Dive Into the
Bootcamp Catalog
Transition to a Cybersecurity Career in Less Than a Year
Kickstart Your Professional Success
At the NC State Cybersecurity Bootcamp, you can get your career started on the right foot in just 10 months with the hands-on training you need to get ahead in the cybersecurity field. Instructors active in the industry provide comprehensive training through live, online classrooms. You’ll gain exposure to practical training, simulations of real-life cyber attacks, an extensive curriculum, networking opportunities, professional guidance, and career counseling on an ongoing basis.
This non-credit professional program is offered by the McKimmon Center for Extension and Continuing Education (MCE&CE) at NC State University.
With over 460,000 job
openings nationwide,
there’s never been a
better time to join the
cybersecurity
industry
Source:
Cyberseek.org
Fast-Track Your Career With
a Comprehensive Bootcamp
Discover Accelerated
Learning at NC State
Our 10-month bootcamp is designed to speed up your cybersecurity training and accelerate the
development of the skills necessary to kickstart a professional career in cybersecurity, covering a
broad curriculum that begins with the basics and transitions to advanced capabilities.
Gain Hands-On Experience in Cybersecurity
Learn How to Defend Via
Real-World Cyber Training
Hands-On Classes
Build job-ready skills that will help you succeed as a cybersecurity professional. Our comprehensive, fully remote program delivers real-world knowledge of cybersecurity through live classes featuring interactive, simulated exercises.
Virtual Classroom
Our part-time bootcamp provides an engaging learning experience. Thanks to dedicated online collaboration tools, our virtual classrooms encourage communication among learners and instructors so you can build real relationships while learning from home.
Expert Instructors
Our extensive curriculum is created and delivered by instructors who are seasoned cybersecurity professionals. Benefit from their mentorship and guidance while extracting their first-hand industry knowledge and expertise.
Cyber Labs and CyWar
Gain a competitive edge in this dynamic industry! Our bootcamp’s Cyber Labs exercises provide essential practice, while our virtual learning platform, CyWar, tests and levels up your practical skills with immersive gamified simulations of real-life cyber attacks.
Enjoy Personalized Support
Succeed With a Network of
Professionals Behind You
Learner
Support
Our team of success managers provides the resources you need to ace your classes and thrive in the cybersecurity workforce. They keep you accountable, facilitate tutoring sessions and exams retests, and offer constant guidance.
Career
Coaching
You will have access to professional career coaches who can help you define and achieve your goals. From technical interview practice to polishing your LinkedIn profile and resume, they are ready to give you the edge you need to succeed.
Professional
Network
We offer virtual networking events to help you become part of a professional community of cybersecurity insiders. Forge new relationships, meet hiring partners operating at the national and local level, and access job opportunities before they are even advertised.
Job Placement
Assistance
Locating the job opportunities that align with your specific career goals is not always easy. Our career services team can assist you in finding the best opportunities for you, and even make crucial introductions to secure your first cybersecurity role.
Discover
Our Courses
Dive Into the
Bootcamp Catalog
Our Courses
Program Overview
30-Hour Introductory Course
| 370-Hour Extended Program
-
Introductory Course
Our Introductory Course will let you take the Cybersecurity Bootcamp for a test drive. Learn to carry out basic commands and use computer communication protocols, develop a basic understanding of operating system structures, and familiarize yourself with the Cyber Attack Cycle. You’ll also get a feel for our remote learning environment and acquire all of the information you need to make an informed and confident decision to sign up for the extended Cybersecurity Bootcamp. When the Introductory Course is over, learners will take a summary exam that assesses their ability to excel in a cybersecurity career. -
Fundamentals Phase
In the Fundamentals Phase of the bootcamp, learners acquire the basics of the cybersecurity career path. It includes training on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and basic network and cloud security. This phase acts as foundational training for the more rigorous portions of the program. -
Microsoft Security
Many companies across the globe rely on Windows Server to manage their computers, networks, and infrastructure. The Microsoft Security course will give learners a real-world, hands-on education in both modern and widely used versions of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Server. Learners will gain best practices for administrating and securing the Microsoft ecosystem of products. -
Computer Networking
Computer networking is an essential skill for cybersecurity professionals since networks are used in a variety of fields—including health care, finance, technology, manufacturing, travel, and more. The Computer Networking course will give learners a firm understanding of computer network basics, including protocols, topologies, network design, and devices. Additionally, the Computer Networking course will give learners a foundation for preparing to take the CompTIA Network+ exam*. -
Linux Security
The Linux Security course imparts knowledge and practical skills on the most used operating system in the world—one that is absolutely essential to cybersecurity professionals. Learners will learn all of the basics of using and manipulating Linux and will also learn about the various Linux distributions available. Upon course completion, learners can begin preparing for the LPI Linux Essentials certification exam*. -
Cloud Security
