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

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

Play Video about Cybersecurity Career in 5 Weeks

Imagine you have completed your cybersecurity training and can now work in cybersecurity, where the demand for your skills was through the roof, far outstripping the supply. You already have the skills that employers require. 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.

Right now, however, you’re stuck in a dead-end job, or worse, unemployed. Perhaps you tried some classes at your local community college, a self-paced course or the four-year degree program at the college. Not to mention, all the debt and risks associated with a student loan you would need.

But it doesn’t need to be that way.

There are ways to get started in this field without any student loans or other risks. You can complete your training in five weeks. It may be possible to complete the training for free if you are unemployed.

All of the answers you need are right here in this article. Just continue reading to find out how.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why look at a Cybersecurity career?

What is Cybersecurity?

  • Cybersecurity is the protection and security of computer networks and systems from malicious attacks.
  • Cybersecurity is the protection of information technology infrastructure against disruption, as well as data within a system and 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.
  • Protecting our identities and personal details from theft by hackers or foreign governments is essential in cybercrime. This protects us from financial loss.

Why start a career in Cybersecurity?

  • Over the past six year, cybersecurity job openings have increased 94%.
  • There’s no better time to begin a career as a cybersecurity professional if you are interested in a career that’s constantly changing and evolving.
  • Cybersecurity is a growing industry with a lot of different jobs that offer ample opportunity for career growth. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job openings in this field will be at least as high or higher than the number of workers who enter the field each year.
  • There should always be a demand to hire cybersecurity professionals.

How do you know if I am a good candidate to work in cybersecurity?

  • Technology and cybersecurity are passions that you must be passionate about.
  • You won’t be able work remotely or focus on your job if you aren’t.
  • You should also be a good problem solver, be curious about how things work, and have good attention to detail.
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity

How much can you make in Cybersecurity

Average Cybersecurity Salary

  • 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 jobs generally pay less, but offer the opportunity to be a qualified worker with greater responsibility and upward mobility.

Is it hard to get a job working in cybersecurity?

  • Sometimes, not always.
  • It is important that you understand the need for cybersecurity professionals will never go away. But, it is crucial to be smart and strategic about your path to this career.
  • A recent survey found that 70% of those in the field believe 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 are the responsibilities of entry-level people working in Cybersecurity?

You’ll work with computers, as with all IT jobs. You’ll be responsible for a range of tasks, such as:

  • Designing and maintaining computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting issues with the systems you use.
  • System monitoring for malicious activity like viruses and hackers.   
  • Investigating and preventing cyberattacks against 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 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.
  • Here is why: There is a little-known government regulation called 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+.
  • This certification is requested by companies even if they will not work for the government.
  • 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 get you further than a degree in cybersecurity without certifications, plus you will get there much more quickly.
  • If you get these certifications, the demand for your skills is very strong and you should have no problem getting placed.

What is DOD-8570 and why does this matter in 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.
  • This directive also defines and prohibits the use of these terms 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.
  • This means that for many positions in this industry, you will need to have at least one certification.
  • CompTIA Security+ is the minimum requirement.
  • 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 benefits and drawbacks of a Cybersecurity Degree versus Cybersecurity Certifications?

What gets you a job faster in cybersecurity-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.
  • Employers want to see that you have the right certification.
  • 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 they had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

What Should Cybersecurity Training Look like?

  • Because of the COVID-19 pandemic many people desire remote training. However you should attend 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.
  • If necessary, you should be able repeat the classes at no additional charge.
  • Labs should be available for you to practice the concepts in a hands-on setting. The more you practice the labs, you’ll be able to better understand and remember the concepts.
  • There should be practice exams so you can make sure you are ready before taking the exams. The instructor should be available to help you cram for the exam.
  • Instructors should be available to answer further questions when needed.
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Degree vs Certifications

How to get the cybersecurity training that you need in just 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.
  • 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 teaches students the basics of Cyber Security to protect their computers, mobile devices, networks, and personal information.
  • 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

CYBERSECURITY IT PROFESSIONAL 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.
  • 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 be able to understand security issues that affect network and computer usage.
  • 40 hours (1 week if taking day classes, and 2 weeks if attending evening classes).

