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

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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
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Cybersecurity Training: A guide on starting your career in Alameda 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 could be a cybersecurity expert. The demand is so high that it outstrips the supply. You already have the skills you need to succeed. How good would it be?

You can choose the companies that offer the highest pay and benefits. This will allow you to make your own career choices.

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. Not to mention, all the debt and risks associated with a student loan you would need.

It doesn’t have to be like this.

You can begin training in this field and complete it in five weeks. This is without a student loan, or the risk associated with one. If you are unemployed, you might even be able to do it for free.

This article has all the answers. To get them, you just need to read on.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why look at a Cybersecurity career?

What is Cybersecurity?

  • Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems and networks from 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’s becoming more difficult to remain secure with the rise in 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 is a great career choice.

  • Cybersecurity job openings increased by 94% in the last six years.
  • You have the perfect time to get a career in cybersecurity if you are looking for a career that is always evolving and changing.
  • 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.
  • So cybersecurity professionals will always be in high demand.

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

  • Technology, in particular cybersecurity, requires passion.
  • You won’t be able work remotely or focus on your job if you aren’t.
  • 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?

Average Salary for Cybersecurity Workers

  • The estimated average annual salary for cybersecurity professionals in the United States is $112,974 as of January 17, 2022.
  • The average Cyber Security salary ranges between $65,000 (25th percentile) and $145,500 (75th percentile).
  • Entry-level positions generally have lower pay, but a qualified work position opportunity with upward mobility and increased responsibility.

Is it possible to find a job in cybersecurity?

  • But not always.
  • It is important to recognize that there will always be a demand for cybersecurity professionals. However, you must be smart and strategic when pursuing this career path and how to progress.
  • According to a recent survey, 70% of cybersecurity professionals believe that certifications are the most important training. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree, and only 5% said they have a master’s degree.

What does the Cybersecurity job entail for entry-level?

As with any IT job, you’ll be working with computers. There are many tasks you will need to perform, including:

  • The development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting problems with the systems you work on.
  • Monitor systems for malicious activity, such as viruses and hackers.   
  • Preventing cyberattacks on computers or networks by investigating and preventing them.
  • Investigating malicious Internet activity, such as hacking, malware, or viruses.
  • Running tests to check the security levels of computer systems at an organization.

The list of possibilities goes on and on.

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 Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity.
  • Here is why: There is a little-known government regulation called DOD-8570.
  • It has been technically updated to DOD-8140. However, it still uses the DOD-8570 chart.
  • You need at least one of these certifications if your position might expose you to sensitive government information.
  • Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+.
  • Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification.
  • You’re going to need a strong foundation before taking those courses, so if you have no experience in IT and are starting from scratch, you should take CompTIA IT Fundamentals, Microsoft Network and Security Fundamentals, and CompTIA A+ before taking CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+.
  • These certifications will take you far beyond a degree in cybersecurity without certifications. Plus, you’ll be able get there much faster.
  • These certifications are highly desirable and will help you to be placed.

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

  • This federal directive is issued by the Department of Defense (DOD). It specifies that all US government agencies must adhere to specific cybersecurity requirements in order to protect information systems.
  • These terms are also defined and prohibited from being used in the DOD.
  • The Defense Technical Information Center (DoD-8570) issued the directive on November 20, 1985. Its purpose, is to ensure DoD information system security against potential vulnerabilities of unclassified or classified information.
  • What this means is that many positions in this field have a legal requirement that you must have at least one of the certifications listed for that position.
  • Typically the minimum needed is CompTIA Security+.
  • The problem is that many companies, even those not doing business with the government will, require the same certifications.

What are the pros and cons of a Degree versus Certifications in Cybersecurity?

Degree vs 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.
  • A certification shows that you are able to demonstrate the skills employers require.
  • There is also 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% of respondents said they had a bachelor’s or master’s degree, while 5% said they had a combination.

