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Cybersecurity Training

By DeVry University

May 13, 2023

5 min read

Every workforce needs highly trained employees, but few industries rely on them more than cyber security. Relevant cyber security training and ample learning opportunities are key components in developing information security professionals who can help make the internet a safer place.

Though it’s still a relatively young industry, there are online cyber security training programs designed to help you work toward becoming a full-fledged digital defender.  

If you are interested in learning about the benefits of cyber security training, or are thinking about becoming an information security professional, we’re here to help at DeVry University. In this article, you'll learn about various aspects of cyber security training and explore some of the courses and degree programs that can help prepare you for work in this exciting field.

photo of man and woman in office looking at a computer
photo of man and woman in office looking at a computer

What Types of Training are Available for Cyber Security?

There are several training opportunities available for people who wish to become proficient in cyber security. These including degrees, certificates and post-graduate education.

Here's a quick breakdown of the benefits of each path:

  • Undergraduate certificate

    An undergraduate certificate program in cyber security is a great way for you tocan provide you with opportunities tohelp you learn the basics of the field and can even helps as you prepare as you prepare for to pursue entry-level employment opportunities. One of the biggest benefits of pursuing an undergraduate certificate is the relatively short time it takes to complete. In general, a certificate program takes significantly less time to complete than a bachelor's degree. At DeVry, you can earn your Undergraduate Certificate in Cyber Security in as little as 1 year and 4 months1, or even faster with qualifying transfer credits. Earning your certificate at DeVry is a great option because the classes you take while pursuing an undergraduate certificate may count toward certain bachelor's degrees should you choose to continue your education with us.2

  • Bachelor's degree

    A bachelor's degree is a step up from an undergraduate certificate. This level of education communicates to employers that you have taken the time to become knowledgeable about the field of cyber security and have built a foundation that will allow you to continue learning new skills in the workplace. In general, a bachelor's degree program takes longer to complete than an undergraduate certificate program. With 8-week class sessions at DeVry, our online Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology and Networking with a Specialization in Cyber Security can be completed in as little as 2 years and 8 months1. A degree of this level may also be used as a steppingstone toward a future master’s degree.

  • Graduate education

    Education at the graduate level often means pursuing a master's degree, but can also include graduate certificate programs like our Online Graduate Certificate in Information Security. Graduate-level training may help increase your job qualifications or help you find ways to develop your career path within your current company.

What Will I Learn from Cyber Security Training?

Cyber security training aims to impart several vital skills that you'll need to protect data. In addition to foundational technical skills, cyber security training should include learning ways to improve efficacy and communication skills that you can put to use while collaborating with coworkers and managers.

Here are some of the things you can expect to learn about in a cyber security program:

  • Programming

    Also known as coding, programming is the basic controlling element of all software. In cyber security, a knowledge of programming helps you set up systems and software, discover vulnerabilities in a system and detect malicious code.

  • Security planning and auditing

    This is the process of evaluating a network, server, database or system and determining how it can be improved. It also involves setting up compliance procedures for non-IT employees that can help them protect company and customer data.

  • Digital devices

    knowledge of digital devices is needed to understand connectivity within the Internet of Things (IoT) as well as how to set up networks and systems between interconnected devices. 

  • Operating systems

    Operating systems (OS) allow devices to perform computer functions. Understanding OS can help you protect them from attacks that may impact the functionality of a device or system. 

  • Ethical hacking

    Ethical hacking involves learning the principles and techniques behind hacking attacks. In a cyber security setting, these skills are used to evaluate and improve the quality of defenses in a network or system.

What Careers are Available for People with Cyber Security Training?

Cyber security is a rapidly growing field. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of information security analysts will grow, on a national level, by 47,100 (33%) between 2020 and 20303.

Graduates with cyber security training may consider such careers as:

  • Computer systems analyst

    Computer systems analysts help programmers construct systems for computers. Security experts specifically evaluate the quality of the system from a defensive perspective and advise programs on how to improve their security.

  • Computer network support specialist

    Computer network support specialists help employees and customers troubleshoot issues within their computers. A support specialist with a cyber security background can help people install defenses and recover from intrusions.

  • Ethical hacker

    Ethical hackers help evaluate the defenses of a network or system by using hacking techniques to identify weaknesses. After attempting to break into the network they provide recommendations on how to improve security. They may also use hacking techniques to break into hacking hubs and identify cyber criminals.

  • Security analyst

    Security analysts manage the software on the networks and systems within a company, overseeing any measures that might be needed to increase or maintain security.

  • Vulnerability assessor

    Similar to ethical hackers, vulnerability assessors use their extensive knowledge of hacking techniques and system weaknesses to identify areas where a system could be improved.

Prepare to Pursue a Career in Cyber Security

At DeVry, we help you take the first steps toward your future in cyber security. Explore our cyber security programs, including undergraduate certificate, associate and bachelor's degree opportunities. Classes begin every 8 weeks and can be completed 100% online.

1 Not including breaks. Assumes year-round, full-time enrollment.
2 At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied.
3 US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location.

Classes start on October 26, 2026
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