Microsoft 40032 Network And Security Fundamentals

  • This course allows participants to learn the skills and information necessary for performing day-to-day functions pertaining to Advanced Network Infrastructures, Network Hardware, Protocols and Services, Security Layers, Windows 10 Operating System Security, Advanced Network Security, New Security Software and addresses new security threats.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines 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.
  • 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 (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines for evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course teaches students how to configure and install TCP/IP clients.
  • By acquiring these skills, students will be able to troubleshoot, configure and manage wired and wireless networks.
  • They will also learn skills to support emerging technologies like cloud-based computing, virtualization, and other forms of cloud-based computing.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines for evening classes)

CompTIA Security+

  • You will develop specific skills required for implementing basic security services on any type of computer network as you build on your knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and networks.
  • 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
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Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

How This Program benefits You

  • In as little as five weeks, you can finish your training and be job-ready (or 10 weeks if taking night classes).
  • Classes are live remote, meaning you have a live instructor so the classes are interactive, but you can take them from 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 are also included.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • Job placement assistance is included. 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. We offer training to thousands. Many of them hire from us. Therefore, many of the jobs that we have placed people are not advertised.
  • The bottom line is that you can finish your training in 5 weeks or 10 weeks if night classes are chosen. Once you’re done, you can start your new career.

Cybersecurity Training-What’s Next?

Let’s check your eligibility for the WIOA Grant. It could pay for this for you if you qualify.

Are you unemployed? A little-known federal grant program can help you get certified, trained and placed in your chosen career. Availability and amounts are based on where you live. This program will pay up to $15,000 to become trained, certified and placed in your chosen career. The amount and availability of the funds will vary from one county to another.

You may be eligible to receive this grant to help pay for the training you need in order to help you get started in your career.

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

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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!

Typically, when you want to go to school to get trained for a new career, you need a student loan. Although this is a great option for many people, you should be aware of 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.

If you get a job and then are laid off one year later, you will have no income, but you still have payments.

Let’s imagine you get a delay. Although you may not be making any payments, interest is still accruing. That means by the time you can start paying, you owe more than 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 will follow you around for as long as it takes to be 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.

Introduce the risk-free option: Income share agreements

Income Share Agreements, which are innovative and free from debt, allow you to launch your career in Hillsborough County. You might consider Income Share Agreements when you start your career here.


There is no upfront cost and there is no risk of losing money. 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 a risk-free option that can be used as an introduction to the field of cybersecurity.

You don’t owe any interest on your debt. That means you don’t owe any more if it takes you longer to get a job and you do not owe any more if you lose your job and have to go a few months without paying.

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 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. 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.

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

Why Should I Train For Cybersecurity?

Over the past six years, the number of cybersecurity jobs has risen by 94%. 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. There are many jobs in cybersecurity that can offer career growth opportunities. Cyberseek reports that there are almost 500,000 job positions. For example, the Tampa / St.Petersburg/ Clearwater job market has over 6,000 open positions. These numbers indicate that cybersecurity professionals must always be in demand.

What gets you a job faster in cybersecurity-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.
Employers want to see that you have the right certification. 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 they had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

What is the Average Salary in Cybersecurity?

On February 20, 2021, the average salary for cybersecurity professionals in the United States stood at $112,974 The average cybersecurity salaries are between $65,000 (25th%) and $145,000. (75th%) Entry-level roles typically have lower wages but offer more opportunities for growth and responsibility.

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 a job in Cybersecurity without a degree

CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are the most important certifications you need if you are brand new to cybersecurity. Here is why: There is a little-known government regulation called 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+. This certification is requested by companies even if they will not work for the government. If you get these certifications, the demand for your skills is very strong and you should have no problem getting placed.

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!) Call or make an appointment today for us to call you.

See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training