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Best Cybersecurity Courses for Beginners
Cybersecurity

Best Cybersecurity Courses for Beginners [Updated 2024]

11 minute read | December 1, 2023
Sakshi Gupta

Written by:
Sakshi Gupta

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With an ever-increasing amount of our personal data being stored digitally, cyber security has become paramount for virtually every company today. And yet, there’s a national shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals, meaning that companies are willing to shell out the big bucks for those who have the cybersecurity skills to get the job done. 

In 2023, the landscape of cybersecurity also continues to evolve, making education in this field more crucial than ever. This article introduces beginners to the best cybersecurity courses available, carefully chosen to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the essentials. These courses not only lay a strong foundation but also guide you towards making an impactful start in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity.

Best Cybersecurity Courses

Let’s examine seven of the best cyber security bootcamps that have earned their stripes for quality and accessibility, ensuring you’re ready for the evolving cyber security landscape in 2023.

Already know what you’re looking for? Feel free to jump ahead:

SchoolRatingMentorship?Job Guarantee?
Springboard4.6YesYes
Udemy4.5NoNo
Brainstation4.7NoNo
FutureLearn4.4NoNo
Coursera4.6NoNo
Fullstack Academy4.8NoNo
University of Maryland on Coursera4.8NoNo

Springboard

Springboard’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp turns aspiring cyber security enthusiasts into job-ready professionals. This 100% online program is beginner-friendly and runs for six months part-time, requiring 15-20 hours of commitment per week. 

Graduates earn a CompTIA Security+ Certification, one of the most recognized certifications in the cybersecurity industry. With the program’s strong emphasis on practical skills, students learn to deal with real-world cyber security challenges and make an impact by helping keep organizations safe.

Notably, Springboard’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp offers a job guarantee. If graduates don’t land a job within six months, they get a full tuition refund, making it a risk-free investment in your career. With Springboard’s career-focused curriculum and 1-on-1 support from industry experts, students are guided through every step of their learning journey and job search, ensuring they have the best chance of landing a job in cybersecurity.

PRICE

Upfront payment: $9,900

RATING

4.6/5

FEATURES

  • 1-1 mentorship
  • Online curriculum taught by cyber security experts
  • Career coaching, including resume building and mock interviews
  • CompTIA Security+ Certification upon graduation
  • Access to an extensive network of alums and industry professionals
  • Personalized learning path with regular video calls for guidance
  • Over 50 hands-on labs and a capstone project for real-world context
  • Community-driven learning with peer collaboration
  • Self-paced study with flexible hours.
  • Dedicated post-graduation support for six months

JOB GUARANTEE?

Yes

Udemy

Udemy’s Complete Cyber Security Course: Hackers Exposed is the first volume in a series of four that aims to transform individuals into cybersecurity specialists. This course provides learners with an advanced practical skillset to combat online threats like hackers, malware, and trackers.

Participants will delve into operating system security, focusing on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, MacOS, and Linux. The curriculum also encompasses darknets, zero-day vulnerabilities, encryption, nation-state tracking, and hacking infrastructures.

The course enables students to understand and assess security threats and vulnerabilities through threat modeling and risk assessments. It also provides an in-depth view of cybercriminal mentality, addressing malware, phishing, and the darknet.

Not only will the learners be able to defend against a wide range of online threats, but they will also master critical security controls such as isolation and compartmentalization.

PRICE

$24.99

RATING

4.5/5

FEATURES

  • No 1-1 mentorship
  • 12 hours of on-demand video content
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Accessible on mobile and TV
  • Certificate of completion signed by the instructor Nathan House (off-site sign-up required)
  • Option to claim CPE credits

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

Brainstation

Brainstation’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp offers an immersive learning experience for individuals aspiring to become cybersecurity professionals. With a strong emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning, the bootcamp helps you hone industry-relevant skills through interactive live lectures led by expert instructors. The bootcamp boasts an impressive hiring rate of over 90% within 180 days of graduation, reflecting the effectiveness of its cutting-edge curriculum and alignment with employer demands.

