SANS Technology Institute

Undergraduate Certificate Program in Cyber Security

Prepare to launch a cybersecurity career

Gain the knowledge, tools, and techniques you need to launch a cybersecurity career — in an undergraduate certificate program designed and taught by some of the industry's top experts. You'll investigate issues that affect complex and interconnected IT systems, learn to combat common threats to valuable data, and emerge with hands-on skills employers are seeking.

New to the field? No problem

This undergraduate cybersecurity certificate program is designed for people who want to join the cyber workforce — whether you're about to finish your associate degree, you're in a 4-year college program or a theory-based master's degree program, or you're a mid-career professional who wants to transition into cybersecurity.

You don't need prior cybersecurity experience, but you must have completed at least two years of college.

“I was having a hard time getting a job in information security due to my lack of hands-on experience," said AJ Langlois, Cyber Analyst II at BB&T. “SANS gave me extraordinary training and the opportunity to rise to the top of the résumé pile.”

Customize Your Program

Start when you want to

We accept applications monthly, so you can start on the schedule that works for you.

Complete the certificate at your pace

Earn your undergraduate cybersecurity certificate in 18 to 24 months while working full-time or pursuing a degree. Or choose an accelerated option to finish in less than a year.

Study online or in-person

Take courses that are entirely online or that start with weeklong in-person events held across the United States and around the world. Or do a mix of both.

Please note that the SANS Technology Institute does not issue I-20s or support F-1 student visas.

Plan Your Course of Study

As a student at one of the top cybersecurity schools, you'll work closely with a student advisor who will help you plan your course of study each step of the way.

The SANS Technology Institute Advantage

Flexibility

Pursue the cybersecurity certificate alongside a degree program or while working full-time.

Rapid Career Preparation

Gain fundamental technical knowledge and skills that serve as the baseline for all professionals in cybersecurity.

Proof of Job Readiness

Earn 3 industry-recognized GIAC certifications that showcase specific skills you've learned.

Specific Skill Building

Choose an elective to begin developing a specialized skillset in topics ranging from incident response and penetration testing to industrial control systems and cyber defense operations.

Pathway to a Master's Degree

75% of the credits earned in the undergraduate cybersecurity certificate program may be applied directly toward the master's degree program if you hold a bachelor's degree and are admitted to the master's program.