Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Every day, companies collect millions of pieces of data. Much of this data includes sensitive information -- like banking information, other financial data, health records, and personally identifiable information. All of this information needs to be protected from potential theft.
Cybercrimes can result in lost productivity, identify theft, and fraud. In 2016, the U.S. economy lost $57-$109 billion due to malicious cyberactivity.
Cybersecurity professionals help protect businesses and individuals from cyberattacks
Cybersecurity professionals help protect businesses and individuals from cyberattacks. But some worry there are not enough trained cybersecurity analysts to meet the workforce demand. A 2018 report by Cybersecurity Ventures projected 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2021.
Coding bootcamps evolved to provide an alternative career training option for in-demand technical fields like cybersecurity. With short-term programs focused on industry needs, individuals with little or no prior computer science training can prepare to fill these jobs. Bootcamps also help technical professionals update their skills and learn new technology and tools quickly.
Read on to explore the best cybersecurity bootcamps and learn more about this promising career path.
Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Note: The bootcamp provider information below lists default locations and learning formats for each program. COVID-19 may have impacted the location and learning format of many bootcamps, with in-person programs moving online. Please contact the bootcamp provider or visit their website for more information on current program availability and future program formats once health and safety precautions are no longer in effect.
- Columbia University in the City of New York
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- Location: New York City
- Programs Starting At: $13,495
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Students can gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity through this 24-week, part-time bootcamp offered by Columbia and Trilogy Education Services. The curriculum incorporates best practices in data security and the skills necessary to earn industry certifications, like CompTIA Security+.
Designed for working professionals, the bootcamp meets two nights during the week and on Saturdays. Classes feature live instruction from teachers with relevant industry experience. The career services team offers interview coaching, portfolio reviews, and social media profile assistance.
- Eleven Fifty Academy
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- Locations: Remote, Fishers, Indianapolis
- Programs Starting At: $5,000
- Learning Formats: In Person, Online
- Time Commitment: Full Time, Part Time
Accepts GI Bill®
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Eleven Fifty Academy incorporates industry certifications throughout its 14-week program, with a curriculum vetted by industry leaders. Students take part in multiple hands-on learning experiences. Eleven Fifty Academy's cyber ranges allow learners to respond to real-life cyberattacks, helping develop skills in threat assessment, system monitoring, and policy development.
The program accepts GI Bill® funding and offers some scholarships for students. Payment plans and loan providers can also help participants finance their education. Free online introductory courses allow prospective students to test their readiness for the cybersecurity bootcamp.
- Flatiron School
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- Locations: Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Denver, District of Columbia, Houston, New York City, San Francisco, Seattle
- Programs Starting At: $17,000
- Learning Formats: In Person, Online
- Time Commitment: Full Time, Part Time, Self-Paced
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Flatiron School offers in-person and online immersive training programs in cybersecurity analytics and engineering. Approximately half of the curriculum involves hands-on lab work. Online students interact with faculty through live lectures. All students complete a capstone project.
In its 2019 jobs report, the bootcamp reported that 93% of job-seeking graduates across all its programs found jobs in tech within a year of graduating, and the average starting salary for full-time professionals was $74,570. Flatiron School boasts an extensive employer network and relationships with hiring managers at many companies. Its career services team provides individual career coaching, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
- Fullstack Academy
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- Locations: Remote, Chicago, New York City
- Programs Starting At: $15,980
- Learning Formats: In Person, Online
- Time Commitment: Full Time, Part Time
Accepts GI Bill®
CIRR Verified
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Fullstack Academy has partnered with the Cyber NYC initiative to train new cybersecurity analysts. Its full-time and part-time programs feature technical instruction, hands-on learning, and real-world simulations.
The bootcamp welcomes learners from a variety of backgrounds. However, it does require a logical reasoning assessment and video interview as part of the admissions process. Students can apply for scholarships, and the program qualifies for GI Bill® benefits.
Fullstack Academy belongs to the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting, which verifies bootcamp student outcomes. The bootcamp offers comprehensive career services to help students find jobs after completing the program, and alumni can be found at hundreds of companies in New York and Chicago, from technology startups to industry giants like Facebook and Google.
- Georgia Institute of Technology
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- Locations: Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Savannah
- Programs Starting At: $10,000
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Georgia Tech offers this workforce-focused cybersecurity bootcamp in conjunction with Trilogy Education Services. In-class assignments and real-world projects allow students to quickly put new knowledge to work. This program incorporates several industry certifications sought by employers into its curriculum.
