Cybersecurity Training: How to start your career in Berkeley, without any experience or student loans!

Play Video about Cybersecurity Career in 5 Weeks

We also serve the following locations: Spring Hill, Hernando County, Brooksville, Port Richey, New Port Richey, Pasco, Pasco County, Land O Lakes, San Antonio, Trinity

Leave A Review

Please be kind and leave a review
Nobody yet left a rating. Be first?
Click a star to add your rating
Leave a Review

5.0 Rating From 2 Reviews.
on 17, Sep 2021
Lots of great information!
Michael
on 17, Sep 2021
“I was “early retired” by the corporation I had worked for, for 18 years and was still going strong. There was no reason other than I already knew when you approach age 55 you could expect the “offer”. I happened to meet a … (Dewey) at a job fair and that started a relationship wherein I took a couple of classes and gained one certification which was critical in my job search. After 18 months I landed my dream job in IT with the VA national office due to that certification!! I am forever grateful to the services for the unemployed especially veterans of which I am one. Bravo zulu!!”
Tim
Show more

Cybersecurity Training: How to start your career in Berkeley, without any experience or student loans!

Play Video about Cybersecurity Career in 5 Weeks

Imagine you have completed your cybersecurity training and are now working in cybersecurity. The demand for your skills is high, and the supply is low. You already have the skills you need to succeed. What would you do?

You could write your own ticket, choosing companies with the best pay, benefits, and opportunities to move up in your career.

You are stuck right now in a job that isn’t fulfilling your needs, or worse, you may be unemployed. You might have tried classes at the local community college, self-paced courses or even the four-year degree program at the local college. Not to mention, all the debt and risks associated with a student loan you would need.

However, this doesn’t mean it has to be so.

It’s possible to begin your training in this field in just five weeks. You might be able even to do it free of charge if you’re unemployed.

This article has all the answers. Read on to learn more.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why look at a Cybersecurity career?

What is Cybersecurity?

  • Cybersecurity refers to the protection of computers and networks against malicious attacks.
  • Cybersecurity is the protection of information technology infrastructure against disruption, as well as data within a system and network.

What Makes Cybersecurity So Important?

  • Cybersecurity is vital because it protects identity and personal information from being stolen or altered by hackers or other governments.
  • It is becoming increasingly difficult to be secure due to the increasing threat of cybercrime.
  • It is vital to safeguard our identities and personal information from being stolen by hackers or other foreign governments. This protects us against financial loss.

Cybersecurity careers are a good choice.

  • The number of cybersecurity jobs has increased by 94% over the last six-years.
  • The best time to pursue a career within cybersecurity is now.
  • Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing industry that offers many opportunities for career advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in this field will be as large or larger than the number of people who enter it each year.
  • That means there should always be a demand for cybersecurity professionals.

How can you tell if you are a good candidate for cybersecurity work?

  • Technology, in particular cybersecurity, requires passion.
  • If you are not passionate about technology, it will be difficult to work remotely and remain focused on your job.
  • A problem solver is a must, as well as being curious about the workings of things and paying attention to details.
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity

What is the best way to make money in Cybersecurity?

Estimated Average Salaries

  • As of January 17, 2022, the average annual salary for cybersecurity professionals is $112 974.
  • Cyber Security salaries average between $65,000 (25th and 75th percentiles) and $145,000.
  • Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries, but offer qualified work opportunities with increased responsibility and upward mobility.

Is it possible to find a job in cybersecurity?

  • Not always.
  • You need to realize that cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. However, you will have to be strategic and smart about how you approach this career.
  • According to a recent job survey, 70% of people in this field said certifications were the most important training for their career. Only 10% of respondents said they had a bachelor’s or master’s degree, while 5% said they had a master’s.

What is the job of an entry-level Cybersecurity worker?

As with any IT job you will work with computers. A variety of tasks will be performed by you, including:

  • Development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting problems on the systems that you work on.
  • Monitor systems for malicious activity, such as viruses and hackers.   
  • Preventing and investigating cyberattacks on computers, networks, and other devices.
  • Investigating malicious Internet activities, such as hacking and malware.
  • Running tests to determine the security levels of computer systems in an organization.

The possibilities are limitless.

how much can you make in a cybersecurity career?
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity
Get Hired in Cybersecurity Even Without A Degree

How to get hired as a Cybersecurity professional even without a degree

  • CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are the most important certifications you need if you are brand new to cybersecurity.
  • This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570.
  • Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart.
  • You must hold at least one certification if you’re in a situation where sensitive government data might be available to you.
  • Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+.
  • Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification.
  • CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ will require a solid foundation.
  • These certifications will help you get further than a diploma in cybersecurity. You’ll also be able to get there more quickly.
  • These certifications will make you highly sought-after and should not be a problem to get placed.

What is DOD-8570 and what does it mean for cybersecurity?