Cloud solutions like Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure are all becoming commonplace as more organizations adopt them. The Cloud Security course prepares learners to discuss, identify, compare, contrast, and use common cloud service platforms and providers. It also covers security offerings so that learners can understand how to implement security for cloud-based platforms. Upon completion of the course, learners will have a foundation of cloud security knowledge that they can use to prepare for the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification exam*. -
Fundamentals Phase Final Project - Building Your Own Environment
In this project that simulates a real-world environment, participants build their own insecure small business infrastructure. From there, they’ll learn how to secure the platform while practicing carrying out cyber attacks and digital forensics. Upon completion of the final project, learners will be able to use it in their portfolio as a demonstration of their skill level. -
Cybersecurity Infrastructure Phase
In the Infrastructure phase of the program, learners begin focusing exclusively on security concepts and practices. This phase allows course participants to study Python programming, network security, and Critical Infrastructure Security (CIS). Learners gain practical security skills and experience that will prepare them for the Advanced phase of the program. -
Network Security
Networks are the foundation for nearly everything on the internet. Learners will leave this course with the skills needed to suggest, design, or implement controls to build secure networks from the design stage to post-implementation. They will have the digital skill set and know-how needed to appeal to potential employers looking to fill technical positions. The Network Security course gives you the skills and knowledge to prepare for the EC-Council CND exam*. -
Critical Infrastructure Security
Critical infrastructure consists of anything from fire and rescue departments to power plants that keep the lights on. In the Critical Infrastructure Security course, you’ll develop the skills needed to protect these important facets of everyday life. Learners will develop knowledge to ensure supply chain, Industrial Internet of Things, and environment security. This skill set is in high demand across the business world, as well as in the cybersecurity industry. This course will prepare learners to begin studying for the industry-standard CompTIA Security+ exam*. -
Python for Security
Sometimes the best cybersecurity tool is the one you make yourself. Often, cybersecurity professionals find themselves needing to analyze data, scan a system, or review hosts on a network in a novel way. The Python for Security course gives learners the tools they need to create these custom scripts on the fly, serving as an introduction to basic programming concepts in Python. Whether you need a web scraper or a network sniffing tool, having a firm understanding of programming allows you to build your own tools and modify others on the fly. This Python for Security course gives learners the knowledge and tools needed to create custom scripts. It also serves as an introduction to basic programming concepts, which can be used in Python and beyond. -
Infrastructure Phase Final Project
In the Infrastructure phase final project, learners will use the setup they created in the previous project to analyze a threat scenario and provide the necessary steps to secure it. This will demonstrate infrastructure hardening. -
Career Services Workshop
Get the competitive edge you need to succeed in technical interviews with this specialized workshop. CyWar also hosts a dedicated resource hub that includes detailed career guides as well as asynchronous classes. -
Advanced Cybersecurity Phase
In the Advanced phase of the bootcamp, learners solidify existing skills and begin building new ones in advanced security concepts like game theory, digital forensics, incident response, and ethical hacking. By the end of this phase, learners will have a more complete view of cybersecurity and will be well-prepared to enter the industry. -
Ethical Hacking
This course is a deep dive into the world of ethical hacking, which is critical to the cybersecurity industry. Ethical hackers can include anyone from penetration testers to GRC auditors. The Ethical Hacking course lets the learner get into the mindset of criminal hackers and provides them with the foundation needed to pursue a career with ethical hacking as the primary role. Upon completion of this course, learners will be ready to study for the EC-Council CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification exam*. -
Digital Forensics & Incident Response
When there’s a cyberattack, first responders are there to analyze and contain the incident. The Digital Forensics & Incident Response course gives learners the necessary tools to appropriately respond to attacks, conduct various types of investigations and evidence gathering, and report the results. After completing this course, learners will be prepared to study for the EC-Council CSA (Certified SOC Analyst) certification exam*. -
Advanced Phase Final Project: Attack & Response
In the Advanced phase final project, learners will build upon the secure infrastructure created in past projects. They’ll design an attack to compromise the infrastructure, use their skills to gather forensic evidence, and complete an investigative report with details about the simulated incident. When they complete the program, learners can add the code, reports, and designs from their projects to form a solid portfolio to showcase to hiring managers and prospective employers. -
Game Theory
In cybersecurity, game theory allows professionals to analyze the nature of cyber attacks by viewing each incident as a series of games and players. This allows them to describe the interactions and outcomes between a threat and an organization without knowing who the threat actually is. The Game Theory course covers the basics of philosophy and mathematics and also provides experience in how to use game theory in cybersecurity. This course helps develop soft skills that are highly critical in cybersecurity by fostering a learner’s ability to think creatively and critically.