This part-time bootcamp offers flexibility to help students reach their goals. Graduates of Georgia Tech degree programs seeking to supplement their training can apply for a $500 scholarship.
- Northwestern University
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- Location: Chicago
- Programs Starting At: $11,995
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Northwestern's cybersecurity bootcamp provides hands-on training and a skills-focused curriculum in key elements of cybersecurity analysis. This program, offered in partnership with Trilogy Education Services, focuses on the fundamentals of risk assessment and access management while using industry tools such as Metasploit and Wireshark.
Part-time evening and weekend class sessions include interactive faculty lectures. The program also builds soft skills valued by employers and helps students assemble a professional portfolio.
- University of California, Berkeley
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- Locations: Belmont, San Francisco
- Programs Starting At: $12,495
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Berkeley's cybersecurity bootcamp welcomes new cohorts each quarter. The 24-week program provides technical training, hands-on learning, and career preparation. The program welcomes applicants from a variety of backgrounds, including those without any prior experience in tech.
Offered through UC Berkeley Extension in partnership with Trilogy Education Services, the tuition covers all necessary student resources, eliminating the need to purchase textbooks. Career services staff assist with job searches, interview preparation, and portfolio assessments.
- University of California, Los Angeles
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- Location: Los Angeles
- Programs Starting At: $11,495
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
The cybersecurity bootcamp curriculum at UCLA provides an understanding of computer networking, systems, and web technologies, while emphasizing best practices in data security. Instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom, and assignments encourage peer collaboration.
Offered in partnership with Trilogy Education Services, students benefit from comprehensive career services tailored to the needs of technical job searches. Counselors help students prepare for interviews, craft their resume and portfolio, and demonstrate soft skills that can set them apart from other applicants.
- University of California, Irvine
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- Location: Irvine
- Programs Starting At: $12,495
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
UCI's continuing education department and Trilogy Education Services offer a comprehensive cybersecurity bootcamp with a flexible part-time schedule. The curriculum focuses on teaching students in-demand skills in security analytics, ethical hacking, and risk management.
The 24-week program features a cohort format, allowing students to build professional relationships during their training. New programs begin quarterly.
- University of Texas at Austin
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- Locations: Austin, Houston
- Programs Starting At: $11,995
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
UT Austin's cybersecurity bootcamp, offered in collaboration with Trilogy Education Services, tailors its curriculum to the needs of local employers. Offered at UT Austin campuses, the program is taught by instructors with industry knowledge.
Students complete several hands-on learning projects throughout the bootcamp that they can use to build a professional portfolio demonstrating their abilities to potential employers. The curriculum also incorporates industry certifications in cybersecurity.
- Washington University in St. Louis
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- Location: St. Louis
- Programs Starting At: $11,495
- Learning Format: In Person
- Time Commitment: Part Time
Evening & Weekend Options
Job Placement Assistance
Washington University and Trilogy Education Services prepare students for a career in cybersecurity with an industry-focused curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities. Students benefit from homework reviews, virtual tech panels, and soft-skills training.
Graduates of this cybersecurity bootcamp receive ongoing access to career services, with one-on-one career coaching. A certificate of completion from the school showcases accomplishments to prospective employers.
Bootcamp Ranking Guidelines
At BestColleges, we believe the best bootcamp is the one that fits your schedule, your learning needs, and your career aspirations. That's why we often present our recommendations in alphabetical order -- because the real best bootcamp is the bootcamp that's best for you.
Other Notable Cybersecurity Bootcamps
If the programs above do not meet your needs, consider these additional cybersecurity bootcamp options.
| Provider Name | Programs Starting At |
|---|---|
| California Polytechnic State University | $11,910 |
| Case Western Reserve University | $11,495 |
| Claim Academy | $13,998 |
| DevLeague | $12,500 |
| Digital Creative Institute | $3,500 |
| The George Washington University | $10,000 |
| Jax Code Academy | $3,500 |
| William Marsh Rice University | $11,995 |
| SecureSet | 12,000 |
| Southern Methodist University | $11,995 |
| The University of North Carolina at Charlotte | $11,495 |
| University of California, Davis | $10,995 |
| University of California, Riverside | $10,995 |
| University of California, San Diego | $10,995 |
| University of Denver | $10,995 |
| University of Kansas | $9,995 |
| University of Minnesota | $10,995 |
| University of Pennsylvania | $12,495 |
| University of Richmond | $10,495 |
| University of Utah | $11,995 |
| Vanderbilt University | $10,995 |
| Warner Pacific University sourceU | $21,415 |
What Is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity protects networks and data from attacks using a combination of hardware, software, and other tools. Cybersecurity professionals configure networks to prevent outside attacks focused on disrupting business processes or accessing, destroying, or changing information. They also develop procedures and protocols for organizations to minimize security risks. They may provide training to departments across the company on how to prevent certain types of attacks, like phishing or malware.
