | $675 out of state
Program : Bootcamp
Credits: 6 months
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsCity Colleges of Chicago
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity Boot Camp
Cost per credit: $1,300 Total
Program : Bootcamp
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsInfoSec Institute Inc
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity Foundations Training Boot Camp
Program : Bootcamp
Credits: 3 days
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Learn more: Program detailsNortheastern Iliinois University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Online Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Cost per credit: $10,000 total
Program : Bootcamp
Credits: 10-18 weeks
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cyber Bootcamp
Cost per credit: $14,995 total
Program : Bootcamp
Credits: 12-26 weeks
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsCity Colleges of Chicago
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity, Basic Certificate
Cost per credit: $153 in state | $505 out of state
Program : Certificate
Credits: 18
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program detailsIllinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: Cybersecurity Management (Certificate)
Cost per credit: $1,780
Program : Certificate
Credits: 12
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Learn more: Program details
Chicago’s metro area is home to a variety of top-tier academic institutions offering comprehensive degree programs in cybersecurity designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field.
Roosevelt University stands out with its Master’s in Cyber Security and Information Assurance (MS) and Bachelor of Science in Cyber and Information Security, providing a solid foundation in cybersecurity’s theoretical and practical aspects. These programs focus on preparing students to protect information systems and networks against cyber threats through advanced coursework and hands-on experience.
The Illinois Institute of Technology offers a range of programs, including a Cybersecurity Management Certificate, a Bachelor of Science in Applied Cybersecurity and Information Technology, and a Master of Applied Science in Cybersecurity.
These programs cater to different levels of expertise, from beginners seeking foundational knowledge to professionals looking to deepen their understanding and skills in cybersecurity management and applied technology.
DePaul University is another leading institution in the region, offering both a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. These programs emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, integrating computer science, information technology, and cybersecurity principles. DePaul’s curriculum addresses current and emerging threats, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex cybersecurity challenges.
Resources
- Chicago first– an innovative organization that showcases how partnerships between the public and private sectors can improve the resilience of financial institutions.
- Meetup.com – a central organization for the cybersecurity community in the Chicago area that facilitates engaging discussions, practical demonstrations, networking opportunities, and career growth for both experienced professionals and newcomers in the field of cybersecurity.
- CSNP.org – a nonprofit organization that provides inclusive and accessible cybersecurity education and events for the community. They offer free monthly events with various activities and workshops to help attendees earn certification credits.
- Chicago.gov – an article that explains the dangers of cybercrime and cyber terrorism, outlining potential impacts and steps to prevent and respond to attacks. It emphasizes the importance of caution in sharing personal information online and creating secure passwords.
- City Colleges of Chicago — Cyber Skills for All – an initiative that aims to train individuals for careers in cybersecurity and bridge the talent gap in this rapidly growing field.
Source
- Cybersecurity supply/demand information | Source from Cyberseek in February 2025