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

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We also serve the following locations: Lake Forest, Lawrence, Lawrence, University, Livingston, Livingston, Lake Magdalene, Seneca, Seneca, Lake Charles

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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: A guide on starting your career in Lake Forest 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 that employers require. You already have the skills you need.

You could choose to write your ticket by choosing the right companies for you, with the highest salaries, benefits and career advancement opportunities.

But right now, here you are, stuck in either a dead-end job or worse yet, 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. You also need to consider the risks and debts associated with student loans.

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

It’s possible to begin your training in this field in just five weeks. It may be possible to complete the training for free if you are unemployed.

This article contains all of the information you need. To get them, you just need to read on.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why Cybersecurity?

What is Cybersecurity and how can you protect your organization?

  • 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.

Cybersecurity career: Why not?

  • The number of cybersecurity jobs has increased by 94% over the last six-years.
  • 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. 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.
  • 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 investing in a Cybersecurity Career

Estimated Average Salaries

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

Is it hard to get a job working in cybersecurity?

  • But 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% chose a bachelor’s and 5% chose a master’s.

What do entry-level people do on the job in the Cybersecurity field?

As with any IT job you will work with computers. You’ll be responsible for a range of tasks, such as:

  • The development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting issues with the systems you use.
  • Systems monitoring for malicious activity, such as viruses or hackers.   
  • Investigating cyberattacks on computers networks and networks.
  • Investigating malicious Internet actions such as hacking, malware, viruses.
  • Run tests to assess the security of computer systems within 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.
  • (Technically, it has been updated to DOD-8140, but that uses the old DOD-8570 chart).
  • You need at least one of these certifications if your position might expose you to sensitive government information.
  • CompTIA Security+ is the minimum requirement.
  • Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification.
  • 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 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.
  • On November 20, 1985, the Defense Technical Information Center issued DOD-8570 (Defense Technical Information Center). Its purpose is to ensure that DoD information systems are protected from the potential vulnerabilities of unclassified and classified information.
  • This means that for many positions in this industry, you will need to have at least one certification.
  • CompTIA security+ is usually the minimum required.
  • The problem is that many companies, even those not doing business with the government will, require the same certifications.

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

  • 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.
  • A certification shows that you are able to demonstrate the skills employers require.
  • You must also meet 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 had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

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.
  • 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.
  • Labs are necessary to provide hands-on practice. You will learn and retain the concepts better if you do them more often.
  • Practice exams should be provided so that you can ensure you are prepared before you take the actual exams. Ideally, there should also be chances to cram 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 the cybersecurity training and certifications you need in five weeks-The Cybersecurity IT Pro 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.
  • Directive 8570.1 applies to individuals in the private and government sectors, as well as military personnel who have access DoD computer systems. They are required to learn Cyber Security and Information Assurance training to enhance and secure DoD information and systems.
  • 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 to finance your training

OUR CLASSES

CompTIA IT Fundamentals

  • We will introduce students to basic software applications and teach them how to set up a computer workstation.
  • 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.
  • We will teach students the principles of software and database development.
  • This course will teach you how to create a home network, and connect mobile devices with the internet.
  • 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 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 (if you attend day classes, 2 weeks if 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 the support and troubleshooting of smartphones, tablets, printers, laptops, and other devices.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course is designed to teach students how to install and configure TCP/IP clients.
  • Students will learn how to configure, troubleshoot, and manage wireless and wired networks.
  • This course will equip students with the skills necessary to support new technologies such as virtualization and cloud-based computing.
  • 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.
  • 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 to finance your training
Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

Program Benefits

  • Complete your training and be job-ready in as little as 5 weeks (10 weeks if you take night classes)
  • Classes are live remote, meaning you have a live instructor so the classes are interactive, but you can take them from home.
  • You have access for six months to virtual labs. This allows you to practice as often and as often as necessary.
  • You can retake any classes for free within 6 months
  • You can also take practice exams.
  • Exam Crams can be 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 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.

How Do I Start Cybersecurity Training?

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

Are you unemployed? A federal grant program is available that will pay for training, certification and placement in your field. Availability and amounts are based on where you live. If you qualify, this program can pay up to $15,000 to get trained, certified, and then get help getting placed in your career. There are different amounts and availability depending on where you live.

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:

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!

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.

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

Even if you don’t find a job right away you will still be responsible for the loan.

If you do get a job, then get laid off a year later, you have no income but you still have to make payments.

Let’s say you get a deferment. While you might not be paying any payments, interest continues to accrue. It means that you owe more when you start paying than you were 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.
Everyone knows someone who has struggled 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.

Income Share Agreements are a risk-free alternative

Income Share Agreements, which are innovative and free from debt, allow you to launch your career in Lake Forest. Try Income Share Agreements to start your career in Lake Forest.


There is no cost upfront and no chance of losing your 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.

Your debt is not subject to interest. 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 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. You don’t pay until you work. We fail. Seek out other schools for this opportunity!

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

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

Why Should I Go Into A Cybersecurity Career?

Over the past six years, cybersecurity jobs have increased by 94%. If you’re interested in a career that is always changing and evolving, the perfect time is now to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is a growing industry with a lot of different jobs that offer ample opportunity for career growth. Cyberseek claims that there are over 500,000 job openings. Over 6,000 job openings are available in Tampa/ St.Petersburg/ Clearwater, for instance. This means that cybersecurity professionals need to be available at all times.

What gets you a job faster in cybersecurity-a degree or 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.
A certification shows that you are able to demonstrate the skills employers require. You must also meet 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 had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

How Much Can I Earn In A Cybersecurity Career?

The average salary of cybersecurity professionals was $112974 in the United States on February 20, 2021. The average cybersecurity salary is $65,000 (25th%) – $145,000 (75th%) Entry-level positions have lower salaries, but offer great opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility.

How can I finish the training in just five weeks?

Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association are globally respected industry leaders. The Cyber Security IT Pro program curriculum and hands on labs were developed by Microsoft and CompTIA 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 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. (Technically, it has been updated to DOD-8140, but that uses the old DOD-8570 chart). You need at least one of these certifications if your position might expose you to sensitive government information. CompTIA Security+ is the minimum requirement. Even companies that will never work with the government are asking for this certification. You should be able to get a job if you have these certifications.

What's next if I want to get started?

First, let’s see if you qualify for a WIOA Grant that could pay for this for you (yes, that means 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