Cybersecurity Training: Learn how to get started in Berkeley without student loans and no prior experience.

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We also serve the following locations: Berkeley, Spring Hill, Garden Grove, Hernando County, Brooksville, Port Richey, New Port Richey, Pasco, Pasco, Jessamine

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5.0 Rating From 2 Reviews.
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
on 17, Sep 2021
Lots of great information!
Michael
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Cybersecurity Training: Learn how to get started in Berkeley without student loans and no prior experience.

Play Video about Cybersecurity Career in 5 Weeks

Imagine you have completed your cybersecurity training and could be a cybersecurity expert. The demand is so high that it outstrips the supply. You already have the skills that employers require. How great would that be?

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

But right now, here you are, stuck in either a dead-end job or worse yet, unemployed. You may have even tried some classes at the local community colleges, or self-paced learning courses. Or even looked into the degree program at the nearby college which takes at least four years. There are also all the risks and debt associated with a student loan.

But, it doesn’t have to be like that.

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. If you are unemployed, you may be able to do it at no cost to you.

You’ll find all the answers in this article. To get them, you just need to read on.

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.

Why Companies Think Cybersecurity Is So Important

  • Cybersecurity is essential because it protects identities and information from being stolen by hackers and foreign governments.
  • It is becoming increasingly difficult to be secure due to the increasing threat of cybercrime.
  • Cybercrime is on the rise. It is crucial to protect your identity and personal data from hackers and foreign governments. This will protect you from financial loss.

Why start a career in Cybersecurity?

  • Over the past six year, cybersecurity job openings have increased 94%.
  • If you’re interested in a career that is constantly evolving and changing, there’s no better time than right now to start a career in the cybersecurity industry.
  • Cybersecurity, a fast-growing industry, offers many career opportunities and offers numerous job options. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of job openings in the cybersecurity field will be equal to or greater than the number of new workers entering the field 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 and cybersecurity are passions that you must be passionate about.
  • 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

How much can you make investing in a Cybersecurity Career

Estimated Average Salaries

  • As of January 17, 2022, the average annual salary for cybersecurity professionals is $112 974.
  • Cybersecurity average salaries are between $65,000 (25th%) and $145,000. (75th%)
  • Entry-level positions generally have lower pay, but a qualified work position opportunity with upward mobility and increased responsibility.

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

  • Sometimes, not always.
  • It is important to understand that the demand for cybersecurity professionals will always be there, but you’ll have to be smart and strategic in your approach to getting into this career and how to advance.
  • According to a recent survey, 70% of cybersecurity professionals believe that certifications are the most important training. 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?

You’ll work with computers, as with all IT jobs. You will perform many tasks including:

  • The development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting problems on the systems that you work on.
  • Monitoring systems for malicious activity such as viruses and hackers.   
  • Investigating and preventing cyberattacks on computers and networks.
  • Investigating malicious Internet actions such as hacking, malware, viruses.
  • Running tests to determine the security levels of computer systems in an organization.

The possibilities are endless.

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 a job in Cybersecurity even if you don’t have a degree

  • CompTIA Cybersecurity+ and CompTIA Net+ are two of the most important certifications that you’ll need, if you’re new to cybersecurity.
  • Here’s why: A little-known regulation by the government is DOD-8570.
  • (Technically, it has been updated to DOD-8140, but that uses the old 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+.
  • This certification is required by even companies that are not going to work with the government.
  • CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ are prerequisites. You will need to have a solid foundation in order to take those courses.
  • These certifications will take you far beyond a degree in cybersecurity without certifications. Plus, you’ll be able get there much faster.
  • You should be able to get a job if you have these certifications.

What is DOD-8570? And why does it matter for cybersecurity?

  • It is a federal directive issued by the Department of Defense. It states that all US government agency should adhere to cybersecurity requirements regarding information systems.
  • 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 to ensure DoD information system security against potential vulnerabilities of unclassified or classified 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.
  • What has happened is that many companies, even those who will never do business with the government, are copycats, and require the same certifications as the companies who are required to do so.

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

What do cybersecurity workers prefer-a degree or certifications?

  • While a certificate is cheaper than a degree in cybersecurity, it takes longer and costs more.
  • 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).
  • According to Information Week’s Dark Reading salary survey, 70% said that certifications are the most important training for their careers. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree while 5% said they have a master’s degree.

What Should Cybersecurity Training Look Like?

  • Remote training is becoming more popular due to the COVID-19 epidemic. But you should still take LIVE classes and not self-study.
  • It is a more enjoyable learning experience. You can also ask questions and view the answers of other students.
  • It is important to record all or some of the classes in order to be able later to review them.
  • The classes should be repeatable if necessary at no additional cost.
  • There should be labs so you can get hands-on practice. You will learn and retain the concepts better if you do them more often.
  • It is important to have practice exams in order to make sure that you are prepared before taking the exam. It is a good idea to have opportunities to practice for the exam with the instructor.
  • Instructors should be available to answer additional questions as needed.
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

  • The Cyber Security IT Professional program curriculum and hands-on labs are developed by Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) – globally recognized industry representatives.
  • CompTIA has created a curriculum by some of world’s top technologists as well as experts in education to meet Defense Directive 85710.1.
  • Instruction 8570.1 states that individuals who work in the public sector, government contractors, and military personnel have to be trained in Cyber Security and Information Assurance. This training is required to help strengthen and secure DoD information and networks.
  • This program teaches students the basics of Cyber Security to protect their computers, mobile devices, networks, and personal information.
  • This program teaches students how to install basic security services on computers running Microsoft Operating Systems and networks.
See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training