Cybersecurity professionals also respond to data breaches and identify how security measures failed in order to prevent similar breaches in the future. They minimize data loss, identify compromised data, and look for clues as to who attacked the system. They may help an organization respond to consumer concerns about the security of their information.
As more and more data moves to cloud servers, cybersecurity professionals must address how to make that information both accessible and secure.
What Will I Learn in a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
A cybersecurity bootcamp combines direct instruction in technical concepts with hands-on practice. Many bootcamps do not require previous experience in computer coding. However, logical reasoning, critical thinking, and math skills will benefit prospective students. Several bootcamp providers offer introductory courses that help students prepare for one of their more intensive bootcamps.
Topics covered in cybersecurity bootcamps often include computer network administration and systems administration, particularly for Linux and Windows operating systems. Some programs help students prepare for industry certifications from organizations like CompTIA.
Cybersecurity coursework often looks at network design and architecture, how to assess vulnerability, and how to conduct risk and access management. These topics help learners identify patterns that could indicate malicious activity, bots, or intruders.
Cybersecurity bootcamp students also gain experience with common tools and skills used in the industry, such as Wireshark, Hashcat, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and Bash scripting.
Cybersecurity Career Paths
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security analysts earned a median salary of $99,730 in 2019. Salaries can range from less than $57,810 in the bottom 10% of earners to more than $158,860 in the top 10% of earners.
Salary and career opportunities vary depending on your level of education, relevant work experience, and location. According to the BLS, New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. offered the highest average salaries for information security analysts in 2019, while Virginia, Texas, and California employed the highest number of professionals in this field.
Cybersecurity careers should continue to see fast growth. The BLS projects a 31% increase in employment for information security analysts between 2019 and 2029 as the need for information security grows in finance, healthcare, and other business sectors.
What Do Cybersecurity Professionals Do?
Most cybersecurity analysts work as part of a team in the information technology (IT) department of an organization. Most work in an office environment on a full-time basis.
Specific tasks depend on the analyst's role in the organization. Some may monitor the network for suspicious activity. They may also work with network administrators to improve the security of the organization's intranet and access policies, recommending new hardware or software to improve organizational security.
Below, learn more about specific career paths available to cybersecurity professionals.
Cybersecurity Jobs
- Cybersecurity Analyst
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Cybersecurity analysts monitor computer systems, perform security updates, and conduct regular security audits. They respond to data breaches to minimize data loss and identify compromised data. According to PayScale, they earn an average salary of $76,470 each year.
- Cybersecurity Engineer
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Cybersecurity engineers perform similar functions as cybersecurity analysts, but they also perform more technical work such as penetration testing, ethical hacking, and network administration. They may also hold management responsibilities for a team of analysts and direct their work. They report average earnings of $96,600, according to PayScale, though cybersecurity engineers with 10-19 years of experience report average salaries of $118,550.
- Information Technology Specialist
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IT specialists ensure all computer equipment and networks operate as they should. They perform ongoing maintenance and upgrades as necessary to ensure organization security and efficiency. They also respond to reports of equipment failures or system malfunctions. IT specialists report an average annual salary of $57,990, according to PayScale.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cybersecurity Bootcamps
- Are cybersecurity bootcamps worth it?
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A cybersecurity bootcamp offers a path to a high-growth, high-salary field in a short amount of time. Most full-time cybersecurity bootcamps can be completed in only a few months. The BLS reported a median salary of $99,730 for information security analysts in 2019, with a projected employment growth rate of 31% between 2019 and 2029.
- Are there online cybersecurity bootcamps?
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Yes, many bootcamps offer fully online cybersecurity programs. As bootcamps adjust to the COVID-19 health crisis, many providers have also moved previously in-person programs to online formats. Whether online or in person, most bootcamps offer ample opportunities for faculty interaction, hands-on learning, and peer collaboration.