Introductory Course
(8 Lessons - 30 Hours)
Our Introductory Course will let you take the Cybersecurity Bootcamp for a test drive. Learn to carry out basic commands and use computer communication protocols, develop a basic understanding of operating system structures, and familiarize yourself with the Cyber Attack Cycle. You’ll also get a feel for our remote learning environment and acquire all of the information you need to make an informed and confident decision to sign up for the extended Cybersecurity Bootcamp. When the Introductory Course is over, learners will take a summary exam that assesses their ability to excel in a cybersecurity career.
Fundamentals Phase
In the Fundamentals Phase of the bootcamp, learners acquire the basics of the cybersecurity career path. It includes training on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and basic network and cloud security. This phase acts as foundational training for the more rigorous portions of the program.
Microsoft Security
(10 Lessons - 40 Hours)
Many companies across the globe rely on Windows Server to manage their computers, networks, and infrastructure. The Microsoft Security course will give learners a real-world, hands-on education in both modern and widely used versions of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Server. Learners will gain best practices for administrating and securing the Microsoft ecosystem of products.
Computer Networking
(9 Lessons - 35 Hours)
Computer networking is an essential skill for cybersecurity professionals since networks are used in a variety of fields—including health care, finance, technology, manufacturing, travel, and more. The Computer Networking course will give learners a firm understanding of computer network basics, including protocols, topologies, network design, and devices. Additionally, the Computer Networking course will give learners a foundation for preparing to take the CompTIA Network+ exam*.
Linux Security
(8 Lessons - 30 Hours)
The Linux Security course imparts knowledge and practical skills on the most used operating system in the world—one that is absolutely essential to cybersecurity professionals. Learners will learn all of the basics of using and manipulating Linux and will also learn about the various Linux distributions available. Upon course completion, learners can begin preparing for the LPI Linux Essentials certification exam*.
Cloud Security
(7 Lessons - 25 Hours)
Cloud solutions like Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure are all becoming commonplace as more organizations adopt them. The Cloud Security course prepares learners to discuss, identify, compare, contrast, and use common cloud service platforms and providers. It also covers security offerings so that learners can understand how to implement security for cloud-based platforms. Upon completion of the course, learners will have a foundation of cloud security knowledge that they can use to prepare for the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification exam*.
Fundamentals Phase Final Project - Building Your Own Environment
(2 Lessons - 10 Hours)
In this project that simulates a real-world environment, participants build their own insecure small business infrastructure. From there, they’ll learn how to secure the platform while practicing carrying out cyber attacks and digital forensics. Upon completion of the final project, learners will be able to use it in their portfolio as a demonstration of their skill level.
Cybersecurity Infrastructure Phase
In the Infrastructure phase of the program, learners begin focusing exclusively on security concepts and practices. This phase allows course participants to study Python programming, network security, and Critical Infrastructure Security (CIS). Learners gain practical security skills and experience that will prepare them for the Advanced phase of the program.
Network Security
(8 Lessons - 30 Hours)
Networks are the foundation for nearly everything on the internet. Learners will leave this course with the skills needed to suggest, design, or implement controls to build secure networks from the design stage to post-implementation. They will have the digital skill set and know-how needed to appeal to potential employers looking to fill technical positions. The Network Security course gives you the skills and knowledge to prepare for the EC-Council CND exam*.
Critical Infrastructure Security
(9 Lessons - 35 Hours)
Critical infrastructure consists of anything from fire and rescue departments to power plants that keep the lights on. In the Critical Infrastructure Security course, you’ll develop the skills needed to protect these important facets of everyday life. Learners will develop knowledge to ensure supply chain, Industrial Internet of Things, and environment security. This skill set is in high demand across the business world, as well as in the cybersecurity industry. This course will prepare learners to begin studying for the industry-standard CompTIA Security+ exam*.