In addition to the core curriculum, Brainstation’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp strongly emphasizes career development and support. With career services integrated from day one, students benefit from regular workshops, goal-setting, career preparation, and one-on-one support from Brainstation’s dedicated Career Success team.

The bootcamp also provides an engaging community through Slack, allowing students to connect, collaborate, and receive updates and support throughout the course.

PRICE

Not publicly available

RATING

4.7/5

FEATURES

  • 1-1 support
  • Interactive live lectures
  • Project-based learning approach for hands-on experience
  • Dedicated career services
  • Regular hands-on workshops for career preparation
  • Access to a vibrant community through Brainstation’s Slack channels
  • Goal-setting sessions at the beginning of the bootcamp
  • Small breakout room sessions for collaborative learning

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

FutureLearn

FutureLearn’s “Introduction to Cyber Security” bootcamp is an 8-week online course for individuals seeking to learn cybersecurity essentials.

Created by The Open University, the bootcamp suits both novices and individuals with prior experience. The course material delves into network security and cryptography and explores various methods to safeguard data. Above all, the course is supported by the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Programme and holds NCSC Certified Training and IISP accreditation.

Throughout the course, participants engage in instructional videos, articles, practical activities, and discussions. It emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing learners to interact with peers and educators, share ideas, and engage in insightful conversations.

The course also provides learners with the knowledge and tools needed to understand and counter various cyber threats, assess vulnerabilities, and apply risk analysis and management techniques.

PRICE

$154

RATING

4.4/5

FEATURES

  • No 1-1 mentorship
  • 100% online, enabling learners to study from anywhere
  • Interactive platform encouraging discussions and sharing of ideas
  • NCSC Certified Training and IISP accreditation
  • Certificate of completion for eligible learners
  • Accessible on mobile, tablet, and desktop
  • Progress tracking and assessments to evaluate learning

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

Coursera

The IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate, available on Coursera, teaches the essential skills needed to launch a career in cybersecurity. This program is aimed at individuals who have a keen interest in cybersecurity and are comfortable working with computers but may not have any prior hands-on experience or degree in the field.

The rich content includes hands-on labs introducing learners to network security, endpoint protection, incident response, threat intelligence, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessment. Moreover, real-world security breach projects are integrated into the curriculum, providing practical exposure and applications. The program is also ACE® approved, enabling learners to earn up to 10 college credits.

The bootcamp is ideal for those willing to develop technical skills and enjoy collaborative problem-solving. At the end of this program, participants will have gained practical experience through industry tool virtual labs and completed a real-world security breach hands-on project, leaving them well-prepared to enter the cybersecurity field with confidence.

PRICE

Included with Coursera Plus subscription

RATING

4.6/5

FEATURES

  • No 1-1 mentorship
  • Professional Certificate credential upon completion
  • Real-world security breach project
  • ACE® approved for earning up to 10 college credits
  • A shareable certificate that can be added to LinkedIn profiles and resumes
  • Access to tools such as Wireshark, IBM QRadar, IBM MaaS360, IBM Guardium, IBM Resilient, and Python libraries
  • Taught by experienced instructors

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

Fullstack Academy

The Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp is a transformative and intensive program providing students with the defensive and offensive cybersecurity skills required to combat cybercrime.

This bootcamp is perfect for those seeking to switch careers or enhance their cybersecurity knowledge, with its duration ranging from 12 to 26 weeks. Courses are offered on both a full-time and part-time basis. Participants are trained in cybersecurity tools, techniques, and procedures, including Kali Linux, Python, Wireshark, and Metasploit.

Fullstack Academy’s Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp offers top-notch education, connects graduates with a strong alum network, and provides career support, ensuring students are well-prepared for the job market.