  • It is a Federal Directive from the Department of Defense that states that all US government agencies need to adhere to certain cybersecurity requirements.
  • It also defines these terms and prohibits their use in the DOD.
  • The directive, DOD-8570 (Defense Technical Information Center) was issued by the Defense Technical Information Center on November 20, 1985. Its purpose is ensure DoD information systems are protected against the vulnerabilities of classified and unclassified information.
  • This means that there is a requirement for most positions in this area that you hold at least one of the listed certifications.
  • CompTIA security+ is usually the minimum required.
  • Many companies, even those that will not do business with government agencies, have become copycats and need the same certifications as those companies required.

What are the pros & cons of a Cybersecurity degree versus Cybersecurity certifications?

Degree vs Certifications

  • A degree in cybersecurity is more expensive than a certification and takes much longer.
  • The degree provides a broad range of understanding that can be applied to many different industries but has fewer hands-on skills.
  • The right certification demonstrates that you have a specific skill the employer wants.
  • Also, there is a legal requirement (see above).
  • Because of all this, according to a recent Information Week’s, Dark Reading salary survey, 70% of workers in cybersecurity said certifications were the most important training in developing their career. only 10% said a bachelor’s degree and 5% said a master’s degree.

What Should Cybersecurity Training Look & Feel Like?

  • More people want remote training due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but you should take LIVE classes, rather than self-study.
  • The learning experience is better, plus you have the ability to ask questions and see the questions other students are asking
  • Record all classes, so you can easily go back later.
  • It should not cost extra to repeat classes if you have any questions.
  • You should have labs to allow you to practice. The more you practice the labs, you’ll be able to better understand and remember the concepts.
  • You should have practice exams to ensure that you are fully prepared for the exam. It is a good idea to have opportunities to practice for the exam with the instructor.
  • Instructors should always be available to answer any additional questions.
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training
Degree vs Certifications

How to get cybersecurity training in 5 weeks – The Cybersecurity IT professional program

Overview

  • Microsoft and CompTIA, internationally recognized industry representatives, created the Cyber Security IT Practitioner program curriculum and hands-on labs.
  • In order to meet the requirements of Defense Directive 8570.1, CompTIA has developed a curriculum authored by some of the world’s leading technologists and experts in education.
  • Individuals who work in the private sector, government contractors, or military members who have access to DoD computer systems are required by directive 8570.1 to be trained in Cyber Security and Information Assurance to strengthen and secure DoD information, information systems, networks, and other resources.
  • This program will teach students how to secure computers, mobile devices, and networks.
  • Students will learn how basic security services can be implemented on Microsoft Operating Systems-based computers and networks.
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

OUR CLASSES

CompTIA IT Fundamentals

  • Students will be introduced to the basics of software and taught how to set up a computer station.
  • This course teaches students how a computer system works and what devices exist within it, as well as how to apply basic computer maintenance and support principles.
  • The course will cover the fundamental principles of database and software development.
  • Learn how to connect your mobile devices to the internet and set up a home network.
  • Students will learn how to protect their network and computers from hackers.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

Microsoft 40032 Network And Security Fundamentals

  • This course teaches participants the skills and information required to perform day-to-day tasks pertaining to Advanced Network Infrastructures and Network Hardware, Protocols and Services. Security Layers, Windows 10 Operating System Security and Advanced Network Security are some of the topics covered.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

CompTIA A+

  • This program will give students the skills necessary to become technicians.
  • They will participate in hands-on labs that include installing, configuring and diagnosing computers, performing preventive maintenance, and basic networking.
  • Students will be able to install, troubleshoot, and replace components in PC hardware.
  • The course also covers how to support and troubleshoot smartphones, devices, printers, as well as laptops.
  • 40 hours (if you attend day classes, 2 weeks if evening classes).

CompTIA Network+

  • This course is intended to teach students how configure TCP/IP client.
  • Students will learn how to configure, troubleshoot, and manage wireless and wired networks.
  • The objective is that they will also acquire skills to support emerging technologies such as cloud-based computing and virtualization
  • 40 hours (if you take day class, 2 weeks for evening class)

CompTIA Security+

  • As you increase your knowledge about operating systems and computers, you will be able to implement basic security services on any kind of computer network.
  • Students will be able to solve real-world security problems by using real-world problem solving.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)
Our Classes - The Cybersecurity IT Pro
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training
Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

Benefits Of The Cyber Security IT Professional Program

  • Complete your training and be job-ready in as little as 5 weeks (10 weeks if you take night classes)
  • Live remote classes allow you to interact with a live instructor while you are at home.
  • Virtual labs are available for 6 months, so you can practice whenever and however often you want.
  • Within 6 months, you can take any class again for no cost
  • Practice exams are included.
  • Exam Crams are also included.
  • Exam vouchers can be purchased.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • We offer job placement assistance. We have a full-time career services director who will help with your job search, including help with your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview skills, and how to get past the applicant tracking systems. We provide training for thousands of employees. Many of them recruit from us, so many of the jobs we have placed people in are not even advertised.
  • Your training can be completed in 5 weeks (or even 10 weeks if you take night classes) and you will be well on your way to a new career.