Python for Security
(7 Lessons - 25 Hours)
Sometimes the best cybersecurity tool is the one you make yourself. Often, cybersecurity professionals find themselves needing to analyze data, scan a system, or review hosts on a network in a novel way. The Python for Security course gives learners the tools they need to create these custom scripts on the fly, serving as an introduction to basic programming concepts in Python. Whether you need a web scraper or a network sniffing tool, having a firm understanding of programming allows you to build your own tools and modify others on the fly. This Python for Security course gives learners the knowledge and tools needed to create custom scripts. It also serves as an introduction to basic programming concepts, which can be used in Python and beyond.
Infrastructure Phase Final Project
(2 Lessons - 10 Hours)
In the Infrastructure phase final project, learners will use the setup they created in the previous project to analyze a threat scenario and provide the necessary steps to secure it. This will demonstrate infrastructure hardening.
Career Services Workshop
(1 Session - 5 Hours)
Get the competitive edge you need to succeed in technical interviews with this specialized workshop. CyWar also hosts a dedicated resource hub that includes detailed career guides as well as asynchronous classes.
Advanced Cybersecurity Phase
In the Advanced phase of the bootcamp, learners solidify existing skills and begin building new ones in advanced security concepts like game theory, digital forensics, incident response, and ethical hacking. By the end of this phase, learners will have a more complete view of cybersecurity and will be well-prepared to enter the industry.
Ethical Hacking
(12 Lessons - 50 Hours)
This course is a deep dive into the world of ethical hacking, which is critical to the cybersecurity industry. Ethical hackers can include anyone from penetration testers to GRC auditors. The Ethical Hacking course lets the learner get into the mindset of criminal hackers and provides them with the foundation needed to pursue a career with ethical hacking as the primary role. Upon completion of this course, learners will be ready to study for the EC-Council CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification exam*.
Digital Forensics & Incident Response
(12 Lessons - 50 Hours)
When there’s a cyberattack, first responders are there to analyze and contain the incident. The Digital Forensics & Incident Response course gives learners the necessary tools to appropriately respond to attacks, conduct various types of investigations and evidence gathering, and report the results. After completing this course, learners will be prepared to study for the EC-Council CSA (Certified SOC Analyst) certification exam*.
Advanced Phase Final Project: Attack & Response
(2 Lessons - 10 Hours)
In the Advanced phase final project, learners will build upon the secure infrastructure created in past projects. They’ll design an attack to compromise the infrastructure, use their skills to gather forensic evidence, and complete an investigative report with details about the simulated incident. When they complete the program, learners can add the code, reports, and designs from their projects to form a solid portfolio to showcase to hiring managers and prospective employers.
Game Theory
(4 Lessons - 15 Hours)
In cybersecurity, game theory allows professionals to analyze the nature of cyber attacks by viewing each incident as a series of games and players. This allows them to describe the interactions and outcomes between a threat and an organization without knowing who the threat actually is. The Game Theory course covers the basics of philosophy and mathematics and also provides experience in how to use game theory in cybersecurity. This course helps develop soft skills that are highly critical in cybersecurity by fostering a learner’s ability to think creatively and critically.
Knowledge You Can Apply
to Certification Exams
This bootcamp is not a certification-prep program, but we know that learners who are new to the cybersecurity field can get more competitive offers when they have obtained industry certifications. In an effort to boost your credentials and make you stand out from the crowd, we’ve created in-depth resources to help you learn skills applicable to the certification exams below.
-
LPI Linux Essentials
The Linux LPI Essentials exam offers learners a way to verify their knowledge of the Linux operating system, as well as the workings of various open-source applications. The exam tests the ability to manage users and groups on Linux and also measures their competency with the Linux command line, system permissions and security, basic network configuration skills, and overall Linux administration. -
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification exam is meant for individuals with knowledge of the widespread AWS Cloud platform, as well as its infrastructure and systems. Security and compliance experience in AWS Cloud is a key requirement for passing the exam. -
CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification exam measures a learner’s ability and knowledge of network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. It also tests a cybersecurity professional’s familiarity with emerging mobile, cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies. -
EC-Council CND - Certified Network Defender
The EC-Council CND - Certified Network Defender certification should be considered by aspiring cyber professionals who want to pursue a career as network administrators. It tests a learner’s knowledge and training in defending, detecting, and responding to threats on a network. -
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification exam takes learners a step above the CompTIA Network+ exam. Considered an entry-level certification in the cybersecurity field, the CompTIA Security+ exam measures a candidate’s skill over a wide range of disciplines, including networks, systems, security administration, and penetration testing. -
EC-Council CSA - Certified SOC Analyst
The Certified SOC Analyst certification should be considered by aspiring cybersecurity professionals who want to join and work in a security operations center (SOC) environment. It’s meant for current and aspiring Tier I and Tier II SOC analysts and measures a candidate’s proficiency in both entry-level and intermediate SOC operations. -
EC-Council CEH - Certified Ethical Hacker
The Certified Ethical Hacker certification is engineered for cybersecurity professionals who want to work in a discipline that incorporates Ethical Hacking, red teaming, or penetration testing from a vendor-agnostic perspective. -
(ISC)² SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner**
For learners who have achieved one year of experience after completion of their program. learners with at least one year of experience after the completion of their program can take the (ISC)² SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification exam. The (ISC)² SSCP exam is meant for cybersecurity professionals who have proven, practical, and hands-on experience and knowledge of the security environment. Once they obtain this certification, individuals have proof that they can carry out the implementation, monitoring, and administration of information technology infrastructure according to information security best practices, policies, and procedures.
