Cybersecurity certificate programs provide students with credentials in software, programming languages, and web development, allowing them to begin or advance careers in their respective fields. Seasoned, midcareer professionals may also benefit from earning certificates.
Holding a certificate helps candidates stand out against their competition on the cybersecurity job market, potentially leading to new career opportunities.
Cybersecurity jobs continue to grow rapidly as demand for qualified professionals increases. This guide offers information about cybersecurity certificate programs for prospective learners, including expectations for online learning, selecting the best program, and a list of some of the top online cybersecurity certificate programs.
Why Get an Online Certificate in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity certificate programs provide a simple path to earning credentials in the field. Current cybersecurity professionals and those looking to enter the field can benefit from cybersecurity certificates.
Certificate programs generally take less time to complete than associate degrees. These shorter programs offer learners and professionals a way to gain new skills, advance existing knowledge, and even test out new practice areas without committing to a full degree.
Employers may look favorably on candidates with certificates in the industry. As more companies require bachelor's degrees for entry-level positions, a certificate can serve as a stepping stone toward a two- or four-year degree. As the cybersecurity field and other areas in information technology continue to grow and develop, professionals with skills relevant to those subjects enjoy increasing demand.
Consider these benefits to earning an online cybersecurity certificate.
Earn Additional Credentials: Seasoned professionals and new learners benefit from earning cybersecurity certificates. Many programs provide opportunities for certificates in specific programming languages and cybersecurity applications.
Pursue Career Advancement: Earning a cybersecurity certificate can provide the credentials you need to pursue advancement in your current career. With additional qualifications and the added experience of a certificate program, graduates may qualify for more advanced job roles.
Get In-Demand Skills: The IT and cybersecurity industries continue to grow more quickly than other industries in the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a remarkable 35% growth in information security employment from 2021-31.
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Top Online Cybersecurity Certificate Programs
The list below features 5 of the best online cybersecurity certificate programs. We chose these fully accredited programs based on factors like affordability, reputation, and overall academic excellence. Learn more about our methodology below.
Should You Get a Certificate or an Associate Degree?
Certificates and associate degrees in cybersecurity share many similarities. Choosing the best option depends on your career goals and the program that best serves them.
Learners seeking a more streamlined program featuring only courses in cybersecurity would benefit more from a certificate than an associate degree. Certificate programs emphasize key skills in a specific subject area, while associate degrees include general education courses outside the major field, extending the overall time to completion.
The table below compares cybersecurity certificates and associate degrees, featuring key elements of each option.
Comparing Certificate and Associate Programs
| Cybersecurity Certificate | Cybersecurity Associate Degree | |
|---|---|---|
| Program Length | Could range from one semester to a year Typically much shorter than an associate program | Generally four semesters or two years Potentially completed faster with year-round enrollment |
Course Requirements | Range from 9-30 credits Often includes 3-15 courses | Typically comprises at least 60 credits |
Cost | Cost depends on where courses are taken. Tuition per credit is likely the same for certificates and associate programs at most colleges | Varies widely depending on the institution Some free or discounted community college options in some states May ultimately cost more due to program length and credit requirements |
Focus | Courses specifically emphasize broad skills in cybersecurity | Course requirements include general education courses outside of the major area |
Cybersecurity Certificates Versus Bootcamps
Bootcamps offer students a way to earn certificates or learn new cybersecurity skills in an intensive, accelerated learning workshop. Typically, bootcamps require a few months of study rather than a full semester or academic year.
Cybersecurity bootcamps offer an efficient, effective method for learning new skills, softwares, or coding languages. These programs benefit seasoned professionals and new learners alike. Learners can choose programs that fit their specific goals based on their current experience levels.
Learn more about how bootcamps and cybersecurity certificate programs compare in the table below.
