
Cybersecurity
Build practical skills and prepare for certification with flexible online training and expert support.


Start Date
05/08/2026
Duration
03-06 Months
Experience
None required
CompTIA-Aligned for industry certification
- Earn a globally recognized credential from the University of Chicago
- Work on projects grounded in real-world practice
- Get one-on-one support from experienced mentors
- Learn online in a flexible format that fits your life
- Access career coaching, from interview prep to job search strategy

Commitment to quality and growth
Employment rate*
Salary growth*
Launched new careers*
Student population*
*According to the HyperionDev Graduate Outcomes Report. This report combines the student experience from global bootcamp participants, not limited to the university.
Real stories of success

Rana valued the mentorship she received throughout the bootcamp, which helped her stay motivated, overcome challenges, and enter a new field.

Alice came in with little experience. Career workshops and practical support helped her navigate the learning curve and land a junior data analyst role.
Student stories reflect experiences from the global HyperionDev learner community and are not specific to University of Chicago participants.
Why pursue a career in Cybersecurity?
Growing demand
Networks and cybersecurity rank among the top three fastest-growing skill areas through 2030.
Global skills need
95% of cybersecurity professionals reported that their organization needed additional cybersecurity skills.
High earning potential
The top 10% of US information security analysts earned over $199,850 a year in May 2025.
What you'll learn
This program offers a structured path from foundational cybersecurity skills to advanced cyber defense techniques. As you progress through each level, you’ll apply your learning to practical projects that reflect the kinds of challenges cybersecurity professionals face on the job, from identifying vulnerabilities and securing systems to investigating incidents and responding to cyber threats.
Foundations of Cybersecurity and Secure Programming
Learn core cybersecurity concepts, cyber threats, compliance frameworks, and networking fundamentals while building secure programming skills with Python. Develop practical experience with functions, data structures, file handling, object-oriented programming, encryption, and secure coding practices.
Capstones: Python for Cybersecurity
Systems and Applied Cyber Defense
Work within Linux and Kali Linux environments while using Bash scripting and automation tools to support cybersecurity operations. Explore authentication systems, DevSecOps, supply chain security, encryption principles, and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
Capstones: Ciphers Project
Advanced Offensive Security and Cyber Operations
Investigate web vulnerabilities, database security, malware analysis, penetration testing, and ethical hacking methodologies. Learn digital forensics, incident response, cryptography, wireless security, and modern cyber defense techniques used to investigate and respond to cyber threats.
Capstones: Secure Database System, Cybersecurity Case Study
*DISCLAIMER: Curriculum content may be adjusted to reflect industry changes or instructional needs.
Skills with real career impact
Experience, support, and direction to take your next professional step with confidence.
Resume and portfolio review
Craft a polished portfolio and resume that showcases your strengths to employers.
One-on-one mentorship
Get personal guidance on your LinkedIn, interview skills, and career direction.
Global hiring network
Access exclusive job boards, employer events, and valuable industry contacts.
Ongoing guidance
Keep growing with career support and alumni resources after your course ends.
Meet your faculty

Nick Feamster
Neubauer Professor of Computer Science
Professor Feamster directs the Network Operations and Internet Security research lab, where he and his team develop data-driven tools and systems to improve Internet security, performance, and adoption. Professor Feamster is the founder and co-director of the Internet Equity Initiative, a cross-disciplinary research center aimed at making Internet access more equitable. Professor Feamster is also the Director of Research at the Data Science Institute, which is a university-wide initiative to promote data science research and education at the University of Chicago.
He designs and deploys network protocols and systems that make the Internet work better. He uses empirical network measurement and machine learning to understand and improve network performance, security, and privacy. The results of his research often have policy implications. Professor Feamster regularly works with federal and municipal organizations, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the City of Chicago, on equitable Internet access, security, and privacy.
His research group publishes papers in top-tier networking, security, and machine learning/modeling conferences and also regularly publishes open-source software. An important value of the Network Operations and Internet Security lab is real-world impact through the deployment of operational systems.
Potential Cybersecurity career paths
After completing the bootcamp, you’ll be ready for cybersecurity roles across a range of industries and teams:
Penetration Tester
Simulate cyberattacks to uncover system weaknesses before they’re exploited. This ethical hacking role helps organizations stay one step ahead.
Digital Forensics Analyst
Investigate breaches by analyzing devices and retrieving digital evidence to support investigations and compliance cases.
Information Security Analyst
Protect networks and systems by planning and implementing security measures. A key role in preventing breaches and safeguarding data.
Cyber Crime Investigator
Investigate cyber crimes like identity theft and fraud. Recover electronic evidence, test security systems, and prepare legal reports.
Ways to manage your tuition
Financial aid and funding options
External resources are available to help you finance your education.*
Review the options below to determine whether you qualify for support toward your tuition
Split your tuition into 3 or 6 monthly installments from $583/month using your existing Visa or Mastercard credit card. No new credit needed.
Pay a deposit, then spread the remaining tuition over 24 monthly installments from $479/month.
Choose flexible monthly repayments from $310/month, with loan options tailored to your eligibility.
Monthly repayments from $25/month, with interest-only or deferred repayment options available.
Use your GI Bill® education benefits to cover your bootcamp tuition. For veterans and eligible family members.
Federal aid may cover your tuition if you are a dislocated worker, low-income adult, or young adult.
*The university provides information about these options for your convenience, but does not endorse or recommend any specific lender or program. We encourage you to carefully review terms and compare options before making any financing decisions.
Earn a cybersecurity credential upon completion
Finish your program with a verified digital credential that validates your achievement and career readiness.

How to apply
Getting started is straightforward. Here's what to expect:
Choose your program
Select the course that aligns with your goals.
Apply online
Complete your application.
Secure your spot
Choose your payment method to continue.
Start learning
Meet your mentor and upskill at your pace.
Complete your course
Finish with a credential that adds value.
FAQ
How do I know if the Cybersecurity Bootcamp is right for me?
If you're interested in protecting systems, solving problems, and staying a step ahead of threats, this bootcamp is a great fit. You'll gain practical skills in security, networking, and threat detection, with or without prior experience.
Do I need a background in coding or tech to apply?
No prior experience is required. You’ll start with the basics and build your skills step by step, with plenty of support along the way.
Is this bootcamp accredited or certified?
This bootcamp does not carry formal academic credit, but you'll earn a certificate of completion from the University of Chicago.
The curriculum is aligned with CompTIA standards and helps prepare you for key industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA Network+, Security+, and CySA+.
These credentials are widely valued by employers and can strengthen your path into a cybersecurity career.
How much time do I need to commit?
Part-time learners should plan to dedicate an estimated 10–20 hours per week to complete the bootcamp in approximately six months. This option is ideal if you are balancing your studies with work or other commitments.
Full-time learners should plan to dedicate an estimated 35–40 hours per week to complete the bootcamp in approximately three months.
Our online bootcamps are designed to be flexible. If you need additional time, you may have the option to extend your bootcamp duration.
What are the technical requirements?
You’ll need a computer with a stable internet connection. We’ll let you know if any specific tools or software are required before you start.
What if I need to defer or get a refund?
Life happens, and we get that. View our refund and deferral policy or reach out to admissions to talk through your options.
Ready to make your move into cybersecurity?
In just three to six months, gain the tools and know-how to start working toward a career in cybersecurity. Thousands have done it, and you can too.