PRICE

$17,980

RATING

4.8/5

FEATURES

  • No 1-1 mentorship
  • Flexible schedule with full-time (12 weeks) and part-time (26 weeks) options
  • Access to popular cybersecurity tools
  • Training by experienced cybersecurity professionals and industry experts
  • Opportunities to engage in hands-on cybersecurity projects and real-world simulations
  • Scholarships for women, military veterans, and those from other marginalized communities
  • Access to free preparatory courses and material before the start of the bootcamp

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

University of Maryland on Coursera

The Cybersecurity Specialization offered by the University of Maryland through Coursera covers a broad range of topics, including cryptography, software testing, usability, penetration testing, and more.

This program takes a holistic approach, considering the hardware, software, and human-computer interfaces involved in cybersecurity. Real-world examples and hands-on exercises are incorporated to augment learners’ understanding of designing and implementing security measures.

This specialization is structured as a series of five courses, each focusing on a different aspect of cybersecurity. The courses include Usable Security, Software Security, Cryptography, and Hardware Security, among others. Upon completing all courses, participants will have developed a security-oriented mindset, gaining insights into thinking critically about potential adversaries and constructing secure systems that can withstand various cybersecurity threats.

PRICE

Included with Coursera Plus subscription

RATING

4.6/5

FEATURES

  • No 1-1 mentorship
  • Self-paced learning environment
  • Shareable certificate upon completion
  • Interactive quizzes and assignments
  • Peer feedback on graded assignments

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

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What Makes a Good Cyber Security Bootcamp? Our Criteria Explained

You can choose from so many cybersecurity courses online that it’s hard to make a decision. We reviewed the best cyber security courses currently available using a pre-determined list of criteria vetted by our editors, with input from a panel of Springboard cyber security subject matter experts, mentors, and career coaches. We also looked at the affordability of each cyber security course, the cyber security skills they teach, the cyber security concepts they cover, whether or not they offer specializations, their job placement assistance, and their opportunities for mentorship and support. 

The best-ranking cyber security courses featured here offer different payment options for students, including scholarships, and feature a mix of study options. Some even offer unlimited access to job placement help, or a money-back guarantee if you don’t land a job. 

The best cyber security courses should offer a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. They should also be led by instructors who have real-world experience in cybersecurity. A robust curriculum, access to modern tools and technologies, and continued post-course support are also essential.

Remember, even a complete cyber security course won’t offer everything you need to become a cyber security specialist. If you want to enter a complex field, you need to complete several online cyber security courses.

Experience & Skills

A hands-on approach to learning is essential in cyber security, as it provides students with the necessary tools, techniques, and knowledge of cyber security concepts that they’ll need to employ in real-life scenarios. Lab exercises, cyber security simulations, and live projects that mimic actual cyber security tasks are invaluable in building competence and confidence in the field. Look for online cybersecurity courses that tick all of the boxes and come with unlimited access to the support you need.

Affordability

While quality cyber security education is an investment, it shouldn’t be a barrier for enthusiastic learners. It’s essential to balance the cost and the quality of the education provided, ensuring that the skills and knowledge gained justify the investment of completing cyber security courses online.

Specialization

The field of cybersecurity is vast and ever-evolving, so a cyber security course should offer specialization tracks that allow learners to focus on specific areas of interest or demand, like network security, ethical hacking, or cloud security. Specialization can also aid in career progression, as employers often seek experts in specific niches within cyber security. 

Job Guarantee

A job guarantee indicates a bootcamp’s confidence in its curriculum. It also provides a safety net for students, assuring them the skills they acquire will be marketable. 

We believe a job guarantee is essential in building trust between the bootcamp and the students. A program with a solid job guarantee can ease the transition from learning to employment, making it an important consideration for beginners entering the field.

Making the Most Out of a Cybersecurity Course

In a field as dynamic and critical as cyber security, taking a course can be a gateway to a fulfilling career or an essential step in upskilling. 

To truly reap the benefits and maximize the value of a cybersecurity course, it is vital to understand how these courses work, what content to expect, and how to manage your schedule best. Make sure you ask yourself these questions:

What Is the Best Cyber Security Course I Can Take?