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
  • 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.
  • You should have labs to allow you to practice. Labs should be done as often as possible to help you remember and understand the concepts.
  • Practice exams should be provided so that you can ensure you are prepared before you take the actual exams. It is a good idea to have opportunities to practice for the exam with the instructor.
  • Instructors should be available to answer further questions when needed.
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training
Degree vs Certifications

How to get the cybersecurity training that you need in just 5 weeks. The Cybersecurity IT Professional program

Overview

  • Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association are globally respected industry representatives. The Cyber Security IT Pro program curriculum and hands on labs were developed by Microsoft.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Students will learn Cyber Security basics to help protect computers, mobile devices, as well as computer networks.
  • Students will learn to implement basic security services for computers and networks that run Microsoft Operating Systems.
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 will show students how computers work and the various devices that are contained within them. Students will also learn how to support and maintain their computer systems.
  • The course will cover the fundamental principles of database and software development.
  • You will learn how to set up a home network and connect mobile devices to the internet.
  • Students will learn how to protect their network and computers from hackers.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines 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 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.
  • They will participate in hands-on labs that include installing, configuring and diagnosing computers, performing preventive maintenance, and 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 take day class, 2 weeks if you are taking evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course will teach you how to set up and configure TCP/IP clients.
  • Students will learn how to configure, troubleshoot, and manage wireless and wired networks.
  • Students will also be able to support emerging technologies such cloud-based computing or virtualization.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

CompTIA Security+

  • As you learn more about computers and operating systems, you’ll be able develop the skills needed to implement basic security services.
  • By practicing real-world troubleshooting, students will learn how to solve real-world problems in the area of security.
  • 40 hours (if you take day class, 2 weeks if you are taking 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)
  • 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.
  • You can retake any classes for free within 6 months
  • Included are practice exams.
  • Exam Crams are included.
  • Exam vouchers can be purchased.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • Job placement assistance is included. A full-time career director will assist you with your job search. This includes help with your resume, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, interview skills and getting past the applicant tracking system. 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.

How Do I Start Cybersecurity Training?

Let’s see if you may be eligible for a WIOA Grant to pay for your training and job placement assistance (yes, it could be free if you qualify!)

Are you unemployed? A federal grant program is available that will pay for training, certification and placement in your field. 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. There are different amounts and availability depending on where you live.

We can help you can apply for this grant if you are eligible. It will pay for the training that you need to help you advance 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 Cyber Security 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:

The problem is that you are the one who takes all the risk.

Even if you don’t find a job right away you will still be responsible for 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 may not be making payments at the time, interest will continue to accrue. You owe more now than you did when you first started paying.
You can make your debt even higher if you’re in an accident or go without work for a long time.

The loan will be with you until it is fully paid off.
Everyone knows someone who has struggled with student loans.

Imagine a better way to get the training you need and still be able to sleep at night.

Introduce the risk-free option: Income share agreements

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


There is no cost upfront and no chance of losing your money. 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 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 don’t have any obligation to pay anything if you make less than the minimum threshold, which varies depending on the program.

We offer an income-share agreement that is 100% risk-free, even for those who have no work experience or are unemployed. You don’t pay until you work. We fail. Ask other schools if they offer this.

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

Get in touch today to find out if you’re 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?

The number of cybersecurity jobs has increased by 94% over the last six years. 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 estimates that there are nearly 500,000 job opportunities. For example, the Tampa / St.Petersburg/ Clearwater job market has over 6,000 open positions. This means cybersecurity professionals will always be in high demand.

Degree vs 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.
A certification shows that you are able to demonstrate the skills employers require. There is also 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% of respondents said they had a bachelor’s or master’s degree, while 5% said they had a combination.

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-level roles typically have lower wages but offer more opportunities for growth and responsibility.

How can I get trained in just five 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 in Cybersecurity without a degree?

CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity. Here is why: There is a little-known government regulation called DOD-8570. It has been technically updated to DOD-8140. However, it still uses the DOD-8570 chart. You need at least one of these certifications if your position might expose you to sensitive government information. Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+. Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification. These certifications are highly desirable and will help you to be placed.

How do I get started with your cybersecurity training program?

First, we want to check to see if you are eligible for a WIOA Grant, which could pay for it for you (yes, that means it might not cost you anything if you qualify)! Call or make an appointment today for us to call you.

See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training