Let’s Get Started With Your Cybersecurity Training

Let’s see if you qualify for a WIOA Grant that could pay for this for you (yes, that means it could be free if you qualify!)

Are you unemployed? You may be eligible for a federal grant that will help you get trained, certified, and placed in your job at no cost. It is dependent on your location. The amounts and availability are determined by where you live. This program may pay as much as $15,000 to train, become certified and help you find a job. The amount and availability of the funds will vary from one county to another.

If you’re eligible, this grant can be used for training to pay the cost of your courses to help you move up in your career.

If you do not qualify for the WIOA grant, you have another risk-free option:

Let's Get Started!
See if you qualify for a grant
Risk Free-Without A Student Loan
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

How to Start Your Cybersecurity Training-Without Risk!

A student loan is typically required for students who want to study to become a professional. That can work out well for many people, but you need to be aware of the potential pitfalls:

Here’s the problem: You are the one taking on all the risk.

If you do not get a job right away, you still have to pay the loan.

You can lose your job if you don’t get it, but still need to pay the bills.

Let’s imagine you get a delay. While you might not be paying any payments, interest continues to accrue. This means that by the time you are able to start paying, your debts will be higher than they were when you started.
Your debt will increase if you are involved in an accident that leaves you without work for a prolonged period of time.

The loan follows you around forever until it is paid off.
We all know someone who has had a problem with student loans.

What if there were a better way, so you could get the training you need to start this career, but still sleep at night.

Introducing the risk-free option: Income Share Agreements

Income share agreements, which can be used to finance your education and help you get started in Berkeley, are innovative options for student financing that are debt-free. Consider Income Share Agreements if you’re thinking of starting a career in Berkeley.


There is no up-front cost and no risk of money down. The income share agreement takes a percentage of your salary for a fixed period of time in exchange for training, but you only owe and only pay when you are working and making an income above the minimum threshold.

This is an easy way to get started in cybersecurity.

You don’t owe any interest on your debt. This means that you don’t owe anything more if it takes longer for you to get a job, and you don’t owe anything more if your job is lost and you have to go without paying for a while.

You are not required to pay anything if your earnings fall below the minimum threshold for your program.

We offer an income sharing agreement that is risk free for anyone, even those with no experience or who are currently unemployed. This is because we are confident in the outcome. We do not succeed and you do not pay until you are working. Ask other schools if they offer this.

For you to determine if this is the right job for you, we will need to speak with your phone.

Make an appointment to see if you are eligible.

Income Share Agreements
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

Frequently asked questions

Most frequent questions and answers

Is Cybersecurity a Good Career?

Over the past six years, cybersecurity jobs have increased by 94%. If you’re looking for a career in cybersecurity, now is the right time. There are many opportunities for career advancement in cybersecurity, which is a rapidly growing industry. Cyberseek reports that there are almost 500,000 job positions. There are more than 6,000 job opportunities in the Tampa / St.Petersburg/ Clearwater area, for example. These numbers indicate that cybersecurity professionals must always be in demand.

Degree vs Certifications

A degree in cybersecurity is more expensive than a certification and takes much longer. The degree provides a broad range of understanding that can be applied to many different industries but has fewer hands-on skills.
The right certification demonstrates that you have a specific skill the employer wants. Also, there is a legal requirement (see above). Because of all this, according to a recent Information Week’s, Dark Reading salary survey, 70% of workers in cybersecurity said certifications were the most important training in developing their career. only 10% said a bachelor’s degree and 5% said a master’s degree.

How Much Can I Earn In A Cybersecurity Career?

The average salary of cybersecurity professionals in the United States was $112,974 on February 20, 2021. The average cybersecurity salary is between $65,000 (25th%) to $145,000. (75th%) Entry levels typically have lower salaries but offer exceptional work opportunities with greater responsibility and higher mobility.

Can I really finish the training in 5 weeks?

Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association, (CompTIA), are internationally recognized industry representatives who developed the Cyber Security IT Professional program curriculum, which is designed to complete your training in five weeks (or ten weeks if you choose evening classes). They also created the hands-on labs.

How can I get hired as a Cybersecurity professional without a degree?

CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are the most important certifications you need if you are brand new to cybersecurity. This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570. Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart. You must hold at least one certification if you’re in a situation where sensitive government data might be available to you. Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+. Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification. These certifications will make you highly sought-after and should not be a problem to get placed.

What's next if I want to get started?

First, let’s find out if you are eligible for a WIOA Grant. This grant can cover the cost of this (yes, it might be free if you qualify!) Call today or make an appointment for us to call you.

See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training