OUR COURSES

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 the basics of how a computer works, what its devices are, and how to use basic computer maintenance and support principles.
  • We will teach students the principles of software and database development.
  • Students will be able to set up a network at home and connect their mobile devices to it.
  • Students will gain an understanding of security issues affecting computer and network usage.
  • 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 taking day classes, and 2 weeks if attending evening classes)

CompTIA A+

  • The program will provide students with the necessary computer skills to become computer support professionals.
  • Students will be able to perform basic networking and install, configure, diagnose, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance.
  • This course will teach students how to use PC hardware in business settings, including installing, troubleshooting and replacing components.
  • The course also focuses on supporting and troubleshooting laptops, devices, printers, and smartphones.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines for evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course will teach you how to set up and configure TCP/IP clients.
  • This course will teach students how to set up, manage and troubleshoot wired and mobile networks.
  • Students will also be able to support emerging technologies such cloud-based computing or virtualization.
  • 40 hours (if you take day class, 2 weeks for evening class)

CompTIA Security+

  • As you learn more about computers and operating systems, you’ll be able develop the skills needed to implement basic security services.
  • Students will be able to solve real-world security problems by using real-world problem solving.
  • 40 hours (if you attend day classes, 2 weeks if evening classes).
Our Classes - The Cybersecurity IT Pro
See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training
Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

Cyber Security IT Pro Benefits

  • Complete your training and be job-ready in as little as 5 weeks (10 weeks if you take night classes)
  • Classes are remote and live, which means you have a live instructor, making them interactive. However, you can also take them at your home.
  • Virtual labs are available for 6 months, so you can practice whenever and however often you want.
  • Any class can be retaken for free after 6 months
  • Practice exams are included.
  • Exam Crams are included.
  • Exam vouchers are included.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • We offer job placement assistance. You will be assisted by a career services director, who is available to assist with job searches, including the creation of your resume, cover email, LinkedIn profile, interview skills, as well as how to navigate through applicant tracking systems. Training is provided for thousands of employees. Many of them are recruiters from us. Many of the jobs we have placed people into 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.

How Do I Start Cybersecurity Training?

Let’s find out if you are eligible for a WIOA Grant. This grant can cover the cost of this (yes, 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. The availability and amount of grants will depend on where you are located. If you are eligible, the program can pay up to $15,000 to help you get trained and certified. The availability and amount of this program vary by county.

If you qualify, you can use this grant to pay for you to get the training you need so we can help you get placed 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-Risk Free!

A student loan is usually required to finance your education and training for a career. 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.

If you are unable to find a job but then lose it a year later you won’t have any income but you have to continue making payments.

Let’s suppose you receive a deferment. While you may not be making payments at the time, interest will continue to accrue. It means that you owe more when you start paying than you 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.
Everyone knows someone who has struggled with student loans.

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 are innovative student financing options that don’t require you to have any debt. They can help you start your career in Berkeley, even if it isn’t your first time. Consider Income Share Agreements if you’re thinking of starting a career in Berkeley.


There is no initial cost or risk of money falling. An income share agreement is a contract that takes a portion of your salary in exchange for training. However, you only owe the income share when you work and make an income exceeding the minimum threshold.

This is a risk-free way to start in the cybersecurity field.

Your debt is not subject to interest. 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 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. We don’t succeed, and you don’t have to work until you get paid. Try asking other schools if they will offer this!

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

See if you qualify–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

Why Should I Train For Cybersecurity?

In the last six years, cybersecurity jobs have seen a 94% increase. If you are interested in a career that is constantly evolving and changing, this is the time to start a career as a cybersecurity professional. Cybersecurity is an expanding industry that offers many different job opportunities and great career prospects. Cyberseek says there are almost 500k job openings. In the Tampa / St.Petersburg / Clearwater job market, for instance, there are over 6,000 job openings. This means that cybersecurity professionals should always be in demand.

What do cybersecurity workers prefer-a degree or certifications?

While a certificate is cheaper than a degree in cybersecurity, it takes longer and costs more. 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). According to Information Week’s Dark Reading salary survey, 70% said that certifications are the most important training for their careers. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree while 5% said they have a master’s degree.

How Much Can I Make In A Cybersecurity Career?

On February 20, 2021, the average cybersecurity professional salary in America was $112974. The average cybersecurity salaries are between $65,000 (25th%) and $145,000. (75th%) Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries but offer excellent work opportunities with increased responsibility and upward mobility.

How can I get trained in just five weeks?

Microsoft and CompTIA, internationally recognized industry leaders, created the Cyber Security IT Practitioner program curriculum and hands-on labs and is designed to be able to be completed in five weeks (or ten weeks if you choose evening classes).

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

CompTIA Cybersecurity+ and CompTIA Net+ are two of the most important certifications that you’ll need, if you’re new to cybersecurity. Here’s why: A little-known regulation by the government is DOD-8570. (Technically, it has been updated to DOD-8140, but that uses the old 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+. This certification is required by even companies that are not going to work with the government. You should be able to get a job if you have these certifications.

What's next if I want to get started?

Are you unemployed? If so, you may be eligible for a WIOA Grant that could pay for your training and job placement assistance (yes, that means 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