LPI Linux Essentials
The Linux LPI Essentials exam offers learners a way to verify their knowledge of the Linux operating system, as well as the workings of various open-source applications. The exam tests the ability to manage users and groups on Linux and also measures their competency with the Linux command line, system permissions and security, basic network configuration skills, and overall Linux administration.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification exam is meant for individuals with knowledge of the widespread AWS Cloud platform, as well as its infrastructure and systems. Security and compliance experience in AWS Cloud is a key requirement for passing the exam.
CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification exam measures a learner’s ability and knowledge of network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. It also tests a cybersecurity professional’s familiarity with emerging mobile, cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies.
EC-Council CND - Certified Network Defender
The EC-Council CND - Certified Network Defender certification should be considered by aspiring cyber professionals who want to pursue a career as network administrators. It tests a learner’s knowledge and training in defending, detecting, and responding to threats on a network.
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification exam takes learners a step above the CompTIA Network+ exam. Considered an entry-level certification in the cybersecurity field, the CompTIA Security+ exam measures a candidate’s skill over a wide range of disciplines, including networks, systems, security administration, and penetration testing.
EC-Council CSA - Certified SOC Analyst
The Certified SOC Analyst certification should be considered by aspiring cybersecurity professionals who want to join and work in a security operations center (SOC) environment. It’s meant for current and aspiring Tier I and Tier II SOC analysts and measures a candidate’s proficiency in both entry-level and intermediate SOC operations.
EC-Council CEH - Certified Ethical Hacker
The Certified Ethical Hacker certification is engineered for cybersecurity professionals who want to work in a discipline that incorporates Ethical Hacking, red teaming, or penetration testing from a vendor-agnostic perspective.
(ISC)² SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner**
For learners who have achieved one year of experience after completion of their program. learners with at least one year of experience after the completion of their program can take the (ISC)² SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification exam. The (ISC)² SSCP exam is meant for cybersecurity professionals who have proven, practical, and hands-on experience and knowledge of the security environment. Once they obtain this certification, individuals have proof that they can carry out the implementation, monitoring, and administration of information technology infrastructure according to information security best practices, policies, and procedures.
Program Tuition
Invest in yourself and your future career. Our comprehensive bootcamp can help you develop the job-ready skills you need to be successful in cybersecurity.
30-Hour Introductory Course
$180
370-Hour Extended Program
$17,800
Requirements
Internet access
Drive, ambition, and passion
Introductory course and admission exam
Tuition, fees, and deposits subject to change.
This non-credit professional program is offered by the McKimmon Center for Extension and Continuing Education (MCE&CE) at NC State University.
To learn more about the NC State Digital Skills Bootcamps,
give our admissions advisors a call at 919.874.5441 or fill out the form below.
These non-credit professional programs are offered by the McKimmon Center for Extension and Continuing Education (MCE&CE) at NC State University.
Our partnership with ThriveDX
North Carolina State University's intensive digital skills programs are powered by our comprehensive partnership with ThriveDX, which enables North Carolina State University to reskill and upskill individuals for today’s fast-growing digital economy through real-world applications and career-oriented education. Founded in 2007, ThriveDX has developed outstanding program content and learner support to become a premier digital skills and cybersecurity education provider. ThriveDX works with NC State and other top-tier academic institutions, government organizations, and global enterprises to provide advanced workforce and professional development programs in digital technology.
Learn more about ThriveDX
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