Comparing Certificate Programs and Bootcamps
| Cybersecurity Certificate | Cybersecurity Bootcamp | |
|---|---|---|
| Program Length | Typically 1-2 semesters Could take up to a year to complete | Typically 3.5 months long or less Often takes less than one full semester |
Cost | Cost varies by institution and credit requirements Could cost more than a bootcamp with tuition and fees | Cost varies by program but typically ranges from $12,000-$20,000 Some shorter bootcamps typically cost less (around $3,000) |
Flexibility | Longer programs may require more time Can complete online, but may require some on campus work Enrollees can maintain their employment but may need to adjust enrollment | Often fully online Shorter programs and less time commitment overall Continue working while enrolled |
Specialization | Coursework covers broad cybersecurity foundations | Hyperfocus on cybersecurity |
Popular Cybersecurity Certificate Courses
Cybersecurity certificate programs cover many different topics and skills. Depending on the specific focus of the program, enrollees may encounter courses in different fields. Typically, programs include required core courses and additional elective courses students can tailor to their interests. The courses below serve as examples of courses often featured in cybersecurity programs.
How Much Do Cybersecurity Certificates Cost?
Cybersecurity certifications offered by private learning institutions like CompTIA can range from $300-$1,000 for study materials and the required exam. Bootcamps typically cost more than $10,000 but offer a shortened, accelerated format. Certificate costs generally exclude materials like devices, hardware, and textbooks.
Jobs You Can Get With a Cybersecurity Certificate
The cybersecurity field continues to grow rapidly. Information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $102,600 as of 2021. A cybersecurity certificate alone does not qualify candidates for cybersecurity roles requiring bachelor's degrees, but it can help bolster a resume so you can pursue career advancement.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts work within businesses and organizations to develop security frameworks and protect data. They investigate violations or security breaches, maintain firewalls and other data protection systems, and assist employees with computer and device security. These analysts work in many industries and sectors.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31):+35%
Median Annual Salary:$102,590
Computer Support Specialists
Computer support specialists work for information technology and computer companies to provide assistance to users. They help customers troubleshoot and fix issues, install software, and learn to use device features. Some companies employ these specialists to assist company employees with computer training and software maintenance.
Required Education: Some postsecondary education or computer training
Job Outlook (2021-31):+6%
Median Annual Salary:$57,910
Web Developers
Web developers work with individuals and businesses to design and create websites. They must possess a strong working knowledge of coding languages and web development software, often with some knowledge in graphic design. They create and code websites, along with monitoring usage and traffic. They mend coding issues and handle malfunctions and crashes.
Required Education: Associate degree
Job Outlook (2021-31):+23%
Median Annual Salary:$78,300
Computer Systems Analysts
Computer system analysts work with companies to increase the efficiency of their existing computer and network systems. They apply a foundational understanding of business to the principles of information technology.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31):+9%
Median Annual Salary:$99,270
Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects design and implement networks for use in business. They may create a system for a specific office or design systems and infrastructures used across multiple servers and locations. These professionals also create network security systems and monitor breaches.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31):+4%
Median Annual Salary:$120,520
Selecting the Right Online Cybersecurity Certificate
Our list of the best online cybersecurity certificate programs offers a great place to begin your research. However, every student should also carefully consider the following factors when searching for their program:
Potential for Further Education: Consider whether you want to eventually build off of your certificate and work toward an associate or bachelor's degree and select a program that allows for this growth.
Type of Program: Think about whether you want to pursue a certificate or a more long-term program. This can help you decide whether to enroll in a program at a college, with a certifying organization, or in a bootcamp.
Cost and Available Aid: Certificate or diploma programs at community colleges may cost significantly less than boot camp programs. Determine your budget and how much you want to spend, along with any available financial aid options for each program.
Admission Requirements: Some bootcamp or certificate programs may require prior knowledge or experience in cybersecurity or information technology. Choose a program that best accommodates your knowledge and experience level.
- Job Requirements: If you have a specific career in mind, consider the education requirements for that career and choose a program based on that goal.
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cybersecurity Certificates
What's the difference between a cybersecurity certificate and certification?
Certifications generally highlight a specific skill, such as certain coding languages, and are bestowed by independent companies. Schools deliver certificate programs, which offer more broad knowledge of a field.
How much does an online cybersecurity certificate program cost?
Costs for cybersecurity programs vary widely based on factors like program type, school type, and program length. They range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand or more. Some programs offer financial aid options for students.
Can you get a job in cybersecurity with an online certificate?
Yes. While some employers may specifically seek candidates with degrees, others may look for applicants with specific training developed in a certificate program and relevant experience. This varies from employer to employer.
Is an online certificate in cybersecurity worth it?
Yes. Graduates can enter a rapidly growing industry and establish a background to eventually pursue higher degrees. Certificates provide pathways to the job field and further education.