It depends on your budget, time requirements, and the desired certification you’d like to receive. Look for a cyber security course that offers job placement, networking opportunities and access to professionals in the cyber security field.

How Do Cybersecurity Courses Work?

Cybersecurity courses typically blend theory with practical application, and this is usually achieved through lectures, readings, practical exercises, real-world simulations, and case studies. The benefit of completing cybersecurity courses online is that they are often taught by cyber security experts.

Depending on the platform or institution offering the course, there might be forums for discussing quizzes, exams, and hands-on projects that simulate cybersecurity challenges.

Many cyber security online courses provide flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace, while some may have a fixed schedule with live classes or deadlines. Some online courses offer cyber security certifications upon completion.

What Should You Expect To Learn in a Beginner Cybersecurity Course?

In a beginner cybersecurity course, you can expect an introduction to cybersecurity’s basic concepts and terminologies. This usually includes a basic understanding of different types of cyber threats—such as viruses, worms, and phishing scams—as well as the techniques used in data protection, like encryption and secure communication. 

A beginner course may cover foundational knowledge of networks, including how they work and how they can be secured. As a beginner, learning about the best cybersecurity hygiene practices and the field’s legal and ethical considerations is important.

What Will the Schedule Look Like?

The schedule of a cybersecurity course can vary based on several factors, including the course format (online or in-person), the depth of the content, and the institution offering the course. 

For online courses, especially self-paced ones, students usually have the flexibility to complete the course material according to their schedule. For in-person courses or more structured online programs, expect a more fixed schedule with specific times for lectures, labs, and exams. Generally, it’s advisable to set aside regular weekly time to study.

What Kind of Job Can You Get After an Online Cybersecurity Course?

After completing an online cybersecurity program, you can start applying for internships and entry-level cybersecurity positions

For individuals new to the field, a position as an information security analyst or IT support specialist is both attainable. For those with additional experience in IT or a related field, positions as a security consultant, network security administrator, or cybersecurity engineer are within reach. Specialized courses in ethical hacking or cloud security could open doors to more niche roles too.

FAQs About Cybersecurity Courses

We’ve got the answers to your most frequently asked questions.

Are Cybersecurity Courses Worth It?

Cybersecurity courses are worth it for individuals looking to enter or advance in cybersecurity. They can provide you with the specialized skills and knowledge needed to protect organizations against cyber attacks and significantly enhance your credibility and marketability in the job market.

Are There Any Prerequisites for Cybersecurity Courses?

Prerequisites for cyber courses vary depending on the level and complexity of the course. Some introductory or beginner courses may not require prior knowledge and are suitable for individuals new to the field.

Advanced courses or those focused on specific cybersecurity technologies might require an IT, programming, or networking background.

It’s important to carefully review the course description and prerequisites before enrolling to ensure that you have the necessary background or are willing to put in extra effort to catch up.

Can You Become a Cybersecurity Analyst From a Bootcamp Without a Computer Science Degree?

Yes, it is possible to become a cybersecurity analyst after completing a cybersecurity bootcamp, without a Computer Science degree. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that landing a job as a cybersecurity analyst might also depend on other factors such as networking, previous experience, and additional cybersecurity certifications.

Don’t expect to walk into a job as Chief Information Security Officer or Head of System Administration and Security. It can take years for cybersecurity and information security professionals to get to that level, and you will probably need a cybersecurity certification or two to be considered.

Engaging in continuous learning and gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can also help secure a role as a cybersecurity analyst.

What Operating Systems Should Cybersecurity Professionals Know?

ybersecurity professionals should know a variety of operating systems, including Linux, Windows, iOs and others.

Since you’re here…
Interested in a career in cybersecurity? With or Cybersecurity Bootcamp, you’ll get a job in the industry, or we’ll return your tuition money. Test your skills with our free cybersecurity course, and check out our student reviews. We’re a safe bet. 🔒😉

About Sakshi Gupta

Sakshi is a Managing Editor at Springboard. She is a technology enthusiast who loves to read and write about emerging tech. She is a content marketer with experience in the Indian and US markets.