Cybersecurity Training: A guide on starting your career in Berkeley in 5 weeks even if you have no experience--without a student loan!

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Cybersecurity Training: A guide on starting your career in Berkeley in 5 weeks even if you have no experience--without a student loan!

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.

It doesn’t have to be like this.

There is a way you can start training for this field and be complete in just five weeks–without a student loan or any of the risks associated with one. You might be able even to do it free of charge if you’re unemployed.

This article has all the answers. Just continue reading to find out how.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why Cybersecurity?

What is Cybersecurity?

  • Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems and networks from malicious attacks.
  • The practice includes ensuring that information technology infrastructure is protected against disruption while protecting data within a system or 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.
  • With the increasing cybercrime, it is important to protect our identities and personal data from being stolen by hackers or foreign governments as this protects us from financial loss.

Cybersecurity careers are a good choice.

  • In the past six years, cybersecurity job openings have increased by 94%.
  • 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 I tell if I’m a good candidate to work as a cybersecurity professional?

  • Passionate about technology, and especially cybersecurity, is a must.
  • If you are not passionate about technology, it will be difficult to work remotely and remain focused on your job.
  • It is important to be able to solve problems, be curious about how things work, and pay attention.
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity

How much can you make investing in a Cybersecurity Career

Average Cybersecurity Salary

  • The estimated average annual salary for cybersecurity professionals in the United States is $112,974 as of January 17, 2022.
  • Cyber Security salaries average between $65,000 (25th and 75th percentiles) and $145,000.
  • Entry-level roles generally have lower wages, but offer opportunities for upward mobility and greater responsibility.

Is it difficult to get a job as a cybersecurity professional?

  • 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. You’ll be responsible for a range of tasks, such as:

  • Development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting the problems in the systems you are using.
  • Monitor systems for malicious activity, such as viruses and hackers.   
  • Investigating and preventing cyberattacks against computers and networks.
  • Investigating malicious actions on the Internet, such as hacking, malware, and viruses.
  • 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 in Cybersecurity without a degree

  • CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity.
  • This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570.
  • Although technically it has been updated as DOD-8140, the chart used the DOD-8570 old format.
  • 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.
  • Before you can take these courses, you will need to have a solid foundation. If you don’t have any IT experience and you are just starting out, CompTIA IT Fundamentals, Microsoft Network, Security Fundamentals and CompTIA A+ should be your first course.
  • 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 why does it matter 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.
  • These terms are defined in the directive and banned from use by 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+ usually is the minimum.
  • 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 cybersecurity degree costs more than a certification and takes longer.
  • While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
  • The right certification demonstrates that you have a specific skill the employer wants.
  • Also, there is a legal requirement (see above).
  • All this is why, according to the recent Information Week Dark Reading salary survey 70% of cybersecurity workers said that certifications were their most important training. 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
  • You should record the classes so that you can go back and review them later.
  • You should be able to repeat the classes again if needed at no extra charge.
  • You should have labs to allow you to practice. You will learn and retain the concepts better if you do them more often.
  • You should have practice exams to ensure that you are fully prepared for the exam. The instructor should be available to help you cram for the exam.
  • Instructors should be available for additional questions if necessary.
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.
  • Students will learn Cyber Security basics to help protect computers, mobile devices, as well as computer 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.
  • Students will be introduced to the basics of database design 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 will teach participants how to use advanced network infrastructures, protocols and services, security layers, Windows 10 Operating System Security and Advanced Network Security. It also addresses new security threats.
  • 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 take part in hands-on labs such as installing, configuring, diagnosing, performing preventive maintenance and learning basic networking.
  • The course will allow students to learn how to manage PC hardware in a business environment, such as troubleshooting, replacing, and installing components.
  • 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 gain real-world experience in solving security problems.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)
Our Classes - The Cybersecurity IT Pro
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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. Our full-time career services director can help you with your job hunt, including your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. We also have the ability to help you get past the applicant tracking software. We offer training to thousands of employees. Many of them recruit from us, so many of the jobs we have placed people in are not even advertised.
  • Bottom line: you can complete your training in as little as 5 weeks (or 10 weeks if you choose night classes) and be on your way to starting your new career.

How Do I Start 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 Get Started in Cybersecurity Training-No 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 suppose you receive a deferment. While you might not be paying any payments, interest continues to accrue. That means by the time you can start paying, you owe more than when you started.
This interest will make your debt more if you are injured in an accident.

The loan follows you around forever until it is paid off.
Everybody knows someone who’s had to deal with student loan problems.

There is a better way. You can get the training and certification you need to begin your career while still sleeping 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.

There is no interest charged on your debt. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to get a job. You also don’t owe extra if you lose your job.

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

We are offering an income share agreement that is risk-free for you even if you have no experience and are currently unemployed because of the confidence we have in our outcomes. You do not pay until your work is completed. Ask other schools if they offer this.

A phone interview is required to see if this is right for you.

Check to see if your qualifications are met – make an appointment today!

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 are looking for a career with a high degree of flexibility and change, then cybersecurity is the right career choice. There are many opportunities for career advancement in cybersecurity, which is a rapidly growing industry. Cyberseek claims that there are over 500,000 job openings. Clearwater, Tampa, St.Petersburg, and Clearwater have over 6,000 job vacancies. These numbers indicate that cybersecurity professionals must always be in demand.

Degree vs Certifications

A cybersecurity degree costs more than a certification and takes longer. While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
The right certification demonstrates that you have a specific skill the employer wants. Also, there is a legal requirement (see above). All this is why, according to the recent Information Week Dark Reading salary survey 70% of cybersecurity workers said that certifications were their most important training. only 10% said a bachelor’s degree and 5% said a master’s degree.

What is the Average Income in Cybersecurity?

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?

Our Cyber Security IT Professional program is designed to do just that. The curriculum and hands-on labs are developed by Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) – globally recognized industry representatives.

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

CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity. This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570. Although technically it has been updated as DOD-8140, the chart used the DOD-8570 old format. 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!) Why don’t you call right now or make an appointment for us to call you

See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training